NIGERIA NEWS
Soldier Killed, 13 Passengers Abducted On Okene–Auchi Highway
Suspected kidnappers disguised in military uniforms have killed a serving soldier and abducted 13 passengers during coordinated attacks on two commercial vehicles along the Okene–Auchi Federal Highway.
According to security sources who spoke with security expert, Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred at about 5:35 p.m. on December 16 when unknown gunmen intercepted a green Toyota Sienna conveying nine passengers from Abuja to Delta State.
The source said six passengers were abducted from the vehicle, while three others were rescued.
The source added that the attackers also stopped a white Toyota Hiace bus, conveying 11 passengers from Delta State to Abuja, as part of the same operation.
“Seven passengers were abducted from the Hiace bus, while four were rescued,” the source said.
Tragically, a serving Non‑Commissioned Officer of the Nigerian Army who was among the passengers and had identified himself as a soldier was shot by the attackers.
“He sustained gunshot injuries to his legs and thighs and was later confirmed dead,” the source added.
The corpse of the deceased soldier was deposited at the Okengwe General Hospital mortuary for autopsy.
Both vehicles were recovered and towed to a police station for safekeeping. At the scene, security operatives recovered five empty shells of 7.62mm ammunition, suspected to be from an AK‑47 rifle, as exhibits.
Statements were also obtained from the rescued victims to aid the investigation.
It was gathered that troops have launched joint rescue operations, including bush combing and intensified surveillance along the highway, with a view to rescuing the abducted passengers and arresting the perpetrators.
Authorities have assured motorists that measures are being stepped up to secure the Okene–Auchi corridor and prevent further attacks.
NIGERIA NEWS
Stanel boss, Uzochukwu, Flutterwave CEO Agboola pay courtesy call on President Hichilema
The Chaiman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stanel Group and The Delborough Lagos, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu has paid courtesy visit to Zambian President, Hakainde Hichilema at the weekend.
One of the most influential Nigerian-born young billionaire notable among African elites paid the courtesy call in company of his father figure, H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, former President of Sierra Leone, and one of his mentees, Flutterwave CEO, Olugbenga Agboola.
The mentee, a major player in Africa’s digital economy, is a cybersecurity engineer with an MBA from University of Westminster, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan.
According to a post on his Instagram handle, Dr. Uzochukwu revealed that discussions with the Zambian leader centered on strategic investments and partnerships.
The post reads: “Visited @discoverzambia for the first time alongside my father, H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, former President of Sierra Leone, and my mentee, CEO @olugbenga_gb of Flutterwave, to meet with the president of Zambia, H. E. Hakainde Hichilema.
“Our discussions centered on strategic investments and fostering sustainable partnerships that will shape the future of Africa’s economic growth. The prospects are bright, and we are eager to bring our shared vision to life.
“With visionary leaders like these steering progress, the future is in capable hands.
“Watch this space, the journey has only just begun.”
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reacted to recent reports concerning a tax cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and France.
Speaking via a statement on 𝕏, Obi warned that international collaboration requires a high level of trust and transparency.
He expressed concern that the agreement on the collaboration was completed without the full terms being made public.
Obi argued that Nigeria has a strong pool of qualified tax professionals, advisory firms, and globally recognised consultancies that are not lacking in tax expertise, and wondered why the country had to seek external partnerships instead of banking on its existing local capacity.
He said, “It is therefore worrisome that an agreement of this significance appears to have been concluded without the full terms being made public, and without a clear effort to explain its objectives, scope, and expected outcomes to Nigerians. Transparency is essential in matters that directly affect public revenue and institutional credibility.
“That said, I am not opposed to engaging foreign expertise. However, such engagements must be clearly justified, with a transparent explanation of the specific gaps they are intended to fill, why those gaps cannot be addressed locally, and, above all, the concrete benefits to Nigerians.
“This is especially important because Nigeria is not lacking in tax expertise. The country has a strong pool of qualified tax professionals, advisory firms, and globally recognised consultancies already operating locally, with the capacity to support tax reform and modernisation.
“In light of this, it is reasonable for Nigerians to question why external partnerships are made a priority instead of strengthening and leveraging existing local capacity. Sustainable reform should build institutions from within.
“These concerns arise at a time of significant economic strain. Over 60 per cent of Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Youth unemployment remains widespread. Small and medium-scale enterprises are burdened by multiple taxes, while government borrowing continues to rise without commensurate gains in productivity.
“In such circumstances, policy attention should focus on simplifying the tax system, closing revenue leakages, broadening the tax base fairly, and ensuring prudent use of public resources.
“Any agreement or policy initiative that lacks transparency, public confidence, and clearly defined, measurable benefits risks further eroding trust in government. It is therefore imperative that the Federal Government publishes the full MoU, clearly explains its rationale, and outlines the mutual benefits, particularly the tangible advantages Nigeria stands to gain.
“Leadership demands openness, accountability, and commitment to the interests of the Nigerian people. Decisions of this nature must always be guided by what best serves the nation.”
NIGERIA NEWS
“DSS have not arrested me, they are our friends’- Man behind the viral Palestine, Nazi solidarity video
- Sheikh Molaasan has denied reports that he was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) following a controversial viral video linking support for Palestine with Nazism.
- In a fresh video, he said he was free and unharmed, describing the DSS as “friends.”
- He also reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu, stating that he campaigned and voted for him to prevent the country from deteriorating.
Sheikh Molaasan, the man behind a controversial viral video expressing solidarity with Palestine and Nazism, has denied claims of his arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS). He made these assertions while also stating his support for President Bola Tinubu.
In a new video, Molaasan directly addressed the rumors of his detention, stating, “DSS have not arrested me, they are our friends; This is where I made the video and I am here receiving fresh air.”
This statement aims to quell speculation that he had been apprehended for the controversial content.
Molaasan also used the opportunity to clarify his political stance, emphasizing his commitment to the current administration.
He declared, “I campaigned and voted for Tinubu, I don’t want the country to spoil.”
“DSS have not arrested me, they are our friends; This is where I made the video and I am here receiving fresh air”
“I campaigned and voted for Tinubu, I don’t want the country to spoil”
— Sheikh Molaasan, man behind the viral Palestine & Nazi solidarity video pic.twitter.com/vC4uLKqogq
— Erimus (@HeDontMakeNoise) December 17, 2025
In other news…. Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has expressed her excitement following the remarkable success of her latest film, Behind The Scenes.
The movie has reportedly shattered box office records both in Nigeria and internationally. Taking to Instagram, Akindele celebrated the impressive turnout in cinemas, describing it as a testament to the power of persistence and consistency.
Early reports indicate that Behind The Scenes earned over N200 million in Nigerian cinemas and £42,000 in the UK and Ireland during its opening weekend.
In a heartfelt message, the actress, who recently visited colleague Eniola Badmus, thanked her fans for their unwavering support over the years.
She wrote:
“We’re showing up and not giving up! Big ups, Naija! Huge thank you for coming out to support Behind The Scenes at the cinemas! We broke another record, the biggest opening in 2025!”
Akindele also acknowledged her fans in the UK and Ireland, highlighting that they helped achieve what she called the largest Nollywood opening weekend in those regions.
“A massive shoutout to our UK and Ireland fans, you guys made it the biggest Nollywood opening weekend EVER!” she added.
Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Enugu State joined the nationwide protest against insecurity in Nigeria on Wednesday.
Led by the Chairperson of the NLC in Enugu State, Fabian Nwigbo, the members converged at the state headquarters of the NLC near Aria Market in Enugu.
They marched to the Enugu State Secretariat, Okpara Avenue Road and other parts of the South-eastern state.
NLC members during the protest in Enugu
The NLC members also carried placards with various inscriptions while chanting solidarity songs.
Some of the inscriptions read: “End insecurity now,” “Nigeria is bleeding,” “end banditry, terrorism and kidnapping now.”
Addressing the protesting members, Mr Nwigbo said the growing insecurity in Nigeria pains the Nigerian workers.
The chairperson noted that the national leadership of the NLC, two weeks ago, decided to stage a nationwide protest to demand decisive government action against the country’s insecurity.
“Our school children are not safe; the teachers are not safe. The farmers are not safe, the workers are not safe. Travellers are not safe. Even the political class. Nobody is safe anywhere,” he said.
He asked the Nigerian government to address the increasing attacks by kidnappers and terrorists operating in various parts of the country.
“We can’t continue this way. The primary business of every government in power is to ensure the security of lives and property. But what’s happening in Nigeria today? The country is bleeding,” he added.
Background
The national leadership of the NLC earlier announced that it would organise nationwide protests against insecurity on 17 December.
Joe Ajaero, the NLC president, stated that the move was intended to draw attention to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and compel urgent action from the country’s leaders.
READ ALSO: Keyamo announces date for commencement of international flights in Akwa Ibom airport
President Bola Tinubu met with the NLC leadership on Tuesday night to persuade them to shelve the nationwide protest.
However, Mr Ajaero later announced that the protest would proceed as planned, despite the late-night meeting with Mr Tinubu.
He stated that the meeting with the president did not result in the cancellation of the protest.
NIGERIA NEWS
Heartbroken Lady Narrates How Boyfriend She Sponsored Abroad Dumped Her For Neighbour, Video Trends
- A heartbroken lady narrated what happened after she sponsored her boyfriend abroad and catered for him for six months
- She shared how she found out that the man, whom she fed and housed, dumped her for her neighbour, who lived down the street
- Many reacted to her viral video as the lady shared the neighbour’s reaction after she confronted her over her man
A lady based abroad opened up about her experience with a man whom she sponsored to stay with her outside the country.
She narrated how she met the man in her African country and decided to sponsor him overseas.
Heartbroken Lady Narrates How Boyfriend She Sponsored Abroad Dumped Her For Neighbour, Video Trends
Source: TikTok
She noted that the man wasn’t working for six months, and she happily housed and fed him because she loved him.
In a video by @rhodacannella on TikTok, she shared how she found out that her man was dating their neighbour after eight months of staying with her.
Read also
Lady rages as brother’s wife gets pregnant with twins 1 month after first child: “I blocked them”
She confronted them both after finding out that the neighbour was already pregnant for the man.
Sharing their response during the confrontation, the lady said:
“She told me ‘it’s not a big deal, calculate every penny you spent on this guy and I’ll give it to you. I’ll even double it.’ My man, on the other hand, was there with this lady. And you know what this man told me? He never loved me. He was only with me because I brought him here.”
Watch the video below:
Reactions trail lady’s experience with man abroad
republicthehustler said:
Pls go have a baby , must u marry , just have a baby for urself and take care of the baby
THE COUNSELLOR said:
Hi Rhoda. I came across one of your videos and felt genuine respect for how honest and composed you are. I’m not here to rush anything I just wanted to say hello and wish you peace.
Read also
Actress Lizzy Gold warns fans to stop pressuring her about Marriage: “I waiting on God”
Truck_boss said:
you should go to jamaica 🇯🇲 you would find a man that doesn’t cheat, and very hard working, and can cook excellent, and would take excellent care of you, I promise you, try it you won’t regret it at all, jamaican man is one of the most loyalists in this entire world.
Dapheny Pierre said:
You feel like your clock is ticking because you probably feel pressure from family/society . Create your own timeline
Captain Jake said:
Please, I am from Ghana 🇬🇭 West Africa, just co.e for me. I am free here. I will love you till death depart us
BIG TOYIN said:
i understand and i can relate. but the only thing there is once biten is twice shy. u just keep trying more u never can tell but don’t invest too much
In a related story, a man returned to Nigeria after 33 years in the UK, while another nurse returned after eight years abroad.
Read also
Ned Nwoko: Amid Laila’s hangout with Regina Daniels’ children, actress’ DP gets many talking
Lady returns from UK after 2 years
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a lady who relocated to the UK announced her return to Nigeria permanently after spending years abroad.
She mentioned why she returned permanently to Nigeria after two years of staying in the United Kingdom.
Her reason caught people’s attention, as they took to the comments section to welcome her back home.
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian man has taken to social media to share his experience of life in the United Kingdom, describing it as far more demanding than many people imagine.
In a video shared by a user identified as @Teniola on X, he revealed that he previously worked as a Head of Department (HOD) in Nigeria, a role that came with status, comfort, and flexible working hours.
According to him, he rarely had to wake up very early, as his senior position allowed for a structured and manageable routine.
However, after relocating to the UK, his reality changed drastically. He disclosed that he now resumes work as early as 4:30am, a schedule he described as exhausting and difficult to adjust to.
Despite having years of experience and holding a senior role back home, the man said starting afresh abroad has been challenging.
He noted that many Nigerians who relocate overseas often face the harsh reality of taking on demanding jobs while working their way up again.
His account has sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians abroad agreeing that while earnings may be higher, the workload, long hours, and lifestyle adjustments can be overwhelming.
Watch video below…
Nigerian man cries out about how hard life is in the UK after having to start work at 4:30 AM, whereas he was a HoD in Nigeria and never had to wake up that early 🙂↔️🚶♂️ pic.twitter.com/HoESCiBa71
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 17, 2025
The Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, on Wednesday conducted its Ward and Local Government Congresses in Lagos State.
DAILY POST reports that the congresses, monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and held in Ikorodu, produced new ward and LG executives.
Leading the PRP national delegation, Mr Wolimoh Olajide, the party National Youth Leader and Chairman of the Congresses, said that the exercise marked a milestone in the party’s reorganisation process ahead of 2027.
Olajide, who commended the peaceful conduct of party delegates, described the process as transparent and democratic.
“This process and conduct of every delegate reflects the core values upon which the PRP is founded.
“Today, our ward and local government executives, who will pilot the affairs of our party, have emerged through consensus.
“We appeal to them to work hard to sell PRP and its ideals to people at the grassroots.
“We are very sure that the future is bright for the party in Lagos State with the crop of these new party leaders,” Olajide said.
According to him, the momentum from the congresses will strengthen PRP drive to unseat the ruling party, both at the state and federal level, in 2027.
“Lagos residents and Nigerians are yearning for a credible alternative, and PRP represents that alternative,” Olajide added.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reacted to rumours about a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), following recent defections of some opposition governors to the ruling party.
Makinde made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja during the public presentation of the book Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments that Defined an Administration, authored by former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed.
“I am not APC, and I am not about to become APC,” the governor declared. He stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on sincere collaboration among leaders across political divides to advance the country.
Makinde argued that the country’s growing divisions are largely driven by the ambitions of political elites rather than the will of ordinary citizens.
According to him, most Nigerians desire unity and coexistence but are often manipulated along religious, ethnic, and regional lines by politicians pursuing personal interests.
He cautioned against the “winner-takes-all” mentality in politics, noting that it fuels exclusion and undermines national cohesion.
The governor emphasised the need for an elite consensus focused on good governance and addressing contemporary challenges, rather than recycling old political fault lines.
Drawing from personal experience, Makinde noted that political success is ultimately determined by God and timing. He recounted how key political figures, including himself and former President Muhammadu Buhari, faced electoral losses before eventually attaining office years later.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s historical challenges, Makinde observed that while the nation’s early leaders were preoccupied with uniting a post-war country, today’s issues are different and require new solutions.
He called for deliberate efforts to design political and governance systems that promote fairness, inclusion, and stability.
The Senate has rejected a motion sponsored by Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which sought legislative intervention on several governance challenges in Abuja.
Kingibe raised the motion under Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Rules, highlighting issues such as the worsening waste management crisis, demolitions by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), non-payment of salaries, delays in contractor mobilisation, complications in land allocation and reallocation, and the depletion of land belonging to the University of Abuja.
However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that the issues Kingibe raised differed from those previously discussed with him.
He added that the motion did not qualify as a matter of urgent national importance, especially because it combined multiple unrelated issues.
“She should withdraw the motion and bring a substantive motion to discuss the issue of waste management,” Akpabio said.
Supporting the Senate President, Tahir Monguno, Chief Whip and senator representing Borno North, said the motion failed to meet procedural requirements.
“There is nothing to discuss based on our rules. Because you can’t put something on nothing,” Monguno added.
Sunday Karimi, senator for Kogi West, criticised Kingibe further, accusing her of bringing the motion “in deceit.”
In response, Kingibe said she would comply with the Senate’s directive, stating, “I will represent it as a substantive motion on just waste management.”
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the crash landing of a Cessna 172 chartered aircraft operated by Skypower Express at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo.
Four persons escaped death as the aircraft, which was en route Port Harcourt International Airport from Kaduna International Airport, made an emergency landing at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.
This disclosure is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Bimbo Oladeji, where he confirmed that there were no casualties.
Oladeji said that upon the receipt of the distress alert, the airport police patrol units, in collaboration with airport emergency response teams, were swiftly deployed to the scene, rescuing all occupants.
He said that airport emergency services were immediately activated, noting that a formal investigation has commenced in line with its statutory mandate.
What the NSIB Spokesperson is saying
Oladeji said the survivors are crew members on board at the time of the occurrence.
Two of the crew members were reported to be in stable condition, while the remaining two, who were initially unconscious, were immediately evacuated to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
She said, “The crew declared an emergency, necessitating a diversion to Owerri, where the aircraft subsequently crash landed in the approach area of Runway 17.
“There were four people on board at the time of the accident, with no fatalities reported so far.’’
The Bureau’s Spokesperson stated that there was equally no post-crash fire, adding that the runway remained active for flight operations, with other aircraft taking off safely after the incident.
“Efforts are currently underway to coordinate the recovery and evacuation of the distressed aircraft from the crash site to allow for a detailed wreckage examination.
“The Director-General of bureau, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., expressed his deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and is glad that no fatalities were reported.
“The NSIB has activated its protocols, and our team is already coordinating with authorities to secure the site,” the statement added
What you should know
In a related incident, in December, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft was reported to have crashed near Karabonde, a small settlement in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, with eyewitnesses saying that two pilots sustained injuries in the crash.
Confirming the incident in a statement, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft had taken off for a scheduled inspection test when the emergency occurred.
Ejodame explained that the pilots remained calm and demonstrated exceptional professionalism by manoeuvring the jet away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection in line with global aviation safety procedures.
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