Vice President Kashim Shettima has condemned the bomb attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, that claimed about five lives and left several others injured on the eve of Christmas.

He described the incident as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

The condemnation was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications.

Shettima assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is taking immediate steps to apprehend those responsible and strengthen security in the region.

What the Presidency is saying 

The Vice President emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State.

He noted that additional tactical teams have been deployed to the area to track down and apprehend the perpetrators of the attack.

Shettima stressed that the Federal Government would not tolerate any attempt to undermine national peace and security. He extended condolences to the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who lost loved ones, assuring that those responsible would face the full weight of the law.

“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately,” VP Shettima said.

He added, “We sympathize with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law.” 

The Vice President expressed confidence that the current security framework would not only apprehend the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

He also noted that the Federal Government is working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to protect vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

Backstory 

At least five people were killed when a bomb exploded inside a crowded mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on the eve of Christmas. Around 35 others were reported injured in the blast, which occurred during evening prayers.

Unverified footage circulating on social media shows scenes of chaos, with people moving through the dusty market area in the aftermath of the explosion.

No group has claimed responsibility, but armed terror groups in the region have previously targeted mosques and other crowded locations using suicide attacks and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Maiduguri has long been a focal point of the insurgency led by Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Since 2009, the groups have carried out campaigns in Borno State with the aim of establishing an Islamic caliphate.

What you should know  

In recent months, Nigeria has experienced a rise in insecurity across several states, including the kidnapping of students, armed robberies, and attacks on communities in the North and Central regions.

These incidents have heightened public concern and highlighted the ongoing threat posed by criminal and extremist groups.

In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a national security emergency, ordering intensified operations by the Armed Forces, Police, and the Department of State Services (DSS).

Following the designation and its rejection, the United States and Nigeria agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate a new phase of defense and security cooperation, after high-level engagements between both countries in Washington, D.C.

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The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has clarified that his prophecy on the Super Eagles’ performance at the ongoing AFCON tournament is being misrepresented.

Several individuals had criticised the prophet for allegedly predicting the non-performance of Ademola Lookman, who recently scored a winning goal.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele said some mischievous individuals were twisting his words.

He emphasised that his prophecy referred to the tournament as a whole, not the match against Tanzania.

The prophet insisted that his warning about Lookman remains valid and accused critics of pushing a mischievous agenda.

He urged Nigerians to wait for the full outcome of the tournament before judging his prophecy.

“My prophecy about Ademola Lookman in the ongoing AFCON tournament is being misrepresented and misunderstood by mischievous individuals for reasons best known to themselves.

“The prophecy was a warning, and what I said was that Lookman will not help the team in the tournament, not exactly the match against Tanzania.

“This is just the beginning of the match. We have just started the game and played only one match already; we should all wait before attacking the prophecy. One game cannot judge our performance in the tournament.”

Primate Ayodele also stated that he wants the Nigerian team to win the cup, which motivated his warnings.

“It would be my greatest joy if the Nigerian team wins, but that can only happen if they listen to advice.

“I have always rooted for the Nigerian team and this is why my prophecies about them always come up. I want them to lift the trophy and come back home victorious, but it will only happen if advices are listened to.”

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Omolabake Fasogbon

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has raised concerns over alleged discrepancies between versions of the 2025 tax laws passed by the National Assembly and the gazetted copies in circulation.

The institute warned that any proven divergence could create legal uncertainty and heighten compliance risks for taxpayers, professionals and investors.

In a position statement issued amid growing public debate over alleged post-passage alterations, the President and Chairman of Council of CITN, Mr. Innocent C. Ohagwa, who signed the statement raised concerns about the alignment between legislative drafts and the final gazetted Acts, describing the integrity of the law-making process as fundamental to the rule of law, good governance and public confidence in democratic institutions.

The tax laws, scheduled to take effect January 1, 2026, were signed recently by President Bola Tinubu.

Ohagwa stressed that taxation, more than most areas of law, demands the highest level of accuracy, transparency and procedural fidelity because of its far-reaching impact on government revenue, businesses and citizens.

“Recent public discourse has raised concerns that certain provisions of the newly enacted tax laws may differ from the versions passed by the National Assembly, allegedly through modification, insertion or removal of clauses after legislative process.

“As Nigeria’s foremost professional tax body, CITN holds responsibility to speak where issues arise that may undermine legislative integrity and regulatory certainty”, he said.

The President warned that if such discrepancies are established, they could undermine the supremacy of the legislature, create legal ambiguity, erode public and investor confidence as well as expose taxpayers and practitioners to unintended liabilities.

“For taxation, which thrives on exactitude of legislation, no effort should be spared in getting it right from the onset to avoid overwhelming challenges in the future,” the statement reads.

CITN stressed further that the constitution and established parliamentary practice require that laws assented to and gazetted must be identical to those duly passed by the legislature, and that any post-passage changes must follow constitutionally recognised procedures.

The institute maintained that deviation from standard, whether intentional or otherwise compromises rule of law, separation of powers and predictability and stability of the tax system,amongst other consequences.

It thus called for immediate verification of the contested Acts through a comparison of the versions passed by the National Assembly with the enrolled and gazetted laws.

It urged clear public clarification where discrepancies are identified and prompt corrective action in line with constitutional and legislative procedures.

Such steps, CITN said, would prevent prolonged uncertainty and strengthen confidence in the legislative process.

Beyond the immediate controversy, the institute also recommended systemic safeguards to prevent a recurrence, including stronger document control and version-tracking mechanisms, clear audit trails throughout the drafting and enrolment stages, enhanced inter-institutional checks before presidential assent and structured stakeholder review for major tax legislation.

It concluded by expressing readiness
to offer technical expertise and professional support to relevant authority, towards promoting clarity, transparency, and effectiveness of Nigeria’s tax laws and system in general.

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…as Tinubu orders immediate security surge, deploys tactical teams to Maiduguri

… Fed govt vows swift justice for perpetrators as mosque bombing kills worshippers in Gamboru Market

Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the bomb explosion that killed about five people and injured several others at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the incident as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in the state following the attack, as the Federal Government moved swiftly to prevent further violence and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Shettima disclosed that additional tactical security teams were being deployed to the affected area to track down those responsible for the terror attack at the bustling Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri.

“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately,” the Vice President said.

Expressing confidence in the country’s security architecture, Shettima said ongoing operations would not only lead to the arrest of those behind the attack but would also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

He commiserated with the Borno State Government, residents of the area and families of those who lost their lives, assuring them of the Federal Government’s support at this difficult time. 

According to him, the attackers would face the full weight of the law.

“We sympathise with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

The Vice President further reassured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration’s commitment to national security remained unwavering, stressing that the protection of lives and property was a core constitutional responsibility of government.

“Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation,” Shettima said, adding that the resolve of the government remained “steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He noted that the Federal Government would continue to provide security agencies with the necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms.

Shettima also said the Federal Government was working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North-East and other parts of the country.

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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu says the Nigerian Army will continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations to improve the security situation across the country.

Shaibu gave the assurance at the inauguration of a 36-classroom Government Day Girls’ Secondary School upgraded by Maj-Gen. Mamman Galadima, under the Army’s Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation project in Maradun, Zamfara, on Thursday.

“I  reaffirm that under my leadership, the Nigerian Army will continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations in collaboration with other security agencies and well-meaning citizens to improve the security situation across the country.

“The relationship between the people and the Army must be collaborative because the people need the Army, and the Army cannot make the desired impact without the people.

“Therefore, I urge Nigerians to maintain their trust in the Army and not to relent in their support for our efforts,” Shaibu said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Army chief was represented at the event by Maj.-Gen. WB Idris, Commander, Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West, Operation PANSAYAN YAMMA (OPYA), Gusau, Zamfara.

Speaking on the project, Shaibu said: “Today, we recognise and honour the meritorious and unblemished service of Maj.-Gen. Mamman Galadima, through the inauguration of this project.

“The idea of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Projects was borne out of the need to support communities of Nigerian Army senior officers who, through dedication, diligence and service to the nation, have attained the enviable rank of Maj.-Gen.

“I am glad that today, Zamfara is privileged to have a highly respected senior officer of the Nigerian Army, in the person of Maj.-Gen. Mamman Galadima,” the army chief said.

According to him, the Nigerian Army recognises the people as critical partners in progress.

” Our projects are therefore carefully conceptualised and executed in consultation with the benefiting communities.

“All such projects are designed to complement the efforts of the states by providing top-notch basic amenities and infrastructure to enhance the quality of life and well-being of the benefitting communities.

“Our projects ultimately serve as a gesture of appreciation to the communities of benefitting senior officers for giving the nation some of its finest individuals to serve in the Nigerian Army,” he added.

Shaibu said that the projects also served the strategic purpose of encouraging communities to maintain their support for our operations and other endeavours.

The COAS explained that the Nigerian Army’s approach of collaborating with benefitting communities at all stages of such projects would ensure strong local interest and evoke a sense of ownership of the project.

“The Civil-Military Cooperation Projects have significantly contributed to our non-kinetic efforts at managing the country’s security challenges, and I am glad to note that our experiences have been positive so far.

“The renovation and rehabilitation of Government Day Secondary School, which has just been commissioned, is certainly a very viable and well-thought-out initiative.

“It is envisaged that this project will have a lasting impact on the educational well-being of the indigents and other residents of this community.

“I  therefore commend Major General Galadima for a job well done and for the love he has always shown for his people,” Shaibu said.

He thanked the Government and good people of Zamfara, especially the people of Maradun, for always supporting the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu, however, urged the people of Zamfara to remain forthcoming with timely and useful information to assist security agencies in the State to provide a safe and secure environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.

He assured that the Army would continue to work with the government at all levels to resolve the current security challenges across the country.

Earlier, Galadima said that the issue of security extended beyond the battlefield as it encompasses the welfare and development of the people the Nigerian Army serves.

He said the project was beyond just cutting a ribbon or unveiling a plaque, but to celebrate the rebirth of an institution, the rekindling of hope that reaffirmed the collective commitment to the future of the girl child in Maradun and Zamfara.

Galadima added, “From the beginning of the project, the task was clear: To transform this school from a place of learning into a sanctuary of excellence.

“Today, as we look around, we see the result of that vision. We see more than just renovated blocks of classrooms; we see an environment where knowledge can flourish.

“We also see classrooms for the next generation of doctors, engineers, and innovators, a gateway to a world of ideas and possibilities.”

He applauded the school’s management for their dedication, adding, ” I hand over these facilities to you as tools and am very confident that you will use them to mould these young minds into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Galadima urged the students to dedicate themselves, build their future and realise their dreams.

He commended the Army chief for his leadership guidance that made the project a reality.

Meanwhile, the School’s Principal, Mrs Suwaiba Nafaru, had expressed appreciation to the Army chief, Galadima, the State Government and the Maradun Emirate for their support in actualising the project.

Nafaru said the project represented the first community-driven educational intervention of such magnitude in recent memory.

She said she was particularly touched as the project was executed by Galadima,  an illustrious son of Maradun, out of genuine love, commitment and a deep sense of responsibility to his people.

“This noble gesture has transformed the learning environment, uplifted the morale of both staff and students, and restored hope for a brighter future for the girl-child.

“In addition, Gen. Galadima had provided complete school uniforms to 50 students from less privileged families.

“These selfless contributions are worthy of the highest commendation and will remain a lasting legacy in the history of this institution,” Nafaru assured.

The principal applauded the Chairman, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and the Emir of Maradun, Alhaji Garba Tambari, for his leadership and support through the project execution.

Also, Tambari expressed gratitude to Galadima and the Nigerian Army for the invaluable gesture.

Tambari urged other sons and daughters of Maradun to emulate Galadima by executing similar projects for the development of the people of the emirate.

NAN reports that Galadima had, during the event, announced a donation of N2 million in addition to hundreds of thousands of exercise books for the  school.

NAN further reports that in addition to the renovation of classrooms and staff offices, the school’s borehole had also been upgraded with solar power and water filters for the  use of its community.

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has vowed that perpetrators of the explosion that rocked a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, will not go scot-free but face the consequences of their act.

Shettima also strongly condemned the Christmas Eve bomb explosion that claimed five lives and left scores of others injured, describing the incident as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

The Vice President stated that President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State following the incident.

In a statement on Thursday, the Vice President condemned the attack, assuring that the Federal Government was deploying additional tactical teams to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible for the terror attack.

“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately” he said.

Shettima expressed confidence that the security architecture currently in place would not only apprehend the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We sympathise with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law,” VP Shettima said.

He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration’s commitment to national security, anchored in constitutional duty, remains unwavering.

“Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.

“This commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will continue to provide our security agencies with all necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms,” he affirmed.

The Vice President assured that the Federal Government was working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to ensure protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North-East and other regions.

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Vice President Kashim Shettima

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical security teams to Borno State to track down and apprehend those responsible for the bomb explosion at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, said the directive also includes intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance and joint security operations aimed at swiftly restoring calm and preventing further attacks in the area.

He added that security agencies have been placed on high alert and mandated to act decisively.

Condemning the attack in strong terms, Shettima described it as a despicable assault on innocent worshippers and a direct challenge to Nigeria’s peace and stability, stressing that the Federal Government would not tolerate any attempt to undermine public safety or national security.

“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to destabilise our country or threaten the lives of innocent Nigerians. Our security agencies have been directed to act decisively and ensure that those behind this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice,” the Vice President said.

Expressing confidence in the nation’s security architecture, Shettima noted that ongoing operations would not only lead to the arrest of the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

He extended condolences to the Borno State Government, residents of Maiduguri, and families affected by the attack, assuring them of the Federal Government’s full support.

“We sympathise with the Government and people of Borno State, particularly families who have lost loved ones. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law,” he added.

The Vice President reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, property and national unity, stressing that security remains a top priority anchored on constitutional responsibility.

He further stated that the Federal Government is working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other parts of the country.

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Sporting Lagos captain, Abdulraheem Suleiman, has promised that the players will resume back stronger in the second stanza of the season.

The modest club recorded four wins, one draw and two defeats from seven matches in the first round.

Sporting Lagos top the Conference B table with 13 points.

Suleman said they will intensify their push for a promotion ticket

“We hope to get back stronger in 2026 after our performance in 2025, hopefully we will get the promotion ticket.”

Sporting Lagos will lock horns with Godswill Akpabio FC in their next league game.

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The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, has warned against the neglect of children in society, noting that such neglect can have negative effects in the future.

Bishop Kukah, who made the observation in his 2025 Christmas message, said children must be protected as they represent the future of Nigeria.

Naija News reports that in his message entitled “Joy and Hope in a Time of Tribulation,” Bishop Kukah lamented the challenges of insecurity and violence threatening the nation.

However, he reminded Christians that the birth of Christ remains a beacon of hope even in the darkest times.

Speaking against the backdrop of the challenges of the insecurity ravaging some parts of the country, and its impact, Bishop Kukah said the terrorists, bandits and other criminals are children produced by the society.

He described perpetrators of violence as products of failed systems and toxic politics.

“Whether we call them bandits, kidnappers or extremists, they are our children. They came out of our own loins.

“Our children are our future,” Kukah said.

As a remedy, Kukah called for serious investment in education and moral renewal, warning that otherwise, Nigeria risks further descent into chaos.

“We must either renovate, educate or perish,” he declared.

The clergyman also expressed deep concern over the plight of children globally and in Nigeria, saying the innocent children are the ones paying the highest price for the dysfunctional system.

He lamented that innocent children are exposed to societal ills such as kidnapping, abuse, forced labour and early marriage, which are all beyond their control.

He referenced the abduction of schoolchildren in places such as Chibok, Dapchi, Maga and Papiri, noting that nearly 2,000 children have been affected by such crimes in Nigeria. The Bishop also mentioned cases from Gaza to Sudan on the international stage.

The bishop submitted that the violence ravaging Nigeria, particularly in the North, is rooted in years of poverty, illiteracy, miseducation and moral decay.

Emphasising the Christian response to persecution, Kukah rejected retaliation and violence, urging believers to rely on faith, prayer and moral witness rather than weapons.

Referencing the biblical record where Jesus admonished Peter to put away his sword, Kukah said, “Violence cannot defeat violence.”

He added that history shows Christianity has survived persecution and outlived empires through faith and resilience.

The Catholic Bishop in his Christmas message also called on Nigerian leaders to use the country’s resources for the common good by confronting insecurity, poverty and bad governance.

Despite the challenges in the country, Kukah urged the citizens not to lose hope, stressing that Christmas is a story of light’s triumph over darkness.

“By the birth of Christ, Emmanuel—God is with us,” Kukah said, stressing that the light of Christmas “is a light that darkness cannot overcome.”

Kukah urged Nigerians to resist division and hatred, calling for unity in mourning and healing. He said Nigerians must draw strength from shared suffering and collective hope.

“We have buried our dead together. We have mourned together,

“We must hold together in darkness so we can welcome the light together,” he said.

Bishop Kukah, however, commended the government and the security forces for their efforts leading to the safe return of abducted schoolchildren.

He described the incident as “one ordeal too many” and prayed it would mark the end of such tragedies.

He called on Christians to show the light and attributes of Christ as they celebrate this year’s Christmas.

“We do not celebrate Christmas as a feast or a date on our calendar.

“We celebrate it as a vocation — to let the world see and experience the face of Jesus through lives of love, peace and reconciliation,” he said.

He concluded by wishing Nigerians a happy Christmas, urging them not to surrender joy and hope despite the nation’s trials.

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Senator (Dr.) Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has felicitated with Christians in Oyo State and across Nigeria on the celebration of Christmas, describing the season as a divine reminder of love, peace and sacrifice for humanity.

The lawmaker said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolizes hope for mankind and called on Nigerians to embrace virtues of selflessness, compassion, tolerance and unity, particularly as the nation continues to work towards economic recovery and sustainable development.

Senator Alli urged citizens to use the festive period to strengthen family bonds, promote peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and cultures, and extend love and support to the less privileged in society, noting that shared kindness represents the true essence of Christmas.

While wishing Christians a blissful celebration, the senator prayed that the joy of Christmas would bring renewed hope, good health and prosperity for all.

He also assured the people of Oyo South of his continued commitment to quality representation and people-oriented legislation in the coming year.

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A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 election, Barrister Akeem Adedeji Agbaje, has extended Christmas greetings to the people of Oyo State and Nigerians across the country, urging them to remain steadfast in faith and hopeful for a more peaceful and prosperous nation.

In a statement made available on Tuesday, Agbaje emphasised the importance of unity, love and shared responsibility as enduring values that continue to bind Nigerians together across religious and cultural divides.

He described Christmas as a season that reminds humanity of love, peace and hope, noting that the virtues of humility, compassion and sacrifice exemplified by Jesus Christ remain essential in the collective quest for a just, united and stable society.

Agbaje encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season as a period of prayer and reflection for national progress, stressing that the country’s challenges require faith, patience and collective effort to overcome.

He urged citizens to keep their trust in God and remain optimistic about the future, expressing confidence that unity and goodwill would strengthen peace within communities and contribute to building a better country for all.

The legal practitioner and former Chairman of the Ibadan Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association also called on residents of Oyo State to embrace the spirit of the season by showing kindness, understanding and generosity, particularly towards the less privileged and vulnerable members of society.

According to him, the Christmas season offers a unique opportunity to extend care, share resources and ensure that the joy of the celebration reaches as many people as possible.

Agbaje prayed for peaceful and safe celebrations across Oyo State and the nation, while reaffirming his commitment to contributing meaningfully to the growth, stability and development of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

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Bandits have threatened residents of Kaya village in Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State, by imposing an ₦8 million levy on the community, sources told SaharaReporters.

Residents described the demand as a retaliatory measure following the killing of a notorious bandit commander in a recent security operation, a development that has plunged the village into fear and uncertainty.

The levy is reportedly being imposed on the residents as punishment for the death of Isuhu Buzu, a known bandit leader who was killed during a joint operation involving the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The threat was said to have been issued on Tuesday, sparking alarm among villagers who fear violent repercussions if the demand is not met.

According to a Katsina‑based security expert, Malam Bakatsine, who spoke with Sahara Reporters, residents have denied any involvement in the incident that led to Buzu’s death, maintaining that the community had no link to the security operation.

They described the levy as a form of collective punishment against innocent civilians.

The bandits’ demands have heightened tensions in the area, with many expressing concern over possible violent reprisals, loss of lives, and destruction of property if the levy is not paid.

Community leaders have appealed to the Zamfara State Government and security agencies to intervene urgently.

They called for the deployment of more security personnel, intensified patrols, and strengthened protection for Kaya village and surrounding communities to prevent further violence.

They stressed that civilians should not be made to bear the consequences of counterterrorism operations and urged proactive measures to stop armed groups from carrying out revenge attacks.

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Emergency responders battled through the early hours of Christmas Day to contain a massive fire that engulfed the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, with the blaze spreading to at least four neighbouring buildings.

The fire, which broke out on Wednesday evening, continued for more than 10 hours, causing extensive damage in one of Lagos’ busiest commercial districts.

Video footage from the scene, shared by the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) on Thursday morning, showed thick plumes of smoke billowing from multiple floors of the high-rise, with bright flames visible from a distance and debris scattered across adjoining streets.

According to preliminary reports, the fire started around 5 p.m. on either the fourth or fifth floor of the building, which currently serves mainly as a warehouse and retail outlet for clothing materials, before spreading rapidly to other floors.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said late Wednesday night that the inferno had intensified across several floors, with thick smoke and rising heat hampering access to upper levels and complicating firefighting efforts.

In a statement, LASEMA Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu warned that the situation posed serious risks to lives, nearby structures and businesses, as well as members of the public within the surrounding area.

“The fire continues to spread vertically, requiring sustained multi-agency coordination and specialised equipment to prevent escalation,” Mr Oke-Osanyintolu said.

He advised residents, traders and occupants of adjoining buildings to evacuate immediately to avoid casualties from smoke inhalation, structural failure or further fire spread.

“Evacuation is critical at this stage to safeguard lives and reduce exposure to secondary hazards,” he stated.

Emergency teams, including LASEMA’s Shark Response Unit, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Lagos State Ambulance Service, were deployed for firefighting, rescue and containment operations, while security agencies cordoned off the area to restrict access.

The Nigerian Television Authority reported that at least four adjacent buildings, including a church and a mosque, were affected by the fire, leaving residents and business owners assessing losses and unable to sleep through the night.

“More than 10 hours after the inferno that engulfed the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, emergency responders are yet to completely put out the fire,” the broadcaster said.

Reacting to the incident, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that the situation was under control.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Government said no casualties had been recorded, while the cause of the fire remained unknown.

Mr Omotoso said the distress call was received at about 4:41 p.m., prompting an immediate response from firefighters at the Ebute Elefun and Dolphin fire stations, with reinforcement from the Sari Iganmu Fire Station and the Alausa headquarters.

“The firefighters arrived at the scene within 12 minutes, at about 4:53 p.m., and commenced coordinated containment operations,” he said.

He added that preliminary findings showed the fire originated from the fifth floor of the building before spreading to other levels.

According to him, although the structure was formerly used as corporate office space, it now functions largely as a warehouse and retail centre for clothing materials.

Mr Omotoso said Governor Sanwo-Olu personally monitored the situation throughout the night and maintained constant communication with emergency responders and security agencies.

“As at about 3:40 a.m., when the fire had largely been brought under control, the governor was still receiving updates and issuing directives,” he said.

“Our priority is the safety of lives; I have directed that the building and its surroundings be thoroughly secured, and that emergency personnel must ensure that no one is left inside.”

READ ALSO: Fire erupts at Jos Terminus Market

The governor also commended firefighters and other first responders for what he described as a swift and courageous response to the incident.

“Lagosians should remain calm; the situation is under control,” he said.

Authorities said safety assessments of nearby buildings were ongoing to prevent secondary incidents, adding that further updates would be provided as investigations continue.

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December 25, 2025December 25, 2025

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Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians across the state, describing the celebration of the Nativity as a period that underscores selfless love, humility and commitment to the service of humanity.

In a goodwill message conveyed through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor reflected on the spiritual significance of the season, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ urges believers to embrace patience, tolerance, goodwill and other virtues that promote peaceful coexistence and communal harmony.

Governor Ododo said the enduring values associated with Christmas are essential to the continued development of Kogi State, calling on citizens to sustain the spirit of brotherhood, moderation and shared responsibility as foundations for lasting peace and progress.

He added that his administration remains firmly guided by these ideals in its drive for good governance, maintenance of public order and the steady growth of the state, driven by inclusive policies focused on the overall welfare of the people.

The Governor further reassured residents that the security and well-being of the populace remain a top priority of his government, pledging sustained efforts to protect lives and livelihoods across the state.

He also offered prayers that the joy of Christmas would dwell in every household across Nigeria, renew hope among the people and lead into a New Year defined by peace, hard work and shared prosperity.

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• A lady living in Lagos shared how an okada man ran away with her N800 change after she gave him N1000 for her ride
• She shared how she dealt with him to the extent that people were begging her, sparking reactions on social media.
• Many who came across the video shared their thoughts about what she did, as they shared similar experiences

A Nigerian lady living in Lagos shared how an okada man failed to give her her change after she paid him.

She shared how she gave the okada man N1000 and was supposed to collect N800 as her balance.

Lady Shares How She Dealt With Okada Man Who Ran Away With N800 Change: “People Were Begging Me”
Source: TikTok

In a video by @waltem6, she narrated what happened on the day she caught up with him.

Watch the video below:

Reactions trail lady’s action towards okada man

enduranceolabode

E go don dey look for where to go for deliverance like this

Queen 👑 Bridget25

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BEST JEWELRY VENDOR IN IJEGUN

Oh God 😂 what did i just read

Mhiz_Great❤️

You did well 🤣🤣No kon try that one for me ooo

BEAD VENDOR IN IBADAN

perfect make I go buy red handkerchief

Small Chops in Warri

Your crase come pass Aboki own

Source: Legit.ng

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