November’s gender matters highlighted the pervasive issue of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV), particularly the online abuse and exploitation targeting women and girls.

Beyond the rise of TF-GBV, other significant matters included the Ochanya Ogbanje family’s renewed call for justice, women’s participation in Anambra’s governorship election, the troubling abduction of schoolgirls, amongst others.

Here are some of the most important gender-related issues from November.

Anambra 2025: Over 50% of voters are women, but only 13% of candidates are

Ndidi Olieh of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) and Chioma Ifemeludike of the African Action Congress (AAC)

Anambra State held its governorship election on 8 November, with a notable disparity in female representation.

Despite women making up 58 per cent of new voter registrants, only 13 per cent of candidates were female, highlighting a significant gap in women’s participation in politics. Two female candidates, Chioma Grace Ifemeludike of the African Action Congress (AAC) and Ndidi Christy Olieh of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), ran for governor, while six others featured as deputy governorship candidates.

PREMIUM TIMES reporter selected for gender-responsive education fellowship

In November, Oluwakemi Adelagun, a reporter on the Health and Development Desk at PREMIUM TIMES, was selected among 14 journalists across Nigeria to participate in a special reporting fellowship on gender-responsive and accountable education in Oyo State.

The initiative, launched by DevReporting in partnership with Education as a Vaccine (EVA) and supported by the Malala Fund, aims to strengthen media coverage of girls’ education, education financing, and citizen participation in the sector.

Seven years on, rape victim’s family petitions IGP over failure to prosecute key suspect

Seven years after the death of Ochanya Ogbanje, a 13-year-old who suffered prolonged sexual abuse, her family petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to reopen her case and declare the prime suspect, Victor Ogbuja, wanted.

The petition, signed by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, urged the police to recall the case file from the Benue State Police Command and place the suspect on a watchlist.

Inside Nigeria’s prisons, where female inmates are left without menstrual care

Female inmates in Nigeria’s prisons face significant challenges accessing menstrual hygiene products, with many relying on donations from churches, mosques, and charity groups to manage their periods. At Suleja correctional facility, female inmates spoke out about the difficulties they face, highlighting the lack of government support and inadequate healthcare.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) denied these allegations, stating that sanitary pads and hygiene materials are distributed to female inmates monthly at no cost. However, advocates argue that the government’s allocation of billions of naira to correctional facilities has not translated to improved menstrual care for female inmates, with many forced to use newspapers, nylons, and rags during menstruation.

Technology-facilitated violence

The increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technological tools is amplifying existing patterns of violence against women and girls, creating new forms of abuse and exploitation, the United Nations Women said.

The agency, in a statement to mark the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, said the statistics are alarming, with 90 to 95 per cent of all deepfakes online being sexualised images of women.

Also, Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, emphasised the urgent need to tackle the escalating issue of online abuse, harassment, extortion, and exploitation of women and girls, describing it as a growing and often invisible threat.

The development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC), on its part, launched a research report titled “Digital Threats to Women in Politics in Nigeria: Experiences of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF-GBV) and Political Parties’ Responses.”

At the event launch, policymakers, political parties, civil society organisations, the media, and development partners shared key findings on technology-facilitated gender-based violence in Nigerian politics and mobilised stakeholders to implement actionable recommendations.

How Nigerian women are reacting to abortion bill

In November, the suspension of a controversial abortion bill sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerian women on social media, many of whom described the proposed legislation as a misplaced priority.

Using the hashtag – SayNoToAbortionBill, some urged the lawmakers to re-evaluate their legislative priorities and, instead of focusing on restricting abortion, concentrate on enacting and enforcing stiffer penalties for perpetrators of rape and other matters that concern the citizens’ welfare.

Religious, traditional leaders push for united front against gender based violence

Religious and traditional leaders have renewed their commitment to ending sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) through stronger interfaith collaboration, community engagement, and cultural reform.

The call was made at the Regional High-Level Faith and Cultural Leaders Dialogue and Prevention Impact Documentary Premiere in Abuja. The event brought together religious leaders, community gatekeepers, and advocacy groups to explore ways faith and cultural institutions can drive sustainable prevention of gender-based violence.

Oluremi Tinubu donates N250m to gender centre in Plateau

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, donated N250 million to support the newly established Gender and Public Policy Study Centre at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.

She described the project as “a lasting symbol of our collective resolve to build a just and prosperous Nigeria.”

“When women are empowered, the entire society prospers,” she said, noting that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Women’s coalition condemns Kebbi schoolgirls’ abduction

A coalition of women’s rights advocates from North-central, North-east, and North-west Nigeria, Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), condemned the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.

The coalition called it a “brutal indictment” of Nigeria’s continued failure to protect its most vulnerable citizens.

READ ALSO: Reserved Seats Bill: Gender advocate frowns at media reportage of proposed legislation

Sexual Assault

A chief magistrate’s court in Ikeja, Lagos, remanded a 37-year-old man, Joseph Olasope, in the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for allegedly inserting his finger into the private part of a three-year-old girl.

Mr Olasope faces one count of sexual assault.

In a separate court proceeding, the magistrate also remanded a 58-year-old man, Sesan Olabode, in Kirikiri Correctional Centre for allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage girl.

The chief magistrate, C. M. Kushanu, did not take both defendants’ pleas.

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• A young Nigerian man who is a resident of Sokoto spoke out against the US military attack on ISIS bases
• The young man asked the US president an important question at the beginning of his statement after the attack
• He mentioned the alleged plan of the US president and shared what he believes happened during the airstrike

A Nigerian man has shared his displeasure over the recent attack on alleged ISIS bases in Sokoto by the United States government, carried out on the order of President Donald Trump.

The individual condemned the attack while insisting that there is no evidence to prove the presence of ISIS in Sokoto State.

Sokoto resident says no ISIS in state. Photo Source: Facebook/Jamilu Umar Jabbi, Reuters, Punch Newspapers
Source: Facebook

Nigerian man condemns US attack

His reaction comes a few days after Donald Trump released a statement confirming that ISIS bases were bombed in Sokoto, a claim that has continued to generate widespread reactions.

Read also

Pastor accuses Sheikh Gumi of defending terrorists after US bombed ISIS base in Sokoto

Reacting to Trump’s statement, a Sokoto resident, Jamilu Umar Jabbi, spoke out in a Facebook post.

He claimed that the attack ordered by Donald Trump targeted innocent people in the middle of the night.

He said:

“Where is ISIS in Sokoto?“It is clear that Donald Trump has no regard for Sokoto. If he was truly fighting terrorism, he would have gone to Zamfara, Katsina, or eastern Sokoto—places that have recorded serious attacks. But instead, he chose to strike innocent people in the middle of the night in Jabo, a place without any history of terrorism.”

After stating that the area attacked by Trump has no history of terrorism in the state, he went further to explain what he believes is the former US president’s real intention.

His statement reads:

“Truly, our northern and Nigerian leaders must rise against this injustice. We also pray to Almighty Allah to defend us and judge between us and the oppressors.”

Read also

Breaking: Trump breaks silence on why he delayed ‘deadly’ strike in Nigeria, “A Christmas gift”

Sokoto man questions US attack on alleged ISIS bases. Photo Source: Facebook/Jamilu Umar Jabbi, Reuters, Punch Newspapers
Source: Facebook“No matter what, Muslims will never stop worshipping Allah. Many have tried before, like Pharaoh, and all returned to their Creator. If his aim is truly to protect Christians, why is he stating his war in Venezuela, which is 95% Christian? Or why didn’t he go to protect Palestine from Benjamin Netanyahu, where over 65% of the population are Christians? Clearly, this is part of a hidden agenda against Muslims. But God willing, no one can protect us except Allah.”

Reactions as man speaks about US attack

sky said:

“4He is fighting terrorism. All Muslim leaders cannot stop terrorists, now Trump has come to stop it for you all. Enjoy!.”

Efgiong shared:

“Shut up, Sokoto is their camp. When they were using Facebook, TikTok, Twitter and Facebook, they did not know US were watching and following them up. STOP CRYING. No innocent was killed.”

Dung stated:

“Just shutup ..why wud he visit the place when he has people he can send….what’s even the reason for him to visit…are u part of these criminals?…it’s good that he strike Sokoto to eliminate these criminals or you have better intelligence?”

Read also

Man refutes claims that Trump’s missile missed target in Nigeria: “They refused to share images”

Read the post below:

In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a pastor reacted to comments made by popular Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi after the US bombed ISIS bases in Sokoto State.

Young man narrates encounter in Sokoto

Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that many people have been reacting online after reports that the US attacked ISIS bases in parts of Sokoto State.

A young man also shared his own experience, saying armed men stopped the bus he was travelling in while going from Sokoto to Kebbi.

Source: Legit.ng

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The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has told Governor Seyi Makinde to explain how he utilised the N50 billion Relief Fund allegedly received from President Bola Tinubu in the wake of the explosion that rocked the Bodija GRA in January 2024.

LEADERSHIP recalls that a former Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, recently alleged during a live interview programme on a Lagos-based television station on Friday that Governor Makinde got the money on behalf of the victims when he visited Tinubu to brief him on the incident.

Fayose accused Makinde of failure to either acknowledge the receipt of the enormous sum of money or utilise it for the purpose of providing succour to those who lost their lives and properties in the incident.

Reacting to the allegation, Oyo APC Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, who berated Makinde for his remarks against Tinubu and Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, during a recent media chat, where the governor claimed that he turned down Tinubu’s request to organise the opposition APC in the state.

Makinde also declared that the Minister of Power lacked the capacity to organise the APC in Oyo State.

Sadare, in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP in Ibadan, said, “Makinde claimed to have spent N4.5bn on the victims even without accountability or proper records to show who got what. Now that his close friend and fellow party man has disclosed that a whopping N50bn was actually paid into the coffers of the Oyo State Government as a Relief Fund by the federal government, Gov. Makinde should know that a flippant reaction by his media aide cannot be enough, as the whole world needs to know what he did with the money.

“And lastly, it should be on record that there was never a time that Oyo APC required reorganisation in the hands of Makinde, who has emerged ‘Chief Pall Bearer’ of the PDP, which gave the platform to be a governor for two consecutive terms.

“As it stands now, the least amongst the prospective gubernatorial aspirants in our party possesses greater capacity to be innovative, creative and successful as the state governor than the one who merely celebrates window dressing and inflicts hardship on property owners and other residents across the state,” APC said.

Sadare stated further that Governor Makinde “emerged as the new face of sleaze immediately after he assumed office as the governor of Oyo State in 2019, when he began reviewing existing government contracts and inflated their costs astronomically.”

He emphasised that the trend continued unabated with the alleged award of contracts without recourse to the due process provision of the law, as evident in the award of contracts for the renovation of Agodi Government House and the second phase of the Ibadan Circular Road Project, said to be awarded at the costs of N63.5 billion and N259 billion, respectively.

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Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the member representing Ideato Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has declared that he will soon dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Action People’s Party (APP).

Ugochinyere, who chairs the House Committee on Petroleum Downstream, spoke at the weekend at his country home in Akokwa, Ideato north local government area of Imo state, when hundreds of constituents paid him a solidarity visit.

He said his days in the PDP were numbered, citing what he described as the party’s intractable leadership crisis.

Ugochinyere said efforts to rescue the PDP had failed, blaming the situation on the party’s immediate past National Working Committee led by Umar Damagum.

He alleged that the PDP leadership was incompetent and deliberately working to destroy the party.

The lawmaker also said Matthew Nwoguala, member representing Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala federal constituency, and Mathew Chima Amadi, founder of the Mazi Organisation, have decided to join the APP.

Ugochinyere said although many of his supporters were already displaying APP insignia, he would formally announce his new political platform in the coming days.

“It’s time to sever relationship with PDP, unless something magical happens. If not, in the next few days, we will be packing our bags to say bye-bye to PDP,” Ugochinyere added.

He recalled his disqualification days to the PDP primary ahead of the 2023 general election and alleged that party members testified against him in court.

Ugochinyere accused security agencies in Imo state of targeting him, alleging that billboards approved for erection in Ideato South were pulled down.

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Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Faruruwa have rescued a kidnap victim following a security operation along the Kano–Katsina border.

Major Zubair Babatunde, spokesperson of the Nigerian Army’s 3 brigade in Kano, disclosed this on Sunday in a statement.

Babatunde said the operation followed credible intelligence received at about 1:00am on the movement of armed bandits from the Daurawa and Kira areas of Katsina state towards Kano.

He said troops deployed from the forward operating base (FOB) Yankwada immediately mobilised a fighting patrol to intercept the suspects along the Kano–Katsina border.

“On arrival at Ungwan Dogo/Ungwan Tudu, the troops made contact with the armed bandits and engaged them in a fierce gun battle,” Babatunde said.

He said the bandits were overpowered and forced to flee in disarray towards Matazu local government area of Katsina state.

Babatunde said one kidnap victim, Rabiu Halilu, aged 38, was rescued during the encounter.

He said Halilu sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during captivity and was evacuated to the JTF Faruruwa medical centre for treatment.

The army spokesperson said three motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing bandits were recovered during the operation.

He added that troops also recovered an undisclosed number of cattle believed to have been rustled by the suspects.

Babatunde said troops remain on high alert and have intensified patrols to prevent further criminal activities and ensure sustained security along border communities.

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Outbound flights from Africa to Europe emerged as the continent’s largest travel corridor in December 2025, accounting for the highest share of international seat capacity.

This data was obtained from the OAG Africa Aviation Market, which shows Europe as the top destination for African travellers, far ahead of other regions.

Airlines operated about 9.62 million seats on Africa–Europe routes, an 8.7% increase from 8.85 million in December 2024.

What the OAG report is saying 

According to OAG’s December 2025 data, Europe continued to dominate Africa’s international air travel. The increase of 769,918 seats year-on-year confirms strong and sustained demand between the continent and Europe.

Intra-African travel remained the second-largest market. Seat capacity on routes within Africa rose from 3.99 million in December 2024 to 4.11 million in December 2025, marking a 2.8% increase.

The Middle East followed, with airlines operating 4.45 million seats, up 8.2% from 4.11 million in December 2024. The region continues to serve as a major transit and destination hub for African travellers, especially through Gulf airports like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.

“Capacity to Europe remains the largest international destination region with 9.6 million seats, 769,900 additional seats vs December 2024. 

“Capacity to the Middle East increased by 338,400 seats compared to last year,” the report read in part.  

Asia-Pacific routes recorded 688,289 seats in December 2025, up 13.2% from 607,991 in December 2024, showing notable growth even though the region accounts for a smaller share of outbound traffic.

The Americas saw capacity rise from 428,225 seats in December 2024 to 493,014 seats in December 2025, a 15.1% increase, reflecting a growing but still limited market for African travellers.

What you should know  

The dominance of Europe in African air travel is mirrored in Nigeria’s outbound patterns.

According to the latest available IATA 2023 data, European cities appeared two times in the top 10 destinations for Nigerians, collectively accounting for approximately 481,100 passengers, the highest among all regions. This includes London with 421,300 passengers and Manchester with 59,800 passengers.

Within Africa, Accra, Johannesburg, and Cairo carried about 204,900 passengers in total, showing that regional travel remains significant but smaller than Europe.

• North American cities—including Toronto, New York, and Washington D.C.—handled around 150,500 passengers, while Middle East cities Jeddah and Madinah together had about 137,600 passengers.
• In 2023, international flights accounted for 23% of Nigeria’s total departures, equal to 2.1 million passengers. Europe led with 780,700 passengers (38%), Africa followed with 485,400 passengers (23%), and North America had 373,000 passengers (18%).

Nigerian outbound flights represented 0.1% of global international traffic and 2.9% of regional traffic, with cumulative growth over the last decade at -7.2%.

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Securing a second passport is becoming increasingly attractive for enhanced global mobility, expanded business opportunities, and long-term security. While citizenship laws differ from country to country, some nations offer relatively simple pathways through investment or ancestry.

Based on accessibility, processing speed, and overall requirements, here are six of the easiest countries to obtain citizenship:

1. Dominica

Dominica runs one of the world’s most affordable and efficient citizenship-by-investment programmes. Applicants can qualify by making a contribution to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in approved real estate projects.

Processing is usually completed within a few months. Dominican citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone. There is no residency requirement, and dual citizenship is allowed.

2. Ireland

Ireland offers a straightforward citizenship route for people with Irish ancestry. Individuals with an Irish-born parent qualify automatically, while those with an Irish-born grandparent can apply through the Foreign Births Register.

An Irish passport provides full European Union rights, including freedom of movement across EU member states. Ireland permits dual citizenship and does not require a language test for applicants applying by descent.

3. Turkey

Turkey provides a fast-track citizenship option through investment. Foreign nationals who purchase qualifying real estate valued at a minimum of 400,000 dollars can obtain citizenship within a few months.

The programme does not require residency or renunciation of an existing nationality. Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, with the government continuing efforts to expand travel agreements.

4. Portugal

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme remains one of Europe’s most attractive residency-to-citizenship routes. After five years of legal residence and compliance with programme requirements, applicants can apply for citizenship.

Eligible investments include venture capital funds and other approved assets. Successful applicants gain an EU passport, access to the Schengen Area, and the right to hold dual citizenship, subject to passing a basic Portuguese language test.

5. Vanuatu

Vanuatu operates one of the fastest citizenship programmes globally. Through its Development Support Programme, qualified applicants can receive citizenship in as little as two months after making a required financial contribution.

The country offers visa-free access to more than 100 destinations and imposes no tax on global income or capital gains. With minimal residency obligations, the programme appeals to those seeking rapid citizenship with limited bureaucracy.

6. Italy

Italy grants citizenship by descent to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, following a 2025 legal update that tightened eligibility rules. Applicants must submit official documentation proving a direct family link to an Italian ancestor.

Italian citizenship provides full EU rights, broad visa-free travel, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations. Dual nationality is permitted, and no language test is required for descent-based applications.

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As Nigeria continued to battle youth unemployment rates exceeding 30 per cent, a Lagos-based pilot project, Spark-ED (SPAR-ED) Financial Literacy Programme, is demonstrating that early exposure to money management skills could become a critical pillar of economic preparedness for young people.

The Spark-ED Project, implemented by Worden HCD Ltd/GTE with support from Access Holdings, has trained 2,543 secondary school students across Lagos State in financial management and digital literacy, offering what experts describe as a scalable model that can inform national education policy.

Despite several curriculum reforms over the years, Nigerian secondary schools remained largely focused on academic subjects, with little attention to practical life skills such as budgeting, saving and basic financial planning.

Executive Director of Worden HCD Ltd/GTE, Ifereke Brendan, said, “We’re producing graduates who can solve quadratic equations but can’t create a household budget, This isn’t a criticism of our teachers or schools; it’s a systemic gap that requires policy intervention”

Through a blended learning approach that combined classroom teaching with practical exercises, students were introduced to budgeting, expense tracking, book-keeping and the use of digital financial tools.

Education experts have posited that such programmes should not be isolated initiatives but should shape national policy reforms. Even as they insist that financial literacy can be embedded into existing curricula, teacher training institutions incorporate financial education modules to ensure consistency nationwide.

Access Holdings’ backing of the initiative underscores what stakeholders described as a growing private sector understanding that financial inclusion goes beyond infrastructure to building financially informed users.

“The partnership between Worden HCD and Access Holdings demonstrates what’s possible when policy goals align with corporate social responsibility, “This model could be replicated across Nigeria with appropriate government support and private sector investment,” Brendan said.

In its design, the programme deliberately targeted schools from different socioeconomic backgrounds across Lagos, ensuring that financial education was not restricted to privileged communities.

According to the organisers, the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 8 on decent work and economic growth, and 10 on reduced inequality, showing how targeted educational interventions can contribute to national development.

Meanwhile, Worden HCD is currently engaging Lagos State education authorities on how Spark-ED’s curriculum and methodology can be integrated into the state’s official education framework, with a view to possible adoption in other states.

“We’ve proven the concept works, “Now the question is: do we have the political will and institutional capacity to scale this from 2,500 students to 2.5 million?” Brendan said.

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An Anambra State–born entrepreneur and renowned philanthropist, Kenneth Ifekudu

An Anambra State–born entrepreneur and renowned philanthropist, Kenneth Ifekudu, has further cemented his growing reputation for service and generosity with the conferment of a revered traditional honour, Ife Abata (Light Has Come).

The title recognises his rising profile not only as a successful businessman but also as a benefactor whose interventions have brought tangible improvements to communities beyond his state of origin.

Ifekudu, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Leeds Limited, received the chieftaincy title from the Ezeudo II of Amike Autonomous Community, Ezzangbo, in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, His Royal Highness, Eze Michael Nwankwo, JP.

The colourful ceremony attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, youths and well-wishers, who gathered to witness what was described as a well-deserved honour for a man widely praised for his commitment to grassroots development.

Speaking at the event, the monarch explained that the decision to bestow the title followed a thorough assessment of Ifekudu’s contributions to the growth and welfare of Amike Community and the wider society.

He highlighted the businessman’s role in facilitating the construction of access roads and supporting other critical infrastructure projects, noting that such interventions have eased movement, boosted local economic activities and improved the overall quality of life for residents.

The royal father added that the Ife Abata title symbolises hope, progress and renewed confidence in communal development, values he said Ifekudu embodies through his actions.

The traditional ruler urged other wealthy individuals and corporate leaders to emulate the honouree by investing in projects that directly impact ordinary people, stressing that sustainable development thrives when private citizens partner with communities.

“Ifekudu is known for his massive philanthropy and humanitarian works in his community, Ozubulu in Anambra State and beyond. He is known to have brought succour and laughter to many families in Ozubulu in particular and Anambra State in general.

“Not long ago, he empowered over 100 persons with mini trucks to support their livelihood, in response to growing economic challenges facing many families across the country, arising from high cost of living”, he said.

In his response, Ifekudu expressed gratitude to the traditional institution and the people of Amike for the honour, describing it as a call to do even more.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote infrastructure development, youth empowerment and social welfare, pledging to continue using his resources and influence to bring “light” to underserved communities across the country.

Dignitaries who accompanied the honouree to the event include members of the National Assembly: Hon Peter Uzokwe (Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency); Hon Chinedu Oga (Ikwo and Ezza South Federal Constituency); Hon. Joseph Nwobasi (Ezza North Federal Constituency); Dean, Faculty of Economics Nile University of Nigeria, Prof Ben Akanegbu among others.

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An international human rights lawyer and bilateral affairs expert, Emmanuel Ogebe, has stated the reason the US military chose Sokoto as its first target with airstrike.

According to News Express, Ogebe said the location of the strikes appeared to reflect strategic familiarity rather than the scale of violence.

He said Sokoto had previously been the site of a US military operation during former President Donald Trump’s first term, when American special forces rescued US citizen Philip Walton from kidnappers in 2020, killing no fewer than six terrorists in the process.

The international human rights lawyer described Sokoto as an unusual choice for an opening strike, given that it was neither the epicentre of global jihadist activity in Nigeria’s North-East, where a deadly suicide bombing was recently recorded in Borno State.

“The North-West appears to be a safer operational bet for the US, given prior boots-on-ground experience and institutional memory from earlier missions,” Ogebe said.

According to him, nearness to Niger Republic, where the US until recently maintained military bases, might also have influenced the decision, as American forces are more familiar with the terrain and intelligence architecture in the region.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has since stated that the operation was conducted jointly with the United States and other allies.

Ogebe said this claim was credible, citing lessons from the 2020 Walton rescue operation, which nearly failed due to the absence of confirmed Nigerian airspace clearance.

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The 2025 Eyo Festival lit up Lagos Island on Saturday as many gathered at Tafawa Balewa Square to witness one of the state’s most revered cultural spectacles.

The iconic festival, also known as Adamu Orisha Play, was last celebrated eight years ago.

Dating back to 1854, it honours the passing of prominent Lagos indigenes, including traditional rulers and other illustrious indigenes who made significant contributions to the development of the state.

Clad in flowing white agbada-like robes, wide-brimmed hats, and carrying their symbolic staffs known as opambata, the Eyo masquerades moved in grand processions through major streets on Lagos Island.

This year’s edition was held in honour of several notable figures, including Abibatu Mogaji, a revered market leader and mother of President Bola Tinubu; Lateef Jakande, Lagos’ first civilian governor; Mobolaji Johnson, the state’s first military administrator; and Michael Otedola.

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The Gombe State Police Command has arrested a suspect in the culpable homicide of a casual staff member at the Gombe Government House.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the incident involved two casual staff working within the Gombe Government House premises.

The statement said the deceased, identified as Mallam Umar, also known as Baba Usama, was employed as a borehole operator at the Government House.

“On 26th December, 2025, at about 1550 hours, a distress report was received that a male adult identified as Mallam Umar was found lying motionless,” the police said.

Preliminary findings revealed circumstances surrounding the death.

The police stated that the victim was discovered with his trousers tied around his neck, while a local intoxicant (popularly known as rubber solution) was found inserted in his mouth.

He was rushed to the Specialist Hospital, Gombe, where he was certified dead by a medical doctor.

His remains were then deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Ahmed Chuso, visited the scene and ordered a thorough investigation into the matter.

Further investigations, including a review of CCTV footage within the Government House premises, led police to identify a suspect.

The statement revealed that one Shuaibu Adamu ‘M’, aged 19 years, also known as ‘Yaya Mama’ was seen assaulting the deceased prior to his death.”

The suspect, a casual watchman attached to a construction company handling projects within the Government House, reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident.

However, the police said he was later arrested in a coordinated operation.

“At about 2300 hours on the same date, the suspect was tracked and arrested at his hideout in Bagadaza Quarters, Gombe,” the statement added, noting that during preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime.

The police said the suspect remains in custody while investigations continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the homicide and to ensure diligent prosecution in accordance with the law.

The Command stated that it remains firmly committed to justice and the safety of all persons working within and around government facilities.

He added that further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.

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Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has praised his team’s intensity and control, after Nigeria edged Tunisia 3-2 to reach the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Round of 16.

Nigeria raced into a 3-0 lead and dominated for long spells, but were forced to dig deep as Tunisia mounted a late comeback in a tense Fez encounter.

Chelle’s side showed composure under pressure, holding firm after goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi threatened to overturn Nigeria’s early dominance.

Lookman delivered a Man-of-the-Match display, providing two assists and scoring once, underlining his growing influence closer to goal for the Super Eagles.

Tunisia rallied late through Talbi’s header and Abdi’s VAR-awarded penalty, setting up a nervy finish that Nigeria survived.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the win lifted Nigeria to six points and top of Group C, with Uganda next, while Tunisia face Tanzania in Rabat.

Chelle said the late pressure from Tunisia would serve as a valuable lesson for his players going forward in the competition.

“These are the situations that help a team grow. We must learn how to manage games better until the final whistle,” Chelle said.

The coach said that Nigeria’s pressing game was central to their dominance for large periods of the match.

“Our identity is based on intensity, aggression without the ball and speed when we regain possession. For most of the game, the players executed that very well,” he said.

Chelle also praised the players’ mental strength after conceding twice in quick succession.

“It is never easy to respond when momentum shifts, but the players stayed united and disciplined. That mentality is very important in tournament football,” he said.

Looking ahead, Chelle stressed the need for balance between attacking ambition and defensive concentration.

“We have quality going forward, but at this level, small details matter. We must remain focused from the first minute to the last,” he added.

Lookman said the Super Eagles’ ability to stay calm under pressure reflected the growing maturity within the squad.

“We showed character when the game became difficult. These are the moments that define teams in tournaments like this,” Lookman said.

The winger added that the team’s understanding in attack was improving with every match at the championship.

READ ALSO: AFCON 2025: Why we lost to Nigeria  Tunisias Coach Trabelsi

“We are building strong connections on the pitch. Everyone understands their role, and that makes our play more fluid and dangerous,” he said.

Lookman also credited the technical crew for giving players clarity and confidence in their roles.

“The coach gives us belief and clear instructions. When you know exactly what is expected, it becomes easier to express yourself,” he said.

(NAN)

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• A Nigerian lady has shared her experience with netizens after walking out of her marriage about two years ago
• In a video posted via her official account, she spoke about the moment her bride price was returned to her former husband’s family
• According to her, her former husband burst into tears when reality dawned on him that she was leaving, but it was already too late

A Nigerian lady recounted an emotional chapter of her life on social media, after leaving her marriage about two years earlier.

Through a video, she shared how the formal dissolution of the union took place just seven years after it was initiated.

Lady recounts her marital experience after her bride price was returned.
Photo credit: @miss.ijay/TikTok.
Source: TikTok

Lady recounts how her bride price was returned

In a video shared on TikTok, the lady, known on the platform as @miss.ijay, explained that the marriage officially ended when her bride price was returned to her former husband’s family.

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She shared her story alongside a throwback video which was made on the same day the repayment took place, marking the complete dissolution of the marital bond.

According to her, the incident which was initially going smoothly, became dramatic when the realisation settled in for her former spouse.

As the dissolution process took place, he reportedly became overwhelmed with emotion and broke down in tears.

The formal return of the bride price, a key traditional step, made it clear that she was leaving permanently.

Despite the emotional display, she maintained that the decision had already been finalised long before that day.

She indicated that the moment was not one of doubt but rather confirmation that the chapter had closed.

Lady narrates how her former husband burst into tears when her bride price was returned.
Photo credit: @miss.ijay/TikTok.
Source: TikTok

In her words:

“My bride price was paid in December 2016. My bride price was returned in December 2023. This video was made on my bride price return day. My “husband” couldn’t stop crying. That was when it actually dawned on him that I was really walking out of the marriage.”

Read also

Lady wipes off over 20k messages, clears chat as boyfriend breaks up with her on Boxing Day

See the post below:

Reactions as lady speaks on marital crash

TikTok users stormed the comments section to react to the post.

@Queen Meenas said:

“Some cases can be settled. Now everything na divorce. Did u not know your partner well enough before you agreed to marry him.”

@Worldearthblog said:

“When the children grow and he come and take his children that time you will be approaching 40/45 that time you will understand better. You did the man a great favour for giving him rest.”

@Zubbymercy said:

“If a man returns bride price it means he is the one that rejected the woman and not the other way round.”

@Helen ken said:

“Nothing dey outside think about old age my marriage is 35 years now I endure everything marriage brought good and bad cos my children they are grown.”

@Ify Okoye reacted:

“I am over 30 yrs in marriage. No marriage is perfect dear. But you can make it work. I will only advise you to quit when it becomes threat to life, apart from it, hand over to Jesus, He alone.”

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@Jacy.joseph20 said:

“My husband no gree return or accept anything, he keeps trying coming back until I went back to him and everything is good now.”

@Ekkies.empire kiddies added:

“I want to return my kid to her father by January, I don’t want to be stuck again. I want to focus on my life and business. Her father is living in d same street with me. We have been separated since 2023. He only pays half school fees. I do all.”

Lady ends her marriage to pastor

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a pastor’s wife publicly announced the crash of her marriage, shedding light on what really happened.

In a lengthy video, the former pastor’s wife disclosed that she got married at 20 and opened up about how she found solace in marriage at the time.

Source: Legit.ng

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What was meant to be a joyful Christmas homecoming has ended in tragedy in Oben Village, Benin city, Edo state.

A young man simply identified as Didi, who reportedly returned from abroad to celebrate the festive season with his family, was brutally killed under disturbing circumstances.

According to reports shared by @ChuksEricE on X (formerly Twitter), Didi was allegedly lured into a bush by a longtime childhood friend identified as Amadin William, also known as Old Soldier.

On getting there, he was reportedly attacked and murdered, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

Following the incident, the suspect was said to have fled the area. However, it was later confirmed that Amadin William was arrested in Benin City, where he had reportedly been hiding.

The tragic incident has sparked widespread anger and disbelief among residents and social media users, particularly due to the alleged involvement of a trusted childhood friend.

The killing has cast a dark shadow over Christmas celebrations in Oben Village, serving as a painful reminder of how trust can sometimes be fatally misplaced.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full details surrounding the murder.

Watch the video below…

Tragic Christmas Visit Ends in Mûrder in Edo State
A young man identified as Didi, who returned from abroad to celebrate Christmas with his family in Oben Village, Edo State, has been k!ll£d by allegedly childhood friend “Amadin William”
According to reports, Didi was allegedly… pic.twitter.com/TkVo06Mjjj

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) December 27, 2025

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