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Tinubu Declares Security Emergency, Teams Up With US to Crush Rising Violence

By
Ola Akinola
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared security emergencies in high-risk parts of the country, vowing to end attacks on civilians and religious communities through intensified military and intelligence operations.

The President has approved expanded joint security operations and sustained deployment of forces to flashpoint areas repeatedly hit by violence, kidnappings and attacks on worshippers.

Backing the President’s directive, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said the measures were not mere words but actions already being implemented on the ground.

Speaking on Thursday at the inauguration of the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group in Abuja, Ribadu announced the expansion of early-warning and rapid-response systems, alongside the creation of a national database to track deaths and casualties from violent incidents.

According to him, the initiative will strengthen evidence-based decision-making, improve accountability and sharpen Nigeria’s overall security response.

“Investigations and prosecutions related to attacks on religious communities have been intensified to ensure violence is met not only with force, but with justice,” Ribadu said.

He stressed that protecting all Nigerians—regardless of faith—remains a core priority of the Tinubu administration.

“Nigeria is a plural society. Any violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself,” he declared.

Ribadu explained that the government’s approach combines security operations, legal action, humanitarian safeguards and transparent communication to rebuild public trust.

He urged Nigerians to judge progress by long-term improvements rather than isolated incidents, noting growing institutional capacity to prevent, counter and punish violence.

The NSA also highlighted broader US-Nigeria cooperation covering democracy, rule of law, regional stability and counter-terrorism, warning that extremists must not be allowed to exploit social or religious divisions.

US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, described the partnership as grounded in shared interests in security, trade, energy and regional peace.

However, she expressed concern over the reported abduction of more than 170 Christians in Kaduna State on January 18, urging Nigeria to strengthen protection for freedom of worship.

Hooker recalled former US President Donald Trump’s October 31, 2025 designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, noting that meaningful progress has since been made in protecting vulnerable groups.

“I am here to expand this partnership and deepen our joint efforts against violence,” she said.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the dialogue reflected deepening strategic ties between both countries, built on trust and shared responsibility for civilian safety and religious freedom.

He cited improved intelligence sharing and coordination between US AFRICOM and Nigerian forces, particularly in operations such as Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma.

Idris also disclosed US commitments to deliver long-pending military equipment, including drones, helicopters and spare parts, as well as offers of surplus defence hardware to support Nigeria’s security operations.

Mass Abduction: Stop Playing PR, Face Reality, ADC Blasts FG Over Kaduna Cover-Up

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has slammed the Federal Government over what it described as a failed attempt to cover up the mass abduction of worshippers in Kaduna State, accusing authorities of being more concerned with public relations than protecting lives.

The party condemned the initial denial of the abduction at Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area by the Kaduna State Government and the Nigeria Police Force, warning the Federal Government to stop denying the country’s worsening security crisis.

In a statement issued Thursday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the incident as another example of the APC-led government’s obsession with suppressing uncomfortable truths to maintain a false image of security.

The party expressed grave concern that the abduction was only acknowledged after public outcry, raising serious questions about the government’s credibility and commitment to citizen safety.

According to the ADC, “This was not a communication error. It was a deliberate act of denial by a government more interested in looking good than solving problems. In moments of violence, truth is the first line of defence. When government chooses silence or falsehood, it delays action, deepens trauma, and puts more lives at risk.”

The party also criticised the Federal Government’s silence on the incident, describing it as a sign of fatigue and lack of empathy, adding that silence in a security crisis only worsens fear and erodes public trust.

ADC further alleged that journalists and civil society groups were prevented from accessing affected communities, questioning what authorities were attempting to hide.

“It is troubling that verified accounts from families, community leaders and religious bodies were dismissed. A government committed to solving problems asks for information, it does not suppress it,” the party said.

The opposition party also pointed to contradictions in Kaduna State’s so-called peace strategy, noting that while officials rushed to deny the abduction, senior government figures have openly acknowledged negotiations with bandits.

“This approach rewards criminality and leaves law-abiding citizens exposed to further attacks,” the ADC warned.

The party called for the immediate and transparent rescue of all abducted persons, an independent investigation into the initial denial of the incident, and the lifting of restrictions on journalists and civil society organisations in conflict-affected areas.

ADC also demanded full disclosure of any agreements between government authorities and armed groups, including their legal basis and oversight mechanisms.

“No Nigerian should have to beg the government to acknowledge their suffering,” the statement said. “Leadership begins with honesty, and the first duty of government is to protect life, dignity and truth.”

 

Industrial Court Restrains FCTA Workers, Halts Strike Over Pay

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Injunction issued against union leaders as legal battle over promotion arrears begins.

The National Industrial Court (NICN) in Abuja has issued an interlocutory injunction, halting the ongoing indefinite strike by workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and barring their union from any further industrial action.

The ruling, delivered on Thursday, January 21, 2026, by Justice E. D. Subilim, restrains the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC), its leaders, agents, and members from embarking on strikes, picketing, lockouts, or any action “capable of crippling activities of the FCTA.”

The order follows an indefinite strike launched by the workers on Monday over alleged non-payment of promotion arrears and other entitlements.

The court’s decision came after an application filed by the Minister of the FCT and the FCTA Administration. Their lead counsel, Dr. Ogwu J. Onoja, SAN, argued that the strike was illegal under extant labour laws and posed a “serious threat to public administration” in the nation’s capital.

Justice Subilim held that the applicants had established a strong case deserving of judicial protection to prevent the paralysis of government operations. The defendants, JUAC President Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Abdullahi Umar Saleh, were absent from the proceedings.

Consequently, the court granted an order for substituted service, directing that court processes be published in a national newspaper and pasted at the JUAC office at the FCTA Secretariat in Area 11, Garki, Abuja.

The originating summons filed by the FCTA challenges the legality of the strike under the Trade Disputes Act and questions the registered status of JUAC as a trade union.

In reaction, a JUAC official who spoke anonymously stated the union’s readiness to defend its actions legally. “If they want us to continue our agitation in court, we are ready,” the official said.

The case has been adjourned to Monday, January 26, 2026, for the hearing of the Motion on Notice.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike’s son, Joaquin Graduates From King’s College London

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

FCT Minister,  Nyesom Wike’s son, Joaquin was called as one of the King’s College London MSc Degree in Management and Technology Change graduands today.

 

 

CAN Condemns Police Communication on Kaduna Abductions, Demands Accountability and Empathy

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized the Nigeria Police Force’s public communication regarding the reported abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, calling for greater empathy, responsibility, and professionalism in security-related statements.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association acknowledged the challenges of verifying security reports in remote areas but stressed that such difficulties should not justify lapses in handling sensitive information concerning mass abductions and threats to human life.

CAN expressed deep concern over what it described as the initial dismissal of reports on the incident before thorough verification, an action it said generated public confusion, heightened fear, and unfairly cast doubt on the credibility of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy members, and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm.

“While efforts to prevent public panic are understandable, caution must not be conveyed in a manner that suggests denial or indifference to the suffering of citizens,” the statement read.

CAN emphasized that statements from senior security officials carry significant weight and must be guided by due diligence, empathy, and an awareness of their impact on public trust and social stability.

The association welcomed the police’s eventual confirmation of the incident and commended the Inspector-General of Police for deploying operational and intelligence assets to the area. However, it urged that such actions be matched with a more people-centered and disciplined approach to crisis communication.

CAN called on all security agencies to improve coordination, enhance verification processes, and treat credible reports from communities with the seriousness they deserve. It also warned against both dismissive responses and the spread of sensational misinformation.

The Christian body further urged governments at all levels to address the worsening insecurity across the country with renewed urgency, noting that repeated attacks continue to endanger lives, disrupt worship, and erode public confidence.

CAN appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted persons and prayed for their safe return, while calling on security agencies to intensify efforts toward their swift rescue.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and the defense of human dignity, pledging continued solidarity with affected communities and constructive engagement with authorities in pursuit of lasting security.

Labour Party Leadership Crisis: Court Removes Abure, Orders INEC to Recognise Nenadi-led Faction

By
Ola Akinola
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A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, a former Minister of Finance, as the authentic National Leader of the Labour Party.

In a judgment delivered on Wednesday, Justice Peter Lifu also declared the removal of Mr. Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the party, citing the expiration of his tenure.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2262/2025, was filed by Senator Usman against Abure and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) as defendants.

Justice Lifu stated that his decision relied on an April 4, 2025 pronouncement of the Supreme Court which earlier declared Senator Usman as the Caretaker Chairman of the Labour Party.

The court held that the establishment of the Labour Party’s Caretaker Committee was a necessity arising from the Supreme Court’s order and dismissed Abure’s argument that the issue was an internal party affair.

“The court ordered INEC to immediately recognise the Nenadi Usman-led Caretaker Committee as the only valid authority to represent the Labour Party pending when the party convenes its national convention,” the judge ruled.

The ruling follows months of internal crisis within the party, which began when the party’s National Executive Committee resolved to sack Abure as chairman at a stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia hosted by Abia State Governor Alex Otti. The meeting was chaired by the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.

To fill the leadership vacuum, the party constituted a 29-member caretaker committee, headed by Senator Nenadi Usman.

Abure had earlier approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to invalidate his removal, claiming that his tenure was lawfully renewed at an NEC meeting held in Asaba, Delta State in April 2023, which was monitored by INEC.

The court, however, found that Abure’s tenure had since lapsed and affirmed the caretaker arrangement as lawful.

This judgment is expected to bring a temporary resolution to the protracted leadership dispute, though political observers anticipate possible appeals from the Abure faction.

Deputy Speaker Kalu Withholds Commissioning of Road Over Defects, Demands Immediate Repair

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has declared that he will not commission the newly constructed 5.5-kilometre Ozuitem–Uzuakoli road in Abia State until a failed section of approximately 10 metres is fully repaired.

The decision was announced in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, following Kalu’s inspection of the project on Tuesday.

The Deputy Speaker’s stance came shortly after he commissioned the 5-kilometre Alayi–Ugwueke–Akaeze road—a key interstate link connecting Bende Local Government Area of Abia State to Akaeze in Ebonyi State. The project is among several constituency interventions facilitated by Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency.

Speaking on the Ozuitem–Uzuakoli road, Kalu emphasized that it is receiving its first asphalt overlay since its original construction in 1981 during the administration of late Governor Sam Mbakwe of the defunct Imo State. He insisted that the project would not be inaugurated until all identified defects are addressed.

Kalu has directed the contractors to return to site immediately to fix the failed portions, ensuring durability and safety. The affected section has already been excavated and is set to be rehabilitated with stone base, cement pavement, and asphalt.

“I will not commission that road until the repairs are completed,” Kalu stated firmly. “For me, it is about leadership and delivering on promises. When issues arise during construction, contractors are expected to return and fix them.”

He further clarified that the road, which has been circulating on social media, remains under construction and has not been commissioned.

The Deputy Speaker explained that the 5.5km road reconnects Ozuitem and Uzuakoli through the Elugwumba community—a route he promised to restore during his campaign.

“There was no direct connection between Ozuitem and Uzuakoli through Elugwumba community until we made it one of our campaign promises. The APC promised to fix the road, and with the support of Mr. President, we have delivered. However, those failed sections must be properly fixed before commissioning,” he added.

Kalu’s refusal to commission an incomplete project underscores his commitment to quality and accountability in constituency projects—a stance likely to resonate with constituents and observers ahead of future elections.

NPC Seeks Ministry’s Support to Ensure Credible National Census

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The National Population Commission (NPC) has called for stronger collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to ensure widespread public awareness and participation in the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census.

NPC Chairman, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.

The visit aimed to strengthen institutional synergy and enhance media partnerships ahead of the census, which has yet to be scheduled following its last-minute postponement by the previous administration.

Dr. Yusuf commended the Ministry and its agencies—particularly the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)—for their pivotal roles in previous census advocacy and public mobilization efforts.

“This collective effort clearly demonstrated how coordinated government communication can build trust, stimulate participation, and promote national ownership of vital public programmes,” Yusuf stated.

He assured the Minister that despite the delay, the Commission remains operationally focused and technically prepared to conduct a transparent, credible, and acceptable census once a new date is announced.

Beyond the census, Yusuf highlighted the NPC’s ongoing efforts to deepen the implementation of the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system to ensure real-time registration of births and deaths nationwide—a critical tool for national planning in health, education, and social development.

In his response, Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi reaffirmed the Ministry’s full commitment to supporting the NPC’s communication and advocacy efforts toward a successful census.

He stressed that credible population data is indispensable for effective governance and evidence-based planning.

“Data is key to whatever planning you intend to do. If you can’t measure, you can’t manage, and if you can’t plan, the results are predictable. Therefore, census is not optional for us,” Malagi stated.

The Minister, who chairs the National Publicity Committee for the census, noted that President Bola Tinubu would proclaim a new census date at the appropriate time, following due process.

“We are waiting for the President’s proclamation, which is the basis for the legal and financial framework of the exercise,” he added, assuring that the Ministry and its agencies stand ready to provide full media and communication support once the announcement is made.

Dr. Yusuf was accompanied on the visit by the NPC Director-General, Dr. Osifo Tellson Ojogun, as well as directors and senior technical aides of the Commission.

DSS Intervenes in Awujale Succession, Summons Nominees for Screening

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The stalled process to select a new Awujale of Ijebuland has taken a dramatic turn, as nominees vying for the revered stool have been summoned by the Department of State Services (DSS) for a scheduled engagement in Ijebu-Ode.

The invitation, dated January 20, was issued by the Secretary of the Awujale Afobaje Council and forwarded to the heads of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House—Lateef Owoyemi, Dokun Ajidagba, and Fassy Yusuf. The directive mandates that all nominees present themselves at the DSS office on NTA Road, Ijebu-Ode.

In a related move, the Awujale Kingmakers Council has canceled a planned meet-and-greet session scheduled for Wednesday. A separate notice advised all nominees to disregard the earlier meeting and to comply fully with the DSS directive.

This intervention by the state security agency has further heightened political and traditional tensions surrounding the succession to the throne, which has been vacant since the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona last year.

The development comes barely 24 hours after the Ogun State Government, for the second time, ordered the immediate suspension of the entire selection process. The state cited multiple petitions and security reports as grounds for the halt, emphasizing the need to preserve public order and the integrity of the paramount stool.

Analysts suggest the DSS invitation indicates deeper concerns over the conduct and credibility of the aspirants, as well as potential security implications of a disputed succession. The involvement of a federal agency adds a new layer of oversight to what is traditionally a local chieftaincy process.

There has been no official statement from the DSS regarding the nature or purpose of the engagement. All parties are now awaiting the outcome of this unprecedented security screening as the journey to fill one of Yorubaland’s most influential thrones enters a cautious, state-monitored phase.

Rivers Police Hunt for Fleeing Suspect in Alleged Sexual Abuse of Minors

By
Ola Akinola
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0

 

The Rivers State Police Command has opened a formal investigation into disturbing allegations of sexual abuse involving two minors—an 11-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy—against a 45-year-old man identified only as Pascal, who is now on the run.

The case, registered at the Nkpolu Police Division (UST) in Mile 3 Diobu, Port Harcourt, followed complaints lodged by the victims’ parents, facilitated by human rights advocate Prince Wiro, National Coordinator of the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign.

According to statements gathered by investigators, the suspect, a former neighbour on Christ Apostolic Street, Mile 3 Diobu, now residing in the Pipeline area of Egbelu, Obio/Akpor LGA, allegedly abused the children repeatedly over several months.

The father of the girl reported that Pascal entered their home in his absence to assault his daughter and also took her to his own residence. The mother of the boy said she became aware of the abuse after her son complained of persistent anal pain and, upon questioning, confessed to being violated by the suspect for about six months.

Prince Wiro confirmed accompanying the families to the police station, where the children were issued medical forms and referred for examination. He commended the Divisional Police Officer for professional handling of the case while calling for a thorough investigation.

Wiro also condemned attempts by persons claiming to represent the Egbelu landlords’ association to mediate privately rather than ensuring the suspect faced legal action.

In a troubling disclosure, the suspect admitted in communication that he had begun negotiating a settlement with the girl’s father, describing the matter as “small” and claiming it would be resolved amicably.

However, the father of the girl has strongly denied any out-of-court settlement, insisting that the law must take its course.

Police sources say Pascal has since absconded, missing a scheduled meeting with the victims’ families, and efforts are underway to track and apprehend him.

The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that the investigation will be pursued diligently to ensure justice for the minors.

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