The Ongoing Struggle of Freed Kwara Church Kidnap Victims

Thirty-eight members of the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State, who were kidnapped by bandits on November 18, have not yet been reunited with their families, despite their confirmed release. The worshippers were abducted during a special thanksgiving service in the Ekiti Local Government Area, an attack that resulted in three deaths. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed their release through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga clarified that no ransom was paid and that the release was secured through government negotiations.

Following their freedom, the victims were transferred to Ilorin for medical and psychological care sponsored by the state government. A senior official revealed that the delay in reunification is due to the ongoing trauma care, especially for the elderly and children. However, relatives are growing anxious about the prolonged wait. One family member, speaking anonymously, stated: “The government told us they are taking care of them. We celebrated when we heard they had been released, but since that day, they have not arrived in Eruku. We miss them and want them back home.” Officials have pledged thorough care before the return, emphasizing that the victims went through severe trauma.

Obasanjo Warns Tinubu: Act Against Bandits or Nigerians May Seek Foreign Assistance

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to identify the bandits causing terror in the country. He warned that if the President does not act, Nigerians may need to seek assistance from abroad. Obasanjo made these remarks on Friday, November 28, during his address at the Plateau Unity Christmas and Praise Festival. He pointed out that despite the ongoing k!llings of Nigerians from various regions and religions, the government appears unable to safeguard its citizens, labeling the violence as "nonsensical."

"We are part of the global community. If our government fails to protect us, we have the right to ask the international community for help. If we are being k!lled, it is the government's duty to intervene. We must demand that our leaders take action at all levels and in every aspect of life," he stated. Obasanjo also emphasized that the world has progressed to a point where criminals cannot escape justice. "In this technological age, no one should be able to hide after committing a crime without being detected by modern satellites," he remarked.

Reflecting on his presidency, Obasanjo noted that the current use of drones allows for easier apprehension of individuals, unlike during his administration. He questioned the logic behind the government negotiating with and compensating criminals. "Before I left office, I was aware that we had the ability to apprehend anyone in Nigeria. The limitation we faced then was that, after identifying a criminal, we lacked the means to capture them without ground or air movement. Now, with drones, we can take them down. Why are we not doing this? Why are we engaging in negotiations? And after the government pays these criminals, it denies any involvement! We should urge our government to take action. Photo Credit: Olusegun Obasanjo's offical Instagram age president Tinubu's Instagram page

Priscilla Ojo and Jux's $12 Million Kenyan Mansion: A Dream Realized

Influencer Priscilla Ojo and her husband Jux are making headlines after the couple reportedly purchased a stunning mansion in Kenya.

Lovebirds Priscilla Ojo and her husband Jux are making waves with their recent acquisition of a stunning mansion in Kenya, reportedly worth $12 million. Priscilla shared a captivating photo of their new residence, captioning it, "We asked, they delivered!"

Jux took to his own social platform to share pictures that echoed the same joy, highlighting their shared excitement over their new beginnings.

This purchase undoubtedly showcases the couple's success and dedication to building a life together. Fans can look forward to more glimpses of their paradise after the cuts!

Photo Credit: Priscilla Ojo and Jux's Instagram page

US will pause migration from ‘third-world countries’- Says Trump

US President Donald Trump has warned of intensifying his immigration crackdown, promising to "permanently pause migration" to the US from all "third world countries" as he criticized his nation's "refugee burden". Trump's social media statement followed the announcement of a US National Guard member's de@th due to a shooting in Washington DC, for which an Afghan national is being held responsible. He did not provide additional details or specify which countries could be impacted. This plan may encounter legal obstacles and has already faced opposition from UN agencies. The president's statements after Wednesday's de@dly incident indicate a further hardening of his position on migrants during his second term.

In addition to other actions, Trump has aimed to implement mass deportations of migrants who entered the US unlawfully, significantly reduce the yearly quota for refugee admissions, and eliminate automatic citizenship rights that currently apply to nearly everyone born in the US. Following Wednesday's shooting, Trump vowed to expel any foreigner "from any country who does not belong here". On the same day, the US halted processing all immigration applications from Afghans, stating that the decision was made while reviewing "security and vetting protocols". Then on Thursday, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it would reassess green cards granted to individuals who had immigrated… Trump's strongly worded two-part post on Thursday night went even further, promising to "end all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens".

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover," the president wrote. The phrase "third world" is a term that was used in the past to describe poorer, developing nations. The White House and USCIS have not provided more information about Trump's plan, which he did not directly connect to Wednesday's attack in his post. Earlier this year, the president had already put a travel ban on nationals from Afghanistan and 11 other countries, mostly in Africa and Asia. During his first term, another travel ban was implemented that affected several majority-Muslim countries. In response to Trump's comments, the UN urged his administration to follow international agreements concerning asylum seekers. The deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general told Reuters, "We expect all countries, including the United States, to honour their commitments under the 1953 Refugee Convention."

Niger State Abduction Leaves 265 Educators and Pupils Unaccounted For, Catholic Bishop Says

The Catholic Bishop of Kontagora, Bulus Yohanna, reported that over a week after gunmen abducted many schoolchildren from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, 265 teachers and students remain missing. Yohanna made this statement on Friday, November 28, during an interview with Channels Television. He mentioned that the total includes 12 teachers and 253 schoolchildren, and that the diocese has sent the names of the abducted individuals to Niger State Governor, Umar Bago. "We had 303 pupils and students unaccounted for, along with 12 teachers. We combined those numbers to reach a total of 315 that we cannot find after conducting a headcount," the bishop explained. Those who managed to escape returned to their villages. As we began receiving calls from those who reunited with their families, we confirmed 50 out of the 315, including staff and teachers who were also missing. After deducting that number, we now have 265 individuals unaccounted for," he stated.

Yohanna, who also leads the Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), urged the Federal Government to send security forces to protect schools in the North-Central region. The bishop expressed that the kidnapping has caused significant distress for the parents of the abducted schoolgirls. He noted that two parents have died from the shock of the situation. The cleric called on both the federal and state governments to assist the school by ensuring the safety of the students and teachers still held captive by the kidnappers.

The gunmen took more than 300 children from the Catholic institution, marking a troubling return of mass kidnappings that have plagued Nigeria for years.

Senator Sani Identifies Northern Origin of Terrorist and Bandit Groups in Nigeria

Senator Shehu Sani has made a bold assertion, declaring that the terrorists and bandits causing havoc in Nigeria's North-East and North-West are not foreign infiltrators but homegrown individuals from the region itself. During an engaging discussion on national television, Sani who previously represented Kaduna Central in Nigeria’s 9th Assembly didn’t hold back as he delved into the ongoing security crisis. Speaking at length about the roots of insecurity in northern Nigeria, he firmly stated that resolving these issues would require a proactive and honest approach from the region’s leaders. Addressing the widespread belief that these armed groups are backed by foreign elements, Sani dismissed the speculation as misleading. Contrary to claims attributing the violence to people from countries like Mali, Malawi, or other parts of Africa, he emphatically pointed to locals within the region as the primary actors. He clarified that those engaging in these criminal activities in the North-East are not foreign operatives from places like Congo, Libya, or Egypt they are Northerners and predominantly Muslims. Similarly, when it comes to the banditry in the North-West, Sani underlined that these are not militants from Senegal, Morocco, Guinea, or Guinea-Bissau; rather, they are Fulani people native to the area.

He stressed that solving this issue rests squarely in the hands of northern leaders. These perpetrators are not strangers who speak unfamiliar tongues. They communicate in languages deeply rooted in the region, such as Fulani, Hausa, and Kanuri languages spoken by many in Northern Nigeria. Speaking further on the scale of the issue, Sani challenged the assumption that these groups consist of an overwhelming number of fighters. According to him, their total number barely exceeds 5,000. This highlights that while their destructive impact feels immense, the actual number of people involved may be smaller than many believe.

To resolve this crisis, Sani called on northern leaders to take decisive action. He emphasized the need for a homegrown solution driven by accurate intelligence and a unified commitment to addressing the reality on the ground. For him, it is only by acknowledging the truth about those behind these acts and owning up to their responsibility that the region can truly chart a path toward peace and stability.

New Legislation Alert: Senate Declares Kidnapping and Banditry Terrorism, Introduces De@th Penalty for Offenders

To carry out the decision, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was instructed to present a formal amendment bill "as soon as possible." The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed extensive security resolutions, officially labeling kidnapping and banditry as acts of terrorism and endorsing the maximum death penalty for all crimes related to kidnapping. These resolutions came after a vigorous debate during a session led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following a motion of urgent national importance introduced by Senator Ashiru Oyelola Yisa (Kwara South) and further modified by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. In one of its most robust security stances in recent years, the Senate declared that from now on, "all laws concerning kidnapping should be categorized as terrorism and should carry a maximum death penalty, with no judge allowed to overturn or lessen the sentence without an option for a fine." To carry out the decision, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was instructed to present a formal amendment bill "as soon as possible." In addition to the legal reclassification, lawmakers approved the establishment of a new Joint Task Force (JTF) to enhance security along the Kwara–Kogi corridor, with Forward Operating Bases to be set up in Eruku, Babanla, Oke-Ero, Isanlu, and Wasagu in Kebbi State.

The Senate also urged the Federal Government to strengthen local vigilante groups and reassess Nigeria’s firearm laws to align with practices in "over 175 countries where responsible citizens are allowed to own guns." A key point of the resolutions was the call for a thorough investigation into the withdrawal of troops from a school in Kebbi State just hours before a bandit attack. All Senate security committees were tasked with investigating the withdrawal of military personnel from the Kebbi school before the attack, examining the circular related to the k!lling of Brigadier-General M. Uba in Maiduguri, and reporting back to the chamber within two weeks.

The resolutions highlight the Senate’s growing concern about the increase in kidnappings, school raids, and bandit attacks nationwide. Earlier this month, there were also large-scale abductions in Kebbi and Niger states. Photo Credit: President Tinubu official's Instagram page

Seyi Tinubu Declares Father as Nigeria’s Best President Amidst Public Discontent

In a recent post on his Instagram account, Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed his unwavering support for his father, proclaiming him the "best President we ever had in the history of Nigeria." Seyi's comments come at a time of significant unrest and dissatisfaction among many Nigerians, who have voiced their concerns about the current administration's handling of critical issues, including insecurity, inflation, and widespread corruption. In his post, Seyi Tinubu urged his followers to support his father by following his official Instagram account. “Day and Night working tirelessly to make sure that our beautiful and blessed nation becomes developed and successful,” he stated, highlighting what he perceives as his father’s dedication to the nation.

While Seyi Tinubu is positioning himself as a prominent supporter of his father's regime, he is also making headlines as an aspiring candidate for the Lagos State governorship. Recognised as one of Nigeria's youngest billionaires, many are watching his political journey closely, especially given the current socio-political climate. However, the sentiment on the ground contrasts sharply with Seyi’s portrayal of his father's presidency. Many Nigerians have expressed their discontent with Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, citing concerns over rampant insecurity, soaring inflation rates, and allegations of corruption. One critic, Mr John San, articulated the frustrations of many citizens: “Tinubu claims to have been working on the betterment of the country since he resumed office, but there are no visible evidence of his work.”

The security situation in Nigeria has particularly troubled citizens, with many feeling unsafe amidst rising incidents of violence. Easther Bassey, a concerned citizen, lamented, “The country is not safe at all, especially for Christians and young schoolgirls.” These sentiments echo a broader sense of despair felt by a significant portion of the population, who feel that the government has failed to address the pressing challenges facing the nation.

Despite Seyi Tinubu’s optimistic portrayal of his father’s presidency, there appears to be a disconnect between the administration's narrative and the lived experiences of ordinary Nigerians. The calls for change and improvement are growing louder, with many citizens demanding accountability and transparency from their leaders. As Nigeria grapples with these multifaceted challenges, the public is increasingly focused on the performance and responsibilities of its leaders. The dichotomy between Seyi's statements and the prevailing public sentiment raises questions about the future of governance in Nigeria and the path forward for the nation.

In conclusion, while Seyi Tinubu champions his father's presidency, many Nigerians remain sceptical and are calling for tangible evidence of progress. As the nation faces critical issues, the actions and responses of the government will be closely scrutinised in the months ahead, especially with elections on the horizon. The time will tell whether the administration can bridge the gap between promises and reality, and whether Seyi's aspirations in Lagos will resonate with a populace seeking genuine change. Photo Credit: Seyi Tinubu's Instagram page

VP Shettima is back in Abuja after attending the G20 and AU-EU Summits

Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Abuja after effectively representing President Bola Tinubu at two significant international summits: the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, and the 7th African Union European Union (AU-EU) Summit in Luanda, Angola. The Vice President left South Africa on Sunday for Luanda, wrapping up a successful participation at the G20 where he stood in for the President.

In Angola, Senator Shettima presented President Tinubu’s important statement, using the opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s appeal for Africa to obtain permanent seats with veto power on the United Nations (UN) Security Council. The statement stressed that a thorough reform of the global governance system is overdue to address current world complexities. The Nigerian leader also spoke to the European Union (EU), urging it to collaborate on peace and security initiatives with its African partners.

He highlighted that these initiatives should be based on African-led frameworks as the only way to achieve lasting stability across the continent. The Nigerian government, through the Vice President, reiterated its strong commitment to promoting peace, security, and democratic governance throughout Africa and working with the European Union to create a more stable, just, and prosperous world.

During his participation at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, President Tinubu called on world leaders to create a fairer and more responsive system for managing global financial flows and to genuinely tackle the ongoing debt crises in a way that meets the needs of all nations. In his address at the first session on Saturday, the President remarked that the existing multilateral frameworks are outdated and “constructed in a time far removed from” today’s challenges, arguing they no longer represent the complexities of the modern world.

During the third session of the G20 Leaders’ Summit on Sunday, the President made two clear appeals. He urged for a worldwide framework that supports the communities in Nigeria and throughout Africa that host critical minerals, emphasizing the importance of adding value at the source instead of merely extracting resources. He also supported the establishment of global ethical standards for Artificial Intelligence (AI), which are intended to speed up development globally while reducing risks. Image credit: VP Shettima’s official Instagram account

FG Implements Ban on Open Grazing to Promote Livestock Development

The Federal Government has prohibited open grazing by cattle herders to address the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders throughout the nation. This announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the launch of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State. The minister expressed concern that the continuous clashes between farmers and herders have led to loss of lives, damage to property, and the displacement of many Nigerians. "Nigerians have faced severe hardships, including the deaths of innocent farmers and herders due to open grazing. It is crucial to put an end to this issue," Maiha stated. He pointed out that open grazing is now regarded as a serious crime, encouraging cattle herders to adopt ranching as a safer and more lucrative alternative.

"Ranching will not only help avoid conflicts but also enhance the quality and weight of cattle for better business," the minister remarked. Emphasizing the economic potential of the livestock sector, Maiha mentioned that the ministry aims to make livestock development the second-largest source of revenue for the country after oil and gas. "We expect the ministry to generate $74 billion in the next five years. To date, over $14 billion has been earned through current livestock initiatives," he noted. Adamawa State's Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who opened the council, referred to the state as a center for livestock production, stating that it was fitting to host the first National Council on Livestock Development in Adamawa. The newly formed National Council on Livestock Development includes all livestock directors from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and is responsible for overseeing the implementation of policies aimed at modernizing and expanding Nigeria's livestock industry.

Soyinka's Bold Stand Against Trump's Military Threats

Nobel Prize winner Wole Soyinka has condemned US President Donald Trump’s threat to send military forces to Nigeria, stating that the comments reveal a misunderstanding of the country’s intricate security issues. Soyinka expressed these views on Friday after a meeting with Benue state Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi. The Nobel laureate emphasized that no foreign leader can intervene in Nigeria’s security matters without fully grasping the complexities involved. He criticized Trump for implying he would "come to help" the nation without thoroughly analyzing the situation. "You can’t just say, ‘I’m coming to help you whether you like it or not… and I’m bringing violence from outside with little to no understanding of the complexities of the problem,’" Soyinka remarked. He further stated that such statements, especially those that promise quick and aggressive action, are highly concerning. "And you say, ‘I’m coming to help you, I’m coming in with guns blazing’. And when we arrive, ‘it’s going to be fast, vicious, and swift’,” Soyinka added. The Nobel laureate had earlier mentioned that Nigeria’s ongoing security issues are not based on religion but stem from the actions of violent extremists who manipulate faith for political and economic purposes. Soyinka also highlighted that while governments have a duty to protect their citizens, victims of violence deserve dignity.

"Is that the language of someone who is sane? Every government must ensure the welfare of its citizens. But at the very least, show some respect for victims and those seeking solutions to this unacceptable situation," he stated. Trump labeled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” on October 31 due to alleged killings of Christians and threatened to deploy U.S. forces if the attacks persisted. President Bola Tinubu rejected this assertion, claiming it “does not reflect our national reality.”

Last week Thursday, lawmakers, religious leaders, officials from the US Department, and witnesses shared differing opinions during an open hearing held by the United States House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa about Trump's decision to redesignate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern." Photo Credit: President Trump's Instagram Page

A World in Turmoil: Reflecting on Fela Kuti’s Timeless Message in “Beasts of No Nation”

“Wetin United for United Nations?" Fela Kuti

Photo Credit: Queens photographed by Bernard Matussiere in 1978/ Fela Kuti Official Instagram page...

Beasts of No Nation, released in 1989, serves as a prescient critique of the United Nations and the failures of global institutions to address the myriad crises facing humanity today. In a world plagued by injustice and division, the late Nigerian music legend Fela Kuti continues to resonate, inspiring a much-needed dialogue about the pressing issues that dominate our global landscape. Fela Kuti, often referred to as the father of Afrobeat, was not just a musician; he was a revolutionary. His work tackled themes of corruption, inequality, and human rights abuses in Nigeria, often at great personal risk. In songs like "Na Crazy World We Dey O," Fela encapsulated the absurdities of human existence, effectively capturing the chaotic landscape of a world embroiled in conflict. His music, characterised by infectious beats and soul-stirring melodies, transcended borders and found relevance far beyond Africa.

Former US President Barack Obama recently highlighted Kuti’s significant contributions to music and activism… Despite the establishment of numerous international institutions aimed at fostering peace, the persistent failure to resolve conflicts illustrates a systemic issue, Kuti sang “who and you unite?”

"Beasts of No Nation." Through his melodies, Kuti addressed social injustice and societal dysfunction, themes that eerily echo the challenges faced by today’s society. Fela Kuti, who fused Afrobeat with political activism, crafted songs that mirrored the struggles of his time. His work remains relevant, as evidenced by lyrics that speak to contemporary issues today, such as corruption, wars, religious violence etc. This is a crisis that demands immediate attention from the global community. Kuti's message also pointedly critiques the senseless violence often justified in the name of religion. Isn’t it absurd that the very beliefs meant to promote peace are the cause of so much bloodshed? We must reflect on how moral frameworks can sometimes lead to moral failure.

Moreover, the looming threat of nuclear conflict hangs over nations, as political leaders stockpile weapons initially designed for protection. We’ve created systems meant to safeguard humanity, yet the world seems on the brink of self-destruction. “Kuti’s work serves as a stark reminder that we must actively pursue peace rather than remain passive observers.” Mr Titus Hosea Despite the establishment of organisations aimed at conflict resolution, wars continue to ravage communities worldwide. “The world cannot afford to remain silent; inaction breeds despair,”… As we stand at this pivotal moment in history, the urgency for raising our voices for a peaceful and just world cannot be overstated. "The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil but by those who are watching without doing anything,…”

Kuti once sang—a timeless call to action. In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of our modern world—marked by conflicts, inequality, and humanitarian crises—it is essential to heed the lessons offered by Fela Kuti. His Beasts of No Nation remains a vital touchstone, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our existence. As we strive for a better tomorrow, let us remember that true change begins when individuals unite in the pursuit of justice and peace, echoing Fela’s profound message that we must not only hear the music but also act upon its call.