The new tax laws, including those that took effect on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will continue as planned.
This was disclosed in a statement personally signed by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday.
He said these reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country.
The tax laws, according to Tinubu are not designed to raise taxes, but rather to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract.
“I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage.
“Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws.
“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process. Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures.
“I emphasise our administration’s unwavering commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws. The Presidency pledges to work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified.
“I assure all Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility”, Tinubu said in the statement
Iran has designated the Royal Canadian Navy as a terrorist organisation, escalating diplomatic tensions between Tehran and Ottawa following Canada’s decision last year to blacklist Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The Iranian foreign ministry announced the designation on Tuesday, describing the move as a reciprocal response to Canada’s classification of the IRGC as a terrorist group in June 2024.
In a statement, the ministry said Canada’s action violated “the fundamental principles of international law,” adding that Iran, “within the framework of reciprocity, identifies and declares the Royal Canadian Navy as a terrorist organisation.”
No specific measures or penalties accompanying the designation were outlined.
Canada formally designated the IRGC on June 19, 2024, a move that bars its members from entering the country, prohibits Canadians from engaging with the group or its affiliates, and allows for the seizure of any IRGC-linked assets within Canadian jurisdiction.
Ottawa accused the IRGC of persistent human rights abuses and actions that undermine the international rules-based order.
The designation followed years of pressure from opposition lawmakers and intensified calls after Iran launched hundreds of missiles at Israel in April 2024.
In May 2024, Canada’s House of Commons unanimously adopted a report urging the government to proceed with the designation. The decision was also shaped by the 2020 downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 shortly after takeoff from Tehran, which killed all 176 passengers and crew, including 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Iran later admitted the aircraft was shot down by IRGC forces after being misidentified as a hostile target.
Canada severed diplomatic relations with Iran in 2012, citing concerns over regional security and human rights. The United States designated the IRGC a foreign terrorist organisation in 2019, while Australia took a similar step in recent weeks, citing alleged involvement of the force in activities threatening national security.
The latest exchange marks a further deterioration in relations between Iran and Western governments, with no immediate indication of de-escalation.
(DDM) – In a decisive move to strengthen grassroots coordination ahead of the 2027 general elections, supporters of Peter Obi have announced the formation of a Quad Steering Committee.
The newly established body brings together four major supporter groups: The Obidient Movement (OM), Big-Tent, Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), and Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO). The committee is tasked with providing structure, discipline, and strategic alignment across these groups to ensure a united and effective campaign effort.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Chairman Ibrahim H. Abdulkarim said the committee is not a political party organ and will not compete with any party structure. Its purpose is purely to coordinate supporter activities, maintain message discipline, and ensure the efficient use of resources across states and local structures.
“The Quad Steering Committee exists to translate strategic direction from Peter Obi’s team into actionable plans across all support groups,” Abdulkarim stated. He emphasized that the committee will prevent duplication of efforts while fostering unity of purpose, making the movement more impactful ahead of the elections.
The committee’s mandate includes receiving strategic priorities from Obi’s team, coordinating actions among support groups, ensuring focused messaging, and monitoring activities for accountability and results. It will also engage with state-level chapters to assign responsibilities and set frameworks for consistent implementation.
Abdulkarim urged all supporters to remain disciplined, respect coordination structures, and continue grassroots mobilization and advocacy in line with the shared objectives of Obi’s campaign. He further stressed that supporters should be ready to follow Peter Obi to the platform he chooses when the time comes, highlighting the need for strategic patience and organization.
This announcement comes at a critical period as political alliances and supporter mobilization are taking shape across the country.
DDM gathered that the Quad Steering Committee aims to consolidate Peter Obi’s influence in key regions, ensuring that every supporter effort contributes meaningfully toward the 2027 electoral strategy.
The committee calls on supporters to remain united, disciplined, and proactive, stressing that measurable progress will only come from coordinated actions under clear leadership. Abdulkarim noted that further communications and operational guidelines would be shared in due course to ensure all groups are aligned.
Observers have described the formation of the Quad Steering Committee as a pivotal step in formalizing Peter Obi’s campaign machinery. By creating a single coordination point, supporters hope to maximize their impact and avoid fragmentation, which has historically undermined political movements in Nigeria.
The establishment of this committee signals an intensifying focus on strategic clarity and operational efficiency among Obi’s supporters, as the campaign gears up for a competitive and highly contested electoral season.
This structure, according to insiders, is designed to keep supporters disciplined, focused, and ready to respond effectively to the directives of Peter Obi’s campaign team, reinforcing a culture of accountability and unity in the push toward 2027.
CANADA – COLE HARBOUR, NOVA SCOTIA – Authorities are seeking public assistance in locating 30-year-old Jordan Simmonds, who is wanted on a province-wide arrest warrant issued by the RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment.
Simmonds faces serious charges, including flight from a peace officer and dangerous operation of a conveyance, prompting police to classify him as a high-priority fugitive. Officers have reportedly made several attempts to locate him, but he remains at large.
Described as 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 175 pounds, Simmonds has brown hair and brown eyes. Police emphasize that members of the public should not attempt to approach him, as he may pose a risk to personal safety.
The RCMP has called on anyone with information about Simmonds’ whereabouts to come forward immediately. Tips can be submitted directly to the Halifax Regional Detachment at 902-490-5020. Individuals may also contact their local police stations with relevant information.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers offers a toll-free line at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Alternatively, tips can be submitted securely via their website at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or through the P3 Tips mobile app.
Police stress that public cooperation is critical to apprehending Simmonds and preventing potential harm. Authorities are urging community members to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activity linked to the fugitive.
This search highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to enforce warrants and maintain public safety throughout Nova Scotia. Authorities have reassured residents that all tips will be handled confidentially and could play a decisive role in Simmonds’ capture.
The RCMP reminds the public that fleeing from law enforcement and reckless operation of vehicles are serious offenses that carry significant legal consequences. The investigation into Simmonds is active, and law enforcement agencies across the province are coordinating to ensure his prompt arrest.
DDM reports that the call for public assistance is part of a broader campaign by the RCMP to engage communities in crime prevention, stressing that timely information from citizens often proves crucial in locating and apprehending wanted individuals.
Officials urge anyone with information to act quickly, reiterating that Simmonds should be reported immediately to authorities rather than approached directly, ensuring both public safety and effective law enforcement action.
The Nigeria Police Force has paid glowing tribute to one of its most iconic trailblazers, Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe, as she marked her 90th birthday, celebrating a lifetime that reshaped gender boundaries and professional standards within Nigeria’s law enforcement system.
Ugowe’s story stands out in the long and often male-dominated history of the Nigeria Police Force, not merely because of the ranks she attained, but because of the era she conquered. She joined the police at a time when leadership opportunities for women were rare, institutional resistance was strong, and societal expectations limited female advancement in uniformed services.
Through discipline, resilience, and consistent excellence, Ugowe defied those odds and steadily rose through the ranks. Her career journey saw her become the first female Commissioner of Police, the first woman appointed as Assistant Inspector-General of Police, and the first female Force Secretary. She later crowned this unprecedented run by becoming the first woman to attain the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police, a feat that firmly etched her name into Nigeria’s policing history.
The Police Force described her rise as a victory of merit over prejudice, noting that her leadership style emphasised professionalism, accountability, and service to the nation. Officers who served under her recall a firm but fair administrator who placed discipline and institutional integrity above personal interests, setting a standard that many still reference today.
Beyond the titles she held, Ugowe’s influence extended to structural change within the Force. Her presence at the highest levels of command challenged long-standing assumptions about women’s roles in policing and encouraged institutional reforms that gradually widened opportunities for female officers across the country. Many senior women officers currently serving trace their confidence and ambition to the example she set decades earlier.
The Nigeria Police Force, in reflecting on her 90th birthday, described her career as a living lesson in leadership built on competence rather than convention. The institution acknowledged that her legacy continues to shape training, promotions, and perceptions of women in uniform, long after her retirement from active service.
In a message issued from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised Ugowe’s enduring contributions, describing her as a symbol of courage whose impact transcends generations. He noted that her service helped strengthen professionalism within the Force while inspiring officers to pursue excellence regardless of gender or background.
DDM reports that the celebration of Ugowe’s milestone birthday has also sparked renewed conversations within security circles about gender inclusion, leadership ethics, and the importance of preserving institutional memory in Nigeria’s policing system.
As she marks nine decades of life, Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe stands not just as a retired officer, but as a national figure whose career redefined what was possible for women in law enforcement. Her story remains a powerful reminder that true leadership leaves footprints long after the uniform is folded away.
A dramatic and deeply destabilizing turn has emerged in the long-running Yemeni conflict, as Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes on a weapons shipment allegedly originating from the United Arab Emirates and destined for separatist forces in southern Yemen. The strike, confirmed by Saudi state media, marks one of the most serious ruptures yet between two Gulf powers that once stood shoulder to shoulder in a unified military coalition, and it threatens to redraw alliances, battle lines and geopolitical calculations across the Middle East.
DDM NEWS can confirm that the Saudi attack, carried out overnight on Tuesday, targeted two ships docked at the southern Yemeni port city of Mukalla. According to Riyadh, the vessels were carrying a large cache of weapons and combat vehicles intended to reinforce the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a UAE-backed separatist movement seeking to resurrect the former state of South Yemen.
The airstrikes, though limited in scope, have unleashed a cascade of political, military and diplomatic consequences that now risk plunging Yemen into yet another phase of chaos—this time not only between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, but between former allies fighting over the country’s future.
From Strategic Partners to Strategic Rivals
For nearly a decade, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been the twin pillars of the Arab coalition that intervened militarily in Yemen in 2015. Their stated objective was to restore the internationally recognised Yemeni government after the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, in 2014 and expanded control over much of the north.
Yet beneath the surface of that partnership, divergent ambitions were quietly taking root. Saudi Arabia has consistently backed Yemen’s internationally recognised government, viewing stability in Yemen as essential to its own national security. The UAE, by contrast, has cultivated close ties with southern militias and political groups, particularly the STC, whose ultimate goal is the re-establishment of an independent South Yemen.
Those differences have now erupted into open confrontation.
In a sharply worded statement released after the airstrikes, Saudi officials described the UAE-backed arms shipments as “extremely dangerous” and “a direct threat to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and regional security.” The language, unusually blunt for communications between Gulf allies, underscored the gravity of the rupture.
The Mukalla Strike and What We Know
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the coalition struck two vessels that had arrived in Mukalla from Fujairah, a major port city on the eastern coast of the UAE. The ships were allegedly transporting weapons and combat vehicles intended to bolster STC forces that have seized significant territory in southern Yemen in recent weeks.
Saudi officials said the operation was conducted overnight to minimise civilian casualties and avoid collateral damage. While independent verification remains difficult due to restricted access to the port area, multiple regional security analysts told DDM NEWS that the strike was precise and clearly intended as a political and military warning to Abu Dhabi rather than a full-scale escalation.
Nevertheless, the symbolism of the attack cannot be overstated. This was not a strike against the Houthis or Islamist militants—it was a direct action against assets allegedly linked to a former ally.
Yemen’s Government Strikes Back Politically
The Yemeni government wasted little time responding. In a series of emergency measures announced shortly after the Saudi strike, authorities declared a state of emergency, cancelled a key security pact with the UAE, and issued a dramatic 24-hour ultimatum demanding the withdrawal of all Emirati forces from Yemeni territory.
Officials in Aden accused the UAE of undermining Yemen’s sovereignty by backing separatist forces that have seized large areas of the south, including much of the oil-rich Hadhramaut province and neighbouring al-Mahra, reportedly with minimal resistance.
Rashad al-Alimi, head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, addressed the nation in a televised speech, denouncing the STC’s territorial advances as an “unacceptable rebellion” that threatens Yemen’s unity at a time when the country remains locked in a brutal struggle against the Houthis.
A Coalition at War With Itself
The Saudi-led coalition has now found itself in the extraordinary position of potentially fighting on behalf of Yemen’s government against forces backed by one of its own founding members.
On Saturday, before the Mukalla strike, the coalition issued a warning that it would support the Yemeni government in any military confrontation with separatist forces, urging the STC to withdraw peacefully from areas it had seized. That warning now appears to have given way to direct action.
Saudi airstrikes on STC positions last Friday were reportedly aimed at halting their rapid advance across southern provinces. Analysts say Riyadh is increasingly alarmed that a fractured south could permanently weaken Yemen, leaving Saudi Arabia exposed to long-term instability along its border.
Washington Calls for Calm as Tensions Escalate
The rapidly deteriorating situation has drawn concern from the United States, which has urged restraint and diplomacy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said over the weekend that only a negotiated political solution could bring lasting stability to Yemen and prevent the conflict from splintering further.
Privately, US officials fear that open conflict between Saudi Arabia and the UAE—two of Washington’s closest regional partners—could derail years of fragile diplomatic progress, including ceasefire arrangements with the Houthis and efforts to stabilise key shipping routes.
The Houthis Watch From the Sidelines
Ironically, as former allies turn on one another, the Houthis appear to be among the unintended beneficiaries of the unfolding crisis. The Iran-backed group still controls Yemen’s capital and most of the north, and any weakening of the anti-Houthi front plays directly into its hands.
For the past two years, the Houthis carried out attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, claiming solidarity with Hamas during the Gaza conflict. Those attacks disrupted global trade routes and drew international condemnation, though they have eased somewhat since the ceasefire in Gaza.
With Saudi Arabia and the UAE now distracted by internal divisions, analysts warn the Houthis could use the opportunity to consolidate power or extract concessions in future negotiations.
Southern Yemen and the Ghost of Independence
The current crisis cannot be understood without appreciating the historical roots of southern separatism. South Yemen existed as an independent state until 1990, when it unified with the north. Since then, many southerners have felt politically marginalised and economically exploited.
Supporters of the STC and affiliated movements have long organised rallies demanding independence, and their cause has gained renewed momentum in recent years. On Saturday, tens of thousands gathered in Aden, waving both the South Yemen independence flag and the UAE flag—a powerful symbol of Abu Dhabi’s influence and the deepening divide within Yemen.
Troops, Borders and a Brewing Storm
A Yemeni military official told DDM NEWS that approximately 15,000 Saudi-backed fighters are currently massed near the Saudi-Yemeni border. While they have not yet been ordered to advance into separatist-held territory, their presence underscores the seriousness of Riyadh’s preparations should diplomacy fail.
For now, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable. What began as a civil war has splintered into overlapping conflicts driven by ideology, regional rivalry, and competing visions of Yemen’s future.
A Dangerous New Chapter
The Saudi strike on a UAE-linked arms shipment marks a turning point not only in Yemen’s war but in Gulf geopolitics. It exposes the fragility of alliances built on convenience rather than shared end goals, and it highlights how Yemen has become a battlefield not just for local factions, but for regional power struggles.
As diplomats scramble to prevent further escalation, ordinary Yemenis once again find themselves caught in the crossfire—facing uncertainty, displacement and the prospect of yet another prolonged phase of violence.
The Nigerian creative and digital media space was thrown into deep mourning and confusion following reports of the tragic death of popular writer, storyteller and creative strategist, Anda Damisa, widely known online as Lazy Writa. The news, which began circulating quietly among close friends before erupting across social media platforms, has left fans, colleagues and industry insiders grappling with disbelief, sorrow and painful questions about mental health, pressure and silent battles in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital culture.
DDM NEWS gathered that the late creative, whose words once inspired laughter, reflection and admiration across Nigeria’s internet community, reportedly died a few days before December 29, 2025, under circumstances that have led close associates to believe he may have taken his own life. While authorities have yet to release an official statement confirming the cause of death, a deeply emotional message that appeared on his remaining social media platform at exactly 12 noon on December 29 has intensified speculation and heartbreak.
A Scheduled Message That Broke the Internet
Multiple sources close to Lazy Writa told DDM NEWS that the message, which appeared suddenly and without warning, was believed to have been scheduled before his death. Friends insist it was written deliberately as a farewell note, intended to reach loved ones and the wider public after he was gone.
The post, written in a tone that blended warmth, regret, humour and finality, stunned readers. It spoke of exhaustion, emotional release, love for friends and family, and a desire for those left behind not to carry guilt or sorrow. The timing, coupled with the fact that all his other social media accounts had reportedly been deleted beforehand, added to the belief that the message was intentional and pre-planned.
Within minutes, screenshots of the post began spreading rapidly across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook, igniting a wave of grief, speculation and debate.
Who Was Lazy Writa?
Lazy Writa was not just another social media personality. To many in Nigeria’s creative ecosystem, he represented a generation of writers who shaped online storytelling during the early 2010s. Rising to prominence around 2012, his writing style stood out for its honesty, humour, emotional depth and relatability.
Behind the scenes, he reportedly worked as a creative strategist and content developer for several brands, crafting campaigns that resonated deeply with Nigerian audiences. While his name may not always have appeared on billboards or official credits, insiders say many viral adverts and digital campaigns bore his creative fingerprints.
“Lazy Writa was a genius with words,” a former collaborator told DDM NEWS. “He understood human emotions and Nigerian realities in a way very few people did.”
A Life That Looked Full, Yet Felt Heavy
One of the most troubling aspects of the reports surrounding his death is the contrast between his public persona and the emotional weight suggested by his final message. Friends described him as adventurous, witty and deeply loving — someone who appeared to live life fully and fearlessly.
Yet beneath the surface, close associates now believe he may have been battling emotional exhaustion and internal struggles that were invisible to many around him. Several friends admitted that, in hindsight, there were subtle signs of withdrawal and fatigue that went unnoticed or were misinterpreted as creative burnout.
Mental health advocates say this pattern is tragically common, particularly among creatives who often pour emotional labour into their work while neglecting their own well-being.
The Final Message and Its Emotional Weight
In his farewell message, Lazy Writa reportedly expressed gratitude to those who journeyed through life with him — friends, family and loved ones who gave his days meaning. He spoke tenderly about a past romantic relationship, urging the woman he loved to live fully, love freely and never carry blame.
He also explained why he deleted all his social media accounts, stating that he wanted to prevent false narratives and ensure that people knew he was at peace. The message, while not graphic, carried a profound sense of closure that has left readers shaken.
Mental health professionals warn that while such messages may appear calm or comforting, they often mask deep emotional distress and should never be romanticized.
Social Media Erupts With Tributes and Pain
Following the circulation of the message, tributes poured in from writers, creatives, brand strategists and ordinary Nigerians who had been touched by his work. Many described how his words helped them through difficult moments, made them laugh during hard times, or inspired them to pursue creative careers.
Hashtags bearing his name trended briefly, accompanied by messages of grief, disbelief and regret. Some followers questioned whether enough had been done to check on him, while others called for greater awareness and support for mental health in Nigeria’s creative and influencer communities.
“This one hurts deeply,” one user wrote. “We celebrate talent but ignore the human behind it.”
Silence From Authorities, Growing Questions
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by law enforcement or health authorities regarding the circumstances of Lazy Writa’s death. This silence has left room for speculation, rumours and misinformation — a situation experts warn can further harm grieving families and vulnerable individuals.
DDM NEWS emphasizes that, until confirmed by relevant authorities, all claims regarding the cause of death remain allegations.
A Broader Conversation Nigeria Cannot Avoid
Beyond the tragedy itself, Lazy Writa’s reported death has reopened urgent conversations about mental health, particularly among young Nigerians navigating economic pressure, social expectations, online visibility and personal struggles.
Nigeria continues to face limited access to mental health care, widespread stigma around emotional distress, and a cultural tendency to equate vulnerability with weakness. For creatives and influencers, the pressure is often compounded by the demand to remain productive, visible and emotionally engaging at all times.
Mental health advocates argue that this tragedy should serve as a wake-up call, not just for fans but for industry leaders, brands, media platforms and policymakers.
A Call for Compassion, Not Speculation
As investigations and confirmations are awaited, family members and close friends have appealed for privacy, compassion and restraint. They urge the public to avoid spreading unverified claims, edited screenshots or harmful narratives that could deepen pain or encourage copycat behaviour.
Remembering Lazy Writa
As Nigerians mourn the reported loss of Anda Damisa, Lazy Writa, many are choosing to remember him not for the circumstances of his death, but for the beauty of his words, the joy he brought to countless lives, and the creative legacy he leaves behind.
The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed a loud explosion at the General Hospital in Bagudo, Kebbi State, in the early hours of Tuesday, assuring residents that the situation has been brought under control.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the command said no casualties were recorded in the incident.
According to the police, a joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the military and local vigilante groups swiftly cordoned off the affected area and secured the hospital premises shortly after the explosion.
Specialists from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) unit were also deployed to conduct a detailed assessment of the scene.
Although a building within the hospital’s staff quarters sustained damage, the police said occupants had evacuated the area before the explosion occurred.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State has ordered the deployment of additional tactical teams to the area to maintain public order and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
A comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the explosion.
Residents have been advised to remain calm and to avoid the immediate vicinity of the hospital to allow security agencies carry out their operations without interference.
The police said further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
The African Democratic Congress has intensified political mobilisation across Enugu State as preparations heighten for the Peter Obi South East rally scheduled for tomorrow, December 31, 2025.
The call was made on Tuesday during a press briefing addressed by the ADC Chairman of Enugu North Senatorial District, Hon. Prince Kingsley Acharabagu, at the party’s Zonal National Office in Nsukka.
DDM observed that the briefing marked a strategic escalation in ADC’s grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Acharabagu broke his silence to urge ADC members, both old and newly registered, to fully mobilise supporters for the Peter Obi South East rally, describing it as a defining political moment for the region.
He said the rally would signal the party’s readiness to challenge entrenched political structures and offer Nigerians a credible alternative.
The ADC leader declared that the party remained open to welcoming Nigerians frustrated by years of poor leadership and economic hardship.
He urged prospective members to obtain ADC membership cards from their wards and immediately begin mobilising others.
According to him, ward-level organisation would determine the party’s strength and relevance ahead of 2027.
Acharabagu stressed that ADC was not desperate to seize power at all costs.
He said the party sought to rebuild Nigeria through leadership rooted in integrity, competence, and compassion.
He argued that ADC’s political direction, driven by the ideals associated with Peter Obi, focused on alleviating the suffering inflicted on Nigerians by years of failed governance.
He accused past administrations of deepening poverty, unemployment, and insecurity through reckless leadership choices.
The Enugu North Senatorial District chairman described Peter Obi as a symbol of accountability and fiscal discipline.
He said Obi’s political philosophy aligned with ADC’s vision of transparent governance and people-oriented policies.
Acharabagu insisted that the South East rally would project ADC’s ideology beyond partisan politics.
He said the event would also serve as a platform to reawaken political consciousness among young people and first-time voters.
During the briefing, Acharabagu commended the Enugu State ADC Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Stella Chikwuma.
He praised her leadership style, describing it as firm, inclusive, and stabilising amid ongoing political realignments.
He pledged the continued loyalty and support of Enugu North Senatorial District to her leadership.
He said strong internal cohesion was essential for ADC to withstand pressure from dominant political parties.
Acharabagu also acknowledged the role of ADC South East zonal leaders in strengthening party unity across the region.
He said their coordination had improved mobilisation, communication, and strategic planning.
Political observers view the rally as part of broader opposition efforts to consolidate support ahead of 2027.
The South East remains a crucial political bloc with growing influence in national conversations.
ADC leaders believe the rally will energise grassroots supporters and attract Nigerians searching for political alternatives.
As the countdown to 2027 continues, ADC appears determined to convert public frustration into organised political momentum.
The Peter Obi South East rally now stands as a major test of the party’s capacity to translate rhetoric into action.
At least eight people have been confirmed dead, while four others remain missing, following a Boko Haram attack on three communities in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The affected villages are Zah, Mubang Yadul and Kijing, where the attackers struck late Monday night.
The Chairman of Hong Local Government Area, Inuwa Usman Wa’aganda, confirmed the incident to LEADERSHIP in a telephone interview on Tuesday. He said security personnel recovered eight bodies from the affected communities, while search efforts were ongoing for four residents still unaccounted for.
“Houses and shops were burnt during the attack, and many residents lost foodstuffs and other means of livelihood,” Wa’aganda said, adding that the assailants fled into nearby bushes before security forces arrived.
He appealed to the state and federal governments to urgently intervene to support displaced residents and facilitate their resettlement.
“It is true that Boko Haram attacked Mubang, Zah and Kijing villages. For now, eight corpses have been recovered, and four persons are still missing,” he said.
A police source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also confirmed the casualties, describing the incident as “unfortunate” and noting that security agencies had intensified patrols in the area.
The attack has further heightened concerns over renewed insurgent activities in parts of Adamawa State, despite ongoing counterterrorism operations in the North-East.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), his son Abubakar Malami, and his wife Bashir Asabe at the Kuje Correctional Centre.
This decision was made pending the hearing and determination of their bail application.
Malami and his co-defendants are facing a 16-count money laundering charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The anti-graft agency alleged that they conspired to conceal, retain, and disguise proceeds of unlawful activities amounting to several billions of naira.
The alleged offences include using companies and bank accounts to launder funds, retaining cash as collateral for loans, and acquiring high-value properties in Abuja, Kano, and other locations.
An atmosphere of fear, confusion, and heightened anxiety enveloped parts of Kebbi State in the early hours of Tuesday following a sudden explosion at the General Hospital in Bagudo Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred within the hospital environment, sent shockwaves through the community, forcing residents, patients, and hospital staff into panic as questions mounted over the cause, intent, and broader security implications of the blast.
DDM NEWS gathered that the explosion occurred at a time when the hospital premises were relatively quiet, a factor that may have prevented what could have otherwise resulted in mass casualties. Nevertheless, the psychological impact of the blast, particularly within a sensitive public facility such as a hospital, has reignited concerns about safety and security in public institutions across the state.
Police Confirm Incident, Assure Public
The Kebbi State Police Command officially confirmed the explosion shortly after the incident, seeking to calm public fears while assuring residents that the situation was under control. In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bashir Usman, the command emphasized that security agencies responded promptly to secure the area and prevent further threats.
“The Kebbi State Police Command wishes to assure members of the public that we have full control of the security situation following the explosion at the General Hospital, Bagudo,” Usman said.
According to the police, a coordinated joint security response was immediately activated following the explosion. Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, personnel of the Nigerian military, and local vigilante groups were swiftly deployed to the scene to cordon off the area, restrict movement, and ensure that no secondary incident occurred.
Explosion Triggers Panic in Hospital Community
Eyewitnesses who spoke with DDM NEWS described moments of chaos immediately after the explosion. Loud bangs reportedly echoed across the hospital compound, sending staff and residents of nearby quarters scrambling for safety. Some hospital workers on early duty reportedly fled their positions, fearing the possibility of follow-up explosions or an armed attack.
Patients and their relatives, many of whom had spent the night at the hospital, were said to have rushed out in confusion, some abandoning personal belongings in their haste to escape perceived danger. Residents of Bagudo town also reported hearing the blast from several kilometers away, fueling rumors and speculation before official confirmation emerged.
“It was very frightening,” a resident told DDM NEWS. “People thought it was a bomb or an attack. Nobody knew what was happening at first.”
No Casualties Recorded, But Property Damaged
Despite the panic and intensity of the incident, security authorities confirmed that no lives were lost. SP Bashir Usman disclosed that although the explosion caused damage to a building within the hospital’s staff quarters, all occupants had already evacuated the area safely before the blast occurred.
“We are grateful to confirm that there were no casualties,” the police spokesman said. “Although a building within the staff quarters was damaged, the occupants had already evacuated safely.”
The damaged structure was reportedly part of the residential quarters for hospital staff. Photographs and videos circulating online showed visible structural damage, with sections of walls affected and debris scattered around the area. However, the main hospital buildings, including wards and emergency units, were said to be largely unaffected.
Deployment of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Experts
In a move underscoring the seriousness of the incident, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the deployment of Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) specialists to the scene. These experts were tasked with conducting a detailed forensic assessment to determine the nature of the explosion, identify any remnants of explosive devices, and rule out the presence of additional threats.
The involvement of EOD-CBRN personnel suggests that authorities are treating the incident as potentially deliberate until proven otherwise. Their findings are expected to play a critical role in shaping the direction of the investigation.
DDM NEWS understands that the area remained under tight security for several hours as the specialists carried out their work, with access restricted to authorized personnel only.
Questions Over Cause and Motive
As investigations continue, several unanswered questions linger. Was the explosion the result of an accidental discharge, such as a gas-related incident, or was it caused by an improvised explosive device? Was the hospital specifically targeted, or was the explosion incidental to another activity within the vicinity?
Security analysts note that attacks or explosions within health facilities carry symbolic weight, as hospitals are considered neutral zones dedicated to saving lives. Any deliberate targeting of such a facility would represent a disturbing escalation in security threats.
However, authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation, stressing that conclusions will only be drawn after a thorough investigation.
Rising Concerns Over Public Facility Security
The Bagudo hospital explosion has once again brought attention to the vulnerability of public infrastructure in Nigeria, particularly in regions grappling with broader security challenges. While Kebbi State has largely been spared the scale of insurgency seen in other parts of the country, incidents like this raise fears that no area is entirely immune.
Residents and civil society groups have begun calling for enhanced security measures around hospitals, schools, and other critical public institutions. Some argue that the presence of security personnel alone is not enough, urging authorities to invest in surveillance systems, access controls, and intelligence-driven policing.
Government Yet to Issue Detailed Statement
As of the time of this report, the Kebbi State Government had not released a detailed statement addressing the incident beyond initial security assurances. However, sources within the state administration told DDM NEWS that senior officials had been briefed and were awaiting the outcome of the security assessment before making further pronouncements.
The silence has done little to quell public anxiety, with many residents eager for clarity on whether the explosion was an isolated incident or part of a larger threat.
Community Tension and Psychological Impact
Beyond the physical damage, the explosion has left a deep psychological impact on the Bagudo community. Hospitals are traditionally seen as places of refuge, and the breach of that sense of safety has unsettled many residents.
Healthcare workers, already operating under challenging conditions, now face added stress as they return to duty amid heightened security and lingering fear. Some staff members reportedly expressed concerns about their safety and called for reassurance from hospital management and the government.
Assurance Amid Uncertainty
Despite the uncertainty, security agencies continue to emphasize that the situation is under control. The Kebbi State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies, as intelligence from local communities often proves vital in preventing further incidents.
As investigations progress, DDM NEWS will continue to monitor developments closely, providing updates as more details emerge about the cause of the explosion, the findings of forensic experts, and any arrests or security adjustments that may follow.
For now, Bagudo remains on edge, grappling with the unsettling reality that even spaces dedicated to healing are not immune from sudden disruption in an increasingly fragile security landscape.
A tragic incident occurred during a community carnival in Umuchu, Anambra State, Nigeria, where a fireworks explosion claimed the lives of two people and left several others injured, including children.
The incident happened on December 29, 2025, when a powerful “knockout” firework detonated unexpectedly near the main stage, triggering panic and chaos among revellers.
One of the victims, Ugochi, died on the spot, while another victim succumbed to injuries in a hospital early Tuesday.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as devastating, with children among the worst affected, suffering severe burns and lacerations.
The community leadership has remained largely silent, prompting concerns that the incident may be downplayed.
Residents are calling for an investigation into the use of dangerous fireworks at public events.
Meanwhile, Anambra State Police commannd is yet to issue an official statement in respect to the development.
Exclusive: Former Choir Member Levels Explosive Allegations Against Pastor Chris Okafor, Claims Years of Sexual Exploitation and Forced Abortions — DDM NEWS Investigation
A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed popular Lagos-based cleric, Pastor Chris Okafor, following disturbing allegations made by a woman who claims to be a former member of his church choir. In a deeply emotional and widely circulated video, the woman alleges that she was sexually exploited by the pastor over several years and pressured into terminating four pregnancies during what she described as a secret and manipulative relationship. While the claims remain unverified and Pastor Okafor has yet to respond publicly, the revelations have ignited intense debate across social media platforms and within religious circles nationwide.
DDM NEWS reports that the woman, whose identity has not been independently verified and who has not released her full personal details publicly, narrated her experience in graphic detail, alleging a pattern of spiritual manipulation, abuse of authority, and emotional trauma that she says has shaped her life irreversibly.
Allegations Rooted in the Church Altar
According to the woman’s account, her alleged ordeal began while she was actively serving as a choir member in the church. She said the initial contact was framed as a divine encounter during a church service, when Pastor Okafor reportedly singled her out before the congregation under the pretense of delivering a prophecy.
She claimed that what appeared to be a spiritual moment quickly took a troubling turn when the pastor allegedly removed the microphone mid-service and began asking personal questions about her thoughts and feelings toward him. She further alleged that a resident pastor was instructed to escort her to Pastor Okafor’s office immediately after the service.
“That very day, he gave me a brown envelope and told me to go home,” she recounted in the video. “He said he would call me.”
The woman suggested that at the time, she saw nothing suspicious in the encounter, explaining that she trusted the pastor implicitly and believed she was receiving genuine spiritual guidance.
Alleged Relationship and Claims of Manipulation
The former choir member alleged that the situation escalated significantly in 2015, when Pastor Okafor allegedly summoned her again, this time claiming to have received a revelation about her personal life. According to her, he told her that she was in a relationship with a man he described as “occultic” and insisted that she must end it for her spiritual safety.
She further alleged that after making these claims, the pastor left the room briefly and returned with ₦50,000 and two apples, allegedly telling her that he liked her and wanted them to begin a romantic relationship.
“I reminded him that he was married,” she said. “He told me to forget about that.”
The woman claimed that she was emotionally conflicted but felt spiritually trapped, describing how the authority of the pulpit and her reverence for him made it difficult to resist. She alleged that the relationship soon turned sexual and continued secretly for several years.
Claims of Multiple Pregnancies and Forced Abortions
Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of her allegations centers on her claim that the relationship resulted in multiple pregnancies, each of which she says she was pressured to terminate. According to her account, the first pregnancy occurred around 2016 or 2017.
“I called him to tell him,” she said. “At first he said we would keep it, but two days later he called and told me I should abort it.”
She went on to claim that the pattern repeated itself several times, alleging that she underwent four abortions in total. She described the experiences as emotionally devastating and psychologically scarring, saying she felt isolated, ashamed, and spiritually confused throughout the ordeal.
DDM NEWS notes that these claims, if proven, would raise serious ethical, moral, and potentially criminal questions, particularly given the power imbalance inherent in a pastor-congregant relationship. However, it must be emphasized that no medical records, legal documents, or independent corroboration have yet been presented to substantiate the claims.
Social Media Erupts, Reactions Pour In
Since the video surfaced online, reactions have been swift and polarized. Many social media users expressed shock and outrage, calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations and urging religious authorities and law enforcement agencies to intervene.
Others urged caution, emphasizing the importance of due process and warning against rushing to judgment based solely on unverified claims. Some supporters of Pastor Okafor questioned the woman’s motives, while others pointed to a broader pattern of allegations against religious leaders as evidence of systemic abuse within some religious institutions.
A Pattern of Controversies?
The latest allegations add to a growing list of controversies surrounding Pastor Okafor. In recent years, Nollywood actress Doris Ogala publicly accused the cleric of inappropriate conduct, claims which also generated significant public debate. Additionally, another woman has previously surfaced claiming to be his former wife, alleging mistreatment during their relationship.
While none of these allegations have resulted in a criminal conviction, critics argue that the recurring nature of such claims warrants closer scrutiny. Supporters of the cleric, however, maintain that he has been the target of smear campaigns designed to tarnish his reputation and undermine his ministry.
Silence from the Cleric and Church Authorities
As of the time of filing this report, Pastor Chris Okafor has not issued a public response to the latest allegations. Church officials have also remained largely silent, neither confirming nor denying the claims.
Efforts by DDM NEWS to reach representatives of the church for comment were unsuccessful. The absence of an official response has only intensified speculation and fueled further debate, with many questioning whether internal mechanisms exist within religious institutions to address allegations of abuse transparently.
Legal and Ethical Implications
Legal experts contacted by DDM NEWS note that allegations of sexual exploitation, coercion, and forced abortion, if substantiated, could carry serious criminal consequences. However, they also emphasized that allegations alone do not constitute proof and that any investigation must be guided by evidence, witness testimony, and due process.
Ethically, the case raises profound questions about the abuse of spiritual authority and the vulnerability of congregants who place absolute trust in religious leaders. Human rights advocates argue that such cases underscore the need for stronger safeguards within religious organizations to protect members, particularly young women, from exploitation.
The Broader Conversation on Faith and Accountability
Beyond the individuals involved, the controversy has reignited a broader national conversation about accountability within religious spaces. Nigeria remains one of the most religious countries in the world, with millions placing immense faith in pastors, imams, and spiritual leaders.
Critics argue that this reverence, when unchecked, can create environments ripe for abuse. Advocates are increasingly calling for clearer reporting mechanisms, independent oversight bodies, and education within faith communities to help members recognize and report inappropriate conduct.
Allegations, Not Established Facts
It is important to stress that the claims made by the former choir member remain allegations. No court has ruled on the matter, no law enforcement agency has announced an investigation, and Pastor Chris Okafor has not been convicted of any wrongdoing related to these claims.
DDM NEWS maintains that fairness, accuracy, and responsibility must guide public discourse, particularly in cases involving serious allegations that can irreparably damage reputations and lives.
What Happens Next?
As the video continues to circulate and public pressure mounts, attention will likely turn to whether authorities or regulatory bodies will step in to examine the claims. For now, the woman’s testimony stands as a painful personal narrative, while the accused cleric remains silent.
Whether this controversy fades into the background or becomes a turning point in the demand for accountability within Nigeria’s religious institutions remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the allegations have struck a nerve, forcing uncomfortable questions about power, faith, and the responsibilities of those who lead from the pulpit.
DDM NEWS will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.
By all indications emerging from multiple political power centers in Kano, the state is on the brink of a dramatic political realignment that could permanently alter its power structure and redraw Nigeria’s party dominance map. DDM NEWS has gathered from highly placed sources that Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, is set to formally defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the first week of January 2026, barring any extraordinary last-minute reversal.
If this move materializes, it will not only end Yusuf’s decades-long political alliance with his mentor and benefactor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, but will also effectively erase the NNPP from the list of political parties controlling any state in Nigeria. As the party’s only sitting governor, Yusuf’s exit would leave NNPP politically hollow, transforming it from a ruling force in Kano into a weakened opposition platform struggling for relevance.
A Historic Break After Four Decades of Political Loyalty
Governor Yusuf’s planned defection represents more than a routine party switch. It signals the collapse of a political relationship that has spanned nearly four decades, during which Kwankwaso served as Yusuf’s political godfather, sponsor, and pathway into public office. For years, Yusuf was widely perceived as Kwankwaso’s most loyal protégé — a trusted lieutenant whose rise was inseparable from the Kwankwasiyya political machinery.
However, DDM NEWS investigations reveal that the bond has been steadily eroding since the Supreme Court affirmed Yusuf’s victory in the fiercely contested Kano governorship election. With legal uncertainties resolved, insiders say the governor began reassessing his political future, increasingly wary of remaining tethered to a single political figure in a rapidly shifting national landscape.
APC Congresses and a Strategic Power Grab
Sources familiar with the governor’s strategy told DDM NEWS that Yusuf’s planned defection has been carefully timed to coincide with the APC’s ward, local government, and state congresses scheduled for February 2026. By joining the APC before these congresses, the governor positions himself to influence — and potentially dominate — the party’s structure in Kano from the ground up.
This move, according to party insiders, would allow Yusuf to neutralize internal APC opposition, absorb existing power blocs, and rebrand himself as the undisputed political leader of Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
To consolidate this ambition, the governor has reportedly been working behind closed doors to secure the loyalty of key political stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly, the Kano State House of Assembly, and local government chairmen across the 44 local councils.
Lawmakers Shift Allegiance Quietly
Multiple sources within the state legislature confirmed to DDM NEWS that the governor has already secured the backing of at least 25 out of the 27 NNPP members of the Kano State House of Assembly, including Speaker Yusuf Falgore. Two of the 27 lawmakers are deceased, further shrinking Kwankwaso’s loyal base.
At the federal level, the picture is more fluid. While Kwankwaso’s son-in-law, the member representing Tarauni Federal Constituency, is reportedly standing firm with his political benefactor, other House of Representatives members from Nassarawa, Ungogo, and Kumbotso constituencies are said to be weighing their options, carefully studying the shifting political winds.
“The reality is that many of them don’t want to be left behind,” a source told DDM NEWS. “Politics is about survival. Once the governor moves, the majority will follow.”
Local Government Chairmen on the Fence
At the grassroots level, the battle for loyalty is still unfolding. While several local government chairmen remain publicly aligned with Kwankwaso, insiders insist that most are quietly preparing to align with the governor once the defection becomes official.
“They may sing Kwankwaso’s praises today, but when the final whistle blows, almost all of them will move with the governor,” another source disclosed to DDM NEWS.
This mass defection would give Yusuf unprecedented control over Kano’s political machinery, from the ward level to the state capital.
Kwankwaso’s Last Stand at Miller Road
Sensing the political earthquake ahead, Senator Kwankwaso reportedly summoned members of the Kano State House of Assembly to his Miller Road residence in a last-ditch effort to halt the exodus. During the meeting, Kwankwaso reportedly acknowledged that Governor Yusuf was preparing to defect and told the lawmakers that anyone who chose to follow the governor was free to do so.
According to sources present, Kwankwaso expressed deep disappointment, questioning the rationale behind abandoning the NNPP for the APC after winning the 2023 election against formidable odds.
“Did we not win with nobody but God?” Kwankwaso was quoted as saying. “Will the God that gave us power in 2023 not still be there in 2027?”
Despite the emotional appeal, lawmakers reportedly agreed only to seek dialogue with the governor, hoping to salvage unity or at least manage an orderly political transition.
‘My Decision Is Irreversible’
Those hopes were quickly dashed. DDM NEWS learned that when the lawmakers attempted to meet Governor Yusuf after the Miller Road meeting, he made it clear that his decision to join the APC was final and non-negotiable.
“He told them he already knew everything discussed at Miller Road,” a source said. “And he said plainly that his decision was irreversible.”
That declaration effectively marked the end of any realistic chance of reconciliation between the governor and his longtime mentor.
Deputy Governor Faces Impeachment Threat
One of the most immediate casualties of the unfolding political realignment may be Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam. Insiders told DDM NEWS that plans are already in motion to remove him through impeachment as part of a broader deal to appease APC power brokers in the state.
Under the proposed arrangement, Murtala Sule-Garo — the APC’s deputy governorship candidate in the 2023 election — would replace Abdulsalam, while Nasiru Gawuna, the APC’s 2023 governorship flagbearer, is being positioned for the Kano Central senatorial ticket in 2027.
These moves, if executed, would signal Yusuf’s willingness to make major concessions to cement his acceptance within the APC hierarchy.
Roots of the Rift
The current crisis did not emerge overnight. Since late 2024, signs of tension between Yusuf and Kwankwaso had become increasingly visible. Reports of missed meetings, unanswered calls, and growing distance were initially dismissed by the governor’s camp as speculation.
At the same time, a political slogan — Abba Tsaya da Kafarka (“Abba, stand on your feet”) — gained traction across Kano, reflecting growing calls for the governor to assert independence from Kwankwaso’s influence.
Although Yusuf publicly reaffirmed his loyalty to Kwankwaso and disowned the movement, DDM NEWS investigations suggest the slogan captured a deeper sentiment within political and grassroots circles pushing the governor toward autonomy.
Silence from Government House
As of the time of filing this report, Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakintofa, has not responded to multiple calls and text messages seeking clarification. The silence from Government House has only reinforced speculation that the political wheels are already in motion.
A Defining Moment for Kano Politics
If Governor Abba Yusuf proceeds with his defection, Kano will witness one of its most consequential political shifts in decades — the dismantling of the Kwankwasiyya stronghold and the absorption of its structures into the APC.
For Kwankwaso, it would mark a painful fall from kingmaker to political outsider in his home state. For Yusuf, it would be a bold gamble aimed at securing long-term survival and dominance in Nigeria’s unforgiving political terrain.
As January 2026 approaches, all eyes remain fixed on Kano. And as DDM NEWS will continue to report, the coming weeks may well determine not just the future of one governor, but the political destiny of an entire state.
Six staff members of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe Network Centre, were killed on Monday in a fatal road accident along the Billiri–Kumo Road in Gombe State, deepening public grief following a series of recent crashes in the state.
The victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague held in Billiri Local Government Area when the crash occurred.
The tragedy was first disclosed by the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, an indigene of Gombe State, who announced the development via his verified Facebook page.
“Six journalists died in a car crash, another sad day for the journalism profession in Gombe State,” Yahya wrote.
A senior staff member of the station, who confirmed the incident, identified the deceased as Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager (Administration); Zarah Umar, Manager (News); Isa, an editor; Musa Tabra, a retired Manager (News); Aminu, a driver; and Adams, who managed the station’s Startimes operations.
Several others sustained injuries in the crash. Those injured were identified as Emmanuel Akila, the station’s Government House Correspondent; Steven Doddo; Nina; and Jonathan Bara. They are currently receiving treatment at various health facilities across the state.
The incident comes barely days after another fatal road accident claimed the lives of seven residents of Lawanti village in Akko Local Government Area, who were travelling to a wedding in neighbouring Borno State.
The latest crash has sent shockwaves through the media community and renewed concerns over road safety in Gombe State, as colleagues, professional bodies and residents mourn the loss of experienced broadcast professionals.
Authorities were yet to release an official report on the cause of the accident as of the time of filing this report.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has paid glowing tribute to former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, describing him as a major source of inspiration during his formative years in football.
Ndidi made the remarks on Monday while addressing journalists at his pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations Group C encounter against Uganda.
The Nigerian midfielder spoke with emotion as he reflected on the influence senior national team players had on his journey into professional football.
He recalled growing up as a young player who closely followed the careers of established Super Eagles stars and dreamt of wearing the green and white jersey.
Ndidi specifically singled out former national team captain John Obi Mikel as one of the players he admired most.
He noted that Mikel’s discipline, leadership, and consistency at club and international levels left a lasting impression on him.
Ndidi said players of his generation now occupy the same leadership position once held by their idols.
He explained that younger footballers currently see him and his teammates as role models in the same way he once looked up to senior players.
According to Ndidi, representing Nigeria remains a powerful dream for every footballer regardless of age or experience.
He described his current role in the national team as both an honour and a responsibility.
Ndidi emphasized that leadership in the Super Eagles goes beyond wearing the captain’s armband.
He stressed that senior players must lead by example both on and off the pitch.
The Super Eagles captain acknowledged the legacy left behind by previous team leaders.
He said those legacies continue to shape the mentality and ambition of the present squad.
Ndidi’s comments come as Nigeria intensifies preparations for their crucial Group C match against Uganda.
The fixture is expected to play a significant role in determining Nigeria’s progress in the tournament.
Nigeria entered the match with confidence following recent positive performances.
Ndidi himself has already made an impact at the tournament.
The midfielder scored one of Nigeria’s goals in their recent victory over Tunisia.
That goal marked his first strike at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Analysts have praised Ndidi’s performances, noting his balance of defensive discipline and attacking contribution.
His leadership has also drawn commendation from fans and football stakeholders.
Many see Ndidi as a natural successor to figures like Mikel Obi, who captained Nigeria during a successful era.
Mikel’s tenure included major tournament appearances and continental success.
Ndidi acknowledged that following in such footsteps is challenging but motivating.
He said the pressure pushes him to give his best for the country.
As Nigeria prepares to face Uganda, expectations remain high among supporters.
The Super Eagles will be hoping their captain’s inspiration-driven mindset translates into another strong performance.
For Ndidi, the journey from admirer to leader represents the enduring cycle of Nigerian football excellence.
A tragic accident occurred on Monday evening in Gombe State, Nigeria, claiming the lives of seven members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and leaving four others injured.
The journalists were returning from a wedding ceremony in Gombe South Senatorial District when their bus was involved in a fatal crash.
According to the Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Samson Kaura, a total of 11 people were involved in the accident.
Preliminary findings suggest that the crash was likely caused by a tyre burst, which led to the vehicle somersaulting.
FRSC rescue teams were promptly deployed to the scene, and the injured victims were taken to nearby health facilities for medical attention.
The investigation is still ongoing, and a comprehensive report will be released once the operation is completed.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, says the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will collapse if he defects to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike stated this during his end-of-the-year media chat in Port Harcourt on Monday, while responding to a question on whether he would join the ruling APC or not.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Wike’s supporters in Rivers House of Assembly, including Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, had recently dumped PDP and joined APC.
Wike, however, insisted that he is still a member of PDP and not considering leaving the party.
“Today if I say I want to decamp to APC, that will be the end of PDP. You will see leaders of the party in other states who will join me.
“If today I say, gentlemen, look, we have had enough of PDP, watch those who will decamp in Benue; watch those who will decamp in Plateau, in Abia, in Edo,” he said.
“But the mere fact that people have left PDP to APC does not mean I have to leave. No, it is not correct. I am still a member of PDP,” he said.
Speaking on the possible takeover of his political structure in Rivers by Fubara, Wike assured his supporters that his political relevance in the state was incontestable.
He added that he still holds his political structure in the state.
According to him, Fubara’s defection to the APC does not necessarily make him the leader of the party in the state, unlike the cases in Lagos and Kano states.
“There are exceptions to the rule. There is nothing like 001 in the state, you register in your ward and not at the state level.
“So, if there is 001, it is in your ward, because every party member registered in his ward,” he said.
The minister further said that beyond being a governor, there must be exceptional qualities that make one a leader, worthy of followership.
He argued that Fubara’s defection to the APC was of no consequence, stressing that he joined the party alone.
“If a governor is moving to another party, he moves with council chairmen, party leaders and members of the state assembly.
“In his case, the people have already left the PDP and joined the APC on their own, as such, defecting to APC doesn’t guarantee him an automatic ticket for second tenure,” Wike said.
(DDM) – Arsenal’s hard-fought 2–1 Premier League victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium has continued to generate intense debate following two major officiating decisions that split opinion among fans, pundits, and former players.
The Mirror Sport reported on Monday, December 29, 2025, that the match, which saw Arsenal reclaim top spot in the Premier League table, was heavily overshadowed by disputes over a rejected penalty appeal and a controversial red card call that did not materialise.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher reviewed the key flashpoints from the encounter and firmly backed the match officials, insisting that both contentious decisions were correctly handled under the laws of the game.
Gallagher ruled that Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus was not fouled by Brighton defender Ferdi Kadioglu during a first-half incident that prompted loud appeals from the home crowd.
He explained that the contact between both players was minimal and did not reach the threshold required for a penalty, describing it as normal physical engagement rather than an infringement.
The more heated controversy surrounded Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen’s collision with striker Viktor Gyokeres during a dangerous breakaway that had Arsenal supporters calling for a red card.
Gallagher agreed with the referee’s decision to issue only a yellow card, stressing that while the challenge was reckless, it did not deny a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
According to the former official, Gyokeres was moving away from the goal rather than directly toward it, which reduced the severity of the offence under existing refereeing guidelines.
This interpretation, however, did little to calm the storm of disagreement that followed the final whistle.
Former Arsenal striker Jay Bothroyd openly challenged Gallagher’s assessment, arguing that the challenge was dangerous and deserved a harsher punishment.
Bothroyd claimed that Verbruggen had lost full control during the incident and made heavy, high-speed contact with Gyokeres, placing the striker at serious risk.
He further compared the decision to similar incidents in recent Premier League matches that resulted in straight red cards, suggesting inconsistency in officiating standards.
Despite the officiating drama, Arsenal maintained their composure on the pitch and delivered a performance that secured all three points.
Captain Martin Ødegaard opened the scoring with a well-taken effort that set the tone for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Brighton’s problems deepened when an unfortunate own goal compounded their deficit and allowed Arsenal to dictate the tempo of the match.
The contest remained nervy until the closing stages, with Brighton pushing for an equaliser and exploiting spaces on the counterattack.
Goalkeeper David Raya produced a crucial late save to preserve Arsenal’s narrow advantage and underline his importance in tight matches.
Gallagher also addressed Arsenal’s late penalty appeal, dismissing it as a routine challenge that did not warrant intervention from the referee or VAR.
Brighton showed moments of attacking threat throughout the game, particularly when Gyokeres broke down the left flank before being halted by Verbruggen, a moment that perfectly illustrated the fine margins separating success and controversy.
Ultimately, Arsenal’s resilience ensured victory, keeping them at the summit of the Premier League table ahead of a looming clash with Aston Villa, who remain firmly in pursuit in an increasingly tense title race.
While the points moved Arsenal forward, the debate surrounding refereeing consistency is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN)
By Chidi Anselm Odinkalu
“A Judge who takes advantage of the judicial office for personal gain or for gain by his or her relative or relation abuses power…. such abuse of power profoundly violates the public’s trust in the judiciary.”
Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Rule 8:3 (2016).
Eight and a half years ago, in May 2017, a viral audio clip circulated, purportedly featuring a conversation between a male Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a female judge who had presided over an election petition involving the Senator in the preceding year. In the sound clip, both could be heard importuning one another. The female voice asked the Senator to ensure that whatever he delivered, he must “make it in USD (American dollars)” and sought reassurance from him in securing a job for her daughter in the public service of one of the states of the Niger Delta. The male voice seemed deeply solicitous of her wishes in a conversation that did not leave much to the imagination in terms of both the subject matter and the quid pro quo.
It was believed at the time that the clip involved a judge who served at the head of an election tribunal that dismissed a petition against the Senator in respect of a contest for a seat in the upper chamber of the National Assembly in one of the States in the Middle Belt of Nigeria in the 2015 general elections. A subsequent petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission by some non-governmental organisations for an investigation into the clip and its contents ultimately yielded little.
The principal characters in the dramatic sound clip have since gone on to prosper in a fashion that Nigeria uniquely makes possible. After being eventually removed from his seat, the distinguished Senator opted to read for a law degree. The contents of the sound clip were not an issue when, in July 2025, the Body of Benchers admitted him to the Nigerian Bar, and then the Supreme Court enrolled him to practise as a lawyer in the country.
In February 2021, the judge widely alleged to be the voice in the sound clip rose to become the Chief Judge of a State High Court in one of the six states of the Niger Delta.
It appears the daughter mentioned in the clip eventually got the promised job. Her career as a State Counsel prospered in meteoric fashion. Thirteen years into her legal career, in the last quarter of 2025, she got promoted to an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Justice. In the second week of January 2026, she will visit Abuja, where a committee of the National Judicial Council (NJC) presided over by a senior Justice of the Supreme Court will interview her for the highly coveted position of a seat on the Bench of the Federal High Court. She goes in with insider advantage against a candidate ten years her senior at the bar and who, it seems, was actually ahead of her on merit.
That seat is one of 14 judicial vacancies in the Federal High Court to be filled in the first quarter of 2026. In all, the NJC Committee is reportedly scheduled to interview 28 candidates over a period of three days. Twenty-four of the candidates are from twelve states and territories in Nigeria, namely: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna, Kwara, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The NJC Committee will include at least two retired Justices of the Supreme Court; a retired Justice of the Court of Appeal; the current president of the Nigerian Bar Association, and one of his more recent predecessors. The Committee will also interview four candidates from Nasarawa State, which has two vacancies.
The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) did the shortlisting for the 28 candidates. That stage of the process involved, among other evaluations, a computer-based test (CBT) and an aptitude test, in relation to both of which each candidate is scored, but the scores are not published. It is no surprise that such an opaque process lends itself to controversy around three issues.
First, some “unsuccessful” candidates have accused “judicial authorities of manipulating the results and shortlisting candidates who allegedly failed the qualifying examination.” It is claimed that some of the candidates on the final shortlist of 28 scored as low as 30% or even 25%. One person alleged specifically that “the name of the person who scored the highest in the test was excluded from the list”, claiming that the person was a candidate from a state in south-east Nigeria. This will not be the first time that such an allegation has been made in relation to judicial appointments to the Federal High Court. As long as the FJSC and the NJC remain unwilling to publish the scores of all the candidates, it is impossible to discount these allegations.
Second, at its 108th meeting on 29-30 April 2025, the NJC decided that “henceforth, the FJSC, all judicial Service Commissions or Committee of the FCT, shall publish the names of all candidates recommended for judicial appointments. The primary objective of this initiative is to solicit comments from the general public regarding the integrity, reputation, and suitability of these candidates for judicial office.”
At the time, this seemed impressive. In reality, it was a sleight of hand. The grounds for public input at this impractical stage, defined by the NJC, are limited to issues of “integrity, reputation and suitability” of the recommended candidates. But if a decision has been made to recommend a candidate, then these issues would already have been considered. In effect, by the time a candidate is “recommended” for judicial office, the effective opportunities for public objection have in fact been foreclosed.
Third, therefore, the only viable ground at this stage for objection to the process would be the integrity of the appointment process itself. This is arguably the most important issue engaged by this present appointment round into the Federal High Court Bench. Rule 11(iv) of the Judicial Code of Conduct requires that “in the exercise of his administrative duties, a Judicial Officer should avoid nepotism and favouritism.”
Yet, it is difficult not to look upon the shortlist of candidates that the NJC committee will be interviewing next month as anything other than an advertisement of nepotism and favouritism. The list is rich with children or candidates of serving or retired senior judges, some of them involved in the process.
The judicial daughter mentioned earlier in this piece is by no means the only insider on the list. The candidate to be appointed from Kaduna State, for instance, is guaranteed to be a second-generation judge; both candidates to be interviewed from the state are scions of former judges. Of the two candidates from Abia State, one is the child of a serving judge.
Akwa Ibom State also features a preferred candidate who works with and is adopted by a serving senior judge who may himself even be involved in the interview process. Taraba State has a similar story, and these are just random examples.
This pattern populates the entire shortlist without disguise or shame.
Humanity elsewhere does not know a thing like the judicial gene. It only exists in Nigeria. One tweep describes what passes for the judicial appointment process in Nigeria as “filiality via conjugality.”
It seems evident that Nigeria’s process of judicial appointments has become largely performative, rigged to the pre-determined end of injecting children into judicial hereditaments occupied or recently vacated by their parents or patrons. Rather perversely, the so-called reform decided upon by the NJC in April 2025 of publishing the names of candidates “recommended” for judicial office is designed entirely to lend legitimacy to a pre-determined process in clear violation of the Judicial Code of Conduct.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has an opportunity in this present round of hires to the Federal High Court Bench to course-correct. As a first step, she should publish the scores of all candidates throughout the process. That will reassure the public about her commitment to liberating judicial appointments in Nigeria from continuing abduction by the forces of capture, conjugality and abuse of power.
A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu.
More than eighty Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and leaders have expressed “grave concern and deep alarm” over American airstrikes on the Nigerian territory on Christmas Day, and “the troubling silence, absence, and abdication of responsibility by Nigeria’s political and military leadership.”
“This event raises fundamental questions about sovereignty, constitutional governance, civilian protection, and the integrity of Nigeria’s social contract. It is apparent that Nigeria is in a dual crisis of leadership and security, and at the heart of this crisis is the apparent abdication by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of his constitutional role as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” the CSOs and leaders said in a joint statement on Monday, 29th December, entitled “Where is Nigeria’s President.”
An official statement said that President Tinubu left Lagos on Sunday, 28th December, for Europe, from there to Abu Dhabi at the invitation of the UAE President.
Writing on his Truth Social platform on Christmas night, Trump said that under his direction, the U.S. launched a “powerful and deadly” strike against forces of the ISIS group in Nigeria, after accusing the Nigerian government of failing to stop the targeting of Christians.
Reactions by Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar and statements from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Information and the Armed Forces came hours after Trump’s tweet, explaining that the operation in the north-western state of Sokoto was a Nigeria-U.S. joint/collaborative effort.
However, the CSOs and leaders in their statement said: “By inviting a foreign government to manage what is fundamentally an internal security challenge, the President ceded sovereign authority in a manner that undermines Nigeria’s constitutional order. Even, more disturbing is that during and after the operation, the President, the Service Chiefs, and the leadership of the National Assembly were either on vacation, or completely silent, leaving the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, to publicly rationalize decisions that strike at the core of national sovereignty and democratic accountability.”
According to them, “This silence reflects a profound breakdown of institutional accountability mechanisms. Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) is unequivocal: ‘the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,’ adding: “This provision represents a central pillar of Nigeria’s social contract. Any security action, especially one involving foreign military forces, must be grounded in transparency, civilian protection, and democratic oversight. None of these standards were met.”
“While we acknowledge the importance of international counter-terrorism cooperation,” they said. “There is an urgent need to critically assess Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST), as well as its Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, in light of the recent U.S. operation on Nigerian soil, to determine whether it aligns with these frameworks or exposes significant gaps within them.”
Continuing, the group said: “We are particularly troubled by the severe deficit of information regarding the nature, scope, legal basis, and rules of engagement governing the collaboration between the Nigerian and U.S. governments. Since the incident, Nigerians have not been informed of the basis for authorizing the strikes, under what legal framework they were conducted, what safeguards were in place to protect civilians, or what accountability mechanisms exist for harm caused.”
“This opacity fuels mistrust and undermines public confidence in government at a time when trust is already dangerously low,” the statement said, adding: “In addition, at the time of issuing this statement, there has been no confirmation that any actual belligerent targets were hit. Instead, reports that debris from expended munitions fell on farmlands in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel, underscore the very real risks to civilian life and property.”
It noted that “While the Nigerian Air Force inaugurated a ‘Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) Board’ in July 2025, no publicly articulated civilian harm mitigation protocols have been presented for this offensive. In contemporary military operations, particularly those involving air strikes, responsible governance demands clear standards for target verification, proportionality assessments, post-strike damage evaluations, and accessible avenues for civilian complaints, investigation, compensation, and redress.”
The CSOs and leaders said: “The absence of such frameworks in this operation constitutes a serious governance failure,” and “caution that the government’s inept management of this crisis is capable of aggravating narratives that escalate religious and communal tensions in an already fragile national context.”
“Nigeria’s security challenges cannot and must not be framed in ways that deepen polarization or stigmatize communities. What is required is a united, inclusive, and rights-respecting approach that prioritizes peace, social cohesion, and long-term stability,” the statement said, adding: “We emphasize the urgent need to address the harms suffered by civilians as a result of the strike action. This includes transparent investigations, public disclosure of findings, prompt assistance to affected communities, and adequate compensation where harm has occurred.”
“Without these steps,” it said, “the already wide public trust deficit between citizens and the state will continue to deepen,” adding: “…the office of the President carries the fundamental expectation that President Bola Tinubu possesses the capacity, judgment, and resolve to serve as Commander-in-Chief of Nigeria’s Armed Forces. The authorization of a foreign military to conduct strikes within Nigerian territory without any public explanation of the necessity or legal basis for such action, coupled with the continued silence of the President, the Service Chiefs, and the National Assembly in the face of these grave developments, is wholly unacceptable.”
“If the President and his security leadership have concluded that they lack the capacity to manage Nigeria’s internal security challenges and would rather cede such authority to a foreign power, then constitutional responsibility and democratic integrity demand that they resign,” the statement said.
It stated that “Nigerians deserve accountable leadership and security rooted in sovereignty, the rule of law, and respect for human life.”
The CSOs and leaders that signed the statement included Amnesty International Nigeria, Center for Transparency Advocacy, Citizens Advocacy for Social & Economic Rights (CASER), Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), Disabled People in Leadership Initiative and Network of Women with Disabilities, Media Rights Agenda, Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), Partnership for Justice and Network of Nigerian Human Rights Defenders, and The Kukah Centre.
The others are Yiaga Africa, Woman in Media Communication Initiative (WIM), African Law Foundation (AFRILAW), Alliances for Africa (AFA), 21st Century Community Empowerment for Youth and Women Initiative, African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), Abubakar Mohammed, and Prof Chidi Odinkalu, a constitutional lawyer and former Chairman of the Nigerian Human Rights Commission.
Nigeria has been fighting multiple armed groups, including those affiliated with ISIS, such as Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and the lesser-known Lakurawa group, operating in the north-western states.
The American Christmas airstrikes, like Trump’s warning in November, have elicited mixed reactions for and against.
However, the irrefutable fact remains that Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation of more than 220 million people, has been facing serious security challenges since 2009, which successive governments have failed to effectively address due to a combination of factors, including religious and ethnic division, lack of political will, insincerity, corruption and sabotage.
Nigeria’s national electricity grid collapsed on Monday afternoon, plunging most parts of the country into darkness as power supply dropped to near zero, according to official distribution load figures.
Data released at 3:12 pm on December 29, 2025, showed that only two electricity distribution companies (DisCos) were receiving power at the time of the collapse. Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) recorded a load of 30 megawatts (MW), while Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) received 20 MW.
All other DisCos were allocated zero megawatts, signalling a widespread outage across the country.
DisCos affected include Benin, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt and Yola, all of which recorded 0 MW allocation, cutting off electricity supply to major cities, towns and industrial hubs.
In total, electricity distributed nationwide at the time stood at just 50 MW, far below normal operating levels and grossly inadequate to sustain power supply to households, businesses and critical infrastructure.
Nigeria’s power grid has suffered repeated system collapses in recent years, often resulting in nationwide blackouts and prolonged restoration efforts. Industry operators have frequently attributed the failures to a combination of technical faults, gas supply constraints and weak transmission infrastructure.
In a brief update, the Nigerian National Grid (NNG) said restoration efforts were ongoing.
However, as of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been issued by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) or the Federal Ministry of Power explaining the cause of the collapse or providing a clear timeline for the restoration of electricity supply.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the reliability of Nigeria’s power infrastructure amid rising demand and ongoing reforms in the electricity sector.
Gunmen have attacked Gebbe community in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, leaving an undisclosed number of people dead and several others injured.
Local sources said the attack occurred suddenly when the assailants stormed the community and opened fire indiscriminately, triggering panic among residents.
Many fled to neighbouring communities and nearby bushes to escape the violence.
Residents described the incident as unprecedented in recent years, noting that the community has not experienced such an attack for a long time.
As of the time of reporting, the exact number of casualties could not be independently confirmed, as many residents have dispersed and the full scale of the attack remains unclear.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, told Channels Television that the attack took place and that security agencies had been deployed to the area. He said police operatives were assessing the situation, including the number of fatalities and injuries, adding that an official statement would be issued in due course.
Some residents, who requested anonymity, said security personnel had arrived in the community following the attack.
Community members have appealed to the state government and security agencies for urgent intervention, describing the incident as deadly.
Efforts to reach the village head for comment were unsuccessful as calls to his phone were not answered.
