Court of Appeal upholds death sentences for 2018 Offa Bank robbery convicts

Court of Appeal Upholds Death Sentences for 2018 Offa Bank Robbery Convicts

The Ilorin Division of the Court of Appeal has delivered a landmark judgment affirming the death sentences handed down to five men convicted for their roles in the 2018 Offa bank robbery, one of Nigeria’s deadliest armed heists.

The appellate court, in a unanimous decision by Justices Ridwan Maiwada Abdullahi, Gabriel Kolawole, and Abdul Dogo, dismissed the convicts’ appeals, ruling that they lacked merit and upholding the earlier verdict of the Kwara State High Court.

Over 160 ECWA Members held hostage across Kaduna, Kogi, Church raises alarm over rising insecurity

Over 160 ECWA Members Held Hostage Across Kaduna and Kogi - Church Raises Alarm Over Rising Insecurity

The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has sounded a grave alarm over the escalating wave of insecurity in Nigeria, revealing that more than 160 of its members are currently being held hostage by kidnappers across Kaduna and Kogi States.

This revelation underscores the deepening crisis of abductions targeting worshippers and communities, leaving families devastated and struggling under the weight of crippling ransom demands.

Burkina Faso Military Govt dissolves all political parties amid transitional shake-up

Burkina Faso Military Government Dissolves Political Parties Amid Transitional Shake-Up

In a dramatic move that underscores the depth of Burkina Faso’s political transformation, the country’s military-led government has announced the dissolution of all political parties and the repeal of the legal framework regulating their operations.

The decision, made public on January 30, 2026, was approved by the council of ministers and represents a continuation of the suspension of political activities that began after the military seized power in September 2022.

Interior Minister Emile Zerbo explained that the proliferation of political parties had contributed to divisions and weakened social cohesion in the nation. Burkina Faso had registered more than 100 political parties, with 15 represented in parliament following the 2020 general election.

Authorities now argue that this fragmented political landscape undermined unity at a time when the country faces existential threats.

The decree stipulates that all political parties and formations are disbanded, while laws governing party financing and the status of opposition leaders will be repealed. Furthermore, the assets of dissolved parties are to be transferred to the state. Officials describe this as part of a broader effort to “rebuild the state” and strengthen national cohesion during the transitional period.

Burkina Faso’s decision mirrors similar authoritarian consolidations in neighboring Sahel states Mali and Niger, both of which are also under military rule. Like its neighbors, Burkina Faso continues to grapple with persistent Islamist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

These insurgencies have killed thousands and displaced millions across the region over the past decade, creating immense humanitarian and security challenges.

The dissolution of political parties marks a significant turning point in Burkina Faso’s governance. While the military government insists this measure is necessary to stabilize the country and foster unity, critics warn that it risks eroding democratic institutions and silencing dissent.

The transitional council is expected to deliberate on the repeal of statutes governing political life, but the immediate effect is the elimination of organized political opposition in the country.

This development highlights the broader struggle in the Sahel, where fragile states are attempting to balance security imperatives with democratic governance.

Burkina Faso’s trajectory will be closely watched by regional and international observers, as the country navigates the uncertain path of rebuilding its institutions under military rule.

Stanley Amandi - From Nollywood Stardom to Alleged Coup Conspiracy

Stanley Amandi - From Nollywood Stardom to Alleged Coup Conspiracy

The arrest of Nollywood actor and director Stanley Amandi has stunned Nigeria, bridging the worlds of entertainment and politics in a way few could have imagined. Once celebrated for his contributions to film and his leadership within the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Amandi now finds himself at the center of a grave national security case. This report explores his career trajectory, the allegations against him, and the broader implications of his arrest.

Timeline of Stanley Amandi’s Arrest Over Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu

Timeline of Stanley Amandi’s Arrest Over Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu

The arrest of Nollywood actor Stanley Amandi has become one of the most sensational stories in Nigeria, blending the glamour of the entertainment industry with the gravity of national security concerns. To fully understand the unfolding drama, it is essential to trace the sequence of events that led to his detention and the subsequent revelations about an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Nollywood Actor Stanley Amandi arrested over alleged coup plot against Tinubu

The Arrest of Nollywood Actor Stanley Amandi Over Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu

In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s entertainment and political spheres, Nollywood actor and film director Stanley Amandi has been arrested in connection with an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

The arrest, which reportedly took place in September 2025, has drawn widespread attention due to Amandi’s prominence in the film industry and the gravity of the accusations leveled against him.

According to sources within the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Amandi, who once served as chairman of the AGN Enugu State chapter, was allegedly recruited by military officers as a media propagandist for the conspiracy.

Investigators claim that the plot involved plans to violently overthrow the Tinubu administration and assassinate senior government officials. Among those reportedly targeted were President Bola Tinubu himself, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed the existence of what it described as an unlawful scheme to unseat the current administration. In its official statement, the DHQ revealed that investigations had been concluded and forwarded to superior authorities in line with military regulations. It emphasized that the inquiry was comprehensive, covering all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the implicated personnel.

The military further noted that the actions of the accused officers were inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Stanley Amandi’s arrest has stunned Nollywood, where he is known for his contributions as an actor, director, and production manager. His filmography includes directing The Album, producing and directing Tiger King (2008), directing Cornerstone (2019), and acting in Once Upon a Dream (2024). His last known social media activity was an Instagram post on September 19, 2025, just days before his arrest, which now appears to have been his final public communication before being taken into custody.

The case has raised serious questions about the intersection of Nigeria’s cultural sector and political instability. While coup attempts have historically been associated with military figures, the alleged involvement of a Nollywood actor underscores the evolving nature of political dissent and propaganda in the digital age.

The trial of the implicated officers is expected to proceed before military judicial panels, with Amandi’s role likely to be scrutinized in detail.

This development has not only unsettled the entertainment industry but also heightened concerns about national security and the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

As the country awaits further proceedings, the arrest of Stanley Amandi remains a stark reminder of the fragile balance between politics, media, and public influence in contemporary Nigeria.

Donald Duke dumps PDP for ADC, gets membership card in Calabar

Donald Duke Dumps PDP for ADC, Receives Membership Card in Calabar

Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has once again reshaped the political landscape with his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The announcement was made official in Calabar Municipality, Ward 5, where Duke was formally registered and presented with his ADC membership card amid cheers and excitement from party supporters.

This move marks the second time Duke has exited the PDP, having previously left to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he contested as its presidential candidate, a decision that stirred widespread debate and controversy at the time.

Ondo private varsity expels 15 female students over sex videos

Ondo Private University Expels 15 Female Students Over Sex Videos

In a dramatic enforcement of its disciplinary code, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, has expelled at least fifteen female students for their involvement in sex video scandals.

The announcement was made by the institution’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Bode Ayorinde, during the university’s matriculation ceremony where 936 new students were formally admitted.

2027: No Better Candidate To Govern Nigeria Than Bola Tinubu – Ganduje

2027 - Ganduje Declares Bola Tinubu the Best Candidate to Govern Nigeria

In a bold political statement delivered in Abuja, Abdullahi Ganduje, the immediate past national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governor of Kano State, asserted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains the most qualified candidate to lead Nigeria beyond 2027.

Ganduje dismissed speculation that northern Nigeria might oppose Tinubu’s re-election bid, describing such assumptions as a “big mistake.”

Speaking while receiving a delegation of youth leaders from the 19 northern states, Ganduje emphasized Tinubu’s unique political pedigree. He argued that Nigeria is fortunate to have a president whose entire life has been rooted in political struggle and democratic activism.

‘We Will Take It By Force,’ Wike Dares Rivers Govt Over Access To Stadium

Wike’s Confrontation with Rivers Government Over Stadium Access

The political atmosphere in Rivers State has once again been ignited by a dramatic confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the Rivers State Government.

On January 30, 2026, Wike, who is also the immediate past governor of Rivers State, openly declared that he and his supporters would “take it by force” if denied access to the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt for political activities. His remarks came during the inauguration of coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors across the 23 local government areas of the state.

Universities of Birmingham and Lagos strengthen partnership in Nigeria

Universities of Birmingham and Lagos Strengthen Partnership in Nigeria

In a landmark development for higher education, the University of Birmingham and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have formalized a new agreement to deepen their strategic partnership, marking a significant step in transnational education and research collaboration across Nigeria.

Signed on January 29, 2026, by Professor Nick Vaughan-Williams, Provost of the University of Birmingham, and Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, the Memorandum of Understanding sets the stage for Birmingham-validated study programmes to be delivered in Lagos.

2027: Odigie-Oyegun, Utomi lead ADC’s 50-member manifesto committee

2027 - Odigie-Oyegun, Utomi Lead ADC’s 50-Member Manifesto Committee

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a decisive step toward shaping its vision for the 2027 general elections by unveiling a 50-member Policy and Manifesto Committee.

At the helm of this influential body is Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, former Edo State Governor and ex-National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He is joined by renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi, who serves as deputy chairman, while Salihu Lukman, a respected political strategist, has been appointed secretary of the committee.

NIGERIA - Politicians’ Kids Show Interest in Politics

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NIGERIA - Politicians’ Kids Show Interest in Politics

Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing a generational shift as the children of prominent politicians increasingly step into the public arena, defending their parents’ legacies and positioning themselves for future leadership roles. This trend is reshaping the dynamics of power ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The emergence of President Bola Tinubu in 2023 as Nigeria’s leader has not only altered the political climate but also inspired his children and those of other political heavyweights to become more vocal and visible.

Tinubu’s children, alongside those of Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and other influential figures, have begun to publicly defend their fathers’ policies and reputations, often taking on roles traditionally reserved for media aides.

Sharia Council Says Amupitan Threatens Credibility of 2027 Polls

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Sharia Council Says Amupitan Threatens Credibility of 2027 Polls

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has declared that the credibility of the 2027 general elections is at risk under the leadership of Professor Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The Council has called for his removal, warning that Muslims may not recognise or legitimise any election conducted under his authority.

The controversy emerged during the Council’s 2026 Annual Pre-Ramadan Lecture and General Assembly held in Abuja, themed “Nigeria’s Future: Faith, Justice, and Leadership.”

At the gathering, Sheikh Bashir Umar, President of the SCSN, voiced strong concerns about Amupitan’s neutrality and integrity.

MAN, Unions Condemn NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban

MAN, Unions Condemn NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and labour unions have strongly condemned the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)’s enforcement of the sachet alcohol ban, warning that it threatens jobs, disrupts businesses, and could worsen public health outcomes.

The controversy surrounding the sachet alcohol ban has intensified since NAFDAC began enforcing its directive on January 22, 2026, prohibiting the production and sale of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200 millilitres.

Factors Bedeviling Nigeria’s Healthcare Sector

Factors Bedeviling Nigeria’s Healthcare Sector

Nigeria’s healthcare system is plagued by chronic underfunding, poor infrastructure, and a severe shortage of skilled professionals, leaving millions without access to quality care. These challenges, compounded by corruption and policy inconsistencies, continue to undermine the nation’s ability to provide effective health services.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, stands at a crossroads in its healthcare journey. Despite its vast human and natural resources, the country’s health sector remains one of its weakest links.

Decades of neglect have left hospitals under-equipped, primary healthcare centers dilapidated, and rural communities underserved. The lack of adequate infrastructure is perhaps the most glaring issue: many facilities operate without reliable electricity, clean water, or essential medical equipment.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir’s ARISE TV Interview on NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban

Symbolic Photo of Segun Ajayi-Kadir, DG, MAN

Segun Ajayi-Kadir’s ARISE TV Interview on NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), used his live interview on ARISE TV today to deliver a strong condemnation of NAFDAC’s enforcement of the sachet alcohol ban, describing it as unilateral, counterproductive, and economically damaging. He warned that the policy will cost jobs, reduce government revenue, and worsen public health by fueling illicit alcohol trade.

During the interview, Ajayi-Kadir emphasized that MAN never consented to the December 2025 deadline set by NAFDAC for the ban’s enforcement. He clarified that discussions with the regulatory agency had always been a “monologue” rather than a genuine dialogue, with NAFDAC fixing dates and executing decisions without consensus.

Factors Bedeviling Nigeria’s Healthcare Sector

Symbolic Photo of Dr. charles Ugwuanyi, Fmr. Chairman, NMA, FCT Chapter

Factors Bedeviling Nigeria’s Healthcare Sector

Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi, former chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), FCT Chapter, delivered a sobering assessment of Nigeria’s healthcare crisis during his interview on ARISE Television today, January 29, 2026. He emphasized that the sector is in a state of emergency, driven by systemic neglect, poor working conditions, and an alarming rate of medical brain drain.

In the interview, Dr. Ugwuanyi revealed that Nigeria currently has fewer than 40,000 practicing doctors serving a population of over 200 million people. This ratio, he argued, is not only unsustainable but dangerous, especially in a country grappling with rising health challenges and limited access to quality care.

Workplace Culture, Leadership, and Talent Development

Workplace Culture, Leadership, and Talent Development

Workplace culture, leadership, and talent development are three interconnected pillars that define the success and sustainability of any organization. They shape not only how employees experience their work but also how businesses adapt, grow, and remain competitive in an ever-changing environment.

Workplace culture is the invisible architecture of an organization. It encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that guide how people interact, make decisions, and pursue goals.

A healthy culture fosters trust, collaboration, and innovation, while a toxic one breeds disengagement, high turnover, and stagnation. Culture is not built overnight; it is cultivated through consistent actions, transparent communication, and alignment between what leaders say and what they do. 

In today’s workplace, culture is increasingly tied to inclusivity, flexibility, and purpose, as employees seek environments where they feel valued and connected to something larger than themselves.

Is Public Display of Affection (PDA) a Sign of Love or a Relationship Red Flag?

Is Public Display of Affection (PDA) a Sign of Love or a Relationship Red Flag?

Public Display of Affection, commonly referred to as PDA, has long been a subject of debate in the realm of relationships. For some, it is a natural extension of intimacy, a way of expressing love openly and proudly. For others, it can feel excessive, performative, or even a warning sign that something deeper may be amiss. The truth lies in the nuances of context, culture, and intent.

On one hand, PDA can be a genuine sign of love. A couple holding hands, sharing a gentle kiss, or embracing in public often communicates comfort, security, and pride in the relationship.

These gestures can reinforce emotional bonds and signal to the world that the relationship is valued. In societies where affection is often kept private, small acts of PDA may even feel liberating, a declaration that love should not be hidden.

Soludo’s Onitsha Market Closure Sparks Protests, Divides Opinion

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Soludo’s Onitsha Market Closure Sparks Protests, Divides Opinion

The decision by Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to shut down the Onitsha Main Market for one week has ignited a storm of controversy, laying bare the deep divisions within the state and the wider South-East region.

The closure, announced after traders repeatedly failed to comply with government directives to open for business on Mondays, was intended as a bold move to dismantle the entrenched culture of the “sit-at-home” order enforced by pro-Biafra agitators. Yet, rather than uniting the people behind a common cause, the action has triggered widespread protests, polarized opinions, and raised questions about governance, civil obedience, and the economic future of the region.

The Awujale of Ijebuland: A Throne in Suspense

A symbolic illustration of Awujale of Ijebuland throne succession process

The Awujale of Ijebuland: A Throne in Suspense

The ongoing selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland has become one of the most closely watched traditional exercises in Nigeria, reflecting both the prestige of the stool and the legacy of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for an extraordinary sixty-five years.

The Awujale throne is not only the apex of authority in Ijebuland but also one of the most revered in Yorubaland, making the succession a matter of deep cultural, political, and social significance.

Tinubu, Erdoğan Pledges Five-Billion-Dollar Trade Volume Between Nigeria, Türkiye

Tinubu and Erdoğan Pledge $5 Billion Trade Volume Between Nigeria and Türkiye

In a landmark diplomatic engagement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye have reaffirmed their shared ambition to establish a clear pathway toward achieving a five-billion-dollar trade volume between the two nations.

This pledge was made during President Tinubu’s state visit to Ankara, where both leaders emphasized the importance of jobs, investment, and opportunities for their citizens as the foundation of this economic vision.

NIGERIA: NATIONAL TEACHERS' SUMMIT 2026

Invitation to the Official Ceremony of the National Teachers’ Summit

The National Teachers’ Summit 2026, held in Abuja, represents a landmark event in Nigeria’s educational history.

The summit was convened to honor teachers as the backbone of the nation’s classrooms and to set forth a renewed agenda for educational transformation and sustainability.

OFFICIAL WELCOMING OF GOVERNOR CALEB MUTFWANG OF PLATEAU STATE INTO THE APC

Official Welcoming of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State into the APC

The political landscape of Plateau State witnessed a significant development with the official welcoming of Governor Caleb Mutfwang into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

This event, streamed live and widely covered, marked a pivotal moment in the state’s political trajectory, as the governor formally aligned himself with Nigeria’s ruling party.

NNPP: Kwankwaso, Kano people feel betrayed by Abba Yusuf’s defection to APC

NNPP, Kwankwaso, and Kano People React to Abba Yusuf’s Defection to APC

The political landscape of Kano has been shaken by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His decision, announced after weeks of speculation, has triggered a wave of discontent among party loyalists, the people of Kano, and especially Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, NNPP’s national leader.

Governor Yusuf explained that his move was in the “best interest of the people of Kano state,” citing deepening internal crises and prolonged leadership disputes within the NNPP as reasons for his departure. He formally resigned from the NNPP on Friday before joining the APC on Monday.

Military To Try Officers Over Alleged Plot To Overthrow Govt

Military To Try Officers Over Alleged Plot To Overthrow Government

The Nigerian Armed Forces has announced that several officers will face trial before a military judicial panel over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government.

This decision, according to the Defence Headquarters, is in line with the Armed Forces Act and other service regulations, underscoring the institution’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and constitutional loyalty.

Kano State Deputy Governor Stands Firm Against Defecting to APC

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Kano State Deputy Governor Stands Firm Against Defecting to APC

The political landscape in Kano has been shaken as Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo stood firm against defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), even as his principal, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and a large contingent of lawmakers and officials crossed over. His refusal has triggered speculation of impeachment threats and deepened divisions within the state’s ruling structure.

The unfolding drama began when Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf formally announced his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC at a high-profile ceremony in Kano’s Government House.

The event was attended by prominent political figures and marked by symbolic gestures, including Yusuf’s trademark Kwankwasiyya attire, signaling continuity with his political roots even as he embraced a new party. Alongside him, twenty-two members of the Kano State House of Assembly, several federal lawmakers, and dozens of local government chairmen also defected, creating what analysts have described as a “political earthquake” ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Gov Yusuf Defects To APC With 22 State, Nine Federal Lawmakers

Governor Abba Yusuf’s Defection to APC with 22 State and Nine Federal Lawmakers

In a dramatic political realignment that has reshaped Kano State’s political landscape, Governor Abba Yusuf has officially defected from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement was made on January 26, 2026, during a high-profile event at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano. The defection was not a solitary move; it was accompanied by 22 members of the Kano State House of Assembly and nine members of the House of Representatives, signaling a mass shift of political allegiance within the state.

NASS Resumes as 2026 Budget, Electoral Reforms Take Centre Stage

NASS Resumes as 2026 Budget, Electoral Reforms Take Centre Stage

The National Assembly of Nigeria has officially resumed plenary with two critical issues dominating its agenda: the scrutiny of President Bola Tinubu’s ₦58.47 trillion 2026 budget proposal and the advancement of electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized that both the Senate and the House of Representatives are committed to devoting substantial time to these matters, which are seen as pivotal to Nigeria’s economic stability and democratic development.