“Muslims Are Also Being Killed in Nigeria,” Trump Admits
United
States President Donald Trump has publicly acknowledged that Muslims are also
victims of violence in Nigeria, a statement that marks a shift from his earlier
emphasis on Christian persecution.
The admission came in the wake of recent U.S. military action in Nigeria, where American forces carried out airstrikes against jihadist camps in Sokoto State, a predominantly Muslim region near the Niger border.
INEC Chair Promises Free, Fair, Tech-Driven 2027 Elections
Executive Summary
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has pledged to deliver free, fair, and technology-driven elections in 2027. The INEC Chairman emphasized the Commission’s commitment to transparency, credibility, and innovation, highlighting reforms that will leverage digital tools to strengthen electoral integrity and public trust.
Court Bars Resident Doctors From Future Industrial Strikes
A
landmark ruling has emerged from Nigeria’s judiciary, reshaping the landscape
of labor relations in the health sector. The court has barred resident doctors
from engaging in future industrial strikes, a decision that carries significant
implications for healthcare delivery, labor rights, and the broader medical
community.
Background of the Case
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Atiku Abubakar’s Relentless Pursuit of Nigeria’s Presidency
Atiku Abubakar’s repeated presidential
bids illustrate both the resilience of his ambition and the cyclical nature of
Nigerian politics. Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed’s remark that “since
my NYSC days, Atiku has been contesting election” captures the essence of a
political career defined by persistence and longevity.
Atiku’s journey began in the late 1980s and early 1990s when he first sought elective office. His early attempts included unsuccessful bids for the governorship of Adamawa State in 1990 and 1996. In 1998, he finally won the governorship, but fate redirected him to the national stage when he was selected as Olusegun Obasanjo’s running mate. Serving as Vice President from 1999 to 2007, Atiku became a central figure in Nigeria’s democratic transition, wielding influence in economic reforms and party politics.
Datti Baba-Ahmed on Atiku Abubakar’s Longstanding Political Ambition
In a
recent statement, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the vice-presidential
candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, reflected on
the enduring political journey of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking candidly, Baba-Ahmed remarked that since his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) days, Atiku has consistently been contesting elections, underscoring the remarkable persistence of the veteran politician in Nigeria’s democratic space.
Jersey to Repatriate $9.5 Million Looted by Abacha to Nigeria
The
government of Jersey has announced its decision to return $9.5 million to
Nigeria, funds identified as part of the assets looted by former military ruler
General Sani Abacha.
This development marks another milestone in Nigeria’s long-standing effort to recover stolen wealth siphoned abroad during Abacha’s regime in the 1990s.
Trump Denies Plan To Pardon Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
On
January 8, 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly denied claims that
he intended to pardon music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.
The
speculation had emerged amid ongoing legal troubles facing Combs, who has been
under investigation for alleged criminal activities.
Reports circulating online suggested that Trump, who has previously used presidential pardons as a political tool, was considering extending clemency to the embattled hip-hop entrepreneur.
Trump Orders US Withdrawal From 66 Global Organisations
On
January 8, 2026, President Donald Trump issued a sweeping directive ordering
the United States to withdraw from sixty-six international organisations. The
announcement, carried by Channels Television, marks one of the most extensive
disengagements from multilateral institutions in modern history.
The decision reflects Trump’s long-standing skepticism toward global governance structures, which he has often criticized as undermining U.S. sovereignty and draining national resources.
IBA Expresses Concern Over US Military Action in Venezuela
The International Bar Association (IBA)
has raised alarm over the United States’ recent military intervention in
Venezuela, warning that the operation poses serious challenges to international
law and global norms of sovereignty.
On
January 4, 2026, the IBA issued a statement following reports that U.S. forces
had carried out a clandestine mission in Venezuela, resulting in the removal of
President Nicolás Maduro and the arrest of his wife.
The intervention, which came after months of speculation and military buildup in the region, has sparked widespread debate about legality, legitimacy, and the broader implications for international order.
Macron Accuses US of ‘Breaking Free From International Rules’
French President Emmanuel Macron has sharply criticized the United States, accusing Washington of deliberately breaking away from established international rules and norms. His remarks, delivered during a press briefing, reflect growing tensions between Europe and the US over global governance, trade, and security frameworks.
US Detains Former Ghanaian Finance Minister
On
January 8, 2026, news broke that the United States authorities had detained a
former Ghanaian Finance Minister upon his arrival in the country.
The development has sparked widespread attention both in Ghana and internationally, given the high-profile nature of the individual involved and the implications for Ghana’s political and financial landscape.
Oxford Dictionary Embraces Nigerian Vernacular
The
Oxford English Dictionary (OED), one of the most authoritative references for
the English language, has officially expanded its glossary to include several
Nigerian words, marking a significant recognition of the country’s linguistic
and cultural influence.
Among the newly added entries are “Mammy Market” and “Amala,” terms deeply rooted in Nigeria’s social and culinary traditions.
Anthony Joshua Pays Tribute to Friends Killed in Crash
Former world heavyweight champion
Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to two of his closest friends,
Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, who tragically lost their lives in a car crash in
Nigeria on December 29, 2025. Joshua himself survived the accident with minor
injuries but has since spoken publicly about the deep pain of losing men he
described as “brothers” and “great men.”
The accident occurred when the black Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his companions collided with a stationary truck on a busy Nigerian highway. While Joshua was fortunate to escape with only minor injuries, his friends Ghami and Ayodele were killed instantly. Ghami was not only a close friend but also Joshua’s sport and exercise rehabilitation coach, while Ayodele served as his personal trainer. Their roles in Joshua’s life extended beyond professional duties; they were integral members of his inner circle, sharing in his journey both inside and outside the ring.
Wike–Amehuele vs Fubara - Timeline of Rivers Political Crisis
The Rivers State political crisis
has unfolded as one of the most turbulent episodes in Nigeria’s recent
democratic history, pitting former Governor Nyesom Wike and his allies, notably
Martin Amaewhule, against the incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
What began as a subtle struggle for influence has spiraled into a full-blown confrontation that has reshaped the political landscape of the oil-rich state.
Rivers APC Rejects Impeachment Process Against Governor Fubara
The
political climate in Rivers State has taken another dramatic turn as the All
Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has openly rejected the impeachment
process initiated against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor
Ngozi Odu.
This development comes after the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, commenced proceedings to remove the governor and his deputy over allegations of gross misconduct. The move has sparked widespread debate and heightened tensions in a state already grappling with deep political divisions.
US Introduces $15,000 Visa Bond for Nigerians and Other Nationals
In a
significant policy shift, the United States Department of State has announced
the introduction of visa bonds of up to $15,000 for certain foreign nationals
applying for B1/B2 visas, which cover business and tourism travel.
This
directive, released in early January 2026, specifically targets countries
classified as high-risk due to elevated visa overstay rates and security
concerns. Nigeria is among the nations affected, alongside 37 others, many of
which are African states.
The visa bond policy requires applicants from these countries to post a financial guarantee ranging between $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000. The exact amount is determined during the visa interview process.
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Editorial:
Ugochinyere’s Defection and the Shifting Sands of Imo Politics
Ikenga
Imo Ugochinyere’s decision to abandon the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for
the Action Peoples Party (APP) ahead of the 2027 elections is more than a
personal political maneuver; it is a reflection of the fluid and often
unpredictable nature of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Ikenga’s defection, formally announced in Akokwa, Imo State, on January 7, 2026, has already begun to reshape conversations about the future of both PDP and APP in the region.
Imo Lawmaker Ugochinyere Officially Dumps PDP, Joins APP Ahead of 2027 Election
In a
dramatic political shift that has stirred conversations across Imo State and
beyond, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives
representing the Ideato federal constituency, has formally defected from the
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Action Peoples Party (APP).
The announcement was made on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in Akokwa, Imo State, marking a significant realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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Full Review of Africa Democracy and Governance in 2025
The year
2025 marked a critical juncture for Africa’s democratic trajectory and
governance systems. The African Union (AU), through the African Peer Review
Mechanism (APRM), launched the African Governance Report 2025, focusing on
natural resource governance as a determinant of peace, stability, and
development. This report was unveiled during the 13th AU High-Level Dialogue on
Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance, underscoring the continent’s
recognition that democracy cannot thrive without effective governance of its
vast natural wealth.
Democratic Landscape
Across Africa, democracy in 2025 continued to evolve in diverse directions. Several countries consolidated democratic gains through peaceful elections, stronger judicial independence, and enhanced civil society participation. However, democratic capture, where ruling elites manipulate institutions to entrench power, remained a pressing concern. The APRM’s Democracy Capture Index revealed that while some nations made strides in curbing authoritarian tendencies, others regressed, with political pluralism undermined by restrictions on opposition parties and media freedoms.
Datti Baba-Ahmed Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition
Senator
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s Vice Presidential candidate in
Nigeria’s 2023 general election, has formally announced his intention to
contest for the presidency in 2027.
Datti’s declaration marks a significant moment in the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s opposition politics, especially following recent developments within the Labour Party.
The Labour Party’s FCT Dilemma and INEC’s Firm Stand
The
Independent National Electoral Commission’s refusal to recognize the Julius
Abure-led faction of the Labour Party in the forthcoming FCT Area Council
elections is more than a bureaucratic decision; it is a defining moment in
Nigeria’s democratic process.
At its core, the ruling underscores the Commission’s insistence on respecting judicial authority and maintaining electoral integrity, even in the face of political pressure and public protest.
Why INEC Denied the Abure Faction in FCT Polls
The
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally explained its
decision to reject the list of candidates submitted by the Julius Abure-led
faction of the Labour Party for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council
elections.
This decision, announced on January 7, 2026, followed a protest staged by Labour Party supporters at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja over the alleged exclusion of their candidates from the forthcoming polls scheduled for February 21, 2026.
Special report: Court orders interim forfeiture of 57 properties linked to Malami
Case overview and court directive
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court has ordered the interim forfeiture of 57 properties alleged to be proceeds of unlawful activities and linked to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, as well as two of his sons, Abdulaziz Malami and Abiru‑Rahman Malami.
The order followed an ex‑parte application moved by counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ekele Iheanacho. The assets, described as multi‑billion naira land and commercial holdings, are to be forfeited on an interim basis pending the outcome of further proceedings.
No Tax on Bank Balances, Only Transfers Attract ₦50 -CITN
The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has clarified that bank balances are not subject to taxation under Nigeria’s current tax regime. Only electronic transfers attract a ₦50 stamp duty, dispelling widespread misconceptions that funds kept in accounts would be taxed.
In recent weeks, concerns have spread among Nigerians regarding alleged taxation of money held in bank accounts. These fears were addressed by Mr. Ben Enamudu, Chairman of the CITN Abuja District, during an interview with ARISE News.
Nakuru Man Marries Mzungu Fiancée in Colourful Wedding After Family Opposition
A young man from Nakuru County, Kenya, has triumphed over cultural barriers and family resistance to marry his German fiancée in a vibrant ceremony that has captured public attention.
The story centers on Gideon Kirui, a native of Boror Village in Rongai, Nakuru County, who recently exchanged vows with Tabea Jasmin Schumann, a woman from Hannover, Germany. Their union comes after two years of dating and navigating the complexities of cultural differences and family opposition.
