Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). God is a Spirit, and the Bible says those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. However, there’re certain things you do physically that help you activate your spirit. For example, when you consciously and deliberately kneel in prayer, it causes your spirit to be immediately activated for prayer. That’s why He told you to do it, because immediately, you’re moved from your mental state into a spiritual state, fulfilling the Scriptures. Psalm 95:6 says, “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.” Daniel also knelt in prayer: “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house and… he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed…” (Daniel 6:10). Even the Lord Jesus knelt down to pray: “And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed” (Luke 22:41). The same thing happens when you lift your hands in prayer, adoration, praise and worship to the Lord. These physical actions draw you from the natural into the spiritual. They are holy expressions of reverence, adulation and worship. The Bible says, “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting” (1 Timothy 2:8). King Solomon lifted his hands when he dedicated the temple: “And it was so, that when Solomon had made an end of praying all this prayer… he arose from before the altar of the LORD, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread up to heaven” (1 Kings 8:54). These examples show us the importance and spirituality of certain reverential actions, even though they’re physical. Never take these spiritual postures lightly. They help shift your focus from the distractions of the flesh to the realities of the Spirit. They help you make contact with your spirit, and you’re stirred and awakened to deeper fellowship with the Lord. Recall the words of the Psalmist, “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice” (Psalm 141:2). Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for teaching me to worship you in spirit and in truth. I yield my body as an instrument of righteousness, aligning it with my spirit in worship, prayer and adoration. As I lift my hands and bow my knees, my spirit is stirred and awakened to deeper fellowship with you, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 12:1 KJVI beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. Luke 24:50 KJVAnd he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. 1 Timothy 2:8 NIVTherefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan1 Timothy 3:1-16 & Jeremiah 9-10 2-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 6:61-71 & 2 Kings 7-8 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: The Lord Almighty is my defense and fortress. Satan has nothing in me because I am full of the Holy Spirit at all times. The environment in which I live is Christ. Here, there are no health scares, infections, or pandemics. No matter what happens to those in the world, I stand firm in faith, and I enjoy my glorious life now. I bask in the provisions of Christ for my life, health, and all that concerns me. I dwell in the secret place of the Most High, and I abide under the shadow of the Almighty in health, safety, prosperity, and joy. In everything I do today and everywhere I go, I’m mindful of God’s love, and that consciousness inspires faith and boldness in me to face the circumstances of life and win. Excellence, glory, health, peace, virtue, and success describe my life. My blessings cannot be humanly explained. I have money everywhere. I am a big-time kingdom financier. I enjoy the supernatural intervention of the Almighty God in all my affairs. I am mightily blessed by the Lord! I am a blessing from God—a carrier and distributor of His blessings and grace to my world. Christ is my life. He’s in every fibre of my being, every bone of my body, and every cell of my blood. I reign and rule over circumstances in His Name, shielded from all evil and harm because I’m seated together with Christ in the heavenly realms—far above all principality, power, might, dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world but also in that which is to come! I walk in the consciousness of God’s righteousness. I am securely established in Christ, and I live above the corrupting influences of this age. I live without worries, conflicts, or agitation. I walk in glory, dominion, and the strength of God. I do not worry about my health, finances, or anything else because the Lord has perfected all that concerns me. Through me, God shows forth His manifold wisdom and excellent greatness. My family, workplace, neighbourhood, city, and nation are all blessed for my sake. I am an offspring of the Word, and the Word has pre-eminence in my life. I reign and rule in life by the Word in the mighty and matchless Name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.
Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has sent a word of advice to his young teammate Lamine Yamal, urging him to remain calm on the pitch as opponents are bound to target him during matches, especially in high-stakes competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Speaking alongside Barcelona manager Hansi Flick during a pre-match press conference ahead of their crucial Champions League encounter against Olympiacos on Tuesday evening, Lopez expressed great admiration for Yamal’s composure and incredible talent despite his young age. According to Lopez, Lamine Yamal is currently one of the best footballers in the world, and this level of recognition naturally draws attention from rival players who might try to unsettle him. The midfielder stressed the importance of maintaining emotional balance and mental focus on the pitch, noting that composure is key to consistency at the elite level. “You have to stay calm because they will come for you. Every player who shines gets targeted. But that’s football. The best response is to play your game and keep improving,” Lopez reportedly said. Lopez’s remarks reflect Barcelona’s growing confidence in their young talents and the club’s ongoing efforts to restore dominance in European football under Flick’s leadership. The Spanish side, known for nurturing homegrown stars, have continued to put faith in their academy graduates like Yamal, whose rapid rise has drawn comparisons to football legends. His pace, creativity, and vision have made him an essential figure in Barcelona’s attacking lineup. As Barcelona prepare to face Olympiacos, all eyes will be on Yamal to see if he can continue his impressive run and maintain the composure his teammate has encouraged. The encounter is expected to be a defining moment for the youngster as he continues to make waves in both domestic and European competitions.
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Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire has expressed deep admiration for the club’s new summer signing, Senne Lammens, following the young Belgian goalkeeper’s outstanding performances in his recent matches. According to Maguire, Lammens has showcased remarkable composure, agility, and leadership qualities that have quickly made an impression within the squad. Speaking after Manchester United’s last Premier League game, Maguire acknowledged that the 22-year-old has already proven himself as a valuable addition to Erik ten Hag’s team. “He’s got everything a top goalkeeper needs — great shot-stopping ability, confidence with the ball at his feet, and an incredible mentality,” Maguire said. “But we also know it’s early days, so we’re not getting carried away just yet.” Senne Lammens: Manchester United’s Promising Future Between the Posts Lammens, who joined Manchester United from Royal Antwerp in an £18 million transfer deal during the last summer window, has wasted no time in adapting to life in England. Despite being a newcomer to the Premier League, the Belgian has already delivered strong performances, demonstrating why the club invested in him for the long term. Fans have been particularly impressed with his confidence under pressure and ability to command his penalty area — traits that have drawn comparisons to some of United’s legendary goalkeepers, including Edwin van der Sar and David de Gea. Maguire’s Encouragement and Caution While Maguire’s praise was heartfelt, the defender also emphasized the importance of patience and balance when evaluating a young player’s progress. “We’ve seen how quickly young talents can rise in this league, but also how important it is to keep working hard. Senne’s done brilliantly so far, and with the support of the squad and coaches, he’ll only get better,” Maguire added. Lammens’ quick rise has also given Manchester United fans hope that the club may have found a long-term successor to the goalkeeper position — a crucial role in their rebuild under Erik ten Hag. As Manchester United continues to compete on multiple fronts this season, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Europa League, Lammens’ presence could prove vital in maintaining consistency and depth in goalkeeping options.
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Ahead of the forthcoming qualifying play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup between Super Eagles of Nigeria and Gabon National Football Team, the manager of Olympique de Marseille, Roberto De Zerbi, has heaped commendation on his forward, Pierre‑Emerick Aubameyang. De Zerbi described Aubameyang as “stronger than I imagined” and labelled him “a champion”. De Zerbi explained that his previous perceptions of Aubameyang had been limited to his goal-scoring prowess, yet upon working with him, the coach unveiled a far more complete player: one who brings physical strength, team value, intelligence, and the ability to both score and assist. According to De Zerbi, Aubameyang can accelerate the game, deliver key passes and is fully committed to team work—qualities that exceed his earlier expectations. The upcoming tie between Nigeria and Gabon will see the two nations lock horns in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying play-off. Nigeria secured their play-off berth by defeating the Benin Republic National Football Team with at least a four-goal margin at home in Uyo, thereby guaranteeing their spot in the next phase of qualifiers. With the spotlight on Gabon’s star forward, and De Zerbi’s public endorsement fueling expectation, the Super Eagles will face a well-prepared opponent. Aubameyang’s combination of experience and form looks set to pose a significant challenge—one that Nigeria’s defensive unit must anticipate and neutralise. Why De Zerbi’s Praise Matters De Zerbi’s comments do more than offer praise—they signal tactical respect and a warning: Aubameyang isn’t just a finisher, he’s a multi-dimensional threat. In modern football, forwards aren’t judged solely on goals; they are valued for how they link play, press, track back, assist, and adapt. De Zerbi emphasised exactly that. By praising the Gabonese striker’s physicality, intelligence and team-first mindset, the Marseille boss is underscoring Aubameyang’s evolution into a complete forward. For Nigeria, this means preparing for more than just runs behind the defence. The Super Eagles will need to disrupt his link-up play, cut off his service and anticipate his movement off the ball. Understanding the full breadth of Aubameyang’s game (as outlined by De Zerbi) could prove decisive in the tie. What this Means for the Play-Off Match Conclusion In short, Roberto De Zerbi’s high-profile endorsement of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang sets the stage for a compelling play-off between Nigeria and Gabon. With the 2026 World Cup qualification on the line, Gabon’s talisman is coming into the tie with the full backing of his coach, underscoring his importance to the team and the threat he poses. For Nigeria, it’s a timely reminder: this is not just another striker—they face a champion.
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Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has issued a stern warning to Arne Slot, the manager of Liverpool FC, suggesting that his choice of squad could cost him the faith of four key players. Leboeuf pinpointed Hugo Ekitike, Jérémie Frimpong, Curtis Jones and Federico Chiesa as those most likely to lose trust if they continue to be overlooked in favour of status or price-tag. The warning comes in the wake of Liverpool’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, where Slot’s team selection came under criticism. Leboeuf argued that while the four players listed entered the match as substitutes and worked hard on their introduction, their efforts could be undermined if the manager persists in making selections based on reputation or financial investment rather than form and contribution. “Those players, they work hard and they see players being picked … because of their price-tag, because of their fame, their past and not because of their qualities.” — Leboeuf Leboeuf stressed that if Slot continues to favour players based on past status or heavy price tags, rather than present performance and commitment, he risks alienating the squad. Specifically, he believes that Hugo Ekitike—who he singled out—could lose patience if he remains sidelined despite strong performances when given the opportunity. Liverpool now face a moment of truth: maintaining squad harmony while seeking to arrest a worrying form slump. The signal from Leboeuf is clear—the manager must earn the backing of all players through fairness and transparency in his team choices, otherwise trust may erode and performance could falter. Key Takeaways
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Nigerian legendary Juju artist Oluwashina Akanbi Peters, famously known as Sir Shina Peters, has boldly stated that he possesses more music classics than the late pop icon Michael Jackson. The veteran musician, celebrated for his unique Afro-Juju sound, made this revelation during his appearance on a recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he reflected deeply on what defines a musician’s lasting legacy. The 67-year-old icon explained that the greatest achievement of any musician is not just fame or wealth but the creation of timeless songs that continue to inspire generations long after their release. According to him, these songs—often referred to as “classics”—represent a musician’s true success and artistic immortality. “Every musician’s dream is to have evergreen songs that outlive their career,” Sir Shina Peters stated passionately. “For me, I’m proud to say I have four major classics that will forever remain in the hearts of music lovers.” Sir Shina Peters, known for hits like “Ace (Afro Juju Series 1)” and “Shinamania”, emphasized that he feels completely fulfilled knowing his songs have stood the test of time. He confidently declared that his musical portfolio contains more lasting classics than Michael Jackson, a statement that has sparked diverse reactions among fans and critics alike. The Nigerian star’s assertion is not without reason. Throughout his decades-long career, Sir Shina Peters has been instrumental in shaping the soundscape of Afro-Juju music, blending traditional Yoruba rhythms with modern instrumentation and high-energy performances. His influence paved the way for many modern Afrobeat and Afropop artists, who continue to draw inspiration from his works. While Michael Jackson’s global influence remains unmatched, Peters’ statement highlights the pride and passion African artists hold for their cultural heritage and contributions to the global music industry. His perspective sheds light on how African classics—though sometimes underrated internationally—carry profound emotional and cultural significance within their communities. Sir Shina Peters’ musical journey continues to resonate across generations, with many fans considering his songs a defining symbol of Nigeria’s vibrant music history. Whether or not one agrees with his claim, there is no denying that his legacy remains strong and influential in shaping the sound of modern African music.
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Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede has publicly advised her colleague Regina Daniels to end her marriage if the reported domestic violence allegations against her husband, Ned Nwoko, are accurate. Graphic Online+2Nigeria News Today+2 In a candid social-media post, Jegede told Regina: “You are still very young. If there is violence in your marriage, please pack your bag.” She stressed that “there is never any sugar-coating for me when violence is involved — whether from a man or a woman.” Blueprint+1 Jegede pointed out that abuse should never be excused by status, wealth or gender. She asked critics: if Regina’s husband were poor or younger, would people treat the situation differently? “Would it make a difference?” she asked. Nigeria News Today+1 She also called out fellow entertainers who mocked Regina’s plea for help. Jegede said their reaction was “shameful” and reminded them that “everybody has a story… we are one.” She emphasised the need for compassion rather than judgment. Trending News+1 Speaking as a single mother, Jegede said she has no patience for violence in any home: “I don’t care if you’re a woman or man who is being violent — once violence is involved, I will not sugarcoat it.” She added: “You carry your bag for your own health, mental health… it is better for you to live to tell the story than for you to stay and die.” Trending News+1 This advice comes in the backdrop of the much-publicised marital troubles between Regina Daniels and Ned Nwoko. While Daniels has made claims of violence and distress in their union, Nwoko has countered with allegations of drug and alcohol abuse on her part. The Nation Newspaper+2allAfrica.com+2 Jegede’s message carries a broader social import: that domestic violence affects people across class and gender lines, and refusing to address it is a collective failure. She asserted that no amount of wealth or fame should silence a victim or justify staying in a harmful relationship. Nigeria News Today+1 In sum: Yvonne Jegede’s public counsel to Regina Daniels underscores two key points — violence in marriage is a deal-breaker, regardless of who is the perpetrator or who is the victim, and prioritising one’s mental health, safety and dignity must come above appearances, status or fear of judgement.
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British YouTuber and BMX rider Ryan Taylor has finally broken his silence on the fast-moving relationship and short-lived engagement with Nigerian disc jockey and billionaire heiress DJ Cuppy (real name Florence Otedola). In a candid appearance on the Ladders Podcast, the 32-year-old influencer reflected on their whirlwind romance and revealed new details behind the breakup. According to Taylor, their engagement began under extraordinary circumstances and ended largely because of deeper issues than many anticipated. He disclosed that despite the high-profile nature of their union, he felt there were serious cultural and professional disconnects between them. One telling moment: “Is it weird that I told you that she didn’t like Nigerians … She came into my business and didn’t even want Nigerian staff.” This pointed comment suggests that Taylor believed Cuppy harboured a negative attitude toward Nigerian associates. Taylor went on to say that their engagement taught him more about himself than about love. “Everything that happens, happens for a reason… What I got from that was lessons,” he said. And perhaps most salient: “I learned that money is not everything, but not having it is.” The engagement between DJ Cuppy and Taylor had captured public attention when they confirmed it in December 2022—just 25 days after meeting at the Gumball 3000 rally in Dubai. But by July 2023, social media signs began emerging of their split: they unfollowed each other, and neither made any public statement for some time. For DJ Cuppy, the collapse of the relationship spurred introspection. At a women’s conference, she confessed that she regretted saying yes to the engagement. “I had one of the worst years of my life last year because I couldn’t say no. I didn’t say no to opportunities I should have said no to. I didn’t say no to a fiancé I should’ve said no to.” She explained that juggling multiple high-pressure commitments — from a BBC radio role to DJ sets, planning a wedding, and studying at Oxford University — left her completely burned out. “And none of us are either good to ourselves or other people when we are burnt out,” she said. In sum, what seemed like a glamorous match between a celebrity DJ and a British influencer turned out to reveal deeper misalignments — and both parties appear to have drawn lessons from the experience. Why it matters
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The Abia State Government has strongly refuted recent reports suggesting that Governor Alex Otti has defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to the government’s official statement, the viral claims circulating on social media and some online news platforms are entirely false and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public about the governor’s political affiliation. The controversy emerged after certain individuals from Abia State shared a picture showing Governor Otti during a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. This visit, which reportedly took place just a few days before Governor Mbah’s defection to the APC, sparked false speculations suggesting that Otti was planning to follow the same path. However, Abia Government officials have clarified that the meeting had no political undertone and was purely part of routine governance and interstate cooperation. The administration emphasized that Governor Otti remains deeply committed to the values and vision of the Labour Party, which he represents, and has no plans of switching political allegiance. Government sources further stated that spreading such rumours at a time when the state is focused on governance, reforms, and infrastructural development is “a distraction engineered by political opponents who feel threatened by Otti’s growing popularity and performance.” The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, speaking on behalf of the governor, urged the public to disregard the false reports, noting that the administration’s primary concern is the delivery of good governance, accountability, and transparency to the people of Abia State. Observers also noted that the Labour Party has become one of the most influential opposition parties in Nigeria, gaining widespread support after the 2023 general elections — particularly due to the strong influence of Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate. Political analysts believe that these rumours are part of a wider narrative aimed at destabilizing the LP’s rising influence in the South-East. Governor Otti’s government, however, continues to enjoy massive grassroots support and is focused on sustaining the momentum that brought him to power. The Abia State Government reiterated its stand that Otti’s visit to Governor Mbah was strictly administrative, emphasizing that political speculation should not overshadow the governor’s developmental strides and leadership focus. In conclusion, the government advised the public to always verify information from credible sources before sharing. They also warned purveyors of fake news that spreading false political narratives can cause unnecessary tension and mislead citizens.
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There is renewed optimism among petroleum marketers across Nigeria as indications suggest that the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, is set to drop soon. This follows the confirmation that loading activities have officially resumed at the Dangote Refinery, a development expected to bring significant relief to millions of motorists and households across the country. Speaking in an exclusive interview with LMSINT MEDIA on Monday, the President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Abubakar Maigandi, revealed that members of the association have commenced loading petrol from the 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote Refinery facility. According to Maigandi, this development marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s quest for fuel price stability and energy independence. He emphasized that with the refinery’s operations in full swing, the cost of petrol is likely to drop as the country reduces dependence on imported refined products. “Our members have started loading petrol at the Dangote Refinery. This is a major step forward for the Nigerian petroleum sector. With local refining now ongoing, Nigerians should expect a significant reduction in fuel pump prices in the coming days,” Maigandi told LMSINT MEDIA. The resumption of product loading from Dangote Refinery is expected to impact the downstream sector positively, particularly by addressing distribution challenges and stabilizing supply chains that have historically contributed to price fluctuations. Relief for Consumers Amid Rising Economic Pressure Nigerians have long anticipated the operational commencement of the Dangote Refinery as a game-changer in the local energy market. The refinery, Africa’s largest, is designed to process 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, significantly reducing the country’s dependence on fuel imports. Analysts predict that with local refining now in motion, consumers may soon enjoy reduced transportation and commodity costs — a ripple effect of the anticipated petrol price cut. This could offer much-needed economic relief at a time when inflation and energy costs have burdened households and businesses. A New Dawn for Nigeria’s Energy Sector The Dangote Refinery, owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has long been viewed as a crucial project to transform Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Its resumption of product loading marks a new chapter in domestic fuel production, promising to stabilize supply, curb scarcity, and potentially drive down pump prices nationwide. Meanwhile, IPMAN has called for continued collaboration between the federal government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), and private sector operators to ensure a smooth distribution process. With synergy across all key stakeholders, the association believes the benefits of local refining will be more effectively transferred to end-users. As Nigerians await an official price adjustment, expectations are high that the Dangote Refinery will fulfill its promise of reducing petrol costs and enhancing the country’s economic stability.
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The Nigerian Presidency has cautioned human rights activist and political figure, Omoyele Sowore, against attempting to sway ongoing judicial proceedings through street demonstrations or public protests. According to Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the Presidency strongly believes that the pursuit of justice must remain within the jurisdiction of the courts, not in the streets or public rallies. The statement was made on Monday, emphasizing that the rule of law and the integrity of the judiciary must be respected at all times. Dare further noted that justice is a structured process, guided by legal procedures and constitutional provisions. He warned that attempts to pressure the judiciary through protests or mass movements could be interpreted as an attempt to undermine due process. “The court remains the only legitimate arena for the pursuit of justice,” Dare declared, stressing that no amount of public agitation can substitute the authority of the legal system. He urged activists and civil society members to channel their energy into lawful engagement rather than confrontational actions capable of disrupting national peace. The Presidency’s reaction comes amid renewed calls by activists and supporters demanding the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). These calls have triggered a fresh wave of protests in different parts of the country, especially in the Southeast region. However, the Federal Government has maintained that Kanu’s case remains under judicial consideration, and the courts should be allowed to carry out their duties without interference. Dare reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration supports freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, but emphasized that such freedoms must operate within the bounds of the law. “The administration is fully committed to upholding human rights,” he explained. “However, it is equally determined to protect the sanctity of the courts and prevent any action that could threaten the nation’s democratic process.” He further appealed to Sowore and other activists to show restraint, patience, and faith in the Nigerian judicial system, asserting that justice can only be achieved through legal mechanisms, not mob influence. Observers believe the statement from the Presidency is an attempt to cool growing tensions surrounding the case, especially as supporters of both sides continue to debate on social media and at various public gatherings. Meanwhile, human rights groups have continued to call for transparency in the trial process, urging the government to respect both the rights of the accused and the integrity of the courts. This development reflects the ongoing national discourse on balancing justice, free speech, and national stability. It underscores the Presidency’s stance that justice is a matter for the judiciary, not public sentiment or street protests.
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The National Chairman of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Chief Dan Nwanyanwu, has claimed that a number of influential politicians and wealthy businessmen from Nigeria’s Southeast region are working behind the scenes to ensure that Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains in custody. Speaking during an interview on Politics Today, a current affairs programme aired on Channels Television and monitored by LMSINT MEDIA, Iwuanyanwu stated that certain Southeast elites are benefitting politically and economically from Kanu’s prolonged detention. According to him, these individuals prefer to maintain the current situation because it serves their interests within both regional and national political frameworks. Iwuanyanwu’s View on the Continued Detention of Nnamdi Kanu Chief Iwuanyanwu expressed concern that these powerful figures have quietly positioned themselves as gatekeepers between the federal government and the Southeast populace. He suggested that if Kanu were to be released, these intermediaries might lose their leverage, influence, and financial benefits. “There are some people, particularly politicians and businessmen in the Southeast, who don’t want Nnamdi Kanu released because they are benefitting from his continued detention,” he said. The ZLP chairman, who is known for his strong political opinions, argued that the Federal Government has no justifiable reason to continue detaining the IPOB leader after several court rulings had ordered his release. He noted that ignoring the court’s decision sends a worrying message about respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. Call for Dialogue and Reconciliation Dan Iwuanyanwu emphasized that releasing Kanu could help reduce tension in the Southeast, foster peace, and encourage national unity. He called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate political will by obeying court judgments and engaging in constructive dialogue with leaders of thought in the region. “Releasing Kanu is not just about politics; it is about peace, fairness, and justice. Many youths in the Southeast have become frustrated due to what they perceive as selective justice. The government should take steps to correct this impression,” Iwuanyanwu added. The ZLP National Chairman further highlighted that many of the crises and insecurity issues in the region are connected to the agitation surrounding Kanu’s detention. He believes that granting him freedom would significantly restore trust between the people of the Southeast and the Nigerian government. Public Reactions The statement by Iwuanyanwu has generated widespread reactions, with many Southeast residents agreeing that Kanu’s continued detention has caused economic and social setbacks in the region. Others argue that political elites might indeed prefer the current situation, as it keeps them relevant in ongoing federal negotiations. Some political observers, however, cautioned against generalizing all Southeast leaders, urging that investigations be conducted to identify those allegedly benefiting from the IPOB leader’s incarceration. Background Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested and extradited to Nigeria in 2021 after fleeing the country in 2017. He faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony, related to his agitation for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria. Despite several court rulings granting him bail or ordering his release, Kanu remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Observers have continued to call on the Federal Government to respect judicial pronouncements and pursue peaceful resolutions through dialogue.
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A prominent Nigerian political activist and fearless human rights advocate, Aisha Yesufu, has strongly criticized the Nigerian government, accusing it of acting like a terrorist organization during the 2020 EndSARS protest — a movement that shook the nation and drew international attention to police brutality and governance issues. In a recent interview on ‘Prime Time’, a flagship programme aired on Arise Television and monitored by LMSINT MEDIA, Aisha Yesufu condemned the government’s actions during the protest, describing them as an outright betrayal of its citizens. According to her, the events that occurred during the 2020 EndSARS demonstrations — especially the reported killings of unarmed protesters — revealed the dark side of leadership in Nigeria. She emphasized that a government that kills its people has lost moral authority and has crossed the line into tyranny. “The Nigerian government behaved like terrorists when it turned its weapons against its citizens,” Yesufu declared, referencing the Lekki Toll Gate massacre and other incidents where peaceful protesters were allegedly shot at by security forces. Aisha Yesufu Speaks on the Fifth Anniversary of EndSARS The activist made the statement as Nigerians marked the fifth anniversary of the EndSARS protest, an event that continues to symbolize the collective fight against police brutality, injustice, and abuse of power. Yesufu, who gained international recognition for her courage during the movement, expressed disappointment that five years later, no one has been held accountable for the lives lost and the pain endured by families of victims. She also called on Nigerians not to forget the essence of the EndSARS struggle, reminding citizens that freedom and justice come at a price. In her words, “We must continue to demand accountability and good governance. Our silence empowers oppression.” Her comments reignited conversations online, especially among young Nigerians who took to social media to remember those who died and to call for real reforms in Nigeria’s security and political systems. Aisha Yesufu remains one of the most outspoken voices for democracy and civil rights in Nigeria, constantly advocating for transparency, justice, and equal rights for all citizens. The EndSARS movement, which started as a campaign against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), later evolved into a broader protest against corruption, unemployment, and poor governance — making it one of the largest youth-led protests in modern African history. For many Nigerians, Aisha Yesufu’s bold statements serve as a reminder that the fight for justice is far from over, even as the government continues to deny or downplay its role in the violence of 2020.
