Outrage has erupted among political observers and citizens of Rivers State as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu failed to address the ongoing suspension of democratic governance in the state during the 26th Democracy Day celebration on June 12, 2025. Many Nigerians had anticipated that the President would seize the symbolic occasion to reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and reintroduce democratic leadership in Rivers State. However, those expectations were unmet, as President Tinubu remained silent on the matter during his speech to the joint session of the National Assembly. Previously, Tinubu had declared a six-month suspension of democratic governance in Rivers State, invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), citing escalating tensions and the threat of breakdown of law and order under Governor Fubara’s leadership. In his address at the time, Tinubu noted that militant groups had openly issued violent threats against perceived enemies of the Governor, whom Fubara allegedly failed to distance himself from. According to the President, the situation had become untenable, prompting the constitutional emergency declaration on March 18, 2025. Despite ongoing federal allocations to a Sole Administrator, residents of Rivers State told LMSINT MEDIA that conditions in the state have worsened, with stalled projects and a deepening governance vacuum. Attempts by Fubara to present the 2025 budget to the Rivers State Assembly were rebuffed, and on March 12, 2025, he was denied access to the assembly quarters. In the midst of this power struggle, Fubara has sought reconciliation with his political godfather, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Sources confirmed that he met with Wike in Abuja on June 13 and earlier visited President Tinubu in Lagos ahead of the Democracy Day celebration. Despite these efforts, the President maintained the emergency rule, drawing criticism from Senator Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, who argued that Tinubu missed an opportunity to restore democracy. Highlighting the historical significance of June 12, Dickson lamented the President’s decision to sidestep the Rivers issue, stating, “One cannot claim to be a democrat while suppressing democratic rights.” Speaking with LMSINT MEDIA, Chizy Enyi, APC chieftain and Port Harcourt-based lawyer, alleged that Tinubu’s true motive is to secure political dominance in Rivers ahead of the 2027 elections. Enyi claimed Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara was a strategic move to hand control of the state’s political structure to Wike, empowering him to mobilize grassroots support. Enyi added that the Sole Administrator currently in place is filling key political positions with Wike’s loyalists and even organizing local government elections—actions Enyi argues are unconstitutional and reflective of military rule. He pointed to a Supreme Court ruling barring caretaker appointees from running LGAs, asserting that Tinubu’s actions flout that decision. He further contended that had Fubara’s allies been appointed instead, Wike’s camp would have responded with violence. According to him, “The crisis in Rivers is not about governance, but about Tinubu entrusting Wike with political control for 2027.” Despite the President’s absence from Rivers since his election, Enyi said, Tinubu still expects political support in 2027. “Time will judge this administration,” he stated. “Rivers people will not forget.” Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former nPDP spokesperson and APC chieftain, echoed these concerns in a separate interview with LMSINT MEDIA. He alleged that Tinubu’s actions were not aimed at stabilizing Rivers but at marginalizing former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi politically. According to Eze, the emergency rule is a tactical ploy to prevent Rivers from developing like Lagos or Akwa Ibom. Eze accused Tinubu of deliberately crippling Fubara to ensure compliance with a broader agenda. “The emergency rule will persist until Tinubu is confident Fubara will act in line with their political designs,” he said, warning that the move is causing long-term harm to the state. Residents also voiced concerns. Dike Emmanuel from Port Harcourt criticized the halt in infrastructure projects. “No new road works have been initiated. What is the federal allocation being used for?” he asked. Another resident, Finipri Obomanu, disputed the justification for the emergency rule. “There was peace even before Fubara’s suspension. Rivers is not among the states battling daily killings,” he said, citing more severe insecurity in states like Benue and Zamfara. The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide joined the growing calls for the reinstatement of democracy in Rivers. The group appealed to Tinubu to honor the spirit of June 12 and restore both Governor Fubara and the elected lawmakers. The Council emphasized that Tinubu, a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s democratic history, must lead by example and uphold the constitutional rights of Rivers people.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues (Mark 16:17). How wonderful this is; the Lord Jesus gave us authority over all devils. He also gave us the power of attorney, the legal right, to use His Name, to act in His behalf. In other words, even if you gave your life to Christ just this morning, you have the legal right, the authority to cast out devils in the Name of Jesus. Notice again the words of the Master, “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils…” (Mark 16:17). It’s the first thing He said we could do in His Name. And He didn’t say it was for some select few, like the evangelists, prophets and pastors only, no; it’s everyone who believes. You can act on that Word right now and have results. An important question to ask would be, how much power do you wield when you’re given the power of attorney? How much force can you exercise? How much authority do you really have? It depends on the one who gave you that power of attorney; how much power does Jesus have? In Matthew 28:18, Jesus said, “…All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” This is extraordinary! He didn’t say “Some power is given unto me”; rather, He said ALL power! Then, the most awe-inspiring part is that He said, “…in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18). This means every angel is subject to Jesus. Every demon is subject to Jesus. Everything in life, living and nonliving—systems, structures, processes, kingdoms, thrones, governments, etc.—are subject to the authority of Jesus. The Apostle Paul very succinctly describes the profundity of Christ’s authority and His delegated power to the Church in Ephesians 1:20-23 MSG. It says, “All this energy issues from Christ: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.” Blessed be God! PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for giving me the power of attorney to use the Name of Jesus and to act in His stead. I exercise this authority today over all demons, forces of darkness, circumstances, systems and structures of this world. I declare that all things are subject to me as I function from a place of dominion and victory in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYLuke 10:19Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Philippians 2:9-11Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; 11 And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Colossians 1:16-18For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 9:1-31 & 2 Chronicles 35-36 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 2:33-40 & Deuteronomy 18 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I belong to Christ and I am Abraham’s seed and an heir according to the promise! I affirm that I’m filled with the fullness of God, loaded with all the power, glory, might, and grace of divinity! My words are backed with the power to alter situations and every word I speak comes to pass. I speak life to my bones, health to my organs, and agelessness to my body. I have been positioned for the glory-life, and I have in me everything I need to excel and live in perpetual health and victory on earth to the glory of God. I’m lifted above this world, its deterioration and the decadence, and I continually abide in the realm of life and glory that God planned for me from the foundation of the world. God’s Word is the nourishment for my spirit, food for my soul, and health to my flesh! I am a king and my words are full of power and authority; therefore I live a life of victory, success, divine health, abundance, excellence, and glory. I am not a victim but a victor. God’s Word is producing what it talks about in my life. I am strengthened with divine enablement in my inner man by the Holy Ghost. I function today with the Spirit of might, dominion, and excellence. My eyes of understanding are enlightened; I see the invisible and I’m empowered to do the impossible. My life goes only in the direction of God’s purpose; therefore, I’ll never be sick in life. I can only grow from strength to strength, for divinity has been activated in my body. The life of Christ in me makes me superhuman! I am not bound by the principles of the world because I hail from Zion – the heavenly kingdom – where sickness,
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The Centre for Justice and Institutional Integrity (CJII), a recognized Civil Society Organization, has expressed strong support for the recent arraignment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court. The senator faces a three-count charge involving criminal defamation and the spread of malicious falsehoods. Emphasizing the need for truth and legal accountability, CJII criticized Senator Natasha for allegedly failing to substantiate her accusations with any reliable evidence. In a formal statement signed by Professor Reuben Micah, the organization asserted that this development signifies a critical reminder that truth must override theatrics in a lawful and democratic society. “Justice should always take precedence over media spectacles. Public officeholders should never be allowed to manipulate attention through unfounded defamation,” the group declared. The CJII further condemned what it described as months of strategic avoidance and publicity-driven narratives from the senator. They noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan was finally arraigned before the FCT High Court, following persistent efforts by the legal system to initiate proper judicial proceedings. The charges were initiated by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, based on her public accusations targeted at the Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Akpabio. This legal development marks a pivotal moment in a saga where the senator allegedly made several unverified claims, including accusations of sexual harassment and attempted assassination. These claims, the group pointed out, were widely circulated in both local and international media outlets, often without supporting documentation. The allegations, which also implicated former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, claimed the two men plotted to endanger her life. Yet, CJII stressed that there is no credible evidence, witness account, or investigative confirmation to validate these serious accusations. Throughout the media storm, Senator Akpabio remained focused on governance, choosing not to respond to media agitation but to rely on due legal processes. Attempts to officially serve court papers to Senator Natasha were reportedly obstructed, as she evaded legal notice for several months. Her eventual arraignment saw her plead not guilty, and she was granted bail of ₦50 million, with a surety mandated to own real estate within the Federal Capital Territory. Justice Chizoba Orji, the presiding judge, set the commencement of trial for September 23, 2025. “This is far from a political vendetta,” the group emphasized. “It’s a necessary step to protect public service integrity and confront the dangers of defamatory speech. As a lawmaker, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must now face judicial scrutiny and either provide evidence or face accountability for her serious claims.” CJII concluded by stating that the trial stands as a powerful precedent: In any democratic system built on law, truth must lead over showmanship. Justice must outweigh drama. Public leadership should never be shackled by baseless smear campaigns.
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Brazilian giants Botafogo pulled off a stunning upset against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), defeating the French side 1-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group B clash at the Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles, on June 19, 2025. The shocking win was witnessed by a roaring crowd of 53,699 fans. In a match that pitted Europe’s Champions League winners against South America’s Copa Libertadores holders, a first-half strike by Igor Jesus separated the two heavyweights. The result puts Botafogo within touching distance of a place in the Club World Cup knockout stage. Despite entering the tournament as one of the clear favourites after their 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final, PSG struggled to find rhythm against a determined Botafogo side. Jesus the Hero in Pasadena Botafogo’s Brazilian international Igor Jesus emerged as the match-winner with a well-taken goal in the 36th minute. The play began when Jefferson Savarino threaded a perfect pass through PSG’s defensive line. Jesus surged past defender Willian Pacho, cleverly wrong-footed him, and fired a shot that deflected slightly on its way past Gianluigi Donnarumma into the back of the net. Speaking post-match, Jesus said, “People doubted us, but we proved our strength. It was a tough match — we had to defend hard, and we delivered. We’re delighted with the win. One team came in as European champions, and we came as South American champions.” Interestingly, Igor Jesus was previously linked with a move to Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League but chose to remain with Botafogo to participate in the Club World Cup. “I think staying at Botafogo was the right call,” he added with a smile. PSG Falls Short Despite Dominance PSG had an electric start. Just two minutes in, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tested John, Botafogo’s goalkeeper, with a beautifully curled effort. However, that early momentum soon faded. The first half became increasingly fragmented due to continuous fouls, disrupting PSG’s renowned passing style. The midfield trio of Marlon Freitas, Gregore, and Allan played a pivotal role in stifling PSG’s creativity, especially targeting Vitinha, who was repeatedly denied space to operate effectively despite his team dominating possession. In the second half, PSG maintained high possession and camped in Botafogo’s half, but their efforts bore no fruit. Botafogo’s defensive line remained compact and disciplined, closing every possible gap and withstanding waves of attacks. Luis Enrique Reacts to the Upset PSG manager Luis Enrique acknowledged the intensity of the match, stating, “We expected a tough contest, and they defended excellently. This Club World Cup is highly competitive. Every team is motivated, especially when facing PSG.” Remaining optimistic, the Spanish tactician said, “We’ve got time to turn this around. If any team can recover, it’s us. We’ll assess the game, and there are things to improve, but overall, our performance was not bad.” The loss now places pressure on PSG ahead of their remaining group stage matches, while Botafogo can book their place in the Round of 16 with a positive result against Atletico Madrid in their final Group B fixture on Monday.
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Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has emphasized the urgent need for the Benue State Government to take decisive action by convening all relevant stakeholders to resolve the ongoing conflict within the region. Speaking during an exclusive interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Thursday, General Musa shed light on the underlying issues fueling the prolonged unrest in Benue, pointing out that the widely believed land grabbing crisis is largely political. According to the CDS, residents of Benue State maintain a persistent belief that their lands are being unlawfully seized due to recurring attacks over the years. This perception, he explained, has intensified community tension and mistrust. Perception of Land Seizure and Security Concerns General Musa stated: “In my assessment, three critical issues stand out. First, the people genuinely believe that land is being taken from them. This perception has developed over time due to repeated attacks in various communities.” He further mentioned that security operatives often patrol deserted areas, which locals are too afraid to inhabit for fear of further attacks. Yet, there are no visible foreign invaders occupying these lands. Conflict Caused by Stray Livestock The CDS also pointed to the recurring problem of livestock, particularly cattle, trespassing into farmlands in Benue—a state known for its fertile terrain. “Animals wander into these lush farmlands, and this creates serious disputes. When such animals are seized or killed, it escalates the tension further,” he said. He added that preventing these animals from roaming or being harmed could significantly reduce confrontations between farmers and herders. A Call for Political Intervention and Unity General Musa stressed that the land dispute is politically influenced, and that genuine peace will only be achieved if the Benue State Government plays a more active role by organizing dialogue among all involved groups. “The government must step in. All parties must sit together and find common ground. Once there’s consensus, any future disruptions can be classified as criminal acts and dealt with accordingly. This approach will help us attain peace.”
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The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has made a disturbing revelation concerning the Yelwata massacre in Benue State. He alleged that certain individuals within the state provided hospitality — including food, accommodation, and even women — to the armed militants who executed the brutal assault that left numerous civilians dead. Speaking at a press briefing held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, General Musa emphasized that local informants also disclosed the precise location of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Yelwata, which contributed significantly to the high casualty rate. General Musa noted that military personnel had previously obtained intelligence regarding imminent attacks in several parts of Benue and were strategically deployed. However, this intelligence was ultimately a misdirection, as the real attack occurred in Yelwata through a rapid strike-and-withdraw tactic. “The armed assailants were hosted by people in the area. They received meals, were offered women, and directed to the IDP camp. Yet, not a single alert reached the security agencies,” General Musa lamented. He highlighted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has now directed the full deployment of all security forces—including the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence units—to track and arrest those involved in the killings. General Musa reiterated the importance of community cooperation, stressing that security is a shared responsibility. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities, asserting that proactive citizen engagement could prevent future tragedies. Further expressing concern, General Musa urged the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s fragile borders. He warned that weapons and fighters are freely entering the country from unstable nations such as Sudan, Libya, and the Central African Republic, worsening regional security challenges. Drawing lessons from abroad, the CDS advised that Nigeria could adopt Pakistan’s border strategy, particularly its double-layered fortified wall built along its border with Afghanistan, as an effective model to emulate. He offered heartfelt condolences to the families of victims in Yelwata and other conflict zones, while reaffirming the military’s unwavering dedication to achieving national peace. “These losses are devastating. We are determined to pursue justice for the victims and to rebuild peace across Nigeria,” General Musa concluded, calling for a “Whole-of-Society” approach involving joint efforts between the military, civil authorities, and the general public.
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Farmers in Augie Local Government Area (LGA) of Kebbi State have come under threat from armed militants suspected to be part of the Lakurawa terrorist faction, who are reportedly ordering them to abandon mechanised farming methods and revert to the traditional use of cattle for cultivation. As reported by Zagazola Makama, a known security intelligence analyst, the assailants warned that any farmer found operating mechanised equipment would be summarily executed. This disturbing ultimatum has sparked widespread fear and anxiety among residents in several communities already grappling with cattle theft and insecurity. A resident of the area shared, “These terrorists are now in control of our farming decisions. They’ve banned the use of machines. If we use cattle, they confiscate them. Yet, we need farming both to feed our families and for commercial survival.” Reports indicate that the threats have been confirmed as authentic by a reliable intelligence source, noting that several villages in Augie LGA have received these warnings. In response, concerned residents are urging the Nigerian government and military to swiftly intervene before the situation escalates further. This region has experienced recurring terrorist attacks and a surge in cattle rustling, allegedly led by the same Lakurawa elements. In April 2025, no fewer than 13 community vigilante members lost their lives in Morai village, also within Augie LGA, during an ambush by armed assailants who attacked them while they were attempting to retrieve stolen livestock. When approached for comments, Nafiu Abubakar, the Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated that investigations into the reported threats were underway.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for his commendable efforts in bringing back peace and stability to a state previously troubled by security and ethnic tensions. During an official visit to Kaduna on Thursday, Tinubu expressed pride in being associated with the governor, particularly for transforming a volatile environment into a more harmonious one. As part of his visit, the President commissioned several major projects, including the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, located in the Igabi Local Government Area. He also unveiled the 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital situated in Millennium City, along with the deployment of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses. Under the leadership of the former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Kaduna experienced severe insecurity, notably ethnic clashes and communal unrest. However, President Tinubu emphasized that the current administration had reversed that narrative. Acknowledging the strides made by Governor Sani, Tinubu said that Kaduna has now been set on a course of sustainable growth by prioritizing peacebuilding initiatives and encouraging ethnic reconciliation across communities. In his address, the President assured that the Federal Government is committed to supporting the state further, including plans to establish a light rail transportation system to enhance mobility and economic activity. “Senator Uba Sani deserves recognition for his emphasis on both security and infrastructure since assuming office,” Tinubu stated. “We are here today to witness the positive outcomes of his administration.” He continued, “Governor Uba Sani represents transformation, unity, peace, and progress. What was once a volatile and uncontrollable atmosphere has been restored to calm and stability. I applaud his leadership and proudly say that Kaduna is thriving again. Working alongside him is a privilege.” President Tinubu also extended his appreciation to traditional leaders across Kaduna State for their unwavering support of the governor’s peace and development initiatives.
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In a recent revelation by the Nigerian Senate, it has been disclosed that approximately 85% of the proposed N1.48 trillion 2025 Rivers State budget was initially developed by the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, before his removal from office. This revelation came during a budget defence session held at the National Assembly, where retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who currently acts as the state’s sole administrator, appeared before the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Governance in Rivers State, chaired by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. Bamidele stated that the Senate’s red chamber had closely analyzed the Rivers State budget over the past three weeks. Their findings confirmed that a significant portion—85 percent—of the 2025 budget was originally created under the guidance of Governor Fubara before his suspension. The remaining 15 percent of the budget, according to the committee, was inserted by the current administration to reflect new development projects. In addition to the primary budget submission, Vice Admiral Ibas has proposed a N50 billion supplementary appropriation bill. This request is intended to tackle unpaid pensions and gratuities owed to civil servants in the state. Earlier in June, LMSINT MEDIA reported that Ibas had indicated that the budget was structured with an expectation that Governor Fubara might return to office. This situation follows the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, triggered by prolonged political instability and administrative conflicts.
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The Imo State Police Command has strongly advised its officers and operatives to exercise maximum caution and professionalism in handling firearms while on official duty. According to a press statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the directive aligns with the broader mission of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to ensure a more disciplined, efficient, and professionally competent Nigerian Police Force. In adherence to this mandate, the Command recently launched a specialized internal musketry refresher course for 200 officers selected from tactical units and various divisional commands throughout the state. The training took place at the Police Command Headquarters in Owerri, and it was designed to sharpen the firearm handling abilities of officers, reinforce safety procedures, and strengthen operational discipline in the force. Speaking on the initiative, DSP Okoye highlighted that the program was also meant to prepare personnel to respond more effectively to dynamic security threats within the state. During the training event, Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, addressed the participants, stressing the vital need for responsible firearm usage. He emphasized that the term accidental discharge does not exist within the operational context of the Nigeria Police Force. He warned that any officer found guilty of weapon misuse would face serious disciplinary action in accordance with the law. CP Danjuma further encouraged officers to fully engage in the training and internalize all principles being shared. The session was led by CSP Abdullahi Wase, Deputy Commander of 18 PMF, Owerri. He guided participants through rigorous training modules including tactical weapon usage, close-range engagement drills, scenario-based force application, rifle maintenance, and lawful firearm deployment as outlined in Force Order 237. DSP Okoye concluded that the ongoing refresher training reflects the Command’s dedication to continuous learning and the professional advancement of its personnel. He affirmed that these efforts are aimed at improving public confidence, enhancing police efficiency, and ensuring reliable law enforcement across Imo State.
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The Nasarawa State Government has issued a stern caution to all mining firms operating within its jurisdiction, threatening to shut down any that neglect their corporate social responsibility (CSR) or breach environmental safety regulations. During a recent inspection of mining activities around the Uke River in Karu Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Margaret Itake Elayo, voiced the government’s concern regarding rising environmental risks and potential mercury contamination in local water sources. Elayo raised alarm following disturbing claims that certain mining companies might be using mercury, a dangerous and poisonous substance, in their operations. Even more concerning were reports of direct waste discharge into the Uke River. The Uke River serves as a crucial source of water for both residents and wildlife in nearby communities. “This river sustains many human lives and animals. Releasing toxic materials into it is a serious violation,” Elayo stressed. She reaffirmed the government’s duty to safeguard the environment and public welfare, stating that economic gains must not be prioritized over human health. “If these activities are verified, we will not allow them to continue. No profit is worth endangering people’s lives,” she added. To that end, Elayo’s team took water samples from the river for laboratory testing, while inviting major mining stakeholders to engage with the government over the growing concerns. She reiterated the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on environmental violations, clearly warning that any firm found guilty of such infractions would face immediate closure. Apart from pollution issues, the commissioner criticized several mining firms for neglecting the developmental needs of the host communities in which they operate. She called on these companies to take community development obligations seriously by supporting local infrastructure like schools, clinics, and providing scholarships to deserving students. “It’s unacceptable for companies to extract minerals and abandon communities in poverty,” Elayo declared. “Any firm that fails to meet its social obligations will have its operating license reviewed or suspended,” she warned. The inspection team also stopped at Saka, another location in Karu LGA, where residents are battling with severe gully erosion. The Nasarawa State Government promised to evaluate the scale of the environmental threat and initiate intervention where needed.
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General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has disclosed that some residents of Benue State allegedly supported the armed attackers who carried out the recent deadly assault on Yelwata community, resulting in numerous fatalities. Speaking during an extensive press briefing held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, General Musa stated that specific members of the community assisted the criminals by providing them with food, shelter, and even women. He went on to accuse some local informants of directing the armed men to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp located in Yelwata, which significantly contributed to the large-scale killings witnessed during the incident. Despite receiving earlier intelligence pointing to potential attacks in different parts of Benue State, the military had already dispatched security personnel to these areas. However, the criminals allegedly used misleading strategies to bypass the troops. “These individuals were accommodated by certain members of the community, given meals, offered women, and led to the IDP camp. But unfortunately, the security forces received no prior alert from residents,” General Musa noted. In swift response to the tragic event, President Bola Tinubu has directed the comprehensive mobilization of national security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence units, to identify and apprehend those behind the atrocity. General Musa emphasized the necessity of public collaboration with the military, asserting, “Security is a collective duty.” He also appealed to the Federal Government to enhance oversight of Nigeria’s porous frontiers, warning about the unchecked influx of illegal arms and fighters originating from unstable nations like Sudan, Libya, and the Central African Republic. The Defence Chief further warned that the growing instability within the Sahel region is spilling into Nigeria via poorly monitored cross-border routes.
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As the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran grows more severe, global concern is rising over the potential for escalation into a broader confrontation involving world powers. Meanwhile, Nigerians are growing increasingly anxious about how the repercussions might affect Africa beyond the Middle East region. The hostilities, now in their eighth day, have seen both nations exchange ballistic missile strikes in a dangerous tit-for-tat escalation. In an exclusive interview with LMSINT MEDIA, Professor Murtala Muhammad of the Department of History and International Studies at Northwest University, Kano, described this development as a critical escalation in an already volatile relationship. “This is far from a new crisis,” he stated.“The animosity dates back to Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, which brought a government to power that was firmly against Israel.” According to him, Iran has consistently supported groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, while Israel has responded with targeted airstrikes and intelligence-led operations aimed at reducing Iran’s growing influence in the region. He emphasized that the current phase of the standoff—especially following the 2023–2024 Gaza War—has shifted from indirect confrontations to open conflict. This trend took a deadly turn in June 2025, when Israel carried out a barrage of airstrikes targeting Iran’s military and nuclear installations, utilizing drones and guided missiles to hit suspected weapons centers and command bases. Iran retaliated with a series of drone and missile attacks on major Israeli cities. Dozens of deaths and injuries have been reported on both sides, with critical infrastructure hit. Analysts fear these direct military exchanges may lead to a much larger regional conflict. Widening Global Involvement What began as a regional standoff is now drawing attention from global powerhouses. Professor Muhammad warned that the United States, Israel’s most powerful ally, is unlikely to remain passive if the crisis deepens further. “If Iranian actions target U.S. military bases or strategic partners in the region, America will likely respond,” he stated.“Iran has also grown closer to Russia and China, mainly due to Western sanctions.” He highlighted growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran, particularly in drone technology, and pointed out that Iran is already entangled in the conflict in Ukraine. He added that more nations could inevitably get drawn into the conflict. “China, while officially neutral, depends on Iranian oil and seeks stronger economic and diplomatic influence in the Middle East.“Though nations like the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia have normalized ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords, distrust persists. Any direct clash between Shia Iran and Sunni Gulf states could deepen regional divides.” Professor Muhammad also highlighted the global strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz. “Even countries far from the conflict zone may feel its effects. Around 20% of the world’s oil supply flows through the Strait of Hormuz.“Should the conflict spread to this area, the result could be a global oil crisis.“European countries may back Israel and the U.S. politically, though they may hesitate to commit militarily. If NATO interests or assets are threatened, the alliance could be pulled in, creating the conditions for a world war.” Africa’s Exposure to Middle East Tensions Though thousands of kilometres removed, African nations are not immune from the ripple effects of a potential Middle Eastern war. Professor Muhammad cautioned that a significant war could disrupt global oil distribution and sharply raise fuel prices, aggravating inflation in Sub-Saharan Africa. “Countries across Africa that import oil will feel the sting.Food prices may skyrocket, worsening hardship across low-income communities,” he said. The professor also expressed concern about security threats. “In unstable zones like the Sahel and parts of West Africa, militant factions may take advantage of the disorder.Some of these groups have ideological or operational ties to Iran or its affiliates.” The diplomatic impact could also be considerable. “African nations may find themselves pressured to pick sides.The African Union is already split over the Israel-Palestine issue, and increased global tension could complicate the AU’s position—especially for states reliant on international military and infrastructure support.” Nigeria’s National Security Risks For Nigeria, the implications are particularly serious. The country is grappling with numerous security challenges, from the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast to ongoing banditry in the northwest. Professor Muhammad stressed that the spillover from a major global conflict could make things worse. “A prolonged confrontation could lead to the influx of weapons, extremist fighters, or ideological propaganda into Nigeria, worsening an already volatile internal security environment.” On the economic front, he highlighted both potential benefits and dangers. “The federal government might benefit from rising crude oil prices, but for ordinary citizens, it would mean increased fuel and transport costs,” he noted. He also predicted that migration patterns could shift. “If instability escalates in the Middle East, it could create waves of migration with knock-on effects in West Africa and North Africa.Nigeria, already struggling with internal displacement, would find it hard to cope with additional humanitarian demands.” Professor Muhammad concluded by warning that foreign donor focus may shift from African countries to active war zones. “In the event of global war, donor priorities may move to frontlines. That could result in reduced humanitarian and counterterrorism funding for Nigeria.” He ended with a warning on potential domestic tensions. “Sectarian divides and political sentiments within Nigeria could be stirred. Given the passionate opinions held by both Muslims and Christians about Middle Eastern issues, the conflict could influence internal unity and politics.” Recent public reactions observed by LMSINT MEDIA already indicate polarizing views and growing discourse among Nigerian citizens. Conflict Shows No Signs of Slowing Down During a recent global press conference, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that a decision on potential American intervention would be made within two weeks. However, mere hours after his remarks, an Iranian missile evaded Israel’s Iron Dome defence system and struck a hospital with catastrophic effect. The world now waits to see how Israel will respond to this new provocation.
