Members of the Anglican Communion in Sapele, Delta State, on Sunday openly opposed the attempt by Bishop Erifeta to resume his role as the Substantive Bishop of the Diocese. The resistance was carried out by congregants of the Cathedral Church of Nigeria, located along Boyo Road, where the cleric was expected to officially return to duty. The situation escalated when worshippers disrupted the ongoing Sunday service upon learning of the Bishop’s arrival. A large number of the protesters were women, many of whom displayed placards bearing strong messages rejecting his return. Some of the inscriptions read, “No to misuse of church funds,” “We reject Erifeta’s return,” “End the stagnation of Sapele Diocese,” “Erifeta should leave,” and “Primate, repost Erifeta elsewhere,” while protest songs were repeatedly chanted. Bishop Erifeta arrived at the cathedral with members of his entourage and was accompanied by security operatives. However, the gathering of church members physically blocked his movement, making it clear that they would not accept his reinstatement as their Bishop. The congregants maintained their stance throughout the encounter, insisting that his return was unacceptable. According to several church members, the development followed an alleged communication issued by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, which reportedly informed the Diocese about plans for Bishop Erifeta to resume duties in Sapele sometime last month. They expressed shock over the directive, noting that it came despite the Bishop’s earlier removal from office over allegations they described as serious. Speaking separately, Evangelist Akuroma Otuike, a former People’s Warden of All Saints’ Church in Sapele, alongside Rev. Gabriel Enudje and Pastor Freeborn Ejowovwo of Irhodo Anglican Church, Jesse, stated that members across the Diocese were united in opposing what they termed an imposed leadership. The clerics and lay leaders explained that the Diocese experienced major challenges during Bishop Erifeta’s previous administration. They claimed that progress only returned after his exit, through the intervention of what they referred to as the Rescue Group of Churches, which they credited with restoring stability and growth. They further stated that the Diocese has recently recorded remarkable improvements, including consistent payment of salaries and allowances to priests, pastors, and other church employees. Promotions, they added, have been conducted promptly and based strictly on merit, unlike in previous years. Evangelist Otuike encouraged interested individuals to visit the cathedral and other churches under the Rescue Group to personally assess the level of infrastructural progress. He contrasted the current state of the facilities with what he described as years of neglect during Bishop Erifeta’s earlier tenure. Rev. Enudje also alleged that the cathedral was previously in poor condition, citing damaged roofing and incomplete flooring as examples. He noted that improvements such as paved floors, walkways, and landscaped surroundings were executed only after the Bishop’s departure. The speakers jointly appealed to the Primate of the Anglican Church to consider redeploying Bishop Erifeta to another Diocese in order to preserve peace and unity. They cautioned that any attempt to enforce his return could heighten tensions within the Diocese. They also called on the Delta State Government and well-meaning members of the public to step in and help prevent a breakdown of order within the church community. Eventually, Bishop Erifeta, along with his delegation and security personnel, departed the cathedral without resuming duties.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21). From our opening scripture above, we observe something really extraordinary about our righteousness in Christ: It’s a product of divine exchange. When the Lord Jesus took your place on the Cross, He became sin for your sake, not a sinner, but the sacrifice for sin. He took up your sinful nature for you to become righteous with His righteousness. That is the greatest transaction in history. It’s for this reason that we say the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the Gospel of substitution. God made the Lord Jesus, who knew no sin, to become sin for you so that you might be made the righteousness of God in Him. This was perfectly legal. The Lord Jesus fulfilled all the righteous demands of justice. 1 Peter 3:18 says, “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God….” Since it was perfectly legal for the One who knew no sin to become sin in our behalf, it was perfectly legal for the sinner who never did anything right to be declared righteous in His Name. Now, God sees you in Christ as holy, blameless and justified. Romans 4:25 says the Lord Jesus was delivered to death for our offences, and was raised back to life for our justification. Therefore, your righteousness isn’t a product or function of your moral efforts or good works. It’s also not something you grow into; it was imparted to your spirit the moment you were born again, giving you right standing with God and the ability to do and live right. Hallelujah! Having this understanding changes everything about your walk with God. It gives you boldness in prayer and in your confessions. You no longer approach God as a sinner seeking mercy, but as the love-child of a loving heavenly Father, reigning by grace through righteousness. Walk in this consciousness. Refuse to let guilt or condemnation rob you of fellowship with the Father. You were justified freely by His grace; therefore, stand boldly and reign in life through Jesus Christ: “For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:17 NIV). Hallelujah! CONFESSIONI’m the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus and I live in the consciousness of this truth. I have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Jesus Christ. Sin, guilt and condemnation have no power over me, for I reign in life by grace through righteousness. Hallelujah! FURTHER STUDY DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanMatthew 13:1-23 & Genesis 42-43 2-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 10:9-20 & Job 7-8 DAILY AFFIRMATION: I am prudent. I have knowledge of witty inventions. I am skillful, proficient, and knowledgeable. I devise the best solutions in every circumstance. I have discretion. Counsel is mine. I am full of sound wisdom. I have sound knowledge and understanding. I have strength, might, and power. I speak excellent and princely things. I have an understanding heart. The opening of my lips is for the right things. Life is not a mystery to me. Nothing is hidden from me. I have access to mysteries and secrets. Predestination is at work in me. Therefore, nothing happens to me by chance. I am wise, accurate, and excellent. Christ is made unto me wisdom. In him, I have access to all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Therefore, I have limitless wisdom. I am an associate of the God-kind, recreated into the image and likeness of the Son of God! I function from the place of advantage, victory, dominion, and power. I am guided and propelled by God’s divine wisdom to do His will and fulfill my destiny in Christ. I affirm that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life. My old life has been completely supplanted by the divine life, which is superior to sickness, disease, defeat and the depravities of the natural man. I refuse to allow resentment, hatred, jealousy, envy, bitterness, anger, strife, spite, ill will or baseness of any kind to take root in me. My heart is full of God’s love, kindness and compassion; and I express these lavishly everywhere and to everyone. Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. I get stronger and healthier daily. Like the eagle, my strength is renewed. I do not wane because I live in an ageless zone. I belong to the God class and I only give expression to His virtues because I was made for His glory. I have the very life and nature of God because I am born again. Angels remember me. God remembers me. I do not worry about human beings remembering me, because the Lord causes men to bring the finances to me. I have entered a new financial level by the Holy Ghost. My finances are being multiplied. Angels are at work even now. I live in financial abundance now and forever in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
Kindly Share:
The Senegalese national football team has formally expressed dissatisfaction over several organisational and logistical issues encountered in Morocco ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. In an official communiqué released on Saturday, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) stated that it felt obligated to speak publicly “in the interest of transparency and the protection of the Senegal national team,” following what it described as multiple operational failures observed during final preparations. The statement, issued by the Secretariat of the Teranga Lions and addressed to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as well as the general public, highlighted a number of concerns ranging from security lapses to accommodation challenges, training arrangements, and ticket distribution. Security Concerns Upon Arrival One of the most serious issues raised by the federation was the lack of adequate security during the team’s arrival in Morocco. According to the communiqué, the Senegalese delegation encountered insufficient safety arrangements upon reaching the Rabat railway station. The FSF expressed strong disapproval over what it termed a “clear absence of an appropriate security system,” noting that players and officials were exposed to uncontrolled crowd proximity and unnecessary risks. The federation emphasized that such conditions fall far below what is expected for a high-profile continental final and do not align with the stature of the competition. Accommodation Issues Resolved After Protest The federation also disclosed difficulties regarding hotel accommodation for the team. According to the statement, Senegal was initially not provided with lodging that met the expected standards for player recovery and comfort. It was only after submitting a formal written protest that the situation was resolved. The FSF confirmed that the team was eventually allocated a five-star hotel, ensuring suitable conditions for rest, preparation, and performance ahead of the decisive match. Dispute Over Training Facilities Concerns were also raised over training arrangements. The federation revealed that it had officially rejected the proposed training venue, citing concerns about competitive fairness. According to the communiqué, the Mohammed VI Football Complex — suggested as Senegal’s training base — is the permanent camp of the opposing team. The FSF argued that holding training sessions at a facility closely associated with the opponent could compromise sporting neutrality. The statement further noted that, at the time of release, Senegal had not yet received confirmation of an alternative training site for its final preparations. Ticket Allocation Challenges Ticketing arrangements for the final were another source of frustration. The federation disclosed that only two VVIP tickets were officially allocated to Senegal, a situation it described as inadequate, especially when compared to previous stages of the tournament. The FSF stated that it had purchased the maximum number of tickets allowed by CAF, including: Despite securing the full quota, the federation stressed that the total number remained insufficient to meet the high demand from supporters and officials. Call for Immediate Corrective Action The communiqué concluded with a direct appeal to CAF and the Local Organising Committee. The Senegalese Football Federation urged football authorities to take swift corrective measures to uphold principles of safety, fairness, and equal treatment. The federation emphasized that these principles are fundamental to the credibility and success of Africa’s premier football tournament. Senegal will be seeking to add another continental trophy to its record when it competes in the AFCON 2025 final, having secured qualification after defeating Egypt in the semi-final on Wednesday.
Kindly Share:
Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea has reacted to the criticism directed at him by Nigerian players and fans following his officiating role in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final loss to Morocco on Wednesday night in Rabat. Nigeria’s Super Eagles were eliminated from the tournament after a 4–2 penalty shootout defeat to the host nation. The match ended goalless after normal time and extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, before Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved spot-kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, sealing Morocco’s progression. Following the encounter, Laryea’s performance became a major talking point, with Nigerian supporters and members of the team questioning several decisions made during the contest. The reaction was swift and intense, particularly across digital platforms. The Ghanaian official later addressed the backlash during an unexpected meeting with Sporty TV analyst Klinton Cod in Rabat. During their brief exchange, Cod openly acknowledged the frustration coming from Nigeria. According to Cod, he told the referee, “The game was crazy, and you know my fellow Nigerians are not happy with you.” Laryea responded calmly to the remark, downplaying the criticism by saying, “No, it’s okay. It’s football.” Among the Nigerian players who publicly expressed dissatisfaction was Super Eagles full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel. While he clarified that the referee was not the sole reason for Nigeria’s exit, he described the officiating as poor and emotionally difficult to accept given the magnitude of the fixture. Osayi-Samuel explained that the defeat was painful despite what he believed was a solid overall performance from the team. He also stated that several refereeing decisions disrupted the rhythm of the game. He said, “One thing I would say is that the referee was appalling, not saying that that’s the reason why we lost, but he was making very wrong decisions, and it’s really painful to see referees like that in a big game like today.” The situation escalated on social media, where supporters highlighted disciplinary statistics from the match. Nigeria were penalised for 29 fouls, while Morocco committed 19, yet the Super Eagles received two yellow cards, and the hosts were not booked at all throughout the encounter. This disparity intensified discussions about consistency in officiating, with commentators and media figures questioning the neutrality and overall refereeing standards at the tournament. Reports also emerged that some Nigerian fans mass-reported Laryea’s Instagram account, which allegedly resulted in its temporary suspension. Additionally, some supporters criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for appointing a Ghanaian referee for a match involving Nigeria, referencing the long-standing football rivalry between both West African nations. Nigeria’s elimination ended their hopes of securing a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title. However, the Super Eagles later claimed the bronze medal after defeating Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday.
Kindly Share:
Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has openly alleged that John Obi Mikel wielded excessive authority within Nigeria’s national team during his playing era, claiming such influence affected player invitations. Onazi made the disclosure during an appearance on the Home Turf podcast, where he explained that Mikel’s status went beyond leadership duties and extended into areas that could sway squad selection decisions. While acknowledging Mikel’s seniority and achievements, the former Lazio midfielder stressed that he did not always agree with how that authority was exercised within the team environment. According to Onazi, Mikel’s voice carried enormous weight in the Super Eagles dressing room, to the extent that some players were reportedly excluded based on his opinions rather than purely football considerations. “Mikel Obi was too influential when he was in the Super Eagles,” Onazi stated. He further explained that certain players missed out on national team invitations due to this influence, adding that although he respected Mikel as a senior figure, there were actions he personally disagreed with. “When Mikel was playing, there were some players because of his influence, he made for them not be invited to the Super Eagles. He is my senior man, but there are things he did that I didn’t like.” Onazi specifically referenced Tony Nwakaeme as one of the affected players. He revealed that Mikel himself reportedly acknowledged this situation during a chance meeting in Istanbul. According to Onazi, Mikel admitted his role during a restaurant encounter and offered an apology to Nwakaeme, describing the incident as only one example among several similar cases. This revelation has reignited discussions surrounding Nwakaeme’s limited international involvement despite a strong club résumé. The winger earned just one Super Eagles cap, even though he maintained consistent performances across European leagues for more than a decade. Nwakaeme’s club journey highlights remarkable resilience and steady growth. After early stints in Scandinavian and Romanian football, he rose to prominence in Israel, where he became a league champion with Hapoel Be’er Sheva and was named Israeli League Player of the Year in 2017. His transfer to Trabzonspor in 2018 further elevated his profile. In Turkey, he emerged as one of the club’s most decisive attackers and a firm fan favourite, contributing significantly to domestic success. Despite these achievements, his Nigeria career remained limited to a solitary appearance — a 1–1 World Cup qualifying draw against Algeria in November 2017. By April 2019, Nwakaeme publicly expressed his belief that he deserved additional chances at international level. Onazi’s comments suggest that the gap between Nwakaeme’s club excellence and international absence may not have been driven solely by tactical decisions. The broader context of this issue lies in the commanding presence Mikel maintained within the Super Eagles following the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. As captain of that victorious squad and a Champions League winner with Chelsea, Mikel held unmatched authority within the team structure for many years. During his club career, Mikel secured two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League across an eleven-year spell at Stamford Bridge. On the international stage, he lifted AFCON in 2013, won Olympic bronze in 2016, and represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups and five AFCON tournaments. Onazi himself was a central figure during that era, featuring in every knockout match of Nigeria’s AFCON 2013 campaign and starting all four matches at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, underlining his proximity to the events he described.
Kindly Share:
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has shared his excitement after being named Man of the Match following Nigeria’s dramatic penalty shootout triumph over Egypt in the third-place playoff at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria secured victory via penalties after both teams failed to find the net during regulation time, with the encounter ending goalless at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca on Saturday. The shootout ended 4-2 in favour of the Super Eagles, largely due to Nwabali’s outstanding performance between the posts. The Chippa United goalkeeper delivered a decisive display by stopping two Egyptian penalties during the shootout. His crucial saves played a key role in ensuring Nigeria claimed a record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal, further strengthening the country’s legacy in the competition. Speaking after the match, the 29-year-old dedicated the individual honour to Nigerians and his teammates, acknowledging their unwavering support and collective effort throughout the tournament. He expressed gratitude to the fans who turned out in large numbers to cheer the team, noting that their encouragement served as a major source of motivation during the tense encounter. According to Nwabali, the award belonged not only to him but also to everyone who stood behind the team. The goalkeeper also praised his fellow players, describing them as deserving of recognition due to their commitment and hard work. He emphasized that their unity and dedication were instrumental in achieving the result, especially in a match that required mental strength and resilience. Nwabali’s impact in the shootout was particularly significant, as he denied penalties from Egypt captain Mohamed Salah and forward Omar Marmoush, sealing Nigeria’s flawless record in AFCON third-place playoff matches. Reflecting on the overall outcome, he admitted that finishing third was not the team’s primary objective at the start of the tournament. However, he maintained that securing the bronze medal remained a positive achievement, stressing the importance of teamwork and collective responsibility. Despite the disappointment of missing out on the final, the goalkeeper expressed satisfaction with the night’s result, highlighting the value of ending the campaign on a strong note and giving Nigerian supporters something to celebrate.
Kindly Share:
Morocco entered the Africa Cup of Nations as tournament hosts, carrying enormous expectations after establishing themselves as Africa’s most prominent national side in recent years. Their rise to continental dominance followed a historic moment at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African nation to reach the semifinals of the global competition. That achievement reshaped how African football is viewed worldwide and significantly raised expectations back home. Currently ranked 11th globally, ahead of traditional football power Italy, the Atlas Lions arrived at the tournament with strong momentum. Their last defeat came during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, where they were eliminated by South Africa in the round of 16. Since then, Morocco have remained unbeaten, showing consistency and tactical growth. The team is led by African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain right-back whose leadership and experience have been central to Morocco’s campaign. All of Morocco’s matches have taken place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. While the atmosphere was tense during the group stage, with sections of home supporters expressing frustration at times, the team gradually won over the demanding crowd as the competition progressed. Performances improved with each round, rebuilding confidence between players and fans. A dominant victory against Cameroon in the quarterfinals reinforced Morocco’s title credentials. That was followed by an emotionally draining semifinal clash against Nigeria, which ended in a dramatic penalty shootout win on Wednesday. With qualification for the final secured, nearly 70,000 Moroccan supporters are expected to fill the stadium, all hoping to witness a historic triumph on home soil. Head coach Walid Regragui believes his team has earned its place in the final through resilience and quality opposition faced along the way. He emphasized that Morocco’s path has not been easy, having navigated matches against strong sides such as Mali, Cameroon, and Nigeria, and now preparing to meet another elite African team in the final. According to Regragui, recognition alone is not enough. While Morocco are increasingly viewed as a football powerhouse, he insists that lifting trophies is the only way to cement that status permanently. He described the final as a defining moment in the nation’s football history, one that could shape how this generation is remembered. Despite progress, Regragui remains conscious of Morocco’s modest historical record in the Africa Cup of Nations. The French-born coach was part of the last Moroccan squad to reach this stage, when they fell to host nation Tunisia in the 2004 final. Nearly two decades later, he is determined to go one step further and rewrite that outcome. Failure to secure the title could have serious consequences for his future. Reports suggest that if Morocco fall short, Regragui may not remain in charge when the World Cup begins in June. Nevertheless, he remains firm in his self-belief and unshaken by public criticism. He stated that even an early exit would not have altered his confidence in his coaching ability. Past achievements, he stressed, cannot be erased. Rather than seeking approval or praise, his focus remains solely on the collective success of the national team. For him, the most significant achievement is that Morocco have reached the final, with a chance to claim continental glory.
Kindly Share:
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has issued a firm caution to Senegal, urging them to prepare for an intense and hostile match atmosphere when they face Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday. According to Chelle, the occasion will feel less like a neutral final and more like a difficult away fixture at one of the competition’s most intimidating grounds. Chelle made this statement following Nigeria’s exit from the 2025 AFCON semi-final, where the Super Eagles were eliminated by Morocco after a dramatic 4–2 penalty shootout loss at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The semi-final encounter remained tightly contested throughout normal time and extra time, ending without a goal. The match was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, where Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero. His crucial saves denied Nigerian attackers Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, sealing Morocco’s place in the final. Speaking later at the Mohammed V Stadium—the venue for Nigeria’s third-place playoff against Egypt—Chelle reflected on the upcoming final between Morocco and Senegal. While expressing respect for both teams, he directed a clear message to Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, regarding the scale of the challenge ahead. “I have a lot of respect for both coaches and I don’t really have advice to give,” Chelle stated. “But what I would tell Pape is simple: Senegal will be playing an away match, and not an ordinary one.” He went on to emphasize the overwhelming influence of the Moroccan supporters and the venue itself. “The stadium is massive and the crowd is extraordinary. The supporters push their team constantly. We often describe fans as the twelfth man, but here, it goes beyond that. The crowd plays a much bigger role.” Chelle stressed that Senegal must remain mentally disciplined if they hope to succeed in such an environment. “They will need maximum concentration from start to finish. I sincerely wish both teams the best. They have both earned the right to contest this final, and as an African, I am proud of what they have achieved in this tournament.” Despite his praise for the finalists, Chelle did not hide his personal disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to reach the final. However, he commended his squad for their overall performance throughout the competition. “To be honest, I’m disappointed to be here because my expectations for this tournament were much higher,” he admitted. “After the loss to Morocco, I reminded the players to stay confident. They had a very strong tournament and should be proud of themselves.” From a logistical standpoint, Morocco may enjoy a significant advantage in the final. While Senegal have played all of their matches in Tangier, Morocco will be featuring in their seventh match in Rabat, further reinforcing their familiarity with the conditions and fan support. Historically, the final also carries major significance for both nations. Senegal are preparing for their fourth AFCON final appearance and their first since 2021, while Morocco will be contesting only their second final, with their previous appearance dating back to 2004.
Kindly Share:
A senior figure within the Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider granting a presidential pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as part of a broader political strategy ahead of the 2027 general election. The call was made by the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who stated that such a move could significantly reduce political tension in the South-East and strengthen the President’s chances of securing a second term. Speaking during an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Isiguzoro argued that Nigeria’s political climate is gradually becoming unfavourable to the current administration, warning that multiple interest blocs are quietly mobilising against Tinubu’s re-election ambition. According to him, granting Kanu a pardon, temporarily suspending the recently introduced tax policy, and fully implementing the resolutions of the 2014 National Conference would help stabilise the country’s political atmosphere and reduce opposition pressure. The Ohanaeze chieftain further noted that the President must urgently take steps to neutralise emerging alliances involving influential northern elites, Middle Belt stakeholders, dissatisfied business leaders, and retired military and political power brokers who are increasingly discontented with current policies. Isiguzoro stressed that a presidential pardon for Nnamdi Kanu, especially if announced on a symbolic national date such as June 12 or October 1, would instantly lower political tension in the South-East and weaken separatist narratives ahead of the 2027 elections. He maintained that the continued detention of the IPOB leader remains a major rallying point for opposition forces and separatist movements, adding that resolving the issue could deny critics a powerful tool for political mobilisation. Beyond the issue of Kanu’s detention, the Ohanaeze leader urged President Tinubu to urgently review the newly introduced tax law, which he said has created widespread dissatisfaction among business leaders and private-sector stakeholders. He warned that many influential entrepreneurs and corporate figures, feeling alienated by the tax policy, are already providing financial backing to opposition movements, describing the situation as a dangerous political front that requires immediate attention. Isiguzoro also described the full implementation of the 2014 National Conference report as a potential turning point for Nigeria’s political structure. According to him, adopting the recommendations of the conference would address long-standing regional grievances and reposition the President as a reform-driven leader. He added that accelerating the completion of major infrastructure projects across the country would also play a critical role in reshaping public perception ahead of the next election, noting that visible development projects remain a powerful electoral asset. In addition, the Ohanaeze chieftain called on the President to consider initiating the creation of additional states across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, describing the move as a strategic political decision capable of expanding Tinubu’s national support base. He concluded by warning that the 2027 general election would be highly competitive, noting that opposition parties are already exploring alliances aimed at preventing the President’s return for a second term. According to Isiguzoro, the success of Tinubu’s re-election bid will depend largely on strategic planning, political courage, and timely decisions that address national grievances before the election cycle intensifies.
Kindly Share:
Nigeria recorded a significant rise in crude oil imports from the United States in 2025, with total purchases reaching 42.13 million barrels within the first ten months of the year. This data was released by the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) and highlights a notable shift in Nigeria’s crude oil sourcing strategy. When compared with the same period in 2024, the increase is substantial. Nigeria imported 15.79 million barrels of US crude oil between January and October 2024, meaning the 2025 figure reflects an additional 26.34 million barrels year-on-year. In percentage terms, Nigeria’s crude oil imports from the United States expanded by approximately 167 percent, indicating that the country has more than doubled its reliance on US-sourced crude oil within a single year. This sharp rise points to changing dynamics in Nigeria’s energy supply chain, driven by growing demand and ongoing structural challenges in domestic crude production and distribution. The contrast between both years is especially visible when monthly import patterns are examined. During 2024, Nigeria’s crude oil imports from the US were relatively inconsistent and remained modest throughout the year. Monthly volumes largely stayed below four million barrels, with a particularly sharp decline recorded in June 2024, when imports fell to just 1.04 million barrels. This weaker performance in 2024 stands in clear contrast to the stronger and more sustained import activity seen in 2025. A closer look at the month-by-month data for 2025 shows how Nigeria’s crude oil imports from the US steadily gained momentum as the year progressed. According to available records, no imports were registered in January for either year. In February 2025, Nigeria imported 3.11 million barrels, slightly below the 3.61 million barrels recorded in February 2024. While this indicated a slow start, the trend quickly reversed in the following months. By March 2025, imports climbed sharply to 5.25 million barrels, exceeding March 2024 figures by nearly 1.83 million barrels. This increase marked a clear departure from the previous year’s pattern and signaled rising demand. Imports moderated in April 2025, falling to 2.04 million barrels, yet still remained higher than the 1.54 million barrels recorded in April 2024. In May, Nigeria imported 3.79 million barrels, representing an increase of about 1.71 million barrels compared to May of the previous year. The most dramatic shift occurred in June 2025, when imports surged to 9.16 million barrels. This volume was nearly nine times higher than the amount imported in June 2024 and accounted for more than 20 percent of Nigeria’s total US crude purchases for the year so far. The June spike marked a decisive turning point, highlighting a rapid acceleration in demand. Crude oil imports remained elevated in the following months. In July 2025, Nigeria imported 4.17 million barrels, slightly higher than the 4.10 million barrels recorded in July 2024. August followed with another strong performance, as imports rose to 6.24 million barrels, making it one of the highest monthly figures for the year. The upward trend continued into September and October 2025, with each month recording 4.19 million barrels. This consistency toward the end of the period suggests sustained demand and a continued reliance on US crude oil supplies as Nigeria navigates ongoing challenges within its domestic oil sector.
Kindly Share:
The Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters in Kano State has been plunged into deep sorrow following the brutal killing of a 35-year-old woman and her six children, an incident that has shaken residents and sparked widespread outrage. According to information gathered by Sunday PUNCH, the victims, along with one other individual, were attacked and killed inside their residence on Saturday by unidentified hoodlums. The violent incident has left the community devastated, with residents mourning the loss and calling for urgent improvements in security to prevent such tragedies in the future. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers forcefully gained access to the house and assaulted the occupants using dangerous weapons. The nature of the attack has heightened fear among residents, many of whom described the incident as unprecedented in the area. The Kano State Police Command has since launched a full investigation into the matter. Confirming the development in an official statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed that the command received a distress call at approximately 12:10 pm, reporting a violent assault on the household of one Haruna Bashir. Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Bakori, swiftly mobilised a team of officers to the scene. The response team was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Lawal Mani, as part of immediate efforts to assess the situation and secure the area. Police authorities stated that the victims were promptly evacuated to the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano for urgent medical attention. However, medical personnel at the facility confirmed that all the victims were pronounced dead upon arrival. Further updates from the police revealed that the Assistant Commissioner of Police overseeing the Criminal Investigation Department, Wada Jarma, has been instructed to take charge of the investigation. His mandate includes identifying those responsible for the attack and ensuring their arrest. The Kano State Police Command expressed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, residents of Dorayi Chiranchi, and the entire people of Kano State. The command reassured the public that decisive steps are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore confidence in public safety across the state. The tragic incident has intensified calls from community members for stronger security measures, faster emergency response systems, and sustained law enforcement presence within residential areas.
Kindly Share:
Armed assailants have reportedly killed a police officer and abducted a Chinese expatriate during a violent attack on a farm located in Ogunmakin Community, within the Ibadan axis of Oyo State. Information gathered revealed that the incident occurred at approximately 1:00 pm on Thursday at Aqua Triton Company, where about ten heavily armed men invaded the premises in what witnesses described as a commando-style operation. During the attack, the gunmen reportedly stormed the agricultural facility while activities were ongoing. A company director identified as 42-year-old Renjith Pillai was said to be inspecting crops on the farm when the assailants struck. In the process, the attackers seized him and fled the scene. A police officer attached to the facility attempted to resist the assault and protect lives and property. Unfortunately, the officer lost his life during the confrontation while trying to repel the attackers. Some of the assailants were reportedly injured in the exchange before escaping with the abducted expatriate. The Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the incident to journalists. He stated that the officer died in the line of duty while bravely confronting the gunmen. Although the identities of all victims were not officially released, Olayinka confirmed that the abducted individual was a Chinese expatriate and principal staff member of the company. According to him, security operatives have already launched a coordinated search operation aimed at rescuing the abducted expatriate and apprehending those responsible for the attack. He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, has ordered an immediate and intensive manhunt across the area and surrounding locations to track down the kidnappers and ensure they are brought to justice. The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in parts of the state, especially around isolated farming communities, and underscores the risks faced by security personnel and expatriate workers operating in such environments.
Kindly Share:
Nigeria’s Federal Government has once again made its position clear regarding the payment of ransom to kidnappers and terrorist groups. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has firmly reiterated that the government does not negotiate with criminals nor authorize ransom payments under any circumstance. Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa, the defence minister explained that Nigeria’s security forces rely on intelligence-led operations and swift military response to address cases of abduction across the country. According to him, the payment of ransom only worsens insecurity by encouraging criminal activity. General Musa emphasized that government policy strictly opposes ransom payments, noting that any money paid to secure the release of abducted persons usually comes from private individuals and not the state. He explained that once kidnappers and terrorist groups realize that ransom payments are guaranteed, more people are motivated to engage in such crimes. This, he said, creates a dangerous cycle that further threatens national security. Whenever cases of kidnapping are reported, Musa stated that the armed forces act immediately. Intelligence is gathered, locations are identified, and troops are deployed without delay. In many situations, sustained military pressure forces kidnappers to abandon their captives while fleeing into surrounding forests and remote areas. The defence minister noted that several victims have been rescued through this approach, stressing that consistent military action remains the most effective strategy for dismantling criminal networks. Addressing concerns over the persistent movement of terrorists across different regions, Musa pointed out that Nigeria’s large landmass presents a significant security challenge. He explained that when military operations intensify in one location, criminal groups often relocate to other areas to evade capture. According to him, this reality underscores the need for stronger border control measures. Musa highlighted the importance of monitoring individuals entering the country from neighbouring states to ensure proper identification and documentation. He further explained that border fencing and improved surveillance would help reduce the influx of illegal weapons, restrict the movement of terrorists, and prevent criminals from crossing borders to carry out attacks before escaping. The defence minister reaffirmed that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting lives and restoring security through strategic military operations, intelligence sharing, and strengthened border management rather than yielding to criminal demands.
