Abuja, Nigeria – Leadership experts and stakeholders have urged the government at all levels to prioritize youth empowerment as a vital strategy for fostering sustainable peace and security across the nation. This call was made during the 14th annual Peace Achievers International Conference and Awards, held on Saturday, where experts highlighted the crucial role of engaging Nigeria’s youth productively to address the persistent issues of insecurity and sectional conflicts. Youth Empowerment: A Path to Peace Kingsley Amafibe, Project Coordinator of the Peace Ambassador Agency and conference organizer, emphasized the urgency of creating economic opportunities for Nigerian youths. “We must empower our youth and provide them with avenues to contribute positively to society. Hard work, discipline, and self-responsibility are critical for building the future they desire,” Amafibe stated. He further urged young Nigerians not to use the failures of successive governments as an excuse for unproductivity but to take proactive steps toward achieving their dreams. Private Sector’s Role in Youth Empowerment Felix Achibiri, who delivered a presentation on peace-building through sectoral partnership, reiterated that youth economic empowerment serves as a catalyst for sustainable peace. He stressed the importance of collaboration between government and private organizations: “The government cannot solve the unemployment crisis alone. Private organizations must integrate youth empowerment into their corporate social responsibility initiatives.” The African Perspective on Self-Responsibility Michael Bartlett-Vanderpuye, President of M&C Group Global, called on African youths to challenge themselves and take control of their future. “African youths must rise to the occasion, leveraging their potential to create change and achieve meaningful progress,” he said. Leadership Solutions for Nigerian Challenges Victor Enebeli, Director of Studies at the Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute, noted that Nigeria’s leadership challenges are unique and require tailored solutions. He called for practical approaches that address local issues and empower communities at the grassroots level. Celebrating Positive Impact The conference also included an awards ceremony recognizing Nigerians and Africans who have positively influenced their communities through innovative initiatives and impactful contributions. Conclusion The consensus at the event was clear: youth empowerment is essential for achieving lasting peace and security in Nigeria. By fostering economic opportunities, encouraging self-responsibility, and engaging the private sector, stakeholders believe Nigeria can overcome its challenges and pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future. READ ALSO:
Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently reassess his administration’s economic policies to ease the growing hardships faced by Nigerians. The appeal was made in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of a two-day meeting held on Saturday, November 24, at the Plateau State Government House in Jos. Economic Challenges and Policy Review The communiqué, signed by Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, highlighted the governors’ concern over the severe economic difficulties brought on by the policies of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government. “The forum empathises with Nigerians who are groaning under the oppressive economic hardship foisted on the nation by the policies and decisions of the APC-led federal government. The forum calls on the president to urgently review both macroeconomic and fiscal policies to address the welfare and well-being of Nigerians,” the communiqué stated. The governors also pledged their commitment to implementing policies and programs within their states to reduce hardship and promote development. Commitment to Party Unity The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the PDP, including members of the National Working Committee (NWC), Board of Trustees (BOT), National Assembly Forum, Former Ministers’ Forum, and other party leaders. Addressing concerns about perceived divisions within the party, the communiqué affirmed the governors’ dedication to fostering unity: “The forum notes the concerns of Nigerians, PDP founding fathers, elders, and members of our great party over seeming divisions within the ranks. We remain resolute in our determination to ensure unity and cohesion in this great Party that Nigerians trust as the best platform for democratic governance.” To strengthen internal cohesion, the governors urged the NWC to convene a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting by February 2025 to address leadership issues, legal challenges, and other pressing matters. Condemnation of Electoral Irregularities The governors expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as “electoral irregularities” during recent elections in Edo and Ondo states. “The forum notes with concern the rape of democracy in the Edo elections, where INEC manipulated results in favour of the APC candidate despite the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, winning the majority of lawful votes. Similarly, in Ondo, the APC openly bought votes and manipulated results.” They called on the judiciary to protect Nigerian democracy and urged the National Assembly to strengthen electoral laws to curb malpractices. Moving Forward The PDP Governors’ Forum reaffirmed its commitment to good governance and its role as a credible opposition, promising to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians amidst the prevailing economic challenges. READ ALSO:
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The Nigeria Police Force, through its Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, has successfully recovered unexploded military ordnances in Maiduguri, Borno State. The operation followed reports from vigilant residents and was conducted without any injuries, loss of life, or property damage. Details of the Recovery Ongoing Investigations The Police Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that investigations are underway to determine the origins of the recovered items and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Inspector-General’s Commendation Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun praised the professionalism and gallantry of the EOD team, highlighting their critical role in maintaining public safety in Borno State. The IGP noted that the EOD Unit in the state has consistently demonstrated responsiveness, preventing numerous disasters by safely disposing of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in various operations. Safety Measures and Public Awareness To ensure the safety of residents, the Nigeria Police Force has declared the affected areas safe after the removal of all ordnances. Risk awareness campaigns will continue to educate the public on identifying and reporting suspicious objects to authorities. Conclusion This recovery effort underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding lives and property. The prompt response to this incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and the role of law enforcement in addressing security challenges in conflict-prone areas. READ ALSO:
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The tragic death toll from suspected methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng, Laos, has risen to six, following the passing of a second young Australian tourist in a Thai hospital on Friday. The incident, which has cast a shadow over the popular Southeast Asian backpacker destination, has drawn condolences and pledges of justice from Laotian authorities. What Happened? A group of about 12 tourists fell seriously ill on November 12 after consuming alcohol believed to be laced with methanol, a toxic substance often added to bootleg liquor to increase its potency. Among the victims are two Australians, two Danes, an American, and a Briton. Young Victims Identified The United States and Denmark have yet to release details about their nationals who died. Response from Authorities The Laotian government has expressed its “deepest condolences” to the families of the victims and pledged to bring those responsible to justice. A Vietnamese manager at Nana Backpackers Hostel, where some of the victims stayed, has been detained for questioning, though no charges have been filed. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has demanded a thorough investigation, emphasizing the need for transparency. Impact on Vang Vieng Vang Vieng, once known for its raucous party scene, has recently rebranded itself as an eco-tourism destination. However, the incident has reignited concerns about the safety of alcohol sold in the region. Hostel staff and local business owners reported that tourist activity remains steady despite the tragedy, with many unaware of the events or dismissing them as isolated incidents. Dangers of Methanol Poisoning Methanol, a toxic alcohol used in industrial products, is sometimes illicitly added to alcoholic beverages to cut costs or increase potency. Consuming methanol can cause: Warnings about methanol-laced alcohol are prominently featured on travel advisories for Laos, urging tourists to be cautious when consuming locally sourced spirits. Global Concern The incident in Laos follows a similar tragedy in neighboring Thailand, where six people died in August after consuming methanol-tainted alcohol. These events highlight the broader issue of unregulated alcohol production in the region and the urgent need for enforcement of safety standards. Looking Ahead As investigations continue, international pressure mounts on Laotian authorities to ensure justice for the victims and prevent further tragedies. In the meantime, tourists visiting Southeast Asia are advised to exercise caution when consuming alcohol and to prioritize safety over cost. READ ALSO:
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A devastating Israeli air strike on central Beirut has left at least 11 people dead and 23 others injured, according to reports from Lebanese authorities. The attack, which targeted a densely populated urban area, has escalated tensions in the already volatile region. Details of the Incident The air strike occurred late in the evening, striking a residential district in central Beirut. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as buildings collapsed and emergency responders rushed to rescue those trapped under rubble. Health officials confirmed that the casualties include women and children, with several victims in critical condition. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, which are reportedly overwhelmed by the influx of patients. Escalation of Tensions This attack comes amid heightened hostilities between Israel and Lebanon, fueled by cross-border skirmishes and ongoing regional disputes. The Israeli military has not yet issued an official statement regarding the air strike but has previously justified similar operations as responses to threats from militant groups operating in Lebanon. International Reactions Global leaders and international organizations have condemned the violence, urging restraint and calling for a ceasefire. The United Nations has expressed concern about the rising civilian toll and has reiterated the need for diplomatic solutions to the conflict. Humanitarian Crisis Deepens The air strike has added to the suffering of residents in Beirut, who are already grappling with economic challenges and political instability. Humanitarian organizations have appealed for immediate assistance, warning of a worsening crisis if hostilities continue. Call for Peace Lebanon’s government has strongly condemned the attack, labeling it as a violation of sovereignty and international law. Officials have called on the international community to intervene and prevent further escalation. As the situation unfolds, the region braces for the potential aftermath of this tragic incident, with the hope that diplomatic efforts can restore peace and stability. READ ALSO:
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French President Emmanuel Macron led ceremonies on Saturday to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Strasbourg from Nazi Germany during World War II. The event honored the bravery of Free French troops and highlighted the sacrifices of those impacted by the conflict, including overlooked victims. Tribute to Liberators and Heroes At Broglie Square in central Strasbourg, Macron reviewed troops and participated in a military ceremony, paying tribute to General Philippe Leclerc, whose Free French forces liberated the city on November 23, 1944. A symbolic moment was marked with the French flag flying from Strasbourg Cathedral’s spire, mirroring the liberation’s iconic image. Veterans, including 101-year-old Roger Le Neures, recounted the moment the city regained its freedom. “When we saw the flag raised on the cathedral, we knew freedom had returned,” Le Neures said. Acknowledging Forgotten Victims Macron visited Natzweiler-Struthof, the only Nazi concentration camp on French soil, located west of Strasbourg. Of the 50,000 people imprisoned there, around 17,000 died or disappeared. The president emphasized the need to remember victims like the tens of thousands of Alsatian men forcibly conscripted into the German army during the Nazi occupation. “These children of Alsace… were forced into a uniform they despised, made instruments of a crime that enslaved and often killed them,” Macron said, calling for their tragic experiences to be fully acknowledged and taught in history. The ‘Malgré-nous’ Legacy Macron also recognized the struggles of the “Malgré-nous” — Alsatian men conscripted against their will to fight for Germany. Survivors like 99-year-old Jean-Marie Hostert recalled their unwilling service. “We didn’t want to fight for Germany,” Hostert said during the commemoration. While some linked this group to the Oradour-sur-Glane massacre, one of Nazi Germany’s worst civilian atrocities in western Europe, historians like Christophe Woehrle noted that the “Malgré-nous” have long been a sensitive subject in France’s national memory. Honoring Resistance Hero Marc Bloch Macron announced the posthumous reinterment of Marc Bloch, a Jewish scholar and French Resistance fighter, in the Pantheon, Paris’ national monument for exceptional citizens. Bloch, executed by the Gestapo in 1944, was lauded for his intellectual contributions and courage. A decorated World War I veteran, Bloch revolutionized medieval history and criticized France’s unpreparedness for the Nazi invasion in his book L’Etrange Défaite (The Strange Defeat). Calling him a “man of the Enlightenment in the army of the shadows,” Macron highlighted Bloch’s enduring legacy. Bloch’s great-granddaughter, Hélène Séguret, expressed the family’s pride. “We are deeply moved by this recognition,” she said. Preserving History and Memory The 80th anniversary commemoration serves as a reminder of France’s resilience during one of history’s darkest periods and underscores the importance of honoring all who contributed to the liberation and rebuilding of the nation. READ ALSO:
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And, behold, there was a woman which hada spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself (Luke 13:11). In Luke 13:10-17, Jesus was teaching in a synagogue on the Sabbath day when He saw a woman who had a spirit of infirmity for 18 years, causing her to be bent over and unable to straighten up. He called to her and said, “Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity” and laid His hands on her. Immediately, the woman was made straight, and she glorified God.It’s remarkable how Jesus ministered to the woman; He said, “And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abralham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?” (Luke 13:16). The Lord Jesus revealed the true cause of her suffering; it was Satan who had bound her for 18 years. Jesus identified the spirit behind her affliction as a spirit of infirmity. That’s why no doctor could help her, as they knew nothing about demons; but Jesus set her free from that bondage.In the same way, many people today are suffering, not knowing the true cause of their problems. But you see, many of the challenges that some people are faced with in life are caused by demons. So, identify and cast the devil out. Demons don’t care who they oppress; they can afflict children and adults alike. That’s why you must cast out devils. Never be casual with or ignorant of demonic activities. Stay in the Word and be quick to exercise your dominion in Christ.In Mark 6:7, Jesus called His twelve disciples and sent them out in pairs, giving them authority over unclean spirits. In Matthew 10:8, He instructed His disciples to “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”In Mark 16:17, He said, “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils.” You’ve been given the authority and ability to cast out devils in the Name of Jesus. Exercise that dominion even now and frustrate the influence and manipulations of Satan in your body, in the life of a loved one, and in your family or environment. CONFESSIONI have authority to heal the sick and bring health and joy to a hurting world. Satan has no place in my life, in my home or in my family. I have the power to cast out demons in Jesus’ Name, and use it to the glory of God. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:Luke 10:17-19; Mark 6:7; Luke 13:10-17 READ ALSO:
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Simon Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafra agitator, was recently arrested in Finland following sustained diplomatic pressure from the Nigerian government. Finnish authorities linked him to violence and crimes against civilians in southeastern Nigeria, marking a significant move against transnational actors influencing unrest in the country. Diplomatic Pressure Leading to Arrest According to Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Simon Ekpa’s arrest was the result of consistent diplomatic efforts by Nigerian officials. The request for action featured prominently in high-level discussions between the two nations. “The arrest of Mr. Simon Njoku Ekpa follows sustained diplomatic pressure by the Nigerian government on Finland, to take action against his activities, which were linked to violence and instability in the South-east of Nigeria,” Ebienfa stated. Finnish authorities confirmed that Ekpa was detained alongside four others on suspicion of engaging in terrorist activities. They attributed his actions to violence and crimes against civilians in the South-east, a region struggling with growing insecurity. Simon Ekpa’s Role and Activities Simon Ekpa, a dual Nigerian-Finnish citizen, leads the Autopilot faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). IPOB has been advocating for an independent Biafra state carved out of Nigeria’s South-east. Previously associated with the Nnamdi Kanu-led IPOB, Ekpa was once named the director of Radio Biafra. However, he was removed from the role after reportedly refusing to comply with the group’s operational rules. Following his dismissal, Ekpa formed the Autopilot faction, claiming it was sanctioned by Kanu before his arrest. Through his faction, Ekpa has declared himself the “prime minister” of the Biafra Government in Exile (BGIE). He also established the Biafra Liberation Army, a militant group allegedly linked to attacks and killings in southeastern Nigeria. IPOB Disowns Simon Ekpa In response to Ekpa’s arrest, IPOB publicly disowned him, distancing the group from his activities. IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful clarified: “Simon Ekpa was never and is not an IPOB member, let alone being a leader in IPOB. IPOB has family units in Finland, and Simon Ekpa is not a registered member of any IPOB unit in Finland or globally.” Despite these denials, Ekpa has openly claimed responsibility for various attacks in the South-east. Finnish police have similarly accused him of inciting violence through social media platforms. The Significance of the Arrest The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs hailed Ekpa’s arrest as a critical development in curbing the influence of transnational actors on national security. Ebienfa emphasized that the government would closely monitor legal proceedings and continue to update the public on the case. Conclusion Simon Ekpa’s arrest underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing cross-border threats. While his detention marks a victory in Nigeria’s fight against separatist violence, it also highlights the challenges of addressing the broader unrest in the South-east.
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The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has dismissed rumors of his governorship ambitions, stating that he has not seriously considered running for the position, despite being qualified. Obasa made this clarification on Thursday during his remarks after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented Lagos State’s 2025 budget, tagged the “Budget of Sustainability,” with a total sum of ₦3.006 trillion. Commitment to Party Strengthening Obasa emphasized that his primary focus remains building and solidifying the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State. He explained that his efforts to mobilize support for the party through the Mandate platform have been misinterpreted by some as evidence of a governorship agenda. “I have made it a personal responsibility to mobilize people for the APC through Mandate. Unfortunately, political detractors have twisted this to mean I’m pursuing a selfish aspiration to become governor. This is far from the truth,” Obasa said. He reiterated that his work is aimed at promoting party unity and growth. “To the blackmailers redefining our intentions, let me state clearly that our mission is to strengthen the party, and any personal ambition is secondary. While I’ve not seriously considered becoming governor, I am neither too young nor inexperienced for the role. Those before me weren’t necessarily better qualified,” he added. Lawmakers Support Obasa During the plenary, lawmakers unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Obasa, acknowledging his leadership and dedication to the Assembly and Lagos State. Lagos State 2025 Budget Details Governor Sanwo-Olu unveiled the 2025 budget proposal of ₦3.006 trillion, comprising: The budget projects total revenue of ₦2.597 trillion and a deficit financing of ₦408.9 billion. It also includes Federal transfers amounting to ₦626.1 billion. Sanwo-Olu described the budget as one aimed at ensuring sustainability amidst economic challenges. Call for Patience Amid Economic Recovery Efforts In his reaction, Speaker Obasa acknowledged the concerns of Nigerians regarding the economy. He urged citizens to remain optimistic, assuring them that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to implementing measures for economic recovery and stability. READ ALSO:
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Former Vice-President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he describes as a reckless borrowing spree, pushing Nigeria into a severe debt crisis. Atiku also accused the National Assembly leadership of enabling the borrowing, calling them accomplices to the economic mismanagement. Nigeria’s Alarming Debt Profile Atiku’s remarks come in response to a recent World Bank report, which ranks Nigeria as the third-largest debtor to the International Development Association (IDA). He expressed deep concern about this development, stating: “The report showing Nigeria as the third most indebted country to the IDA is extremely concerning.” The former vice-president highlighted the administration’s proposal to borrow ₦1.7 trillion via Euro Bonds to address the 2024 budget deficit, a move he described as reckless and ill-planned. Exchange Rate Discrepancy and Fiscal Irresponsibility Atiku also pointed out the flawed nature of the proposed loans, particularly the exchange rate assumptions. “This loan proposal is benchmarked at ₦800 to $1, whereas the Central Bank’s exchange rate exceeds ₦1,600 to $1. Such discrepancies raise serious questions about transparency and fiscal responsibility,” Atiku noted. He further condemned the debt accumulation for its impact on ordinary Nigerians, stating: “These loans are crushing Nigerians with unbearable economic pressure, especially when they are neither well-negotiated nor utilized for genuine development purposes.” National Assembly’s Role in the Debt Crisis Atiku didn’t spare the National Assembly, accusing them of complicity in enabling the government’s borrowing frenzy. “The National Assembly has once again become an accomplice, allowing Nigeria to sink further into debt.” He questioned why the administration continues to borrow despite claims of record revenue collection by agencies like the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and Nigerian Customs. Allegations of Corruption and Mismanagement Atiku alleged that the excessive borrowing is fueled by corruption rather than infrastructure development or economic needs. Referring to a recent BudgIt report, he criticized the 2024 budget, calling it “a mess” due to the excessive pork-barrel spending included. “The appetite for these massive loans is driven by corruption rather than genuine national interest,” he asserted. A Call for Fiscal Responsibility Reflecting on past efforts to reduce Nigeria’s foreign debt, Atiku expressed personal disappointment: “Just years after President Obasanjo’s administration freed Nigeria from foreign indebtedness, we are back at the top of the debt trap.” In conclusion, he urged caution and fiscal discipline: “It’s time for this administration to apply more caution and arithmetic to its loan frenzy. Recklessness will only worsen the plight of Nigerians.” Atiku’s criticism underscores the growing concerns over Nigeria’s economic trajectory under President Tinubu’s administration, with calls for greater accountability and transparency in managing public finances. READ ALSO:
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In a decisive move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking, the National Assembly has amended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act to include life imprisonment for offenders involved in the storage, transportation, or concealment of hard drugs and other illicit substances. This amendment was finalized on Thursday during a plenary session of the Senate, presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin. The session garnered overwhelming support from lawmakers for the revised penalties. Harmonizing the Amendments The amendment stemmed from a recommendation by a conference committee comprising members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Initially, the House of Representatives proposed life imprisonment as the penalty for drug traffickers, while the Senate’s version of the amendment sought to impose the death penalty. The two chambers established a conference committee to harmonize the differences, resulting in the adoption of the House’s recommendation. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters, Tahir Monguno, presented the committee’s findings during the plenary. He highlighted that enforcing the death penalty could lead to the execution of over 900 individuals currently awaiting trial for drug-related offenses. This concern led to the preference for life imprisonment over capital punishment. Addressing Drug-Related Challenges During the session, Monguno urged his fellow lawmakers to support the revised penalty, emphasizing its potential to deter drug trafficking and reduce the harmful impact of illicit substances on Nigerian society. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin subsequently put the resolution to a voice vote, which saw majority support from senators, solidifying its adoption. Driving Credible Journalism The ongoing reforms underscore the government’s commitment to tackling drug-related crimes while fostering national security and public health. READ ALSO:
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The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed prime minister of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will be extradited to Nigeria to face charges of incitement and other criminal allegations. Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, stated that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, expressed satisfaction with Ekpa’s ongoing legal proceedings in Finland. “General Musa is pleased with Simon Ekpa’s arrest in Finland, seeing it as a critical step toward his extradition to Nigeria, where he will face justice,” Gusau said in a press release shared with SaharaReporters. Legal Challenges Abroad Ekpa’s arrest followed a ruling by the District Court in Lahti, Finland, which ordered his remand on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent in Nigeria. According to the court, these activities date back to August 23, 2021. Authorities have accused Ekpa of using his social media platforms to propagate separatist agendas linked to IPOB, a movement advocating for the secession of southeastern Nigeria. Additionally, Finnish authorities have investigated Ekpa for alleged financial crimes, including illicit fundraising. Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen of Finland’s Central Criminal Police stated, “We suspect the individual promoted actions that have resulted in violence against civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria. These activities were facilitated through social media.” Broader Investigations and Arrests The investigation into Ekpa’s activities also identified four other suspects accused of financing terrorism. These individuals, reportedly of foreign descent and born between the 1960s and 1970s, allegedly committed crimes in Lahti as recently as August 2022. Reports indicate that international cooperation was pivotal in advancing the investigation. Authorities detained five suspects during the inquiry’s initial stages, emphasizing the global implications of these crimes. Ekpa himself was previously arrested in February 2023 in Lahti. While he was released the same evening after questioning, Finnish authorities continued investigating his activities following numerous reports regarding his online content. Ekpa’s Dual Identity: Activist and Politician Simon Ekpa, a local politician in Finland affiliated with the National Coalition Party, has served as a deputy councillor and a member of Lahti’s public transport board. Despite his political engagement in Finland, Ekpa has actively called for election boycotts and championed the independence of Biafra from his residence in Lahti. A Step Toward Justice The Defence Headquarters in Nigeria views Ekpa’s pending extradition as a significant milestone in addressing crimes linked to IPOB’s separatist activities. The Nigerian government continues to work with international partners to ensure justice is served. READ ALSO:
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life (1 Corinthians 6:3). This scripture indicates that Christians will indeed judge angels. We will be seated together with Christ on thrones, and we shall judge the world and judge angels according to the Scriptures. Does this imply that Christians are superior to God’s angels? Yes, and our superiority is the result of our identity, our oneness with Christ. We’re joint heirs with Christ, born of the Spirit of God. Unlike the angels who are servants of God, we’re God’s children: “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ…” (Romans 8:16-17 NKJV). The Bible says, “…the servant abideth not in the house forever: but the Son abideth ever” (John 8:35). And 1 John 3:2 says, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God…,” we have the rights and privileges of sonship. We’re one with Christ, and He has given us His authority; we live and function in His Name. Some have asked for clarification with reference to Matthew 22:30 which indicates that at the resurrection we would be as angels. You have to understand the context: it says, “For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.” Here, Jesus was responding to a question about marriage after resurrection, but He clarified that in the resurrection, we won’t be bound by earthly institutions like marriage. Instead, we will be like the angels, without gender, and will not engage in marriage. This doesn’t mean we will “drop” in rank to the status of angels but that we’ll transcend earthly distinctions. In the resurrection, we’ll be like God, who is neither male nor female. Presently, the angels are sent to serve us: “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation” (Hebrews 1:13-14). PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for making me a joint heir with Christ, seated in heavenly places with Him, living and walking in the authority in His Name. I walk in the consciousness of my divine nature and live victoriously, reigning in life through Christ. Thank you for my divine oneness with you, my position, authority and inheritance in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:|| 1 John 3:1-2Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. || || Romans 8:16-17 NIVThe Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. || || Ephesians 2:4-6But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus: || READ ALSO: Daily Affirmations: I am the apple of God’s eye; no evil will befall me, neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. I am protected in my going out and coming in because I dwell in the secret place of the Most High. God has blessed me with everlasting life, grace, and agelessness. I have been chosen for a life of praise, joy, excellence, and victory in Christ Jesus. I am positioned to fulfill God’s plan for my health, prosperity and good success. I am a victor in Christ Jesus. Fear, doubt, and unbelief have no place in me, for my faith in God and His eternal Word is the victory that overcomes the world! Christ lives in my body; thus, I live the transcendent life, and I reign over sickness and disease. Daily, I live the good life that the Lord prearranged for me before the foundation of the world. I live in Christ’s victory, glory, dominion, and righteousness every day. I live in health because the life of God is in me and my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Christ in me is the hope of glory! Wholeness, health, and prosperity are guaranteed in my life because Christ lives in the very quarters of my heart, making fiber of my being inundated with His presence. I’m conscious of who I am. Nothing can go wrong with my liver, heart, or kidney, because Christ is my life. Daily, I have success, peace with prosperity, unspeakable joy, and health. I was born to reign and manifest the glory of the Kingdom of God on earth. My life is the expression of divine beauty, excellence, success, and greatness. I’m glorified in Christ; thus, I walk in health, wholeness, and wellness. Christ is my assurance of health and eternal life. I have dominion in Christ, I rule over my body with the Word of God and in the Name of Jesus. I disallow infirmity and I cut off any abnormality from my body. I speak in conformity with the Word of God. Thus, I live the awesome, transcendent life of ever-increasing glory; in health, vitality, and abundance as the Lord preordained. With my words, I consistently chart the course of victory and success in life in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
