The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a significant setback in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign following an injury update from head coach, Eric Chelle. The coach confirmed that Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, is currently battling both knee and ankle injuries, raising serious concerns ahead of the team’s next crucial fixture. Chelle made this disclosure while addressing journalists ahead of Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON final group stage match against Uganda, scheduled to take place on Tuesday. His comments have sparked worry among fans and football analysts, especially considering Nwabali’s importance to the team’s defensive stability. According to the Malian tactician, the goalkeeper’s condition is being closely monitored by the medical team. The injuries involve two sensitive areas — the knee and the ankle — which are particularly critical for a goalkeeper’s mobility, balance, and reaction time. This development has inevitably complicated Nigeria’s preparations as the team approaches a decisive phase of the tournament. Despite confirming the injuries, Chelle emphasized that a final decision regarding who will start in goal against Uganda has not yet been made. He explained that the choice of goalkeeper will only be determined after the Super Eagles conclude their final training session on Monday. This suggests that the coaching crew is still evaluating Nwabali’s fitness level and overall readiness before making a call. The uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeper position adds an extra layer of tension ahead of the encounter with Uganda. With qualification stakes high in the final group game, the Super Eagles will be hoping for clarity and stability as they fine-tune their match strategy. For now, all eyes remain on the team’s last training session, where the coaching staff is expected to assess all available options before settling on the safest and most competitive choice between the posts.
Social media platforms across Nigeria have been thrown into confusion and heated debate following widespread rumours suggesting that Wunmi, the wife of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has allegedly welcomed a new child nearly two years after his passing. The unverified claims, which surfaced online in recent weeks, quickly gained traction and triggered emotional reactions among fans, observers, and social commentators. The development has further intensified public interest in the ongoing controversies surrounding the late artiste’s family and unresolved matters following his death. According to online discussions monitored by LMSINT Media, the rumour alleged that Wunmi recently gave birth to a child purportedly fathered by another man. The reports began circulating roughly one month after Mohbad’s family publicly distanced themselves from her by restricting the continued use of their family surname. The timing of the rumour raised eyebrows among many netizens, particularly because Mohbad passed away on September 12, 2023, and reports indicate that his remains are still yet to be laid to rest, remaining in the morgue amid legal and family disputes. As the speculation gained momentum on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and other platforms, it reignited public conversations surrounding the paternity of Liam, the son Wunmi had with the late singer. Liam was reportedly just five months old at the time of Mohbad’s death. The renewed controversy has once again brought attention to earlier demands for a DNA test to ascertain Liam’s biological paternity. Following the circumstances that surrounded Mohbad’s sudden death, combined with allegations of infidelity directed at Wunmi, the singer’s father, Joseph Aloba, had previously called for a DNA examination to establish clarity on the child’s lineage. Reacting to the circulating claims, Nollywood actor Stanley Ontop shared a sarcastic post on Instagram, expressing disbelief at the timeline being discussed. In his reaction, he implied that life continues regardless of circumstances, while also mocking the situation with humour-laced commentary. On X, several users also weighed in with strong opinions. A user identified as @MasterminddBoB criticized the situation, describing it as reckless behaviour amid unresolved demands for a DNA test. Another user, @AgbafianTV, shared a controversial view, expressing distrust and frustration while using the rumour as a basis for broader commentary on relationships. In contrast, @callme_Riken offered a more neutral perspective, stating uncertainty over the authenticity of the claim while acknowledging that moving on after loss is a natural part of life, regardless of unresolved family disagreements or burial delays. Meanwhile, @djokaymegamixer urged caution, suggesting the story could potentially be fabricated. According to the user, social media engagement farming and monetization incentives may have influenced the spread of the rumour, emphasizing the need for verification before drawing conclusions. As of the time of reporting, there has been no official confirmation from Wunmi or credible sources validating the claim. The story remains speculative, highlighting once again how sensitive issues surrounding Mohbad’s death continue to generate intense public attention and divided opinions online.
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has made a passionate public appeal to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, urging him not to abandon the party for the All Progressives Congress (APC). The call was made during a press briefing held in Kano on Monday by the Kano State Chairman of the NNPP, Suleiman Dungurawa. Speaking on behalf of the party’s leadership and supporters, Dungurawa emphasized that any move by the governor to join the APC would go against the collective will and sacrifices of party members and voters who stood firmly with the NNPP during past elections. According to him, the party remains deeply concerned about ongoing political developments within Kano State, particularly reports suggesting that some individuals are making plans to defect to the APC. He stressed that such actions do not represent the position of the NNPP at either the state or national level. Dungurawa also addressed circulating rumors claiming that certain party members were attempting to create tension between Governor Abba Yusuf and the NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. He firmly dismissed these claims, describing them as baseless and misleading, and warned the public not to be deceived by such narratives. In a message directed at residents of Kano State, the NNPP chairman encouraged citizens to remain peaceful and continue with their normal and lawful activities, despite the political speculation surrounding the state. He further cautioned party loyalists against associating themselves with documents or materials allegedly being distributed by individuals he described as troublemakers. Speaking emotionally, Dungurawa said the party was once again calling on its leaders, in the spirit of faith and unity, not to leave the NNPP for a political platform they had openly opposed in the past and which, according to him, the majority of voters had rejected. He made it clear that the NNPP leadership at all levels — including the Kano State chapter, the national structure of the party, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso — does not support or endorse any defection plans currently being discussed. This appeal comes amid earlier remarks credited to the Director-General of the Protocol Directorate at the Kano State Government House, Abdullahi Rogo, who reportedly claimed that Kano residents and voters had reached a consensus that both Governor Abba Yusuf and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso should move from the NNPP to the APC. The situation has continued to generate discussions across the state, as political stakeholders and supporters closely watch the next steps of the NNPP leadership in Kano.
Nigeria experienced a widespread electricity outage on Monday after the country’s national power grid suffered a sudden collapse, leaving many homes, offices, and businesses without power supply across several regions. The disruption was officially confirmed by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) through a public update shared on its verified X (formerly Twitter) account. NISO is the body charged with supervising and coordinating electricity transmission from the national grid to power distribution companies nationwide. According to the statement, the collapse caused a drastic reduction in electricity generation and distribution, with available power dropping sharply to 50 megawatts as emergency recovery efforts commenced. This marked a significant decline from the level of electricity that had previously been allocated across the country. NISO further disclosed that, at the time this report was compiled, only Abuja and Ibadan were receiving electricity from the grid, sharing the limited 50 megawatts available. This figure represents a steep fall when compared to the 3,660 megawatts that had been distributed nationwide on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The system operator emphasized that restoration processes were already underway to stabilize the grid and gradually return electricity to affected areas. However, the incident once again highlights the fragile state of Nigeria’s power infrastructure and the recurring challenges facing electricity generation and distribution across the country. As grid recovery continues, millions of Nigerians remain affected by the blackout, with households and commercial activities forced to rely on alternative power sources. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as efforts to restore normal electricity supply progress.
Popular international boxing icon Anthony Joshua was reportedly involved in a road traffic accident on Monday in Makun, Ogun State, causing serious concern among fans and residents in the area. According to available information, the incident took place along a high-traffic section of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a route known for frequent vehicular movement and congestion. The crash occurred when the vehicle conveying the heavyweight boxer collided with another automobile under conditions that are yet to be clearly established by authorities. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the accident happened just before Danco Filling Station in Makun, close to the Sagamu Interchange, on the Ibadan-bound side of the expressway. This particular axis of the road is often busy, especially during peak travel hours, which may have contributed to the severity of the incident. Reports further revealed that Anthony Joshua sustained only minor injuries in the collision. However, the incident tragically resulted in the death of two individuals at the scene, highlighting the devastating impact of road accidents and the importance of traffic safety on major highways. As of the time this report was prepared, attempts to obtain additional details from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement (TRACE) command were unsuccessful. Calls placed to the TRACE Commandant, Akinbiyi Babatunde, did not connect, leaving several questions surrounding the cause and full circumstances of the crash unanswered. Meanwhile, the incident was officially acknowledged by the Ogun State Police Command, with the spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirming that the accident did indeed occur. Authorities are expected to carry out further investigations to determine the exact factors that led to the collision and to provide more updates as they become available. The development has sparked widespread reactions, especially given Anthony Joshua’s global status in the boxing world, while also drawing renewed attention to road safety concerns along Nigeria’s major expressways.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated clearly that there is no ambiguity about his political position regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that he does not require any special meeting to declare where his loyalty lies. Wike made this known during an end-of-year media interaction held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he addressed several political issues, including recent comments made by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. According to Wike, Nigerians are already well aware of his political alignment, especially concerning his support for President Tinubu’s administration. The FCT Minister was reacting to claims credited to Governor Makinde, who had earlier alleged that Wike, during a visit to the Presidential Villa in 2024, told President Tinubu that he would “hold the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)” for him. Wike firmly rejected this claim, describing it as inaccurate and misleading. Clarifying the circumstances surrounding the meeting with the President, Wike explained that the visit had no connection whatsoever with the internal affairs or control of the PDP. Instead, he noted that the engagement was purely a show of support for the President’s leadership and governance direction. Wike emphasized that his stance on Tinubu has never been hidden, adding that there was no need for a private discussion to express his support. He maintained that his political position has always been open and consistent, making any suggestion of secret commitments unnecessary. In his words, Wike stressed that as a serving minister in the Tinubu administration, he carries the responsibility of ensuring that members of the G-5 group are not sidelined and that they benefit from the federal government’s policies and opportunities in one way or another. The former Rivers State governor also turned his attention to governance issues in Oyo State, stating that Governor Makinde has an obligation to be transparent with the people of the state. Wike pointed specifically to the ₦50 billion intervention fund reportedly released by the Tinubu administration following the January 2024 explosion in the Bodija area of Ibadan. According to Wike, such a significant sum of public funds should be properly accounted for, noting that due process requires the money to be formally appropriated before expenditure. He insisted that residents of Oyo State deserve a clear explanation on how the funds were utilized. Wike’s comments highlight ongoing political tensions within opposition ranks while also underscoring broader concerns about accountability, transparency, and political alignment in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has pushed back against claims made by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, regarding the impact of Nigeria’s newly introduced tax reforms on the aviation sector. Oyedele maintained that the revised tax framework is structured to ease operational pressure on airlines rather than damage the industry. Oyedele explained that the reforms are aimed at correcting deep-rooted fiscal problems that have affected airline operators for years. According to him, the new tax laws should not be linked to increasing airfare costs or projected shutdowns within the aviation space. This response followed Onyema’s comments during an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, where he warned that domestic airline operators might be forced out of business within a few months if the tax reforms, expected to commence on January 1, 2026, are implemented without further adjustments. During the interview, Onyema blamed high ticket prices on numerous taxes and statutory charges imposed on airlines. He specifically raised concerns about a 7.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on airline tickets, suggesting that such charges could push economy-class fares to as much as ₦1.7 million, thereby limiting access to air travel for many Nigerians. Reacting to these assertions, Oyedele released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, acknowledging the operational and financial struggles currently facing Nigeria’s aviation industry. However, he clarified that the federal government, through the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, has been in continuous discussions with airline operators to reduce cost pressures and introduce long-term relief measures. One of the most significant changes highlighted by Oyedele is the removal of the 10 percent withholding tax previously applied to aircraft leasing arrangements. He noted that this tax had been a major contributor to high operating expenses for airlines, particularly because it was non-recoverable under the old tax system. Under the new tax structure, the withholding tax on aircraft leases has been replaced with a rate that will be determined through regulation. This adjustment allows for the possibility of a full exemption or, at the very least, a substantial reduction, thereby lowering operational costs for airline operators. Oyedele further explained that the reforms will ensure full VAT neutrality for airlines. This means that airlines will be able to reclaim VAT paid on imported aircraft, locally sourced equipment, aviation fuel, consumables, and essential services. Such a system, he said, would prevent VAT from becoming a hidden cost within airline operations. Additionally, he disclosed that any excess input VAT incurred by airline operators would either be refunded within 30 days or credited against other tax obligations. This mechanism is expected to improve cash flow, enhance liquidity, and support sustainable airline operations. Oyedele emphasized that the tax reforms are designed to be part of the solution rather than the cause of the aviation sector’s challenges. He stressed that several long-standing tax-related cost drivers affecting the industry have either been eliminated or structurally addressed under the new tax laws. He reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the multiple taxes, levies, and regulatory charges confronting the aviation industry and assured stakeholders that ongoing engagements would continue to focus on easing these burdens and strengthening the sector.
Popular Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has openly criticized the United States government over its use of expensive military weapons, urging the country to focus on education and social development for herders rather than deploying multi-million-dollar bombs. According to the cleric, many herders are trapped in ignorance and require enlightenment, not violence. He argued that bombing communities does not solve the root problem, which he described as a lack of education and awareness. Sheikh Gumi made this statement while reacting to a viral video showing a Fulani herder who reportedly stumbled upon a barrel believed to be part of a missile fired during a U.S. military operation. The cleric expressed concern that the man in the video appeared unaware of the danger posed by unexploded military devices. Reacting publicly, Gumi explained that the herder’s actions reflected deep-rooted ignorance rather than intentional wrongdoing. He emphasized that such individuals often lack basic knowledge, including understanding religious principles and recognizing life-threatening hazards such as unexploded bombs. Taking to his official Facebook page, the cleric stated that most herders need deliverance from ignorance rather than bombardment. He added that the individual in the video neither understood the core teachings of Islam nor grasped the serious danger associated with unexploded military weapons lying in open fields. Gumi further revealed that his response to this long-standing issue has been to build schools and support educational initiatives for herders, stressing that education is a sustainable solution. He argued that the amount of money used to drop a single bomb—estimated at $2 million—could instead be channeled into constructing schools and providing basic amenities that would positively transform lives. The comments followed reports that on Christmas Day, the United States military, acting on the directive of President Donald Trump, conducted airstrikes in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The operation was reportedly aimed at neutralizing ISIS and Lakurawa terrorist groups, but the mission failed to hit its intended targets. The Nigerian government later confirmed the incident, describing it as a coordinated military operation. Authorities also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the mission, emphasizing that it was carried out in collaboration with international partners. Despite the official explanation, Sheikh Gumi maintained that military force alone cannot address insecurity, insisting that education, awareness, and social development remain the most effective tools for lasting peace.
The political tension in Oyo State has intensified as the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday demanded that Governor Seyi Makinde provide a detailed account of how he managed the N50 billion relief fund allegedly received from President Bola Tinubu. The fund was intended to assist victims of the catastrophic explosion that devastated parts of Bodija GRA in Ibadan in January 2024. APC went further to assert that Governor Makinde should resign if he fails to account for the funds. The controversy resurfaced after former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, claimed during a live broadcast on Friday that Governor Makinde collected the N50 billion from President Tinubu to support those affected by the tragic incident. According to Fayose, Makinde neither acknowledged the receipt of the funds publicly nor utilised them to aid victims who lost lives and properties. Oyo APC, through its Publicity Secretary Olawale Sadare, condemned Governor Makinde for making disparaging comments about President Tinubu and his Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu. During a recent media engagement, Makinde reportedly criticized the President for allegedly requesting that he organise the APC in the state and accused the Minister of Power of lacking capacity to deliver on his mandate. In response, Fayose released official documents to substantiate his claims, revealing that the N50 billion was approved as emergency financial support after the deadly explosion. Makinde had previously denied these allegations, challenging Fayose to provide proof of the funds’ disbursement. The released documents suggest that only N4.5 billion of the relief fund was distributed to the victims of the Bodija GRA explosion, while the remaining money was allegedly diverted to support Governor Makinde’s purported political ambitions, including plans for a presidential run. Fayose stated that he made the documents public to enable Nigerians to independently assess the credibility of the Oyo State government. He also invited Makinde to pursue legal action against him, maintaining that other financial aid sent by the Tinubu administration to Oyo State had not been publicly disclosed. However, the debate has also drawn reactions from within Governor Makinde’s party. A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, known as the Oyo PDP-Visionaries, criticized Fayose, labeling him “a disgrace to public service for failing to distinguish between a request and an approval.” The group issued a statement after Fayose published a letter allegedly showing Oyo State’s request for N50 billion for the reconstruction of the Dejo Oyelese/Adeyi Avenue area post-explosion. Qudus Olayide, coordinator of the Oyo PDP-Visionaries, criticized Fayose for attempting to justify his previous claims by presenting a Ministry of Finance document that merely reflected the state’s request for funds, not the actual approval or disbursement. The PDP faction described Fayose’s actions as shameful, stating that his attempt to mislead the public was both demeaning and concerning. They challenged him to release an authentic document showing the federal government’s approval of the N50 billion, insisting that the public deserves transparency regarding how emergency funds are allocated and utilised. This latest development highlights the ongoing political friction in Oyo State, as both APC and PDP continue to contest the narrative surrounding the relief funds meant for explosion victims. It also underscores broader concerns about accountability, transparency, and governance in the allocation of federal emergency support to states during crises.
Niyi Aborisade, a human rights lawyer based in the United Kingdom and a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), recently shared his insights on the current political landscape in Nigeria. In an exclusive conversation with ROTIMI AGBOLUAJE, he accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of deliberately instigating internal crises within opposition parties, aiming to weaken them ahead of the 2027 general elections. Concerns About the Opposition and PDP’s Future When asked about the challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition parties, particularly the PDP, Aborisade affirmed his commitment to the party but expressed deep concern over its present state. He stated, “I am still a registered and active member of the PDP. Yet, the current dynamics within the party make it extremely challenging to foresee its future.” He emphasized that political parties are meant to serve as vehicles for ideological expression, organizational cohesion, and the aggregation of collective interests. “Sadly, what we are seeing today is a PDP struggling to define its identity, maintain internal cohesion, and even protect its existence. For someone like me who strongly believes in opposition politics as a cornerstone of democracy, witnessing this decline is both troubling and painful.” Is the PDP Facing an Existential Crisis? Aborisade was cautious but realistic when discussing whether the PDP could survive its internal turmoil. He noted, “I am not claiming to predict the future. Politics is fluid, and unexpected turnarounds can occur. However, when evaluated objectively, the PDP faces an existential crisis.” Internal conflicts have reached unprecedented levels. Factions within the party have solidified, reconciliation attempts have repeatedly failed, and trust among party leaders is virtually nonexistent. “The uncertainty is so profound that many members, from grassroots operatives to senior leaders, are unsure if the PDP will be able to field candidates in upcoming elections,” Aborisade added. Such instability is lethal for any political organization. Without guaranteed participation in elections, a party cannot effectively mobilize members, raise funds, or inspire voter confidence. Aborisade warned that without urgent corrective measures, the PDP could face a structural collapse. Root Causes of the PDP Crisis Aborisade identified internal power struggles and personal ambition as the core drivers of the party’s crisis. He explained that some members prioritize individual gain over collective survival, seeing the PDP as a ladder for personal advancement rather than a platform for national service. “Once personal ambitions are threatened, some actors are willing to jeopardize the entire party. This is particularly tragic because mechanisms for conflict resolution were available. Even interventions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), including a roundtable discussion led by its chairman, failed to produce meaningful results. Instead of compromise, entrenched positions hardened further.” The conflict has escalated beyond party structures, reaching the Court of Appeal, and may eventually move to the Supreme Court. According to Aborisade, “Relying on prolonged litigation to determine a party’s fate is a dangerous gamble for anyone whose political career is tied to that platform.” How Can the PDP Salvage Its Situation? The PDP’s salvation, Aborisade believes, lies in genuine compromise. “Politics is negotiation, not warfare. For the PDP to survive, leaders must set aside ego, bitterness, and the desire to win every internal skirmish. Both sides must be willing to make concessions to save the party.” He added that no court judgment, media strategy, or propaganda campaign can replace internal reconciliation. Litigation may bring technical victories, but unity is achieved only through dialogue, concessions, and goodwill. Without such measures, the PDP will continue to decline, regardless of court orders or public statements. The Wike Saga: Suspension and Counter-Suspension The suspension and counter-suspension involving former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, Aborisade argued, have turned into a political circus. “Certain party organs claim to have suspended Wike, while he claims to have suspended those who allegedly suspended him. Yet, he continues to consider himself a PDP member while actively undermining the party.” Wike’s reported parallel party structures, support for rival platforms, and threats of alternative conventions have created confusion both in Rivers State and nationally. “At this point, predicting who will prevail is nearly impossible. Beyond the drama, however, lies a deeper political dimension,” Aborisade noted. The Hidden Forces Behind the Crisis Aborisade invoked a Yoruba proverb to illustrate the situation: “The insect dancing on the surface of water is responding to the drummer beneath.” The visible actors may be obvious, but the true drivers of the crisis—the “drummers”—remain hidden yet powerful. He implied that forces beyond the PDP itself are sustaining the turmoil. When pressed about the identity of these forces, Aborisade pointed directly to the APC-led Federal Government and the Presidency. “The facts are telling: Wike is a serving minister under the APC government, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has defected to the APC, and governors in Plateau and Taraba states have also abandoned the PDP for the APC.” This, he contends, suggests a deliberate effort by the ruling party to weaken opposition structures and consolidate power ahead of the 2027 elections.
The recent U.S. military operations targeting alleged terrorist strongholds in Sokoto have propelled Nigeria into a sensitive stage of its counter-terrorism efforts. The strikes have sparked a robust debate on the balance between national sovereignty, governance gaps, and the appropriateness of foreign intervention in domestic security matters. Economic Repercussions and Government Response The implications extend far beyond security and politics. Investor confidence has been unsettled, prompting the Federal Government to act swiftly to reassure local and international markets that these operations will not compromise Nigeria’s economic stability or its ongoing reform programs. Officials emphasize that Nigeria remains committed to preserving its fiscal integrity and sustaining reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment. Support from Pan-Yoruba Coalition The Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements (AYDM), a coalition of approximately 130 pan-Yoruba organizations, praised the intervention as a necessary initiative to curtail the escalating threat of violent extremism. In a statement signed by General Secretary Popoola Ajayi and Rasaq Arogundade, the coalition encouraged Nigerian authorities to maintain intelligence-led cooperation with international allies, noting that combating terrorism effectively requires global partnerships. “We commend the actions against terrorists attempting to dominate Nigerian territories,” AYDM stated. “These measures highlight Nigeria’s progress in establishing impactful international partnerships. Yet, airstrikes alone will not resolve the crisis.” Calls for Arrest of Ideological Leaders AYDM also directed strong criticism at Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, accusing him of being the intellectual architect behind extremist activities in the country. The coalition demanded his immediate arrest and indicated its intent to campaign both locally and internationally for his prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC). “Sheikh Gumi should face justice. He presents himself as an Islamic scholar but propagates terrorist ideology,” the group added, highlighting the urgency of holding ideological leaders accountable. Security Alert for South-West States The coalition issued warnings to governors in the South-West, emphasizing that retaliatory attacks from terrorist factions could shift toward the region. Lagos, as Nigeria’s commercial hub and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political stronghold, was particularly highlighted as a potential target. Calls for Structural Reforms AYDM framed the rising Islamic extremism as a “violent clash of civilizations,” advocating for extensive constitutional reforms. The group proposed decentralization and restructuring of Nigeria to enable ethnic self-determination, allowing groups with differing governance philosophies—democratic versus theocratic—to coexist within their own sovereign regions. “It is time to restructure Nigeria so that communities valuing democracy and those favoring a theocratic framework can exist independently within their own sovereign republics,” the statement urged. Expanding Security Partnerships The coalition further recommended that Nigeria diversify its international security collaborations. Beyond the U.S., nations such as Russia and Israel—known for their counter-terrorism expertise—should be engaged to strengthen Nigeria’s security framework. “Nigeria requires all possible allies to combat terrorism effectively. Engaging Russia, given its counter-terrorism operations in the Sahel, is essential if Nigeria aims to confront these threats decisively,” AYDM emphasized. Criticism from Political Activists Contrastingly, Gbenga Hashim, a former presidential candidate and political activist, characterized the U.S. strikes as a damning critique of Nigeria’s security architecture. Hashim highlighted that the airstrikes reflect global concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security environment, particularly in the North-West, where terrorist groups are allegedly expanding territorial influence. “The intervention by the United States is a stark indictment of our national security framework and the failures of the APC-led administration,” Hashim remarked, urging the government to strengthen domestic security operations to regain public and international confidence.
Asunción Ixtaltepec, Mexico – A tragic train accident occurred in southern Mexico on Sunday, claiming the lives of at least 13 people and injuring dozens more. The Interoceanic Train, which connects Oaxaca and Veracruz, partially derailed near a curve close to the town of Nizanda, according to officials. The train, carrying a total of 250 individuals—nine crew members and 241 passengers—went off the tracks in the early hours of the day. Mexican Navy authorities confirmed that 98 people sustained injuries in the accident. Sadly, 13 passengers lost their lives at the scene. Among those injured, 36 remained under medical care while the rest were reported to be stable. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share updates on the incident. She noted that at least five of the injured were in critical condition and emphasized the immediate deployment of the Mexican Navy and Civil Protection units to assist victims and their families. President Sheinbaum further stated that the Ministry of Interior was coordinating the overall emergency response and ensuring that affected individuals receive necessary support. Rescue operations were challenging, as emergency teams faced difficulties reaching the accident site due to the terrain. Local news outlet Uno Noticias Television reported that first responders were on-site but struggled with accessibility issues, delaying some of the rescue efforts. Authorities from Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office announced the initiation of a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the derailment. Officials are examining whether track conditions, train maintenance, or operational errors contributed to the disaster. The Interoceanic Train has been a crucial transit link between Oaxaca and Veracruz, used by hundreds of passengers daily for both commuting and tourism. The derailment has raised concerns over railway safety standards in southern Mexico and has prompted calls for stricter oversight and safety protocols. Local communities and emergency responders continue to assist the victims, while national authorities work to stabilize the injured and support grieving families. The Mexican government has pledged to provide full assistance to those affected and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17). Did you notice from our opening scripture that righteousness is a gift from God? It’s not something you’re going to work out or attain by your good works or “performance.” Rather, it’s a gift you have to receive. It’s been given to the whole world, but have you received it? You’ve got to receive it if you haven’t done so; all you have to do is believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and say, “Lord, I accept and receive your righteousness. I confess that you’re Lord of my life, believing in my heart that God raised you from the dead. Amen.” He makes you as righteous as Himself because what He gives you is His own righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “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.” Also, Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Notice it didn’t say being justified by how much money you have or how much you struggle to please God. Rather, it says being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. What is it to be justified? It means to be declared righteous. It actually means to be declared not guilty, discharged and acquitted. How gracious the Lord is! He acquitted us; so, what about our sins? Before we were born again, they were washed in His blood; when we believed and confessed His Lordship, we became new creatures without a past and thus justified. Hallelujah! Then He tells us something remarkable that happens with those who receive this gift of righteousness: they reign in life: “…much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing grace (unmerited favor) and the free gift of righteousness…reign as kings in life…” (Romans 5:17 AMPC). In Christianity, we’re not victims, paupers or beggars. In true Christianity, we reign in life by Jesus Christ. He gave us His Name to live by; so, we live and walk in His Name, reigning by grace through righteousness. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness by which I reign in life through Jesus Christ. I live triumphantly every day, walking in your righteousness, excellence, and exercising dominion over Satan and the systems of this world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Corinthians 5:21 NIVGod made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Romans 5:17-21 KJVFor if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) [18] Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. [19] For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. [20] Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: [21] That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. Revelation 5:10 KJVAnd hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRevelation 20 & Zechariah 12-14 2-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 5:1-11 & Ezra 8 DAILY AFFIRMATION: God has made my life beautiful! I’ll never walk in sickness or defeat! The victorious and glorious life is mine now. Christ is my assurance of health and life eternal. 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. Continually, situations and circumstances align to God’s perfect will for me. I am divinely connected to the One who is the way, the truth, and the life. The Word of God is life to me and health to my flesh. Eternal life is working in me, radiating to all in my world. I operate from the mountaintop, from the realm of limitless possibilities and unending victories. My body is invigorated by the Spirit of God who lives in me. I give thanks to God for He has made me superior to Satan, sickness, disease, and infirmity. My mind is flooded with the light of God’s Word, and I walk daily in the consciousness of my oneness with Jesus Christ. I have the life of Christ. That life makes me indestructible and impervious to sickness. Everywhere I go, I influence my world with the healing power of God. The Lord God is mighty in me, and He has blessed me with everlasting life—a life of grace, truth, and agelessness. My life is one of ever-increasing glory and peace in Jesus’ mighty Name. Amen. Thank You, precious Father, for my triumphant life in Christ. Thank You for the Holy Spirit who lives in me and through whom I can do all things. I rejoice knowing that I am Your treasured possession, ordained to show forth Your wonderful deeds and display Your virtues and perfections. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. God loads me daily with benefits, and His favour continually lifts me. Eternity is alive in me, and I live above infirmities and the harsh elements of this world because the One who lives in me is greater than he that is in the world, in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak

