Doris Ogala Controversy: Pastor Chris Okafor Kneels Before Congregation, Seeks Forgiveness

Pastor Chris Okafor, the renowned founder of Grace Nation Bible Ministry, has publicly sought forgiveness following allegations made by Nollywood actress Doris Ogala. The cleric’s apology came amid a viral video shared on Facebook by Ogala on Sunday, where Pastor Chris was seen kneeling before church members, expressing deep remorse over past mistakes. This development follows accusations from Doris Ogala, who publicly revealed that Pastor Chris allegedly ended their relationship despite prior marriage promises. The situation quickly gained attention across social media, sparking discussions about morality, accountability, and leadership integrity within the Nigerian church community. Pastor Chris Responds to Allegations In his public statement, Pastor Chris maintained that while some allegations were false, he was sincerely apologetic to anyone hurt by his actions. “I am not joining issues,” he emphasized, directly addressing Doris Ogala. “Mistakes have been made in the past, and I tender my apology to everybody. But everything that was said is not true. There are so many lies in most of the things that were said.” Despite challenging certain claims, Pastor Chris affirmed his readiness to make amends, particularly to women who may have been affected by his actions. “To Doris Ogala, I will apologize, and I also apologize to everyone. I am ready to make restitution to any lady, anywhere I’ve offended,” he said. Seeking Forgiveness and Guidance The pastor humbly admitted his imperfections and appealed to both the congregation and the public for forgiveness and prayers. He noted that his recent experiences, guided by senior Christian leaders he regards as “fathers of faith,” have provided him with a fresh perspective and a sense of new beginning in his spiritual journey. “I’m kneeling down before everyone and before the church. Forgive me. You can judge me. Pray for me,” Pastor Chris added, demonstrating his willingness to accept accountability and rebuild trust. Public and Social Media Reactions The incident has ignited extensive conversations on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Many users have debated the ethics of public apologies by religious leaders, while some have commended Pastor Chris for showing humility and transparency. Doris Ogala, meanwhile, has not made further public comments beyond sharing the original video, leaving the public and followers speculating about possible reconciliation or legal action. This event also highlights ongoing concerns regarding the personal conduct of public figures in religious institutions and the importance of transparency in leadership

“I’m Learning Politics from Tinubu” — APC National Chairman, Yilwatda

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has openly stated that he is gaining political experience and guidance from Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Professor Yilwatda made this known on Saturday shortly after receiving a traditional title in Plateau State. The honour, “Kaeh-rit,” which translates to “the good seed of Ampang East,” was conferred on him in recognition of his leadership contributions and political influence within the region. Speaking during the event, the APC National Chairman described President Tinubu as the most suitable figure to learn politics from, noting that the President’s long-standing political journey has shaped Nigeria’s modern democratic landscape. According to Yilwatda, President Tinubu has played a personal mentoring role in his political development. He explained that since the President embraced him as a son, he has gained valuable lessons in leadership, strategy, and political discipline. “I am learning from the very best leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Yilwatda said. “Mr President is among the greatest politicians anyone can learn from. Since he adopted me as his son, he has continued to teach and guide me, and I have learned a lot from him.” He further emphasized that any success associated with his political journey is a direct result of the mentorship he receives from President Tinubu. Yilwatda added that he remains committed to applying those lessons as he works toward becoming one of Nigeria’s most impactful political leaders. “If you see me making progress, it is because I am learning from the finest political mind Nigeria has ever produced. I will continue to work hard so I can also achieve what he has achieved and contribute meaningfully to the nation,” he stated. Professor Yilwatda also expressed optimism regarding the political direction of Plateau State. He said he believes the recent defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the APC will bring positive developments and growth to the state. While addressing party members and supporters, the APC Chairman reiterated the party’s commitment to inclusiveness. He stressed that the APC operates an open-door policy where all members, regardless of background or status, enjoy equal rights and opportunities within the party structure. He concluded by assuring members that unity, fairness, and collective participation remain central values of the APC as it continues to strengthen its political base across the country.

2027 Presidency: Atiku Abubakar Denies Quitting Presidential Race for Peter Obi

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that he has withdrawn from the 2027 presidential race, describing such claims as untrue and misleading. According to Atiku, the circulating narratives alleging that he has stepped down from the 2027 contest are inaccurate and do not reflect his current political position. The clarification comes amid growing political discussions and speculation surrounding early alignments ahead of the next general election. Atiku Abubakar, who emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential flag bearer during the 2023 general election, was recently mentioned in reports claiming that he had agreed to step aside in favour of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023. The same reports further alleged that Atiku not only relinquished his ambition but also endorsed the idea of a single-term presidency for Peter Obi. This claim was reportedly framed as a move aimed at promoting regional balance within the country’s political leadership. However, Atiku has categorically rejected these assertions, stressing that the reports do not represent the truth. He maintained that he has not exited the 2027 presidential contest, nor has he made any formal declaration supporting another candidate under the conditions being widely circulated. The denial puts to rest the speculation that his political ambition for 2027 has been abandoned or traded for any form of alliance arrangement. It also clarifies that discussions attributed to him regarding a one-term presidency are not based on verified statements from his camp. As political activities gradually begin to take shape ahead of 2027, Atiku’s response highlights the importance of relying on confirmed and credible information, especially as political narratives continue to evolve in the public space.

819 Forest Guards Graduate in Kebbi to Strengthen Fight Against Banditry

Kebbi State has taken a major step toward strengthening its internal security architecture with the successful graduation of 819 National Forest Guards, a move aimed at tackling banditry and forest-based criminal operations across the state. The newly trained guards completed a rigorous nine-week intensive training exercise held in Kalgo Local Government Area. The training program was designed to equip them with the necessary skills to protect forest reserves and deny criminal elements the opportunity to use these locations as safe havens. During the training period, participants were exposed to several core security modules. These included early warning intelligence gathering, forest patrol strategies, ambush and counter-ambush operations, as well as professional handling of AK-47 rifles. The focus was to ensure the guards are prepared to operate effectively within challenging forest terrains where criminal activities often thrive. The training exercise was conducted under the joint supervision of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian military. This collaborative oversight highlights a coordinated national security approach and ensures that the forest guards meet established operational and professional standards. Speaking at the graduation ceremony held on Saturday, Deputy Governor Umar Tafida called on residents, community leaders, and traditional rulers to actively support the newly deployed guards. He emphasized that community cooperation plays a critical role in intelligence sharing and is essential to achieving lasting success in the fight against banditry and forest-related crimes. Representing the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the Commissioner of Police, Umar Hadejia, confirmed that the forest guards would be immediately deployed to high-risk forest corridors and ungoverned areas identified as security threats. According to him, the rapid deployment is intended to block criminal movement and disrupt illegal activities within forest zones. Kebbi State is among the seven states selected for the pilot phase of the National Forest Guard initiative. As part of the initial rollout, Arewa, Augie, Dandi, and Danko-Wasagu Local Government Areas have been identified for early deployment of the guards, based on security assessments and vulnerability levels. Deputy Governor Tafida further explained that the forest guards are not meant to replace existing security agencies. Instead, they are expected to complement current security formations, enhance surveillance, and prevent criminals from turning forest reserves into operational bases. With the deployment now underway, residents across affected communities have expressed renewed hope that the increased security presence will disrupt bandit networks, reduce criminal activities, and gradually restore safety to rural areas that have long been exposed to insecurity.

Airstrike: Why the US Selected Sokoto as Its First Target in Nigeria – Expert Analysis

An international human rights attorney and specialist in bilateral relations, Emmanuel Ogebe, has provided insight into why Sokoto State was reportedly chosen as the initial location for a United States airstrike operation in Nigeria. Speaking on the development, Ogebe explained that the decision was not necessarily based on the intensity of violent activity in the area but rather on strategic familiarity and prior operational experience. According to reports, the pattern of the strike suggested a preference for a location where the US military already possessed ground knowledge and intelligence confidence. He recalled that Sokoto had previously hosted a US military operation during the first term of former US President Donald Trump. In that 2020 mission, American special forces successfully rescued Philip Walton, a US citizen who had been abducted by armed groups. The operation reportedly resulted in the neutralisation of at least six terrorists, reinforcing the area’s significance in past counterterrorism efforts. Ogebe described Sokoto as an unexpected choice for an opening strike, particularly because it is not the primary hub of jihadist insurgency in Nigeria. He noted that Nigeria’s North-East region, especially Borno State, has historically been the epicentre of extremist violence and recently witnessed a deadly suicide bombing. However, he pointed out that the North-West region presents a more predictable operational environment for US forces. According to him, earlier missions in the area provided American troops with institutional memory, making Sokoto a safer and more calculated option for an initial engagement. Another factor highlighted was Sokoto’s geographical proximity to the Niger Republic. Until recently, the United States maintained military bases in Niger, giving American forces deeper familiarity with the terrain, cross-border movements, and regional intelligence structures. This closeness, Ogebe suggested, likely played a role in shaping the strategic decision. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has stated that the airstrike operation was carried out jointly with the United States and other allied partners. Ogebe described this assertion as plausible, referencing challenges encountered during the 2020 Walton rescue mission. That operation reportedly faced complications due to the lack of confirmed Nigerian airspace clearance, nearly jeopardising its success. According to him, lessons learned from that experience may have contributed to the improved coordination now being claimed by Nigerian authorities.

BREAKING: Fayose Publishes Documents Alleging Makinde Received ₦50bn From Tinubu, Raises Fresh Claims of Fund Diversion

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has made public a set of documents which he claims confirm that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, received a total sum of ₦50 billion from the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Fayose stated that the funds were reportedly approved as emergency intervention support following the January 2024 explosion in Ibadan, an incident that led to loss of lives, injuries, and extensive property damage across affected communities. This development comes after Governor Makinde earlier dismissed Fayose’s allegation, describing it as false and politically motivated, and openly challenged the former governor to provide verifiable proof to support his claims. Reacting to the challenge, Fayose released what he described as official financial documents, insisting they clearly show the approval and release of the ₦50 billion intervention fund to Oyo State. According to Fayose, only ₦4.5 billion from the total amount was eventually disbursed to victims of the Ibadan explosion. He further alleged that the remaining portion of the funds was diverted and channeled towards supporting Makinde’s alleged presidential ambition, a move Fayose claimed has contributed to internal disagreements and leadership tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a personally signed statement, Fayose explained that his decision to release the documents was to allow Nigerians to independently assess the credibility of the Oyo State Government’s public statements regarding the emergency funds. The former Ekiti governor also challenged Governor Makinde to seek legal redress, maintaining that he stands firmly by his claims. He added that there are additional records indicating that other financial assistance sent to Oyo State by the Tinubu-led administration was not publicly disclosed by the state government. Beyond the emergency funds controversy, Fayose claimed to be in possession of documents showing the actual Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Oyo State, which he alleged differs significantly from figures previously announced by Governor Makinde. According to Fayose, he would not make such serious allegations without concrete proof, stressing that he still holds more documents which may be released at a later time if the situation demands. In his words, Fayose stated that only a fraction of the funds reached explosion victims, while several other allocations were allegedly redirected for political purposes. He emphasized that his confidence stems from documented evidence, insisting that he does not make claims he cannot substantiate.

Ex-Gov Ayade Owes Cross River South for Securing Second Term — Cleric

A respected cleric based in Calabar, Archbishop Josef Bassey, has declared that former Governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade, is indebted to the people of the Southern Senatorial District for his successful re-election and completion of a second term in office. According to Archbishop Bassey, the former governor’s return for another four-year tenure was not guaranteed, as there were serious political maneuvers aimed at stopping him from securing a second term. He explained that Ayade’s political journey at the time faced stiff resistance and internal plots that could have limited him to a single term in office. The cleric noted that leaders and influential stakeholders from the Southern Senatorial District became deeply concerned that any disruption to Ayade’s second-term ambition could jeopardize their long-term political interests. Specifically, they feared that such an interruption would weaken their prospects of eventually reclaiming governorship power in line with the state’s zoning arrangement. To prevent this outcome, Southern political leaders reportedly rallied their resources, influence, and support to ensure that Professor Ayade completed the constitutionally allowed eight years in office. Their actions, Archbishop Bassey emphasized, were driven by strategic sacrifice rather than blind loyalty. Archbishop Bassey made these remarks on Saturday during an end-of-year media engagement held in Calabar. During the interaction, he strongly dismissed claims that Ayade willingly “handed over” political power to the Southern Senatorial District. Instead, he asserted that the South earned its return to power through deliberate political calculation and restraint. He stressed that the Southern District consciously chose to support Ayade’s second term as part of a broader plan to protect Cross River State’s zoning structure and guarantee a smooth transition of leadership after a 16-year wait. According to him, this move ensured balance, stability, and continuity within the state’s political framework. The cleric was emphatic in stating that without the strategic backing of Southern leaders, Ayade’s tenure would likely have ended after just one term. “Without the timely intervention and political wisdom of leaders from the Southern Senatorial District, Professor Ayade might not have returned for a second term,” he stated. “Indeed, he owes the South appreciation for ensuring he did not leave office after four years.” Archbishop Bassey further explained that the Southern political bloc agreed to fully support Ayade’s re-election based on a clear understanding that governorship power would rotate back to the district once his tenure ended. This agreement, he said, was central to maintaining political trust and fairness among the senatorial zones. Shifting focus to the current administration, the cleric praised Governor Bassey Otu for what he described as an inclusive and equitable style of governance. He observed that the Northern Senatorial District has experienced noticeable benefits within just the first two years of Governor Otu’s leadership. According to him, the pace and scale of development recorded in the North under the present administration surpass what some previous governments achieved over much longer periods. “In only two years, Governor Otu has accomplished more for the Northern Senatorial District than certain administrations managed in eight years,” Archbishop Bassey remarked. He also referenced statements attributed to notable figures from the North, including Dr. Julius Okputu, who reportedly acknowledged that infrastructural growth in the district was more pronounced under administrations led by the Southern Senatorial District. The cleric concluded by urging politicians and political commentators to avoid actions or statements capable of heightening political tension, particularly as the year draws to a close. He described the end-of-year period as a time meant for sober reflection, reconciliation, and evaluation, rather than political provocation. “This season should be devoted to calm reflection and honest stock-taking,” he said, “not to stirring division, setting groups against one another, or attempting to distort historical realities.” Archbishop Bassey appealed to all political actors to place the overall interest of Cross River State above individual ambitions. He warned that misleading narratives and unnecessary political rivalry could weaken unity and ultimately hinder the state’s development.

Choosing Health and Progress: Nigerian Women Embrace Modern Contraceptives

In a significant cultural shift, many Nigerian women are increasingly prioritizing their health and economic well-being over traditional and religious expectations by adopting modern contraceptive methods. According to PUNCH Healthwise, modern family planning has become a crucial lifeline for women seeking to break free from the cycle of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and financial instability. JANET OGUNDEPO reports. Transforming Lives Beyond Health For Mrs. Kehinde Alimi, a fruit vendor and mother of four, family planning was not just about health—it was about saving her business and securing a brighter future. After her second child, she was introduced to family planning services and began using the 13-week long-acting reversible injectable contraceptive, Depo-Provera. Later, influenced by other women in her community, she switched to the three-year etonogestrel implant, Implanon, another long-acting reversible contraceptive. However, when she experienced prolonged monthly bleeding for almost a month, she consulted her healthcare provider, who recommended the removal of the implant and transitioning back to the 13-week subcutaneous form of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA), also known as Sayana Press. Since switching to the DMPA injectable, Alimi reports no side effects and has been able to focus on her fruit business while maintaining her health. “I have been able to focus on my business, take care of myself, and ensure the well-being of my children without fear of unplanned pregnancies or the need for unsafe abortions,” she says. The Journey of Planned Parenthood After years of using injections, Alimi decided to expand her family. Following counselling at a Primary Health Centre in Sango-Ota, Ogun State, she discontinued the intramuscular contraceptive Depo-Provera. She subsequently became pregnant and welcomed her third child. “I had two children before I started using modern family planning. After spacing them, I have had two more children,” Alimi shares, emphasizing that modern contraceptives do not cause infertility. Even now, having completed her desired family size, she continues using DMPA injections to prevent unplanned pregnancies. Alimi’s journey was supported by Mrs. Abiola Adekoya, a local family planning and community health advocate. Global Perspective on Family Planning The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that family planning empowers individuals to determine the number and spacing of their children while making informed reproductive health choices. Beyond health benefits, family planning enables women to pursue education and career opportunities, thereby contributing to family welfare, community development, and broader economic growth. As a public health intervention, modern contraceptives are a key tool in reducing maternal mortality. Increasing their uptake in Nigeria is gaining attention not merely as a population-control strategy but as a life-saving measure. Evidence consistently shows that countries with higher contraceptive usage enjoy lower maternal and infant mortality rates and improved health outcomes for women, children, and families. A Personal Success Story Another example is Mrs. Fatimah Jamiu, a hairstylist who started using modern contraceptives in 2013. After hearing about them in a public awareness program, she saved the N15,000 fee required for the service. Fortunately, a free outreach program in her community allowed her to access a five-year-long-lasting implant at no cost, fulfilling her long-held desire for family planning. These stories reflect a growing movement in Nigeria: women choosing survival, economic progress, and health over rigid traditional norms. Family planning is no longer just a personal choice; it is an investment in women’s empowerment, family stability, and societal advancement.

Port Harcourt Refinery Continues Diesel Supply Despite Shutdown – NMDPRA

The Port Harcourt Refining Company, despite being under a prolonged shutdown, continues to supply diesel (automotive gas oil, AGO) to the Nigerian market. According to recent disclosures by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the refinery maintains a daily evacuation of approximately 349,000 litres of diesel, even though no active production is currently taking place. This information was highlighted in the NMDPRA’s latest data update available on its official website. The NMDPRA report confirms that although the refinery has been non-operational since May 24, 2025, following a shutdown ordered by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), diesel stock produced before the shutdown is still being distributed to meet market demand. According to the agency: “No production activities as the Port Harcourt refinery remains in shutdown mode. However, evacuation of AGO produced while the refinery was operational before 24th May 2025 continued at an average of 0.349 million litres per day.” The refinery’s shutdown, which was initially scheduled to last one month for maintenance, has now extended to over seven months, with operations yet to resume. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that on May 23, 2025, the immediate past Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, informed our correspondent that the refinery would undergo a month-long maintenance exercise. This was officially confirmed by Soneye on May 24, 2025, when the refinery was formally declared shut for maintenance. Despite the expected short-term closure, the refinery has yet to recommence fuel production even after more than half a year. Historically, the Port Harcourt Refinery had undergone significant rehabilitation and modernization. The former Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari, had declared the refinery fully operational in November 2024, ending years of inactivity. At that time, the refinery, with a 60,000-barrel daily capacity, had reportedly resumed operations at 70% of its installed capacity after receiving upgrades and modern equipment. At full capacity, the refinery is designed to primarily produce diesel and pour fuel oil, with daily outputs projected at 1.5 million litres for diesel and 2.1 million litres for pour fuel oil. Despite the shutdown, the continuous evacuation of diesel stock underscores the refinery’s strategic role in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, ensuring that fuel supply remains stable in the market. This ongoing situation highlights the persistent challenges in refinery operations and maintenance schedules in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for timely execution of repair works and efficient operational management to prevent long-term fuel shortages.

Myanmar Junta Conducts Election Amid Ongoing Civil War, Five Years After Coup

A sparse number of citizens queued cautiously to cast their ballots in Myanmar’s tightly controlled elections on Sunday, marking the country’s first national vote in five years since the military overthrew the previous civilian leadership — a move that plunged the Southeast Asian nation into protracted conflict. The military government, known as the junta, is promoting the elections as a step toward restoring democratic governance. However, major opposition figures and parties are absent from the process. The most prominent former civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, remains imprisoned, and her widely supported political party has been disbanded, leaving many questioning the credibility of the vote. International human rights advocates, Western diplomats, and the United Nations’ top human rights official have strongly criticized the phased, month‑long election. They argue that the process heavily favors parties aligned with the military and occurs against a backdrop of severe suppression of free speech and political dissent. The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), a political organization closely tied to the military, is widely predicted to secure the greatest number of seats—leading critics to view the election as a tactical overhaul of direct military rule rather than a genuine democratic transition. Voting Takes Place Only in Regions Under Junta Control Myanmar, home to about 50 million people, remains deeply fractured by civil war. In areas controlled by ethnic armed groups or opposition forces, voting is not taking place, leaving large swaths of the population without access to the electoral process. In the first of three voting phases, polls opened at 6:00 a.m. in cities such as Yangon, Mandalay, and the administrative capital Naypyidaw. Military commander Min Aung Hlaing was among those to vote early in the day, reinforcing the junta’s message of legitimacy. “We assure that this will be a free and fair election,” he told reporters. “It is organized by the military, and we cannot allow our reputation to be tarnished.” Scenes at the Polling Stations Reflect Apprehension and Low Turnout In contrast to the lively voter turnout seen during the 2020 general election, when long lines formed outside polling centers, turnout in many urban stations this year was minimal. At a central Yangon polling site near the Sule Pagoda — a symbolic location of massive pro‑democracy demonstrations following the 2021 coup journalists and election staff outnumbered actual voters for much of the morning. Among the small group of early voters was 45‑year‑old Swe Maw, who downplayed global criticism of the elections. “It’s not a significant issue,” he said. “There will always be people who approve and oppose.” Near the shuttered residence of Aung San Suu Kyi, Bo Saw, the first person to vote at another station, described the election as “very important” and expressed hope that it would lead to positive outcomes for Myanmar.

Lagos Traders Suffer Massive Losses as High‑Rise Blaze Engulfs Commercial Tower During Yuletide

On Christmas Eve, chaos erupted on Lagos Island’s bustling Martins Street as a ferocious fire engulfed the towering commercial complex known as the Great Nigeria Insurance House. The 25‑storey structure at No. 14 Martins Street became ground zero for one of the most devastating blazes in recent years, bringing the festive season to an abrupt and heartbreaking halt for countless traders. The inferno spread within minutes to multiple adjoining buildings, transforming a vibrant trading hub into a scene of destruction and loss. Flames leapt skyward, visible across the city skyline as emergency responders battled to contain the blaze that would destroy goods and property worth billions of naira. Fatalities, Injuries and Widespread Damage According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), three persons have been confirmed dead in the aftermath, with several others injured and taken to hospitals for treatment. Among those rescued alive were traders and bystanders found amid the wreckage of charred merchandise and structural debris. Eyewitness accounts shared with LMSINT MEDIA describe how the fire originated on the fourth floor of the high‑rise in the late afternoon. As smoke thickened and heat intensified, shops nearby were forced to close and traffic to Marina was rerouted at Berlin Junction. Police cordoned off major junctions to allow unhindered access for emergency teams. Emergency responders faced significant challenges reaching the blaze due to roadside market stalls and narrow streets, a situation that slowed operations at a critical moment when time was of the essence. A Struggle Against Flames and Chaos Fire crews from agencies including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, and Nigeria Police worked tirelessly throughout the night. At least eight fire trucks shuttled water supplies in the face of thick smoke and intense heat, while onlookers blocked critical access routes, complicating containment efforts. Videos circulating on social media captured scenes of fire fighters battling tirelessly, even as parts of the plaza collapsed into the adjacent old Lagos Central Mosque, crushing goods traders had barely managed to salvage. Sections of the building continued to give way into the early hours of the following morning. Traders and Residents in Shock All through the night, traders remained awake amid fears that the fire might spread further. Some rushed into choking smoke to retrieve remaining belongings, while others guarded whatever items they could save, sleeping beside them on the cold pavement. The unstable structure repeatedly emitted cracking sounds, forcing security personnel to retreat to safer distances. The fire began when last‑minute Christmas trading and festive preparation were at their peak, leaving many without the income they had hoped to earn during the peak season. For families who lost loved ones, the aftermath promises to cast a shadow far beyond the holiday period. Emergency Response and Delayed Access The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service acknowledged receiving the emergency call around 4:41 p.m., arriving on the scene within 12 minutes, but by that time, the fire had already spread far beyond its point of origin. First responders reported that roadside market stalls blocked critical access points, delaying internal efforts to reach the affected floors and compounding the difficulties of firefighting operations. Not the First Fire on Martins Street This tragic fire in 2025 recalls earlier serious incidents in the same area. The Afriland Tower blaze, which occurred just months earlier and claimed numerous lives and damages, raised public concern over fire safety across commercial districts in Lagos. According to a fire safety audit discussed by experts, many buildings across the city are still without modern suppression systems that could significantly reduce casualties and property loss Calls for Safety Improvements Following the Great Nigeria Insurance House fire, stakeholders including the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) have highlighted the urgent need for more robust fire prevention measures within markets and commercial hubs. These measures include proper storage of highly flammable materials, clear access for emergency vehicles, and mandatory modernization of fire detection and suppression systems.

Rhapsody of Realities December 28th, 2025, YOU’RE GOD’S CONSUMMATE MAN

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew]… (Ephesians 2:10 AMPC). Have you ever thought about the fact that you’re God’s consummate man? He made you without any form of defect, limitations or inhibitions. You’re His excellently crafted masterpiece, perfect and complete. This is God’s perfect will; this is what He had in mind when He made you, and this is what’s on His mind today. Hebrews 10:14 says, “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.” That’s you; you’ve been perfected forever, and you can’t improve on perfect. Hallelujah! Even David understood this and said in praise to the Lord, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well” (Psalm 139:14). When God looks at you, He sees a consummate you; nothing missing, nothing broken. It reminds of the Scripture that says, “…whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it…” (Ecclesiastes 3:14). Whatever God does stands the test of time. His works are perfect. His works are eternal. When He created you, it wasn’t part of the plan for your kidneys, your heart or your lungs to fail or for you to have a blood condition. It wasn’t part of the plan for your body to be bruised or mangled by sickness, disease or infirmities. You were perfected in health because there’s a perfection to the work of God. Genesis 1:31 says, “And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good….” Notice what it says: God saw everything that He had made, and He said they were very good, not partially good. You must see yourself in this light. You’re consummate; that means you’re excellent, perfect, ideal, flawless, complete, supreme, whole. You’re replete with everything good, godly and divine. It helps you understand why the Bible says you’re complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10). This is why you must stand your ground and refuse to be sick. Refuse to be a failure or a victim in life. Walk in dominion and supremacy over Satan, his cohorts, and circumstances of this world. You’re God’s peculiar treasure, perfected in righteousness and holiness. Glory to His Name forever. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for fashioning me in excellence and perfection. I’m your consummate workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works. I walk in preordained pathways of success, victory, health and righteousness, complete in Christ, replete with your divine nature and life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYJames 1:18 KJVOf his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 1 Peter 2:9 AMPCBut you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Titus 2:14 KJVWho gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRevelation 19:11-21 & Zechariah 9-11 2-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 4:23-37 & Ezra 7 DAILY AFFIRMATION: I have been vested with all power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of my world. I therefore declare, in the Name of Jesus Christ, that my progress is unstoppable. I’m an associate of the God-kind, in vital, inseparable oneness and union with divinity. Poverty is not and cannot be a part of my life. I am an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ my Lord. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. My mind is yielded to God’s Word, and the Word regulates my heart. The Word of God is my life. The life of God is at work in every fibre of my being, in every cell of my blood, and in every bone of my body. In the name of Jesus Christ, I live triumphantly, over and above circumstances and the perils of this world. I live in perpetual peace, prosperity, health, success and greatness. All things are working for my good. I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, and I take possession of my inheritance in Christ. My health, strength, and wealth are assured. Christ is mingled with my spirit. So, I refuse to be sick any day, anytime. I am always invigorated with strength. The glory of God is beaming out of me with intensity. The Lord is my beauty, He is my sweet attractiveness. I am divinely enabled to see, think, say, and to do things that ordinary men cannot do. I am sagacious. I have an extraordinary amplitude of comprehension. I am a wonder and surprise to many. I’m the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, and I have the life of God in me. My spirit, soul and body are vitalized through and through by the power and effect of righteousness and the fullness of the God-life that I’ve received through the Gospel. I’m walking in the reality of my divine heritage in Christ, conscious of His grace and awesome presence in my life, in the mighty Name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.

US Resumes Surveillance of Sambisa Forest Following Airstrikes in Sokoto

Following a series of airstrikes targeting ISIS militants in Sokoto State, the United States has now shifted its focus to the Sambisa Forest in Borno State. The operation involves comprehensive intelligence-gathering and surveillance activities over this vast and strategically significant region. Security analyst Brant Philip highlighted these developments on his X (formerly Twitter) account, providing flight tracking data to substantiate his claims. The information revealed the presence of a Gulfstream V aircraft conducting aerial monitoring over Borno State. According to Philip, these operations specifically aim to target the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a notorious militant group responsible for several attacks and insurgent activities in the North-East of Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin region. ISWAP is recognized for its violent operations, including kidnappings, bombings, and attacks on military convoys, which have significantly destabilized local communities. The resumption of surveillance in the Sambisa Forest signals the US’s continued commitment to supporting regional security efforts against extremist groups in Nigeria. Analysts suggest that intelligence-gathering operations like these are crucial in curbing ISWAP’s influence and disrupting their operational networks across North-East Nigeria. This heightened surveillance comes shortly after the successful airstrikes in Sokoto, emphasizing a broader strategic approach by the US to contain and eliminate terrorist threats in West Africa. Observers believe that continuous aerial intelligence and monitoring can help Nigerian forces coordinate more effectively with international partners in the fight against terrorism.