South Korean Prosecutors Seek 10-Year Jail Term for Ex-President Yoon

South Korea’s special prosecutors have requested a 10-year prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, accusing him of obstructing investigators following his failed attempt to impose martial law. Prosecutors claim Yoon barricaded himself inside the presidential compound and ordered security measures to prevent his arrest in January.

This marks the first time prosecutors have sought a prison term against the ousted leader, who faces multiple charges linked to the controversial martial law bid. Yoon, removed from office earlier this year, has denied wrongdoing, asserting that his actions were lawful and necessary. The court is expected to hear further arguments before issuing a ruling.

Sowore Accuses Tinubu Administration of Failing to Protect Nigeria’s Sovereignty Amid U.S. Strikes

Former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government for failing to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty following U.S. airstrikes targeting terrorist groups in northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day. Sowore argued that the strikes, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, were carried out without genuine authority or informed consent from Nigeria’s leadership, describing the government as weak and incapable of protecting the nation.

He stated that the operation in Sokoto State highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability and loss of control over its own territory, emphasizing that only capable, tested leadership could ensure the protection of Nigerians.

The article also referenced the Federal Government’s position, which confirmed that the airstrikes were conducted through intelligence collaboration and security cooperation with the U.S. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the operations as “precision hits” on terrorist targets, stressing that cooperation aligns with international law, respects Nigeria’s sovereignty, and is part of broader efforts to address terrorism while protecting civilians and national unity.

Nigerian Government Confirms U.S.–Nigeria Airstrikes on Terrorist Camps in North-West

The Nigerian government has officially acknowledged that recent airstrikes on terrorist camps in the North-West were carried out through intelligence collaboration and security cooperation with the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, stated that these operations resulted in “precision hits” on terrorist targets.

The partnership involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other support measures conducted in line with international law and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The government emphasized that counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the protection of civilian lives, national unity, and the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

The statement also highlighted ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent cross-border threats, and strengthen Nigeria’s security and intelligence institutions, while keeping the public informed through official channels.

U.S. Coordinated With Nigeria’s NSA, AFRICOM To Strike ISIS-Linked Terrorist Targets In Sokoto

Fresh details have emerged on the United States airstrikes carried out against ISIS-linked terrorist elements in northwest Nigeria, revealing that the operation was closely coordinated with Nigeria’s national security architecture. A senior Nigerian government source disclosed that the strikes authorised by U.S. President Donald Trump were largely planned and executed through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), headed by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the source, intelligence units within the NSA’s office worked in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) to identify, locate, and target terrorist enclaves operating in parts of northern Nigeria. The objective of the operation, the source said, was the “elimination” of ISIS-affiliated fighters accused of fueling deadly attacks and insecurity across the region. However, the exact number of targets hit and the scale of damage inflicted remain unclear.

Reports confirmed that at least one explosion occurred on the outskirts of Jibo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, suggesting that the area was among those struck during the operation. As of the time of reporting, there was no independent confirmation of casualties, and Nigerian authorities have not released details regarding possible civilian impact.

The U.S. Africa Command later confirmed via social media that it carried out attacks on terrorist camps in northwest Nigeria, although its initial statement misspelled Sokoto State as “Soboto,” an error that was subsequently corrected. Despite the confirmation, both Nigerian and U.S. officials have remained tight-lipped about the full scope of coordination, Nigeria’s operational role, and safeguards taken to prevent civilian harm.

The revelation of U.S.–Nigeria intelligence-backed military action has intensified public debate over foreign involvement in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, national sovereignty, and transparency in security operations. It also underscores the growing security cooperation between Abuja and Washington amid escalating terrorist violence in Nigeria’s northwest.

BREAKING: Trump Claims U.S. Launched Precision Airstrikes On ISIS-Linked Terrorists In Nigeria

Former United States President Donald Trump has announced that the U.S. military carried out what he described as “numerous precise and deadly strikes” against terrorist groups operating in northwest Nigeria. According to Trump, the operation targeted ISIS-linked militants whom he accused of carrying out mass killings, particularly of Christians, in parts of the country plagued by prolonged insecurity and violence.

In a statement released on December 25, 2025, Trump said the strikes were authorised by him in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief and executed by the U.S. military. He alleged that the targeted militants had been “viciously killing, primarily innocent Christians” and claimed the scale of the violence had reached levels “not seen for many years, and even centuries.” Trump added that he had previously issued warnings to the groups to halt the killings or face severe consequences.

Declaring that the warning had now been enforced, Trump stated that the United States would not tolerate the spread of what he called “radical Islamic terrorism.” He described the military action as “numerous perfect strikes” and praised the U.S. armed forces, adding a Christmas message that included a controversial remark about the terrorists killed in the operation.

Following the announcement, the Nigerian government, through the Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that airstrikes had indeed taken place in parts of northern Nigeria. However, officials did not disclose further details about the scope of the strikes, the number of casualties, or the extent of Nigeria’s involvement or coordination in the operation.

The development has sparked renewed attention on Nigeria’s security crisis, particularly in the northwest and north-central regions, where various armed groups, including bandits and extremist factions, have carried out attacks on civilians, religious communities, and security forces over several years. The confirmation of foreign military action on Nigerian soil is likely to raise diplomatic, security, and sovereignty questions in the coming days.

Igbo Community In Sokoto Celebrates Christmas With Nnamdi Kanu, Shares Meals With Over 1,300 Prison Inmates

The Igbo community in Sokoto State marked the 2025 Christmas celebration by extending a humanitarian gesture to inmates of the Sokoto Correctional Centre, including the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. The community spent Christmas Day at the facility, sharing meals, fellowship, and goodwill with inmates as part of activities inspired by compassion, communal responsibility, and the spirit of the season.

According to a statement signed by Nze A. C. Madu on behalf of the Sokoto Igbo community leadership, the outreach was motivated by Igbo cultural values of solidarity and humanity, as well as what the group described as Nnamdi Kanu’s reported preference not to dine alone during festive periods. Rather than focusing on a single individual, the community said it chose an inclusive approach by providing meals for the entire inmate population.

The statement explained that the initiative ensured that all approximately 1,300 inmates at the correctional centre benefitted from the Christmas celebration, regardless of background or circumstance. Members of the Igbo community reportedly shared food and moments of fellowship with the inmates, offering comfort and a sense of belonging during the holiday.

Describing the visit as a humanitarian service rooted in Igbo traditions, the community said the gesture reflected the principle of being one another’s keeper and underscored universal ideals of charity, compassion, and shared goodwill. The group expressed hope that the outreach would promote peace, unity, and mutual understanding beyond the festive season.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently being held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre following his conviction and sentencing in November 2025 by Justice James Omotosho. The IPOB leader was sentenced to life imprisonment on multiple terrorism-related counts, alongside additional jail terms of 20 years and five years on other counts, all without an option of fine. Despite widespread criticism of the judgment, Kanu has indicated his intention to challenge both the conviction and sentence at the appellate court.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Declares Annual Thanksgiving Day To Commemorate Igbo Survival Of Nigeria-Biafra Civil War

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has officially designated the last Sunday of every January as an annual thanksgiving day to commemorate the survival of the Igbo people during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War of 1967–1970. The resolution was unanimously adopted during the group’s Imeobi meeting held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu.

Announcing the decision, Ohanaeze’s Deputy President General, Prince Okechukwu Nwadinobi, explained that the thanksgiving day is meant to acknowledge what the organisation describes as divine intervention that spared the Igbo from total annihilation during the war. He stated that all Igbo people are encouraged to attend church services on the chosen day to express gratitude to God for preservation and survival amid the horrors of the conflict.

Nwadinobi noted that the leadership of Ohanaeze, under Senator Azuta Mbata, considered it necessary to institutionalise the annual thanksgiving, stressing that without God, the support of a few Nigerians, and intervention from the international community, the Biafran cause and the Igbo people might not have survived. He recalled that the war was marked by deliberate attempts to wipe out Biafra, making survival itself a profound historical milestone worthy of remembrance.

Beyond the thanksgiving initiative, Nwadinobi outlined several interventions undertaken by the current Ohanaeze leadership to safeguard Igbo interests nationwide. These include a high-level delegation to Lagos over the demolition of Igbo-owned businesses in Festac Town and the Trade Fair Complex, engagement with affected traders after the Mandilas Plaza fire incident, and the formation of professional teams to guide Igbo entrepreneurs on best business practices.

He also disclosed a new partnership between Ohanaeze and Otu Oka Iwu, a body of legal experts, aimed at providing free legal services to Ndigbo on issues affecting their welfare and rights.

In a goodwill message, former Archbishop of the Enugu Anglican Communion, Dr. Emmanuel Olisa Chukwu, welcomed the resolution, describing it as spiritually significant. Recounting his near-death experience during the war, including the Asaba genocide, the cleric said the decision resonated deeply with the Igbo people, whom he described as deeply religious and sustained by faith through decades of hardship.

UN Condemns Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Urges Enhanced Security As Insecurity Persists In Borno

The United Nations has strongly condemned a suicide bomb attack on a mosque at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, which occurred on Wednesday evening during prayers and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The attack has intensified fears over the persistent insecurity plaguing Nigeria’s North-East region, particularly during the festive season.

In a statement issued on Christmas Day, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the incident as a grave assault on civilians and a direct violation of freedom of worship. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims, the Borno State Government, and residents of the state, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

Fall joined Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in condemning the “heinous attack” and echoed the governor’s call for heightened vigilance and stronger security measures during the festive period and beyond. He warned that the bombing was part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks recorded in Borno State in 2025, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of the conflict.

Recalling previous deadly incidents, including the September 5 attack on Darajamal in Bama Local Government Area where over 50 civilians were killed, the UN official highlighted the continued use of suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices, and targeted assaults against communities, displaced persons, farmers, traders, and travellers.

Reaffirming the UN’s stance, Fall urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise the protection of civilians and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws. He assured that the United Nations would continue to support government efforts and provide humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the ongoing conflict in north-east Nigeria.

Tuggar reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment to Religious Harmony, Social Cohesion

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has extended warm Christmas felicitations to Christians in Nigeria and abroad, using the occasion to reaffirm government’s commitment to religious harmony and social cohesion.

The Foreign Affairs Minister’s Christmas message described the season as a time for reflection and renewal, underscoring values that resonate deeply with Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural heritage.

Yusuf Tuggar noted that Christmas offers an opportunity to recommit to dialogue, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in safeguarding peace and stability within communities.

He assured that Nigeria will continue to strengthen its institutions to protect all religious adherents, ensure social cohesion, and promote harmonious coexistence across the country.

The Minister concluded by calling for unity and hope, noting the nation’s strength lies in its diversity. He wished Christians at home and in the diaspora a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Anambra Lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor Raises Alarm, Accuses Lawmaker, Others Of Plotting Threats To His Life And Family

Human rights lawyer and civil rights activist, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has raised serious alarm over what he described as an imminent and grave threat to his life and the safety of his family, allegedly involving an Anambra State lawmaker and other individuals. Ejiofor made the disclosure in a strongly worded statement dated December 25, 2025, calling for urgent public, national, and international attention to what he termed a calculated campaign of intimidation and hostility against him.

Ejiofor, a native of Oraifite in Anambra State, alleged that the threats were being orchestrated by Vincent Dike, Ugochukwu Nnajiofor—also known as “Man Pass Man”—and Ikenna Ofodeme, whom he identified as the Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly. He stated that while he was neither alarmed nor unsettled by what he described as covert tactics, he considered it his solemn duty to place the matter on record with clarity, firmness, and resolve.

The lawyer said he was fully aware of the alleged plans, intentions, and machinations currently in motion, warning that all individuals involved, whether acting directly or through proxies, would be held accountable. He strongly condemned what he described as attempts to exploit the festive season as a cover for intimidation, lawlessness, or malfeasance, describing such actions as utterly reprehensible.

Ejiofor further warned that any harm to him or members of his family would not be considered accidental but would be treated as a deliberate act with serious legal and moral consequences. He stressed that such an incident would attract close scrutiny from law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, and the international community.

He disclosed that relevant security and statutory authorities had already been formally notified and that necessary alerts had been lodged, adding that he was awaiting decisive intervention in line with the rule of law and the sanctity of human life. Despite the alleged threats, Ejiofor reaffirmed his commitment to peace, lawful conduct, and the safety of his community, declaring that he remains steadfast, resolute, and unwavering in the face of intimidation.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Orders Demolition Of 25-Storey GNI House After Massive Fire Outbreak On Lagos Island

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered the demolition of the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, following a devastating inferno that engulfed the building on Wednesday night. The directive was issued on Thursday during the governor’s on-the-spot assessment of the incident scene as firefighters continued efforts to fully extinguish the blaze.

According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, preliminary findings revealed that the high-rise building, originally constructed for office use, had been illegally converted into a warehouse where highly inflammable materials were stored across several floors. He explained that the misuse of the structure significantly worsened the fire, making firefighting operations extremely challenging despite the early arrival of emergency responders and deployment of aerial ladder equipment.

The fire reportedly started from the fourth and fifth floors before rapidly spreading to upper levels around 8:00 p.m., intensified by the combustible contents inside the building. Sanwo-Olu disclosed that a committee led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, has been set up to determine the safest and fastest method to demolish the weakened structure within days, noting that parts of the building had already suffered partial collapse.

The governor confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, although between seven and ten people sustained injuries and were taken to hospitals by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA). He also warned residents and businesses against storing flammable materials in residential and office buildings, especially in crowded market areas, stressing that enforcement and fire safety advocacy would be intensified during the dry harmattan season.

Meanwhile, officials of the Federal Fire Service stated that firefighting efforts were complicated by the close proximity of surrounding buildings and uncertainty over the contents of the affected structure. Over ten nearby buildings were impacted by the fire, with at least two severely damaged. Emergency agencies including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, LASEMA, Nigeria Police Force, FRSC, Federal Fire Service and LASTMA remain on ground managing the situation.

EXCLUSIVE: Bauchi Governor Allegedly Hid Key EFCC Witness, Helped Nephew Flee To Egypt In ₦4.6bn Money Laundering Case

Fresh allegations have emerged in the ongoing Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation into an alleged ₦4.6 billion money laundering scheme involving the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, implicating close relatives of Governor Bala Mohammed. Sources familiar with the probe allege that the governor played a key role in obstructing justice by concealing a crucial witness and facilitating the escape of his nephew, Muntaka Mohammed Duguri, who is now reportedly at large.

According to court documents, Duguri and Ishaku Mohammed Aliyu, Managing Director of I.S. Makayye Investment Resources Ltd, are listed as co-accused alongside Adamu in a six-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The EFCC alleges that between June and December 2023, the trio conspired to convert, transfer, conceal and use about ₦4.65 billion, funds allegedly released by Polaris Bank under the guise of financing motorcycle supplies to the Bauchi State Government.

Justice Emeka Nwite, on December 24, ordered the EFCC to produce Finance Commissioner Yakubu Adamu in court by December 30 for arraignment, warning that sanctions would follow any further failure to do so. The case has suffered repeated delays due to the absence of both the defendants and key witnesses, particularly Ishaku Aliyu, whose testimony is described by investigators as central to the prosecution’s case.

Sources allege that Aliyu initially acted as a front for Duguri in the alleged laundering operation but later fell out with him over disputes regarding proceeds from the scheme. Following the fallout, Aliyu reportedly approached the EFCC voluntarily and submitted a detailed statement outlining the alleged transactions and roles of those involved. However, after learning of his cooperation with investigators, Governor Bala Mohammed allegedly instructed Duguri to flee Nigeria to Egypt and ordered that Aliyu be abducted and hidden to prevent him from testifying.

Investigators claim Aliyu’s disappearance has significantly weakened the EFCC’s case, forcing delays in court proceedings and putting the anti-graft agency under mounting pressure. Sources warn that unless the missing witness is produced, the prosecution may continue to stall, raising concerns over accountability in a case involving billions of naira in public funds.

Boko Haram Responsible For Maiduguri Mosque Bomb Blast, Nigerian Army Confirms

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that Boko Haram insurgents were responsible for the deadly bomb explosion at the Gamboru Juma’at Mosque in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. The attack occurred on Wednesday during Maghrib prayers when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device inside the mosque, causing widespread casualties and panic among worshippers.

According to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, investigations revealed that the assault was carried out by Boko Haram elements targeting civilians during a religious gathering. Five worshippers were confirmed dead, while at least 35 others sustained injuries of varying degrees. The Theatre Command spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that 32 civilians were injured in the blast, with two later dying at the hospital and two others remaining in critical condition.

Following the explosion, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency, swiftly cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm. Victims were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for urgent medical treatment.

The Nigerian Army reassured residents of Maiduguri and its environs of their safety, especially during the festive season, noting that security surveillance and operations have been intensified across the city and surrounding areas. The military reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and preventing further attacks in the North-East, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies as counterterrorism efforts continue.

Northern Governors Condemn Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Mourn Slain Kano Lawmakers

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide bombing that struck the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as barbaric, cowardly and a grave violation of religious sanctity. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, when a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque, killing five worshippers and injuring at least 35 others, turning a sacred moment of worship into tragedy.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governors expressed deep sorrow over the attack and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the families of the victims and those injured. The forum stressed that attacks on places of worship offend human conscience and are intended to instil fear, but vowed that such acts would only strengthen the region’s unity and resolve against terrorism and violent extremism.

The governors urged security agencies and authorities in Borno State not to be discouraged, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called for sustained and intensified efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace, while also advocating enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods marked by large gatherings. The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with Borno State and pledged full support as security agencies work to prevent further attacks.

In addition, the Northern Governors’ Forum mourned the deaths of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, describing their passing as a painful loss to Kano State and democratic governance. The governors extended condolences to the Kano State Government, the legislature, and the families of the deceased lawmakers, praying for eternal rest for the departed and strength for those they left behind.

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Nigerian Army Confirms Mosque Suicide Bombing in Maiduguri: 32 Injured, 2 Dead

The Nigerian Army has issued an official statement following a suicide bomber attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 24, 2025. The explosion occurred around 6:00 p.m. during evening prayers, leaving two civilians dead and 32 others injured. The bomber reportedly died at the scene, with two of the injured later succumbing to their wounds in hospital, while two remain in critical condition.

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) stated that troops, alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency, promptly secured the area and evacuated victims to General Hospital and Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri. The Army emphasized that heightened security measures have been implemented across Maiduguri and surrounding areas, especially during the festive season, to prevent further attacks.

The Army called on residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and exercise extra caution in crowded places and places of worship. Operation HADIN KAI expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security in the North East.

The statement was signed by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on December 25, 2025.

Four Islamic Movement Members Laid to Rest in Zaria After FCT Court Orders Release of Bodies

Thousands of mourners gathered in Zaria, Kaduna State, on December 24, 2025, for the burial of four members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) who were allegedly killed by soldiers during a pro-Palestine procession in Abuja earlier this year. The deceased — Kabiru Usman, Huzaifa Muhammad Sani, Jafar Abdullahi, and Uzairu Zakariya — were reportedly shot dead on March 28, 2025, during the annual Quds Day rally.

The bodies had been held by security agencies and medical facilities until an Upper Area Court in Abuja ordered their release. The court ruling, delivered by Hon. Gambo Garba, compelled the Nigeria Police and several hospitals, including National Hospital Abuja, Wuse General Hospital, and University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, to release eight corpses linked to the March crackdown. However, only four have been buried so far, while the IMN claims the remaining four are still being withheld despite the court’s directive.

The burial took place at Darur Rahma Cemetery in Dembo, Zaria, coinciding with 4 Rajab 1447 AH. The ceremony drew a large turnout of family members, supporters, and followers of IMN leader Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky. Maryam Sani Argungu, Chairperson of Mu’assatus Shuhada — a foundation supporting families of deceased IMN members — alleged that the victims were killed by gunshots inflicted by soldiers and vowed to continue the struggle for justice.

IMN members reiterated their commitment to peaceful and lawful campaigns demanding accountability, the release of the remaining bodies, and respect for the dignity and rights of the deceased and their families. Security agencies have not publicly responded to the latest allegations or comments regarding the withheld corpses.

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Condoles Victims Of Great Nigeria House Fire, Visits Balogun As Emergency Agencies Battle Inferno

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria House located in the Balogun area of Lagos Island, describing the incident as painful and distressing for victims and business owners affected by the disaster. The governor conveyed his condolences in a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

Sanwo-Olu disclosed that he personally visited the Balogun axis to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the damage caused by the inferno, stressing that the magnitude of loss suffered by traders and occupants could not be fully conveyed through written reports alone. According to him, witnessing the aftermath firsthand provided a clearer understanding of the pain, destruction, and economic setback faced by those impacted.

The governor commended firefighters, emergency responders, and relevant agencies for their swift and coordinated response, noting that their courage and dedication helped contain the blaze and prevented it from spreading to nearby buildings. He acknowledged that their timely intervention saved lives and reduced what could have been an even more catastrophic incident in the densely populated commercial hub.

Sanwo-Olu assured affected individuals that the Lagos State Government would continue to assess the situation and provide necessary support to victims as recovery efforts progress. Reaffirming the resilience of Lagos residents, he stated that the state has always demonstrated strength in moments of adversity and expressed confidence that the affected community would recover.

The fire outbreak, which reportedly started on the upper floors of the multi-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House, disrupted commercial activities around Martins Street and raised concerns over the safety of goods stored in the building, which is widely used for warehousing clothing materials. Officials from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that several floors were affected, though no casualties had been recorded as of the latest update.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, as emergency teams remain on ground to ensure safety and prevent further incidents. Business owners and workers in the area continue to await a clearer assessment of losses amid fears of significant material damage.