Tatiana Schlossberg, Granddaughter of John F. Kennedy, Dies at 35 After Battling Acute Myeloid Leukaemia

Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, has passed away at the age of 35. The family confirmed her death on December 30, 2025, describing the loss as devastating. Schlossberg, a journalist known for her work on climate and environmental issues, revealed in November 2025 that she was battling an aggressive form of cancer, with doctors predicting less than a year to live. She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in May 2024, shortly after the birth of her second child. Writing in The New Yorker, she chronicled her experiences with chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and the emotional challenges of her illness. Schlossberg’s parents are Caroline Kennedy, a U.S. diplomat, and Edwin Schlossberg. Her death marks another tragic loss for the Kennedy family, which has endured multiple high-profile tragedies over decades.

Nigerian Police Inspector’s Alleged Accidental Discharge Kills Man at Calabar Drinking Spot, Inspector Arrested

A 40-year-old man, Sunday Ejimot, was shot dead in Calabar, Cross River State, following an alleged accidental discharge from a police inspector’s service pistol. The incident occurred on December 29, 2025, around 1:40 pm at a drinking spot along Asimita Road, Ikot Ansa, where Inspector Atimbang Ojogwu, attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), was reportedly drinking with members of his community. The inspector allegedly forgot the pistol was already cocked and accidentally fired, hitting Ejimot in the neck. The victim was rushed to Navy Reference Hospital Mine but was confirmed dead on arrival. Authorities have disarmed and arrested the inspector, while the deceased’s body has been taken to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) morgue for preservation and autopsy. The incident has sparked concerns over police conduct and firearm safety in Nigeria.

PDP Accuses President Tinubu of Prioritizing Revenue Over Citizens’ Welfare as New Tax Laws Set to Commence January 1, 2026

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for insisting on the January 1, 2026 commencement of Nigeria’s new Tax Act, alleging that the administration prioritizes revenue generation over citizens’ welfare. The opposition party cited discrepancies between the harmonised version passed by the National Assembly and the version gazetted, claiming that some previously expunged provisions were allegedly reinserted. PDP called for an immediate suspension of the law’s implementation pending a full investigation into these alleged insertions. The party highlighted past economic decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidy, as evidence that the Tinubu administration often prioritizes fiscal considerations over public well-being. President Tinubu, however, maintains that the tax reforms aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal framework, harmonize the system, and support a structural reset without raising taxes. The PDP insists that ignoring public concerns reinforces the perception that the government values money over the people.

Lagos State Arrests 45 Beggars Across Alimosho, Agege, and Oshodi in Zero-Tolerance Street Begging Enforcement Operation

The Lagos State Government has arrested 45 beggars in Alimosho, Agege, and Oshodi as part of routine enforcement and mop-up operations across the state. The operation, disclosed by the State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, aims to enforce the state’s zero-tolerance policy on street begging, which is considered an environmental nuisance and a public safety risk. Seventeen beggars were arrested in Alimosho, twelve in Agege, ten more in a follow-up operation in Alimosho, and six in Oshodi. Wahab emphasized that street begging exposes individuals and road users to avoidable dangers and disrupts public order, stressing the state government’s commitment to maintaining compliance and public safety.

Bandits Attack St. Rita Catholic Parish House in Mararaba, Nasarawa, Stab Two Priests Amid Rising Insecurity Near Abuja

Armed bandits stormed the Parish House of St. Rita Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, in the early hours of December 30, 2025, injuring two priests. The victims, Rev. Fr. Comas Baye and Rev. Fr. Chris Pever, were rushed to Nativity Catholic Hospital in Abuja, where they are reported to be in stable condition. The Parish Priest narrowly escaped unharmed. The Abuja Grand Commandery of the Knights of St. John International condemned the attack as a barbaric assault on innocent clergy and called for urgent security measures around religious institutions. Authorities have been urged to investigate and apprehend the perpetrators to prevent further incidents amid increasing attacks on places of worship in the region.

Rivers State Police Warn Young Women Against Collecting Transport Fare and Failing to Show Up, Classifies Act as Punishable 419 Offence

The Rivers State Police Command has cautioned the public, particularly young women, against accepting transport fare from suitors or acquaintances under false pretences and failing to attend the agreed meeting. Police Public Relations Officer SP Grace Iringe-Koko explained that deliberately not showing up after collecting money constitutes “obtaining money under false pretence,” an offence punishable under Nigerian law, commonly referred to as “419.” The warning aims to deter deceitful behaviour and emphasizes that even seemingly casual actions in personal or online interactions can attract legal consequences if reported. The police reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing the law and protecting citizens from all forms of fraud.

BREAKING: Ex-Attorney-General Abubakar Malami, Wife, and Son Remanded in Kuje Prison VIP Cell Over Alleged ₦8.7B Money Laundering, Court Sets January 2 Bail Hearing

Former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami (SAN), his wife Hajia Bashir Asabe, and son Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami have been remanded at the VIP Segregation Unit of Kuje Correctional Centre following a 16-count money laundering charge totaling ₦8,713,923,759.49. The cell was reportedly refurbished by suspended police officer Abba Kyari. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused the defendants of using corporate entities and bank accounts to conceal illicit funds between 2022 and 2025. All three pleaded not guilty. Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter to January 2, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application, after the prosecution requested more time to respond.

Pellets of Death: Nigerian Air Force ‘Precision’ Airstrikes in Borno Kill Civilians, Destroy Over 50 Vehicles, Raise Concerns About Targeting Errors

Reports indicate that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes on December 13–14, 2025, in Mararaba, Borno State, targeting alleged ISWAP militants, killed six civilians, injured three, and destroyed around 50 vehicles. Victims included commercial drivers, fishermen, and farmers conducting daily business. Survivors claim they were falsely labelled as bandits, and airstrikes struck the same location twice, leaving lasting trauma.
Despite repeated inquiries, NAF has not officially addressed civilian casualties, though it had previously assured protection during operations. The Borno State government also confirmed attempts to obtain information from the Air Force without success. Historical data show NAF has repeatedly caused civilian casualties in prior airstrikes, raising questions about targeting accuracy and operational ethics. Families of victims are calling for accountability and justice.

Scholars and Activists Hold Special Dialogue on US Christmas Airstrikes in Nigeria, Debate Foreign Military Intervention, Sovereignty, and Security Implications

Civil society groups and scholars convened a special dialogue to examine the implications of recent US airstrikes in Nigeria, raising concerns about foreign military involvement, national sovereignty, and long-term security. The event, titled “US Airstrikes in Nigeria: The Politics of Protection and the Future of Security in Nigeria,” was organized by the Conflict Research Network (CORN) West Africa and The Africa TADLab Disruptions.
Professor Mojubaolu O. Okome, chairing the session, argued that US intervention aligns with broader American strategic interests, including control of resources, rather than Nigeria’s security needs. She warned of potential collateral damage and the long-term entrenchment of foreign military presence. Other participants debated the moral and strategic implications, with some cautioning that military action could instill fear among civilians, while others highlighted the challenges of opposing foreign intervention in protecting Nigerian citizens.
The dialogue aimed to foster critical reflection on foreign military engagement in Nigeria and its potential consequences as the country grapples with widespread insecurity.

BREAKING: Abiya Emerges Acting NNPP State Chairman in Kano

…as Dawakin Tofa Exco Submits Report on Dungurawa’s Sacking

Hon. Abdullahi Zubairu Abiya has emerged as the Acting State Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano State, following the sacking of the former State Chairman, Hashimu Dungurawa.

The appointment was endorsed by the NNPP State Executive Committee after an emergency meeting held at the party’s secretariat in Kano.

The decision was announced by Barrister Yusuf Mukhtar, the Assistant Legal Adviser of the party, who said Abiya’s appointment was in line with the provisions of the NNPP constitution.

Party sources said the development followed the submission of a formal resolution on the sacking and expulsion of Dungurawa by the Dawakin Tofa Local Government Executive Committee.

Earlier, the Dawakin Tofa EXCO, under the leadership of Hon. Abdullahi Ali Uban Iya Dawanau, transmitted the resolution forwarded by the Gargari Ward Executive to the state leadership of the party.

The resolution was adopted at the second executive meeting of the Gargari Ward, held two weeks after the general election, where Dungurawa was accused of anti-party activities.

After reviewing the report, the State EXCO endorsed the decision and approved Abiya’s emergence as Acting State Chairman.

Party officials said the move was aimed at restoring internal discipline, strengthening party cohesion, and repositioning the NNPP for future political engagements in Kano State.

In his response, the Ag. Chairman of the NNPP Kano State chapter Hon. Abdullahi Zubairu Imam Abiya said the party is will do justice to all manner of poeple and remain loyal to the national leader Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Kano State Governor Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Attends Funeral Prayers for Journalists Lost in Auto-Crash, Visits Survivors at FTH Gombe

...'Gombe Govt to Cover Medical Bills of Survivors, Assist with Funeral Expenses'

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has led a state government delegation to the funeral prayers of journalists who lost their lives in a tragic auto-crash.

The deceased were among journalists and media workers involved in the fatal accident that occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while they were returning from Kaltungo, where they had attended the wedding ceremony of a colleague.

The funeral prayer, held at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Emir's Palace, Gombe, led by Imam Aliyu Hammari and attracted a large turnout of sympathisers, including grieving family members, colleagues from the media industry and top government officials.

Among those in attendance was the Emir of Gombe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR.

A visibly saddened Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the demise of the seven journalists as a painful loss to Gombe State and the media profession, noting that the state had lost dedicated professionals who served with commitment.

After the funeral prayers, the Governor proceeded to the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, to personally assess the condition of the survivors who are currently receiving medical attention.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to God for sparing the lives of the survivors, while praying for their speedy recovery.

“We must thank Almighty God for sparing their lives, not because they are better than those who passed on, but because it was destined so. Our most important duty now is to continue praying for their quick and complete recovery. For those who lost their lives, we will not relent in praying for the repose of their souls, in view of the enormous contributions they made to journalism and public service,” the Governor said.

He extended the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their respective organizations and the entire media fraternity, urging them to accept the tragic loss as an act of God.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also announced that the Gombe State Government has taken over the full medical bills of all the injured victims, assuring that the government would provide every necessary support to aid their recovery.

“As a government, we will do everything within our means to support the victims and their families in this difficult time,” he assured.

During the visit to the Accident and Emergency Unit, the Governor was conducted round the ward by the Chairman of the Hospital Advisory Committee, Dr. Bukar Lakube and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, to assess the condition of the patients. He also extended financial support to other patients in the unit, to help cushion burden on them and their families.

The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau; the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Commissioners; and other senior government officials.

Man Allegedly Poisoned to Death in Kogi State as Wife Goes on the Run; Family Accuses Suspect, Police Launch Investigation

A man identified as Abdul Kadir Nagazi has reportedly died after being allegedly poisoned in Okene, Kogi State, sparking a police investigation and renewed demands for justice from his family. According to relatives, Nagazi fell critically ill shortly after eating a meal and was rushed to a hospital, where he later died. Family members claim medical personnel informed them that poisoning was suspected, although authorities have not officially confirmed the cause of death.
Nagazi’s wife, Favour Odoba, has been named as the prime suspect and is currently on the run. A cousin of the deceased, Abdulrazak Abdulrazeez, said the incident occurred after Odoba invited Nagazi to spend the night with her last Saturday. Family sources revealed that the couple had been married for nine years without children before Nagazi married a second wife, who reportedly gave birth to a baby boy last month—an event relatives believe intensified marital tensions.
During Nagazi’s funeral, Abdulrazeez publicly accused Odoba of responsibility for the death and alleged that Nagazi had spent over ₦2 million setting up a shop for her before his demise. As of the time of reporting, the Kogi State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the case, while the suspect remains at large. The family has appealed to law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to locate Odoba and ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged poisoning.

LPG Marketers Accuse Dangote Refinery of Blocking Gas Loading for Over One Month After Full Payment, Allege Product Diversion, Preferential Pricing and Financial Losses

Some Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) marketers have accused the Dangote Refinery of deliberately frustrating their operations by preventing them from loading LPG products more than a month after full payment was made. The aggrieved marketers told SaharaReporters that despite settling proforma invoices and meeting all financial obligations, access to the Dangote gantry has remained blocked, leaving many traders in severe financial distress. Several marketers said they borrowed heavily from banks to fund their allocations and are now burdened with high interest costs due to prolonged delays.

The marketers further alleged that LPG already paid for is being diverted by the refinery for the production of polypropylene, while independent traders are sidelined. They also criticised what they described as an inefficient and opaque loading system, claiming FAN tickets take weeks to process and that traders are restricted to loading only one truck every two weeks, often requiring insider connections. Additional complaints include alleged preferential pricing for consortium members, uncompetitive margins for independent marketers, the sale of Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) in US dollars, and pricing structures that make profitability nearly impossible for traders relying on bank loans.

Responding to the allegations, Dangote Group’s Chief Communications Officer, Tony Chiejina, dismissed the criticisms, stating that the refinery’s impact would become clearer over time and highlighting Nigeria’s improved fuel availability during festive periods. He also hinted at what he described as an impending “big revolution” in LPG, urging critics to be patient as the refinery’s long-term benefits unfold.

Tinubu Insists New Tax Laws Will Take Effect January 1, 2026 Despite Controversy Over Alleged Alterations, Urges Nigerians to Support Fiscal Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws will be implemented as scheduled from January 1, 2026, despite mounting controversy over claims that some provisions were altered after legislative approval. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, Tinubu said the reforms—some of which already took effect on June 26, 2025—are critical to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal framework and represent a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust tax system. He stressed that the laws are not designed to increase taxes but to harmonise the system, reset fiscal structures, and strengthen the social contract.
Addressing allegations that the gazetted versions of the laws differ from those passed by the National Assembly, the President acknowledged the public debate but dismissed calls for a suspension, stating that no substantial issue has been established to justify halting implementation. Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration would work with the National Assembly to resolve any identified discrepancies in the public interest. The controversy, sparked by claims from a House of Representatives member, has drawn criticism from opposition figures, the Nigerian Bar Association, and civil society groups, prompting the House to set up a committee to review and re-gazette the tax reform laws while investigations continue.

Tinubu Appoints EFCC Lawyer Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as Director of Public Prosecutions to Strengthen Federal Government’s Legal and Anti-Corruption Strategy

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of seasoned anti-corruption lawyer, Mr Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo, SAN, as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Federal Ministry of Justice. The appointment, announced on December 30, 2025, involves Oyedepo’s transfer of service from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the mainstream Federal Civil Service in what the government described as a decision made in the public interest. Oyedepo will replace Mr Abubakar Babadoko, who is set to retire after completing the mandatory eight-year tenure as a director on December 31, 2025. A law graduate of the University of Ilorin and alumnus of the Nigerian Law School, Oyedepo brings over 15 years of experience in prosecuting complex economic and financial crimes at the EFCC, where he also served as Head of the Monitoring Unit. He was part of the Federal Government’s legal team in the landmark P&ID arbitration case. The Presidency said his appointment is expected to reduce reliance on external legal counsel, strengthen prosecution capacity, and ensure greater consistency in the government’s legal strategies, particularly in high-profile corruption cases.

PDP Heads to Court as INEC Excludes Oluwole Oluyede From 2026 Ekiti Governorship List, Accuses Electoral Body of Bias and Partisanship

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to seek legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the exclusion of its candidate, Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, from the official list of contestants for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, described INEC’s action as further evidence of bias against the opposition party. The PDP maintained that INEC was duly notified of its governorship primaries, monitored the exercise, and issued reports confirming that the process complied with all legal requirements. The party also alleged that INEC initially provided nomination portal access codes before later blocking them close to the submission deadline, forcing a manual submission that was officially acknowledged. According to the PDP, there was no court order or formal challenge disputing Oluyede’s nomination, making his exclusion unjustified. The party argued that the safest and most lawful step would have been for INEC to include its candidate’s name pending any legal disputes. Warning that perceived partiality could undermine democratic credibility, the PDP said it had already begun legal proceedings to compel INEC to recognise its candidate and uphold electoral neutrality ahead of the 2026 polls.

Tinubu Government Denies ‘ADP4VIP’ Plot to Arrest and Detain Opposition Figures, Calls Allegations Fake and Baseless Disinformation

The Federal Government has firmly denied allegations that it established a secret programme known as “ADP4VIP” to arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition politicians in Nigeria. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described the claims as false, fabricated, and deliberately misleading. According to the government, the alleged programme—which purportedly involved a multi-agency task force comprising the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser—does not exist. The administration said the forged document behind the claims was designed to portray lawful accountability as political persecution, particularly targeting members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and constitutional freedoms, the government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association. It stressed that law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies operate independently and within legal boundaries. The government also warned Nigerians against the spread of misinformation and fake news as the 2027 general elections approach, cautioning that political actors may increasingly deploy disinformation for relevance. Despite accusations of a crackdown on opposition parties, the Tinubu administration insisted it remains focused on economic reforms, tackling insecurity, restoring investor confidence, and delivering measurable progress for Nigerians.

Anthony Joshua’s Old Video on Life, Death and Meaning Resurfaces After Fatal Road Accident, Sparks Emotional Reactions Online

An old video of Nigerian-British boxing champion Anthony Joshua reflecting on life, death, and the fleeting nature of material success has resurfaced online following his involvement in a tragic road accident on December 29, 2025, which reportedly claimed lives. In the resurfaced clip, Joshua spoke philosophically about mortality, stressing that wealth, fame, and career achievements ultimately lose significance in the face of death. Using his elderly grandfather’s condition as an example, the heavyweight boxer explained how priorities change with age and how work and status that once defined a person’s life can become meaningless later on. He emphasised that living to the best of one’s capabilities and appreciating life’s moments are what truly matter. The video has gained renewed relevance after the accident, prompting emotional reactions from fans, who described Joshua as thoughtful and well-spoken while expressing condolences to the victims’ families and support for his recovery. Many netizens said the clip serves as a sobering reminder of life’s unpredictability and the importance of valuing what truly matters before it is too late.

Nigeria Police Reiterate Abortion Is Criminal Offence For Both Man And Woman, Cite Penal And Criminal Code Provisions

The Nigeria Police Force has restated that abortion remains a criminal offence under Nigerian law, warning that both the woman and the man involved are liable to prosecution. The reminder was issued by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, in a statement shared on her official X (formerly Twitter) account. Adeh cited Section 232 of the Penal Code and Section 228 of the Criminal Code, which expressly criminalise abortion and classify it as a felony punishable by law. Beyond the legal implications, the police spokesperson also referenced moral and religious perspectives, quoting a biblical passage to emphasise the sanctity of unborn life. She urged Nigerians to respect the law, uphold ethical values, and avoid actions that could attract severe legal consequences.

EFCC Arraigns Bauchi Finance Commissioner Yakubu Adamu Over Alleged ₦5.8 Billion Money Laundering Linked To Phantom Motorcycle Contract

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged money laundering involving ₦5.79 billion. Adamu, a former Polaris Bank branch manager, was charged alongside Ayab Agro Products and Freight Company Limited on six counts under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The EFCC alleged that Adamu conspired with others to divert ₦4.65 billion obtained from Polaris Bank under the pretext of financing the supply of motorcycles to the Bauchi State Government—motorcycles that were never delivered. Investigators further claimed that funds were laundered through multiple accounts and individuals. Adamu pleaded not guilty to all charges, while the court ordered his remand in EFCC custody and adjourned the case to January 2, 2025, for ruling on his bail application.