VDM Calls Out President Tinubu Over Failed Scholarship Promises to Nigerian Students in Morocco

Nigerian activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, over the deteriorating conditions some Nigerian students are reportedly facing in Morocco. The students, granted scholarships by the Nigerian government, were promised full support including a $500 monthly allowance, and were allegedly instructed not to work while studying.

In a video shared online, VDM revealed that some students have suffered serious consequences due to the government’s alleged failure to deliver on these promises. He claimed that one student died while another sustained a broken leg after attempting to work secretly to survive. He also highlighted the poor state of their accommodation, where up to five students were crammed into rooms meant for one, lacking electricity and proper study facilities.

VDM warned that if students continue to be neglected, they may resort to cybercrime, which could negatively impact Nigeria’s international image. He also alleged that attempts by students to reach out to influencers and media houses were met with demands for money before their stories could be shared.

The activist called on the government to intervene urgently and suggested that funds meant for students may have been embezzled. VDM’s video has received praise from fans who expressed outrage at the government’s inaction and applauded his advocacy for the students’ rights.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns about government accountability in managing scholarship programs and protecting Nigerian students abroad, and it adds to VDM’s history of activism, which includes previous solo protests addressing national insecurity issues.

From Harvard with love: Why Ijebuland Is Blessed With a Strong Choice.

Education has long been one of the defining strengths of the Awùjalẹ̀ institution in Ijebuland. The immediate past Awùjalẹ̀, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was widely respected not only for the length of his reign but also for his intellectual depth, discipline, and exposure. His solid formal education and broad worldview shaped a reign marked by courage, clarity, and principled leadership. Under him, Ijebuland benefited from a ruler who could engage confidently with governments, institutions, and global audiences while remaining firmly rooted in tradition. It is therefore unsurprising that education remains a central consideration as conversations continue about the next Awùjalẹ̀.
Within this context, Omoọba Abímbọ́lá Onabanjo’s educational background has drawn considerable attention (@omoobagg) . He holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Banking and Finance from Lagos State University, a discipline that provided him with strong foundations in economics, financial systems, and organizational discipline. Beyond this, he pursued advanced executive education at some of the world’s most respected institutions including Harvard Business School, the Wharton School, and Columbia Business School, where he refined his understanding of leadership, international strategy, corporate governance, and global capital markets. This level of exposure places him firmly within the long standing tradition of educated Ijebu leadership.

Rivers State House of Assembly Initiates Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara Amid Rift With Wike

The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn as the Rivers State House of Assembly formally began impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Oduh. During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, read a notice detailing allegations and claims of gross misconduct against Governor Fubara.

A total of 26 lawmakers reportedly signed the notice, which they claim aligns with provisions of the Nigerian Constitution. The Speaker announced that the notice would be formally served to Governor Fubara within seven days, in line with legislative procedures. Similarly, Deputy Governor Oduh faces a separate notice read by Deputy Majority Leader Linda Stewart.

The impeachment proceedings occur against the backdrop of a long-standing political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike, which continues to polarize Rivers State’s political structure. The All Progressives Congress (APC) emphasized that Wike’s potential involvement in the party would not override Fubara’s current office and leadership, underscoring the link between political roles and office-holding.

The ongoing crisis highlights the tensions within the state’s political elite, raising questions about governance, party dynamics, and the stability of Rivers State’s administration. The situation remains fluid as the assembly moves forward with the impeachment process, which could significantly impact the state’s political alignment and future leadership.

Babcock University Bans Beards, Dreadlocks, Body-Hugging Clothes, and ‘Hair-Pass’ Documents; Threatens Sanctions for Violations

Babcock University has announced strict new grooming and dress code regulations for students, ahead of the upcoming academic examinations, warning that violations will attract disciplinary action. The university’s Vice President for Student Development, Olanivi Arije, stated that all so-called “hair passes” — documents allegedly permitting unapproved hairstyles — are now nullified and illegal. Students in possession of these passes are directed to discontinue their use immediately, as relying on them will result in investigation and sanctions.

Under the revised regulations, male students are prohibited from wearing voluminous or unkempt hair, beards, or dreadlocks, while female students must avoid extreme, indecent, or inconsistent hairstyles. In addition, dress restrictions include body-hugging clothes, sleeveless tops, sagging or baggy trousers, walk-out wear, bubu, dansiki, joggers, and sportswear, which are not permitted on campus during certain periods. Tying scarves to official academic or corporate wear is also banned at designated times.

The university emphasized that all students are expected to fully comply with these rules at the start of the second semester in January. The management stressed that excuses, appeals, or ignorance will not be entertained, and violators will face inevitable disciplinary consequences.

This policy aims to enforce discipline, uniformity, and decorum on campus, ensuring that students maintain a professional and appropriate appearance during academic activities. The announcement has sparked discussion among students and social media users, some of whom expressed concern over the strictness of the rules, while others support the move as a step toward maintaining institutional standards.

Babcock University’s move highlights the growing trend among educational institutions in Nigeria to regulate student grooming and dress codes, balancing individual expression with campus decorum and institutional expectations.

Libya Arrests Nigerian Woman and Ghanaian Husband Over Alleged Torture and Starvation of Orphaned Child to Death

Libyan authorities have arrested a Nigerian woman and her Ghanaian husband over allegations that they tortured and starved an orphaned child to death in Tripoli. According to reports, the child’s biological mother died under questionable circumstances approximately two years ago, leaving the boy in the care of the couple.

Police sources revealed that the suspects subjected the child to prolonged abuse, neglect, and starvation, ultimately resulting in his death. The arrest, carried out on January 7, 2025, follows ongoing investigations into the incident, with Libyan authorities yet to disclose full details of the charges or the suspects’ identities.

The case has sparked outrage on social media, with witnesses identifying the couple and condemning their alleged actions. Activists, including prominent anti-human trafficking campaigner Yakubu Oyiza Hope, expressed shock and dismay at the cruelty inflicted on the orphan, while welcoming the swift intervention of Libyan authorities.

The incident underscores the vulnerability of orphaned children and the need for strict oversight of guardianship, particularly in foreign countries. Investigations are ongoing, and the Libyan government has pledged to ensure that justice is served.

The tragic event has drawn international attention and calls for heightened child protection measures in Libya, highlighting the urgent need to combat abuse and neglect against minors.

Former Ghana Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta Detained by U.S. Immigration Authorities Amid Pending Status Petition

Ken Ofori-Atta, former Minister of Finance for Ghana, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as authorities review the status of his stay in the United States. The detention comes in the context of a pending petition for adjustment of status, a standard legal process that allows individuals to remain in the U.S. beyond their visa validity.

Ofori-Atta’s legal team, Minkah-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce Cathline & Partners, confirmed that the former minister is cooperating fully with ICE, and they expressed confidence that the matter will be resolved expeditiously. ICE has not provided further comment, and there are no criminal allegations linked to the detention.

The legal petition is a common procedure under U.S. immigration law, often used by individuals seeking to change or extend their residency status. Ofori-Atta, a high-profile former government official, is awaiting the formal resolution of this petition while complying with standard U.S. immigration processes.

Authorities and his legal team have emphasized that Ofori-Atta is a law-abiding individual, and the detention does not imply wrongdoing. The case highlights the importance of legal procedures for foreign nationals residing in the United States and underscores that immigration reviews are separate from any allegations of criminal activity.

This development has drawn attention due to Ofori-Atta’s prominent role in Ghana’s government and the broader implications of immigration status enforcement for high-profile individuals.

Amnesty International Condemns Arbitrary Arrest of Activist Abubakar Musa by Nigerian Police in Abuja

Amnesty International has strongly condemned the arrest of Nigerian activist Abubakar Salim Musa by the police in Abuja, describing it as a clear abuse of power and a violation of the right to freedom of expression. Musa, a young social media user, was reportedly tracked and monitored by officers attached to the Gusau Central Police Command, with no formal invitation, complaint, or allegation communicated to him prior to his detention.

According to reports, Musa was abducted by heavily armed security personnel at Sounders Suites in Apo Legislative Quarters, Zone E, and detained at the notorious ‘Abattoir’ police detention center, where past detainees have allegedly faced torture. His family and lawyers were initially denied information about his whereabouts, raising concerns about arbitrary detention practices.

Amnesty International emphasized that Musa’s arrest is unlawful, noting that criticism of government officials is a protected right under international law. The human rights body called for his immediate and unconditional release, stating:

> “No one should be punished for criticizing a government official. Abubakar Salim did not commit any crime and his arrest shows clear abuse of power.”



The organization also highlighted a troubling trend in Nigeria, where young people face harassment, threats, and detention for expressing opinions online. Amnesty warned that such actions undermine the rule of law and violate international human rights standards, stressing that social media criticism alone cannot justify police detention.

This case raises broader concerns about freedom of expression in Nigeria and the increasing risks faced by activists and young citizens who hold government officials accountable online. Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to respect the rights of individuals to dissent, urging legal reforms and protective measures for those exercising their fundamental freedoms.

Trump Announces Venezuela Will Buy Only American-Made Products From New Oil Deal Funds

U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that Venezuela will use proceeds from a newly agreed oil deal to purchase exclusively American-made products, strengthening economic ties between the two countries. The announcement was made via Trump’s Truth social media platform, where he outlined that the purchases will span several key U.S. industries, including agriculture, medicines, medical devices, and energy infrastructure equipment to improve Venezuela’s electric grid and energy facilities.

Trump framed the agreement as a strategic move that positions the United States as Venezuela’s principal commercial partner, describing it as a “wise choice” benefiting both nations. The oil deal allows Venezuela to export $2 billion worth of crude oil to the U.S., diverting supplies away from China and helping Caracas avoid production cuts caused by export restrictions and storage bottlenecks.

The agreement comes amid heightened U.S. pressure on Venezuela, which previously included sanctions and a blockade on oil exports starting in mid-December 2025. The deal also reflects compliance by Venezuelan authorities with U.S. demands to open the oil sector to American companies, signaling a potential shift in U.S.–Venezuela relations after months of tension.

This arrangement is expected to boost U.S. exports, support key domestic industries, and expand U.S. influence in the South American energy market, while providing Venezuela access to critical products and technology to modernize its energy infrastructure.

Trump Orders U.S. Withdrawal From 66 International Organizations, Including 31 UN Bodies

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the United States to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including 31 United Nations bodies and 35 non-UN entities. The decision, part of Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, follows a review mandated under Executive Order 14199 on February 4, 2025, which tasked the Secretary of State with evaluating U.S. participation in all international intergovernmental organizations, conventions, and treaties receiving American support.

According to the memorandum, the Secretary of State submitted findings, which were reviewed by the president and Cabinet, leading to the determination that continued membership in these organizations no longer aligns with U.S. interests. The memorandum instructs all executive departments and agencies to take “immediate steps” to implement withdrawals where legally permissible, including ceasing participation or funding for affected UN bodies.

The withdrawal list encompasses a wide array of policy areas, from climate change, energy, and environmental conservation to human rights, peacebuilding, democracy promotion, and cybersecurity. Notable non-UN organizations affected include the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, International Renewable Energy Agency, International Union for Conservation of Nature, and the Global Counterterrorism Forum.

UN entities affected include major offices and programs such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, UN Women, UN Population Fund, UN Conference on Trade and Development, UN Peacebuilding Fund, UN Oceans, and the UN University system.

Trump emphasized that the review is ongoing, and additional organizations or agreements may be targeted in the future. The memorandum clarifies that this directive does not override existing legal authorities or budgetary controls and does not create enforceable legal rights for any party.

The announcement marks one of the largest U.S. withdrawals from international institutions in modern history, reflecting a strategic pivot toward national sovereignty, cost reduction, and reevaluation of multilateral commitments. The State Department will oversee implementation and provide additional guidance to federal agencies.

DSS Deploys 50+ Operatives to Kuje Prison Amid Malami Bail in N8.7B Money Laundering Case

The Department of State Services (DSS) has deployed more than 50 operatives to the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Abuja, following the granting of bail to former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami. The deployment, which involved a convoy of six Toyota Hilux vans, reportedly aims to prevent Malami from evading ongoing investigations linked to terrorism financing, despite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charging him primarily with money laundering.

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted Malami bail on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, with conditions including ₦500 million surety bonds, ownership of landed property in highbrow Abuja districts such as Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, and deposit of travel documents with the court. Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife Bashir Asabe face a 16-count charge for allegedly laundering ₦8.7 billion. He was barred from leaving the country without prior court approval.

Sources described a tense atmosphere at Kuje Prison, with DSS operatives taking strategic positions around the facility, monitoring all entries and exits, and enforcing heightened security measures. The intense deployment indicates the sensitive nature of the case and the perceived risks surrounding Malami’s custody.

Background context reveals that Malami’s legal and financial activities have previously intersected with terrorism financing investigations under Operation Service Wide (OSW), led by retired Army General Danjuma Ali-Keffi. Launched in 2021, OSW sought to dismantle financial networks supporting Boko Haram. The operation identified alleged links between some high-profile Nigerians—including former Army Chiefs Tukur Yusuf Buratai and Faruk Yahaya, former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, and Malami—and suspects connected to terrorism financing.

Ali-Keffi clarified that his revelations did not accuse Malami or others of terrorism financing but highlighted connections identified during investigations. He alleged that Malami interfered with OSW by removing a senior prosecution lawyer who refused to compromise on evidence against 48 terrorism financing suspects, potentially redirecting cases toward money laundering charges under the EFCC’s supervision.

The DSS deployment at Kuje Prison, combined with strict bail conditions, underscores the high stakes surrounding Malami’s trial. The case exemplifies the intersection of corruption, terrorism financing, and accountability in Nigeria, with multiple agencies maintaining vigilance over proceedings involving senior political and security figures.

DSS Deploys 50+ Operatives to Kuje Prison Amid Abubakar Malami Bail in N8.7B Money Laundering Case

The Department of State Services (DSS) has deployed over 50 operatives to Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Abuja, placing the prison under heavy security following the bail granted to former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami. The move is reportedly a precautionary measure to ensure Malami does not evade investigations related to terrorism financing, despite the fact that the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) focus on money laundering.

Malami, currently remanded at Kuje Prison, was granted bail on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Bail conditions include ₦500 million surety bonds, ownership of landed property in highbrow districts such as Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, deposit of travel documents, and an absolute ban on leaving Nigeria without prior court permission. The bail hearing was part of a 16-count charge filed against Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife Bashir Asabe, collectively accused of laundering ₦8.7 billion.

Sources describe a tense atmosphere at Kuje, with DSS operatives stationed strategically, monitoring all entries and exits, using approximately six Toyota Hilux vans to maintain control over the prison perimeter. The deployment highlights the critical nature of the ongoing investigation.

Background reports indicate that Malami’s legal and financial activities have previously intersected with broader terrorism financing investigations led by retired Nigerian Army General Danjuma Ali-Keffi under Operation Service Wide (OSW). The operation, initiated in 2021, aimed to track financial networks linked to Boko Haram and uncovered alleged links between some high-profile officials—including former Army Chiefs Tukur Yusuf Buratai and Faruk Yahaya, as well as Malami and former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele—and suspects arrested for terrorism financing.

Ali-Keffi clarified that he was not accusing these officials of terrorism financing but stated that investigations revealed connections between them and some suspects. He also alleged that Malami had interfered with the OSW investigation by removing a senior prosecution lawyer who had resisted compromises on cases involving 48 terrorism financing suspects.

The DSS deployment, combined with the stringent bail conditions, reflects the high stakes and sensitivity surrounding Malami’s ongoing trial and the broader investigations into the alleged misuse of funds tied to insurgent activities.

The unfolding situation has drawn attention to the intersection of high-level corruption, terrorism financing, and law enforcement accountability in Nigeria, signaling the continued involvement of multiple agencies in overseeing cases with national security implications.

ICPC Rejects Dangote’s Petition Withdrawal, Continues Probe of Ex-NMDPRA Chief Farouk Ahmed

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that it will continue investigating allegations of corruption against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), despite the withdrawal of a petition by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

Dangote initially filed the petition in December 2025, accusing Ahmed of corruption, including the alleged misappropriation of public funds and spending approximately $5 million on his children’s education in Switzerland, despite lacking a verifiable lawful income to support such expenditure. The allegations sparked nationwide outrage and intensified scrutiny of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

On January 5, 2026, Dangote’s legal team, led by Dr. O.J. Onoja, SAN, formally withdrew the petition, citing that another law enforcement agency had assumed responsibility for investigating the matter. However, the ICPC rejected the withdrawal, emphasizing that once a petition alleging corruption is received and an investigation commences, the process cannot be terminated at the discretion of the petitioner—particularly in cases of public interest and alleged abuse of office.

In a press statement, ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey stressed that the commission’s investigation would proceed in line with its statutory mandate to ensure transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The ICPC also highlighted that the inquiry serves the interest of the Nigerian people and cannot be halted simply because the petitioner withdraws.

Following the accusations, Farouk Ahmed resigned from his position as NMDPRA Chief Executive, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed a successor. ICPC had earlier summoned Dangote to appear before a special panel of investigators in Abuja regarding his petition. Dangote had publicly criticized Ahmed’s alleged spending during a media briefing on December 14, 2025, highlighting the contrast between such expenditure and the economic struggles of ordinary Nigerians amid inflation and rising fuel prices.

The ICPC’s decision to continue its probe underscores the agency’s commitment to holding public officials accountable, regardless of a petitioner’s withdrawal, and signals a robust approach to anti-corruption enforcement in Nigeria.

Toronto Police Charge Nigerian-Canadian Babatunde Afuwape With First-Degree Murder of University of Toronto Student

Toronto Police have arrested and charged 28-year-old Nigerian-Canadian Babatunde Afuwape in connection with the fatal shooting of Shivank Avasthi, a 20-year-old third-year student at the University of Toronto. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, along the Highland Creek Trail near Old Kingston Road, where Avasthi was found with a gunshot wound and pronounced dead at the scene.

Police described the killing as planned and deliberate, noting that the accused and the victim were likely strangers. Officers responded to a report of “unknown trouble” around 3:34 p.m., but Afuwape had already fled the scene. The investigation revealed no immediate motive for the shooting, but authorities are actively seeking witnesses who may have seen the suspect near the trail or the campus on that day.

Detective Sergeant Stacey McCabe of the Homicide and Missing Persons Unit called the incident “deeply tragic”, highlighting Avasthi as a bright international student from India with a promising future. She also emphasized the fear and concern the shooting caused among students, staff, and local residents, reassuring the community that the suspect is now in custody.

Afuwape, a resident of Toronto, was scheduled to appear before the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on January 6, 2026. Investigators continue to appeal to the public for additional information to support the ongoing investigation.

This case underscores rising concerns about public safety around urban trails and campus areas in Toronto, and the police have reassured the public of their commitment to solving the crime and preventing further incidents.

Oyo Police Warn of Rising Drowning Cases, Urge Churches, Hotels, and Parents to Ensure Safety

The Oyo State Police Command has raised serious concerns over a recent surge in drowning incidents across the state, urging religious organizations, hotels, recreational facilities, and parents to adopt strict safety measures. The advisory, issued on January 8, 2026, emphasizes that negligence around rivers, dams, wells, swimming pools, and other water bodies has led to avoidable deaths.

In a statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer, church leaders were specifically warned to ensure that worship centers near natural water bodies provide adequate supervision during religious activities, discouraging unsupervised access by children. Hotel and resort operators were also reminded of their legal and moral responsibilities to maintain safe premises, with swimming pools clearly marked, supervised, and equipped with functional rescue tools. Trained instructors, lifeguards, and swimming tutors were encouraged to reduce drowning risks.

Parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor children around water, including wells and rivers, and ensure that all wells at home are securely covered and access restricted. Damaged or corroded covers should be repaired immediately to prevent tragedies.

Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, described the loss of lives through drowning as unacceptable and avoidable, calling for collective responsibility in ensuring public safety. The police urged residents to remain vigilant, report emergencies promptly, and continue supporting the force in protecting lives and property across Oyo State.

This alert underscores the importance of proactive safety measures, particularly in communities near natural water bodies, and highlights the role of institutions and parents in preventing drowning accidents.

Nigerian Army Raids Plateau Kidnappers’ Hideout, Neutralizes Suspects After Soldier Attack

Troops of the Nigerian Army under 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have successfully raided a kidnappers’ hideout near Lantom Village, Kadarko District, Plateau State, neutralizing armed suspects following an attempted attack on a soldier during the operation.

According to a statement by Captain Joshua Atu John, Acting Military Information Officer, the raid was conducted on January 6, 2026, based on intelligence about the gang terrorizing local communities. The initial operation led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of weapons including a locally fabricated rifle, an axe, and a machete. Two gang members reportedly escaped with an AK-47 rifle.

The arrested suspects later revealed the location of a hidden cache of arms and ammunition. However, while guiding troops to the cache, they attempted to disarm a soldier in a bid to escape, and were decisively neutralized. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fugitives and recover the missing weapon.

Major General EF Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of JTF OPEP, commended the troops for their courage and professionalism, emphasizing the army’s commitment to restoring peace and protecting lives and property in Plateau State. Citizens were urged to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

This operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s proactive approach against kidnapping and armed robbery, demonstrating increased operational readiness and collaboration with local communities to maintain regional security.

Chinese Hacking Group ‘Salt Typhoon’ Breaches U.S. House Committee Emails

A Chinese-linked hacking group, nicknamed Salt Typhoon, has reportedly compromised email systems used by staff members of several U.S. House of Representatives committees, including the House China Committee and panels overseeing foreign affairs, intelligence, and the armed services. The breach, detected in December, targeted committee aides, though it remains unclear whether lawmakers’ emails were accessed.

The cyberattack is part of ongoing allegations of espionage linked to Chinese intelligence, which has previously been accused of intercepting communications involving U.S. politicians and officials. In response, Beijing has denied involvement, while U.S. authorities have imposed sanctions on individuals and companies allegedly connected to Salt Typhoon’s operations.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has declined to comment, and the White House and the targeted committees have yet to issue official statements. Cybersecurity experts note that U.S. lawmakers and staffers have frequently been targeted for espionage, with prior incidents reported in the Senate and among senior officials.

Salt Typhoon’s alleged operations highlight persistent vulnerabilities in U.S. government digital communications and underscore the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and China.

Imo Police Arrest Suspect in Viral Defilement Case, Detain Officers for Misconduct

The Imo State Police Command has arrested 24-year-old Wisdom Onyeaju, following a widely circulated video alleging his involvement in a defilement case that sparked public outrage on social media. Onyeaju, a native of Umuekweye, Irete, in Owerri West Local Government Area, was taken into custody after the victim’s family provided credible information to authorities.

The suspect is currently held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and is undergoing a thorough investigation. Upon completion of the investigation, Onyeaju is expected to be arraigned in court and formally charged.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, confirmed that the case revealed alleged professional misconduct by some officers initially handling the matter. These officers have been identified, detained, and will face an orderly room trial scheduled to begin on Monday, January 12, 2026, in line with police regulations.

The Imo State Police Command emphasized its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and accountability, assuring the public that justice will be served and that all investigative steps are being taken to address both the alleged crime and misconduct within the force.

Venezuela Confirms 100 Dead After U.S. Operation Captures President Maduro

Venezuelan authorities have confirmed that at least 100 people died during the U.S. military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday, January 4, 2026. The announcement came from Venezuela’s Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, marking the first official death toll since the controversial raid.

Cabello revealed that a significant portion of Maduro’s security team was killed “in cold blood,” while Cuban military and intelligence personnel operating in Venezuela were also reportedly killed. Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, sustained a head injury, and Maduro himself suffered a leg injury during the attack.

The operation occurred amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, following years of sanctions, political disputes, and accusations of governance and security failures by Maduro’s administration. The U.S. justified the raid by citing Maduro’s alleged involvement in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, claiming his government shipped tons of cocaine into the United States.

Following the operation, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, asserting that American investment originally built the infrastructure now under Maduro’s administration. Maduro, speaking publicly for the first time after being taken to the U.S., described himself as “kidnapped” and denied all allegations.

Venezuelan authorities have declared a week of mourning for the military personnel killed, describing them as “courageous” for their role in defending the country. The operation has further strained international relations and intensified scrutiny on U.S. foreign interventions in Latin America.

Oyo Police Reveal How 12 Bandits Killed Five Forest Guards in Oloka Village Attack

The Oyo State Police Command has provided new details on the deadly attack on the National Forest Rangers’ Office in Oloka Village, Ikoyi-Ile, which resulted in the deaths of five forest guards on the night of January 6, 2026.

According to the police, around 11:30 p.m., approximately 12 armed assailants emerged from adjoining bushes and opened sporadic gunfire on the Rangers’ Office before fleeing the scene. The police clarified that the surrounding community was not targeted during the attack.

DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, led security agency heads and the National Forest Rangers’ Commandant in conducting an on-the-spot assessment. The police reassured residents that swift deployment of operatives prevented further escalation.

Additional measures include reinforcing personnel, deploying intelligence officers, tactical teams, and mobile units to enhance surveillance, gather intelligence, and ensure rapid response. Investigations are ongoing, with preliminary leads already emerging, while the remains of the slain officers have been deposited and the crime scene forensically examined.

The Oyo Police Command called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid investigations. The Commissioner of Police also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for his support, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting lives and property and bringing the attackers to justice.

Zamfara Govt Accuses Defence Minister Matawalle of Using NSA Office to Target Opposition Figures

The Zamfara State Government has accused the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, of allegedly using the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to intimidate and harass opposition figures in the state. The claim was made in a press statement by Sulaiman Bala Idris, spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, highlighting concerns over the politicisation of national security institutions.

The government alleged that Saleem Abubakar, a Technical Assistant in the Zamfara Governor’s office, was abducted in Abuja by operatives linked to the NSA without an arrest warrant. According to the statement, Abubakar was moved between undisclosed locations, raising fears of a deliberate attempt to conceal his whereabouts.

Zamfara officials described the alleged actions as a dangerous abuse of power and a threat to democratic norms, warning that such incidents could tarnish Nigeria’s democratic credentials and international reputation. The statement urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure due process is followed, stressing that legal charges should be preferred over illegal abductions.

The state government vowed to monitor the situation closely, promising to pursue justice and hold accountable any parties involved in what it termed federal impunity. This development has intensified debates around the intersection of politics and national security in Nigeria, highlighting rising concerns over the misuse of security agencies for political purposes.