What’s the Cost of a Merry Christmas? Azu Ishiekwene Reflects on Power, Politics and Personal Choices

In this reflective Christmas opinion piece, Azu Ishiekwene departs from conventional year-end predictions to examine the deeper personal, political, and social costs of seeking a “merry” Christmas in a turbulent world. Writing against the backdrop of a chaotic global year marked by political disruption, Ishiekwene curates and revisits some of his most unusual and thought-provoking articles published in 2025.
Through humour, satire, and introspection, he reflects on Nigeria’s everyday frustrations—such as incomprehensible airport flight announcements—and broader continental issues, including the rise of algorithm-driven populism around Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré. He questions the substance behind viral political hero-worship and warns against mistaking online fantasy for real governance and reform.
The article also takes a deeply personal turn as Ishiekwene honours mentors and colleagues who shaped his journalism journey, highlighting how small acts of faith and guidance can define a lifetime. From tributes to seasoned journalists to reflections on career choices, love, regret, and ambition, he underscores the idea that life is lived forward, not in hindsight.
Politically, Ishiekwene revisits his controversial analysis of Peter Obi’s political future, cautioning against alliances that could undermine long-term ambition. He closes with a sober reminder that Christmas cheer should not come at the cost of critical thinking, moral clarity, or personal authenticity—urging readers to celebrate thoughtfully as they step into the New Year.

Christmas Reflections: Northern Nigeria’s Journey from Unity to Division

On Christmas Day, Samuel Aruwan reflects on Northern Nigeria’s historical trajectory, highlighting the contrast between its once-promising unity and its current state of division. He recalls Sir Ahmadu Bello’s 1959 Christmas message, which emphasized religious tolerance, shared citizenship, and mutual respect as foundational principles for the region. This vision of “Work and Worship” promoted coexistence and a common purpose despite ethnic and religious diversity.
Aruwan traces the erosion of this unity to the late 1970s, when political maneuvering, economic frustrations, and sectarian ideologies began to weaken communal bonds. Ethno-religious conflicts of the 1980s and 1990s, followed by terrorism and widespread banditry in the 21st century, further fragmented society. Incidents such as the Kaduna clashes (2000), Jos violence (2001), terror in Maiduguri (2009), and the spread of banditry from Zamfara (2011 onward) illustrate the human and social costs, including mass displacement, poverty, and insecurity.
Aruwan emphasizes that restoring Northern Nigeria’s cohesion requires deliberate, courageous leadership at all levels—community, religious, and political. He calls for a return to religious tolerance, impartial law enforcement, and rebuilding of trust as essential steps toward reconciliation. The article concludes that Northern Nigeria’s redemption depends on acknowledging past failures and actively reconstructing a society rooted in mutual respect, security, and opportunity for all.

JUST IN: Organisers of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco are allowing supporters to enter stadiums for free after kick-off in matches where the stands are not full, a Confederation of African Football source told AFP.

Gov. Ododo Greets Christians at Christmas, Harps on Peace, Unity

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has conveyed heartfelt Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the State, describing the sacred feast of the Nativity as a solemn reminder of selfless love, meekness and devotion to the service of mankind.

In his message through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor reflected on the spiritual depth of the season, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ calls believers to walk in patience, forbearance goodwill and virtues that strengthen harmony and communal living.

Governor Ododo observed that the enduring lessons of Christmas remain vital to the growth of Kogi State, urging citizens to uphold the spirit of brotherhood, restraint and collective duty as pillars for lasting peace and progress.

He stated that his administration remains guided by these timeless ideals in the pursuit of good governance, public order, and the steady advancement of the state, anchored on inclusive policies and geared towards the well-being of the populace.

The Governor further assured that the security and welfare of the people remain topmost priorities of the government, pledging continued efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods.

He prayed that the joy of Christmas abide in every household accross Nigeria, rekindle hope in every individual and usher the people into a New Year marked by peace, diligence and shared prosperity.

Two North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine have requested to be handed over to South Korea

They sent a letter to a human rights organization in Seoul, asking for asylum:

“We firmly believe that we are never alone, and we consider the people of South Korea our own parents, brothers, and sisters. We have decided to surrender ourselves into their embrace,” they wrote.

South Korea’s constitution guarantees citizenship to all North Koreans, as Seoul does not recognize the DPRK.

Breaking News

The world is no longer ending today . Eboh Noah has told everyone to go back to their country and village . He revealed that after praying and fasting for 21 days , he pleaded with good to give his people time and God answered his prayer and postponed the rapture .

He will continue praying and building more arks till God give him a different day .

Moral lesson :! Till they catch one prophet, the rest no go learn . Do you know families packed bags , didn’t cook Christmas food cus of this guy ? Oh my Africa .

43-year-old man arrested for allegedly def!ling his 7-year-old niece in Imo

A 43- year- old man, Kelechi Nwosu, has been arrested for allegedly def!l!ng his sister’s 7-year-old daughter in Umuobi Umukam in Obollo Autonomous Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on December 20, 2025.

Activist and journalist, Chidiebube Okeoma, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, December 24, said the suspect was arrested by his kinsmen and handed over to Police at Isiala Mbano Divisional Headquarters from where he was taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, in Owerri.

Okeoma, who is the president of a human rights organization, Stand For Humanity Foundation, said medical investigations carried out at the Police clinic in Owerri on Tuesday revealed that the child was @bused.

The result of the medical investigations also revealed that the suspect transmitted a urinary infection on the minor.

The spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, who confirmed the arrest said that the suspect would be arraigned at the conclusion of the investigations.

FG Condemns Borno Mosque Attack, Intensifies Security Operations in Maiduguri

The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the bomb attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed five lives and injured several others. Vice President Kashim Shettima described the attack as a “despicable assault on innocent citizens” and emphasized that it would not weaken Nigeria’s unity or resolve to fight terrorism.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State. Additional tactical security teams are being deployed to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible. Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture to ensure the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

The vice president also extended condolences to the victims’ families, the Borno State government, and residents of Maiduguri. He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting lives, and maintaining stability. Federal authorities are working closely with state and local security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

The attack has also sparked emotional reactions on social media, with family members of victims sharing tributes. Shettima assured the public that security agencies are working round the clock to bring justice and prevent future attacks.

Ghanaian Authorities Arrest 48 Nigerians in Accra for Online Fraud and Romance Scams

Ghanaian authorities have arrested 48 Nigerians in a coordinated operation near Accra for involvement in various cybercrime activities, including romance scams, online investment fraud, impersonation schemes, and illicit online gold trading. The arrests were part of a broader effort to protect Ghana’s digital and financial environment from organized cybercrime.

The raid, conducted at night by the Cybercrime and Security Agency (CSA) in collaboration with the National Security and Ghana Police Service, took place in the Dawhenya area of the Ningo-Prampram Constituency. Among the suspects, 46 were men and two were women, all believed to be Nigerian nationals.

Seized items included 54 laptops, 39 mobile phones, a Starlink internet device, and eight MTN TurboNet routers. The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology & Innovations, Sam George, emphasized that Ghana welcomes legitimate business but remains vigilant against cybercriminals.

This crackdown follows similar actions earlier in the year, including the arrest of nearly 800 people in Lagos for online fraud, highlighting regional and international collaboration against cybercrime networks. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intelligence-led operations to ensure a safer cyber ecosystem in Ghana.

Lion King Broadway Star Imani Dia Smith Stabbed to Death at 25 in New Jersey, Boyfriend Arrested

Imani Dia Smith, a 25-year-old Broadway actress best known for her role as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King, was tragically stabbed to death at her residence in Edison, New Jersey. Authorities responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing on December 21, discovering Smith with fatal wounds. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Smith’s 35-year-old boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with her death and faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Officials stated that the incident was not random, as both parties knew each other prior to the attack.

Smith leaves behind her three-year-old son, parents, two younger siblings, and extended family. Her aunt, Kira Helper, described her as a “vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person” and a “true triple-threat performer.” A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral and memorial expenses, legal costs, trauma therapy for family members, and care for Smith’s son and pet.

The actress’s death has shocked the theatre community and fans worldwide, highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic violence. Smith’s mother works as a hairdresser in the film industry and was recently credited for her work on The Housemaid.

Islamic Cleric Says Muslims Can Eat Christmas Food Given by Christians, Debunks Myths

An Islamic cleric has addressed the ongoing debate on whether Muslims can consume food prepared for Christmas by Christians. Speaking in a trending video shared on social media, the cleric clarified that there is nothing wrong with Muslims eating Christmas food, dismissing claims that such food constitutes a sacrifice for idolatrous worship. He also emphasized that the use of the Gregorian calendar to fix Christmas celebrations does not amount to idolatry.
The cleric highlighted that those opposed to Muslims eating Christmas food due to the calendar should reconsider their use of other devices and systems tied to the Gregorian calendar, including international passports and mobile phones. His statements, shared by social media user @SameAsake on X, have sparked widespread discussion, with many Nigerians supporting the cleric’s reasoning and advocating religious tolerance and harmony.
The debate comes amid other Christmas activities in Nigeria, including Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State distributing food items to over 6,000 Christian widows and vulnerable persons, including internally displaced persons, to promote peace and inclusivity. However, incidents of crime, such as armed bandits seizing Christmas food in Kaduna State, highlight ongoing security challenges.
The cleric’s message reinforces unity and coexistence, encouraging Nigerians to view each other as brothers and sisters regardless of religion, and to celebrate shared values of generosity and goodwill during festive seasons.

ADC Calls for Prayers at Christmas, Warns Borno Mosque Bombing Threatens All Nigerians Regardless of Faith


The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a period of reflection, prayer and solidarity amid the country’s worsening security challenges. In its Christmas message released on December 25, 2025, the party expressed deep concern over persistent violence across the nation, with particular emphasis on the North-East.

The ADC specifically referenced the Christmas Eve bombing at a mosque in Borno State, describing the incident as a painful reminder that insecurity in Nigeria poses a threat to all citizens, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or region. The party urged Nigerians to pray for the victims of the attack, their families and the affected communities, stressing that violence anywhere in the country endangers everyone.

Beyond the bombing, the party highlighted the sacrifices of Nigerians who remain on duty during the festive season, including security personnel, health workers and other essential service providers. It noted that while many citizens celebrate with their families, these workers continue to safeguard lives and maintain public welfare, often at great personal cost.

Addressing broader national concerns, the ADC called for prayers for Nigeria’s recovery, urging divine intervention to end widespread suffering and insecurity. The party also appealed for leadership rooted in conscience, empathy and genuine love for the people, which it described as essential for national healing and unity.

The message concluded with goodwill wishes to Nigerians across the country, as the ADC extended its hope for a peaceful Christmas celebration and a better, more secure New Year for all citizens.

Tinubu Urged to Sack Finance Minister Wale Edun Over Alleged Poor Economic Management

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been called upon to immediately remove the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, over allegations of poor handling of Nigeria’s economy. The call was made by political activist Theophilus Abu Agada, who publicly criticised Edun’s performance since assuming office in 2023.
In a social media post, Agada described Edun as a “terrible manager of the economy,” arguing that Nigeria’s economic challenges have been poorly addressed under his leadership. He claimed that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, has been shielding the finance minister through what he termed a more competent and proactive performance at the apex bank.
Agada further accused President Tinubu of making a grave mistake by entrusting the nation’s economic management to someone he described as having “stale and outdated” knowledge of economic realities. He insisted that Edun’s continued stay in office is detrimental to Nigeria’s economic recovery and urged the president to act swiftly by relieving him of his duties.
The statement has added to ongoing public debates and criticisms surrounding the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, reforms, and appointments, especially amid rising inflation, currency pressures, and cost-of-living concerns across the country.

Five Killed as Helicopter Crashes on Mount Kilimanjaro During Medical Evacuation Mission

At least five people have been confirmed dead following a tragic helicopter crash on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania during a medical evacuation operation. The accident occurred on Wednesday evening along one of the mountain’s most popular climbing routes, as the aircraft attempted to rescue stranded patients on Africa’s highest peak.

According to Tanzanian police, the victims included two foreign nationals who had already been picked up during the medical evacuation, as well as a local doctor, a tour guide and the helicopter’s pilot. The aircraft reportedly crashed between Barafu Camp and Kibo Summit at an altitude exceeding 4,000 metres (about 13,100 feet), a notoriously challenging zone due to harsh weather conditions and thin air.

Kilimanjaro regional police commander, Simon Maigwa, disclosed that the helicopter belonged to Kilimanjaro Aviation, a company known for providing medical evacuation and other aviation services in the region. He noted that the company had yet to issue an official statement on the incident at the time of reporting.

Authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the crash, but investigations are expected to determine whether weather conditions, technical failure or other factors played a role. The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with high-altitude rescue missions on Mount Kilimanjaro, which attracts thousands of climbers annually and often requires emergency evacuations due to altitude sickness and injuries.

Governor Yusuf Felicitates with Kano Christian Community on 2025

.....Christmas, Urges Tolerance and Peaceful Co-existence.....

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has extended warm felicitations to the Christian community in Kano State and across Nigeria on the celebration of the 2025 Christmas, describing the season as a period of love, sacrifice, unity and peaceful coexistence.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Thursday.

Governor Yusuf said Christmas offers an important opportunity for reflection on the enduring values of peace, tolerance, compassion and selfless service to humanity, which he noted are essential for harmonious living in a diverse society like Kano State.

He urged Christians in the state to use the festive period to canvass for peace, unity and collective progress, while calling on all residents, regardless of religious or ethnic differences, to continue living together in mutual respect and understanding.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens and ensuring an atmosphere where everyone can freely practice his or her faith in peace.

Governor Yusuf also called on religious leaders to sustain the preaching of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, stressing that unity remains the strongest pillar for sustainable development in Kano State.

He wished Christians a joyful Christmas celebration and prayed for a peaceful and prosperous New Year for all residents of the state.

The governor further advised motorists to strictly observe traffic rules throughout the festive period and beyond to ensure safety on the roads.

Ghanaian Prophet Builds ‘Noah’s Ark’, Warns of 2025 Christmas Flood Despite Biblical Promise

A Ghanaian preacher, popularly known as Prophet Ebo Noah, has sparked widespread debate after completing the construction of a self-styled “Noah’s Ark” and warning that a catastrophic flood would begin on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. The prophecy, which first gained attention in August 2025 through a viral Instagram video, claims that a divine revelation instructed him to prepare for a three-year rainfall that would submerge the earth.

According to the prophet, the ark he built would serve as the only refuge when the foretold disaster strikes. His declaration drew significant attention and criticism, especially as it appeared to contradict the biblical account in Genesis 9, where God promised never to destroy the earth again by flood, symbolised by the rainbow covenant.

Hours before Christmas, Prophet Noah issued a final update on social media, stating that he had fasted and prayed for three weeks, called on people to repent, and interceded on behalf of Ghana and the world. Dressed in his signature brown sackcloth, he wrote that “whatever happens” was now in God’s hands, reinforcing his belief that events would unfold according to divine will.

The prophecy has generated mixed reactions across social media, with some followers expressing fear and concern, while others dismissed the warning as sensational and unfounded. The episode adds to a growing list of end-of-the-world predictions and apocalyptic prophecies made by religious figures across Africa, particularly during festive seasons.

The development also comes amid renewed public interest in doomsday predictions, following past claims by scientists and clerics about potential global collapse or the end of the world in the coming years. Despite the controversy, no scientific or meteorological authority has supported claims of a Christmas flood, leaving the prophecy firmly in the realm of religious belief and public speculation.

President Bola Tinubu tags Donald Trump to his tweet as he felicitates with Christians on Christmas

This is coming after the US President made allegations of Christian genocide in the country.

Sheikh Gumi Sues Two Facebook Users Over Alleged Defamation, Says False Threat Claims Endangered His Life

Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has instituted a criminal defamation case against two Facebook users, George Udom and Bello Isiaka, at the Chief Magistrate Court in Kaduna State over publications he says were falsely attributed to him and seriously damaged his reputation. The suit, filed on December 24, 2025, followed a Facebook post alleging that Gumi threatened Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, over ongoing military operations against bandits.

According to court documents, the defendants allegedly published a statement claiming that Gumi warned that the minister’s family in Zango Kataf, Southern Kaduna, would be eliminated if military offensives against bandits continued. Through his lawyer, Suleiman Lere, Sheikh Gumi categorically denied ever making or endorsing such remarks, describing the publication as malicious, reckless and deliberately crafted to portray him as a terrorist sympathiser and a threat to national security.

Gumi maintained that the false claim gravely harmed his standing as a cleric known for advocating peace, dialogue and restraint, while also exposing him to possible reprisals from security agencies and members of the public. His legal team warned that the era of hiding behind social media platforms to spread falsehoods and destroy reputations was coming to an end.

The criminal summons cited provisions of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017, under which the alleged offences attract serious penalties upon conviction. The case has further drawn attention to the growing problem of misinformation and defamation on social media in Nigeria, particularly against high-profile figures.

Sheikh Gumi, who has previously engaged armed bandits as part of peace-building efforts in northern Nigeria, reiterated that he stepped back from such engagements after the federal government designated bandits as terrorists in 2021. He stressed that while his past interventions were aimed at peace and economic stability, they exposed him to significant personal risks he is no longer willing to take.

VP Shettima: Borno Attack Will Not Break Nigeria’s Resolve

Vice President Kashim Shettima has condemned in strong terms the bomb explosion that claimed about five lives and left several others injured at a Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

A statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, Office of The Vice President indicates that the Vice President said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State following the incident.

In a statement on Thursday, the Vice President condemned the attack, assuring that the Federal Government is deploying additional tactical teams to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible for the terror attack.

"The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately," he said.

Senator Shettima expressed confidence that the security architecture currently in place would not only apprehend the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"We sympathize with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law," VP Shettima said.

He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration's commitment to national security, anchored in constitutional duty, remains unwavering.

"Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.

"This commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will continue to provide our security agencies with all necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms," he affirmed.

The Vice President added that the Federal Government is working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to ensure protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.