Witchcraft Accusations, Agwu Beliefs and Police Abuse in Imo State — How Extortion and Impunity Thrive

This opinion piece by Leo Igwe exposes how witchcraft accusations and beliefs surrounding Agwu rituals are being exploited by families, vigilantes and even police officers in Imo State to justify abuse, extortion and human rights violations. Using the case of 70-year-old Joseph Ottih and his family, the article details alleged police brutality, illegal arrests, destruction of property and collusion between relatives, vigilantes and the anti-kidnapping unit (Tigerbase). Igwe argues that witchcraft accusations are unlawful under Nigerian law, that freedom of religion is constitutionally protected, and that the police must enforce the law—not tradition or superstition. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) vows legal support for the victims, insisting that witch-hunting, ritual policing and religious bias within law enforcement must end.

RULAAC Accuses Lagos Police of Torture, Illegal Detention Over Civil Investment Dispute

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has accused the Lagos State Police Command of abusing power by illegally arresting, torturing, and detaining William Eze over a failed investment deal. RULAAC says the dispute is purely civil, yet police officers allegedly detained Eze without charge, forced him to sign an undertaking surrendering his business premises, and aided an illegal takeover of the company. The group also condemned the arrest and detention of Eze’s wife, who is only a surety, describing it as coercion and hostage-taking. A fundamental rights suit has been filed, with RULAAC demanding accountability.

#PoliceAbuse #RuleOfLaw #LagosNews

Iberekodo Primary Health Centre in Ibeju-Lekki Faces Severe Neglect, Putting Residents at Risk

Advocacy group Tracka has raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of Iberekodo Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. The facility, serving thousands, reportedly has a broken roof, leaking ceilings, no running water, and non-functional medical equipment, making it unsafe for patients and staff. Pregnant women, children, and other vulnerable residents are particularly at risk. The group calls on Lagos State Government, the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, and the Federal Ministry of Health to urgently renovate and equip the PHC.

#LagosHealth #IberekodoPHC #PublicHealthNigeria

Tinubu Laying Strong Foundation for Long-Term Growth — Information Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu is laying a solid foundation for long-term economic growth and shared prosperity. Idris made the statement while receiving members of the Grassroots Advocacy for Tinubu (GAT) 2027 during a courtesy visit, noting that the administration’s reforms are aimed at stabilising the economy and securing sustainable development for the future.

#Tinubu #NigeriaEconomy #GAT2027 #NigeriaPolitics

Nobel Committee Tells Trump: Peace Prize Can’t Be Transferred After Machado Hands Him Medal

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be transferred, shared, or reassigned, following an unusual moment in which Venezuelan laureate María Corina Machado handed her medal to U.S. President Donald Trump. Machado, winner of the 2025 Peace Prize for her advocacy for democratic transition in Venezuela, presented the medal during a White House meeting, calling it a gesture of gratitude. While Trump accepted the medal, the Committee stressed that only the physical object can change hands—the Nobel title itself remains permanently with the original recipient and cannot be passed on to anyone else.

Wahala at CAC: Private Jet Video, Emeka Offor Link Throw Registrar-General Magaji Into Fresh Controversy

Controversy is rocking the Corporate Affairs Commission as its Registrar-General, Ishaq Hussaini Magaji, comes under fire over social media posts showing him on a private jet allegedly sponsored by the Emeka Ufor Foundation. Insiders say the CAC has gone silent despite public backlash. The development revives earlier allegations that Magaji lifted a court restriction on OML 40-linked corporate filings tied to billionaire Emeka Offor. Critics question his accountability, lifestyle and possible conflicts of interest as neither the CAC, supervising ministry nor the Presidency has issued any official clarification.

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has announced the delivery of critical military supplies to Nigeria in support of ongoing counter-terrorism operations across affected regions of the country. In a post shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @USAfricaCommand, the Command confirmed that the delivery took place in Abuja on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Alongside a photograph of the shipment, AFRICOM tagged the United States Embassy in Nigeria, describing the move as a demonstration of the strong security partnership between both nations. The Command said the supplies were provided to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism and strengthen regional stability. As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government of Nigeria had yet to issue an official statement on the nature or scope of the military hardware and logistical support delivered.

Why Did the Trump Administration Freeze $129 Million in USDA Funds to Minnesota and Minneapolis Over Fraud Allegations, and Who Is Accountable for the Feeding Our Future Scandal?

The Trump administration has taken decisive action against Minnesota and Minneapolis, suspending over $129 million in USDA federal funding amid allegations of “widespread and systemic fraud.” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins cited repeated failures in federal program oversight, including mismanagement of programs like Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The decision follows revelations from the Feeding Our Future scandal, in which a Minneapolis nonprofit allegedly defrauded taxpayers of nearly $250 million intended to feed children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rollins described the fraud as “industrial-scale”, involving 78 defendants charged in what the Department of Justice calls the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the U.S.

In her letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Rollins highlighted additional alleged abuses in the Paycheck Protection Program, housing assistance schemes, and SNAP misreporting. Officials who resisted federal oversight and challenged USDA directives were also called out for enabling continued fraud.

As a result, all active and future USDA awards to Minnesota and Minneapolis—totaling $129.18 million—are suspended immediately. Authorities have 30 days to provide detailed payment justifications; failure to comply could extend the suspension. Rollins emphasized that this action represents the administration’s zero-tolerance policy on fraud, waste, and abuse, protecting American taxpayers and ensuring funds reach those who need them.

This unprecedented suspension raises urgent questions: How did fraud reach such scale in Minnesota’s federal programs? Who is responsible for oversight failures? Will federal authorities enforce accountability, and how will affected programs recover? The frozen funds underscore a growing national focus on transparency, stewardship, and integrity in public funding.

Amnesty International Condemns U.S. Withdrawal From 66 International Treaties, Calls Move ‘Reckless

Amnesty International has strongly criticized the United States’ decision to withdraw from 66 international organisations, conventions, and treaties, calling the move “a vindictive and reckless assault” on the legitimacy of the United Nations and the multilateral system.

In a statement, Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty’s Senior Director of Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, accused the Trump administration of deliberately undermining global cooperation and international law, including agreements on climate change, human rights, and gender equality.

She highlighted the withdrawals from critical bodies such as the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, warning that these actions could worsen global instability, deepen human rights abuses, and disproportionately affect marginalized communities worldwide.

Amnesty urged UN member states and international institutions to take immediate action to defend the multilateral system, preserve accountability, and protect human rights globally.

#HumanRights #UN #ClimateAction”

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.

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.

Did Anyone Try to Bribe the Judge in Malami’s ₦8.7 Billion Money Laundering Trial? Why the Former AGF Is Denying Influence Claims, Accusing EFCC of a ‘Media Trial,’ and Insisting on Judicial Integrity

Did anyone attempt to bribe or improperly influence the judge handling Abubakar Malami’s high-profile ₦8.7 billion money laundering case? Why did the former Attorney-General of the Federation feel compelled to issue a public denial? And is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducting a legitimate prosecution—or, as Malami claims, waging a “media trial” aimed at damaging his reputation?

Following a Federal High Court ruling in Maitama, Abuja, which granted bail to Malami, his wife, and their son, reports circulated suggesting that the presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, had raised concerns about attempts to compromise the court. In response, Malami strongly rejected any insinuation that he—or anyone acting on his behalf—sought to influence the judge in any form.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami described the allegation as “mischievous, false, and deliberately misleading.” He categorically stated that no member of his legal team, family, or associates approached or contemplated approaching the court for any favour. Any suggestion otherwise, he said, was reckless and intended to tarnish his public image.

But what exactly did the judge say? According to Malami, Justice Nwite’s remarks were a routine judicial warning delivered to all counsel and litigants appearing before the court—not a statement directed at him or his co-defendants. He noted that the judge is known for consistently cautioning lawyers against any attempt to contact him outside formal proceedings, as part of his commitment to judicial probity.

Why then did the controversy erupt? Malami accused the EFCC of “weaponising” a standard courtroom admonition and presenting it to the public as evidence of attempted interference. He argued that this narrative was crafted to prejudice public opinion and undermine due process rather than allow the case to be determined strictly on evidence.

“The proper place to prove allegations is in the courtroom, not in the media,” Malami said, reiterating that neither he nor his family had offered any bribe or sought any special treatment. He maintained that he respects the sanctity of the judiciary, emphasising both his status as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and his past role as the nation’s chief law officer.

What is at stake? The case involves serious allegations of money laundering running into billions of naira against Malami, his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and their son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami. During proceedings, Justice Nwite openly warned all parties not to attempt any personal approaches, stressing that legal representation—not backdoor contacts—is the only acceptable means of advocacy before his court.

As the trial continues, a critical question remains for Nigerians: is this a straightforward judicial caution being misrepresented for headlines, or does the dispute reflect a deeper battle between a former top legal official and the country’s anti-graft agency over credibility, due process, and public perception?

“Southern Kaduna Crisis: 138 Kidnapped, 16 Killed in Less Than Two Months — Communities Petition Governor Sani”

Communities in Southern Kaduna have submitted an urgent petition to Governor Uba Sani and top Nigerian security officials, highlighting a “silent and neglected crisis” that has left 138 people kidnapped and 16 others killed between late November 2025 and early January 2026. The petition, presented by Comrade Nasiru Jagaba, provides a detailed village-by-village account of the violence in Kauru Local Government Area, underlining the severe human toll on residents.
The worst-affected village, Kabari (Gobirawa), recorded 53 abductions and four killings, followed by Rumaya (28 kidnapped, 3 killed) and Nasarawan Kadage (29 kidnapped, 2 killed). Other villages, including Kajunga, Fadan Rishiwa, Darmanu, and Ningi Karku, reported similar abductions and deaths. Smaller incidents occurred in Rafin Iwa, Fagen Rawa, Unguwan Baka, and Zaman Chawai, showing the widespread nature of the attacks.
The petition emphasizes that the victims are not mere statistics but farmers, women, youths, and breadwinners whose lives have been shattered. It draws particular attention to a 30 November 2025 incident, in which the Chawai Youth Leader and six others were killed just meters from a military checkpoint, yet there was no immediate response from security forces.
The petition criticizes local authorities, highlighting the “continued silence” of the Kauru LGA Chairman and the absence of advocacy from state and national lawmakers, which has deepened the community’s sense of abandonment.
The community is calling for urgent action, including:
Immediate deployment of security personnel.
Intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts.
A public government plan to address ongoing insecurity.
An independent investigation into the November killings.
Accountability from elected officials.
While Governor Sani has promoted a “whole-of-society approach” to tackle insecurity, at the time of reporting, neither the Kaduna State Government nor federal security agencies had responded to the petition, leaving residents desperate for intervention.

BORNO POLICE RECOVER 912 ROUNDS OF AMMUNITION

The Borno State Police Command has recorded a major security breakthrough with the recovery of a hidden cache of ammunition in Maiduguri.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the discovery was made last Sunday when the Divisional Police Officer of Lamisula Division, acting on credible intelligence, led a team of operatives to the Kumshe Jamba Mari area of the metropolis.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was immediately deployed, and the area was secured before the safe recovery of nine hundred and twelve rounds of B32 API ammunition, calibre 7.62 by 51 millimetres.

The recovered ammunition has been secured, while investigations are ongoing to trace its source and intended use, as well as arrest those behind it.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, commended members of the public for providing timely information and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing.

He also urged residents to continue cooperating with the Police by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.

Nigerian Woman Doris Gomba Completes 27-Day Cross-Border Trek from Ghana to Lagos to Advocate for Orphans, Faces Challenges Across Togo and Benin

Nigerian activist, actor, and singer Doris Gomba Obarine completed a physically and emotionally demanding 27-day trek across West Africa from Ghana through Togo and the Republic of Benin to Lagos, Nigeria, to raise awareness about the plight of orphans. Motivated by her personal experience as an orphan, Obarine said the journey was aimed at amplifying the voices of children who lose their parents and challenging societal neglect.
During the trek, she faced language barriers, logistical challenges, and financial pressures, particularly in Togo and Benin, while navigating accommodation, border crossings, and local perceptions. Despite difficulties, she visited orphanages, donated to children, and shared words of encouragement.
Obarine described the journey as a foundation for her advocacy mission, emphasizing that the real work involves long-term support, skill acquisition, and empowerment for orphans. She also hopes the project will elevate her acting career, which has spanned nearly a decade.

#DorisGomba #OrphanAdvocacy #WestAfricaTrek #NigeriaNews #CrossBorderTrek #LagosNews #InspiringStories #OrphanSupport

Soludo Government Awards ₦229 Million Contracts for Two Hospital Gates in Anambra as Audit Flags ₦725m Financial Irregularities

The Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo has awarded contracts worth ₦229 million for the construction of two gates at General Hospitals in Okpoko and Fegge, SaharaReporters has revealed. A review of the Anambra State Open Contracting Portal shows that the projects, tagged “Solution Is Here Model Gate,” were awarded at an average cost of ₦114.5 million per gate.

According to the contract details, Crystal Dove Construction Limited emerged as the contractor for both projects. However, checks on the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) portal did not provide verifiable information about the company, raising transparency concerns.

The contract awards come amid growing scrutiny of Anambra State’s public finances following revelations in the state’s 2024 Audit Report. The report, issued by the Office of the Auditor-General, uncovered unresolved financial queries and alleged fiscal indiscipline totaling over ₦725 million across several ministries and parastatals.

Key findings include the non-retirement of ₦263 million released to the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) for consultancy services related to a proposed industrial city master plan and special economic zone licence. Auditors noted that there was no evidence of the master plan or licence for which the funds were approved, describing the situation as a violation of financial accountability and fiscal responsibility principles.

The audit also flagged missing government assets, including three vehicles—one Peugeot Panther and two Ford Rangers—that could not be accounted for by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

These revelations have intensified public debate over spending priorities, transparency, and accountability in Anambra State, particularly as large sums are allocated to infrastructure projects like hospital gates while unresolved audit queries and missing public funds remain unaddressed.

INTELLIGENCE-DRIVEN RAID: TROOPS OF OPERATION WHIRL STROKE STRIKE DECISIVE BLOW AGAINST CRIMINAL SYNDICATES RECOVERS ARMS CACHE IN TARABA

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have recorded a major operational success following a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation that led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum LGA, Taraba State.

The operation, conducted on 04 January 2026, was initiated after actionable intelligence was received regarding the movement of an associate of a notorious criminal kingpin, John Ngata. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, OPWS troops deployed at Zaki-Biam immediately established a snap roadblock along the suspected route. The suspect was successfully intercepted at Zaki-Biam without incident. Upon preliminary interrogation, the suspect voluntarily led the troops to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in Takum Local Government Area.

Subsequent exploitation of the location resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, comprising thirteen AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine AK-47 magazines, six hundred and ninety rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and quantity four hand grenades. Following the successful recovery, the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use and the troops safely withdrew to base.

The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, has commended the troops for their professionalism, swift response and effective utilisation of intelligence, which culminated in the disruption of a criminal supply chain and the recovery of lethal weapons.

Major General Gara reiterated his commitment to sustaining high troop morale by prioritising welfare, logistics support and operational readiness. He further appreciated members of the public for their continuous cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, noting that community support remains a critical enabler in the ongoing fight against criminality within the Joint Operations Area.

He urged residents to continue to provide timely and actionable information to security forces, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response, as Operation WHIRL STROKE remains resolute in ensuring peace, stability and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility. The Force Commander also expressed his appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to OPWS.

AHMAD ZUBAIRU ZUBAIRU
Lieutenant
Acting Media Information Officer
HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE
04 January 2026

Nigerian Army Busts Taraba Kingpin John Gata’s Secret Armoury, Intercepts Wife in Operation Whirl Stroke, Recovers AK-47 Rifles, Grenades and Hundreds of Ammunition

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have uncovered a major arms cache belonging to notorious Taraba-based criminal kingpin, John Gata, following the interception of his wife during a targeted intelligence-led operation. The arrest took place along the Amadu Village–Wukari–Kyado–Zaki-Biam route, with troops mounting a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam, where the suspect was apprehended without resistance.

According to military sources, the intercepted woman later led troops to her husband’s secret armoury hidden in Amadu village, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State. A thorough search of the hideout resulted in the recovery of 13 AK-47 rifles, 38 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and four hand grenades, confirming the scale of the criminal network’s firepower.

Army authorities disclosed that the armoury was immediately destroyed on-site to prevent further use by criminal elements or armed groups operating in the region. All troops involved in the operation reportedly returned safely to base, while the overall security situation in the area remains calm.

The Nigerian Army also noted that civil-military relations in the area remain cordial, with troop morale and operational readiness described as high. Confidence-building patrols and sustained security operations are ongoing to ensure lasting peace and prevent the resurgence of criminal activities in Taraba and surrounding areas.

Troops Recover Large Cache of 12.7mm Ammunition War Heads as Sustained Security Operations Continue

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have uncovered a significant cache of high-calibre ammunition in the Bulumkutu Railway general area in Maiduguri.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba says the recovery followed a sustained presence and follow-up actions after a recent cordon-and-search operation, conducted on the basis of actionable intelligence with multiple suicide bombers either neutralised or captured in the last week

At about 3:00 p.m. on 2 January 2026, troops received a distress call reporting the discovery of suspicious metallic objects inside a drainage channel in the Bulumkutu Railway area, upon their response a 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, some live 12.7mm round, as well as power banks concealed inside the drainage were recovered.

No casualties or unusual incidents were recorded during the operation. The general security situation remains calm and vigilance is being maintained in view of the unpredictable nature of the threat environment.

HQ OPHK once again urges members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious items or movements to security agencies, as collective responsibility remains key to sustaining peace and security in the North East.

Nigerian AGF Orders CAC Registrar Magaji to Cancel Fraudulent Filings in Jonah Capital and Houses for Africa After Comprehensive Review

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has directed the Registrar-General of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Hussaini Magaji, to cancel “fraudulent filings” affecting Abuja-based firms Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited.

The directive followed a thorough review of investigations, including reports from the Nigeria Police Force and a Special Investigation Panel (SIP), which found no criminal basis for charges against Ghanaian investors accused of fraud and forgery. The 26-count criminal case previously pursued by the police was discontinued.

Additionally, the AGF ordered the CAC to restore the companies’ shareholding and ownership structures to their prior state, reversing unauthorized alterations made during ongoing court proceedings. The AGF also instructed the Nigeria Police Force to investigate allegations of property destruction, intimidation, and assault linked to the companies and ensure security within River Park Estate.

The action underscores the AGF’s position that commercial disputes should not be criminalized and highlights the importance of proper investigative and administrative processes in corporate governance.