Is Nnamdi Kanu Being Illegally Detained? Nigerian Jewish Leader Visits IPOB Founder in Sokoto Prison, Rejects Terrorism Label and Demands His Immediate Release

Is the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), legally justified—or is it a violation of justice and human rights? This question has been reignited following a high-profile prison visit by Kohen Daniel Onuoha, a Nigerian Jewish cleric and spiritual leader of the Peace of Yahweh Synagogue and founder of Eastern Judaism, who met Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Facility on January 10, 2026.

Describing the visit as an act of spiritual and moral solidarity, Onuoha said he was accompanied by his wife and representatives of Jewish congregations in Nigeria’s former Eastern Region, whom he said “faithfully observe the Ten Commandments.” According to him, the visit symbolised years of prayers and sacrifices by his community for Kanu’s freedom.

“For over five years, we have remained steadfast in daily sacrifices and prayers to Elohim without interruption,” Onuoha said, adding that the prison visit reaffirmed his commitment to justice and liberty.

During the visit, the cleric directly challenged the legal foundation of Kanu’s continued incarceration, urging the international community, legal experts, and human rights organisations to examine what he described as questionable legal grounds for the case. He argued that Kanu’s prosecution was based on a repealed law, making the detention unlawful.

Onuoha also rejected the designation of Kanu and IPOB as terrorists, insisting that neither the separatist leader nor the movement had committed violent acts. “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not a terrorist, and IPOB is not a terrorist organisation,” he declared, adding that Kanu’s ordeal stemmed from the peaceful exercise of self-determination and his public criticism of alleged abuses by political elites, foreign interests, and local power structures.

He further contended that speech alone cannot justify criminal conviction, stressing that verbal expressions or broadcasts without evidence of violence should not result in imprisonment. Calling for Kanu’s “immediate and unconditional release,” the Jewish leader said such action was necessary to uphold justice and the rule of law.

Beyond Kanu’s case, Onuoha appealed for broader international intervention, arguing that Biafrans continue to face marginalisation, oppression, and violence. He commended U.S. President Donald Trump for what he described as efforts to protect Christians in Nigeria and urged increased global pressure on Nigerian authorities over alleged human rights violations.

In his closing remarks, Onuoha called on Kanu’s supporters, Biafrans, Jews, and human rights advocates to remain peaceful, resilient, and steadfast, expressing confidence that justice would ultimately prevail.

The visit raises urgent questions: Is Nnamdi Kanu’s detention legally valid? Has the terrorism label been misapplied? And will international scrutiny finally force a reassessment of one of Nigeria’s most controversial political prosecutions?

US Congressman Riley Moore Warns of Escalating Violence Against Christians in Nigeria, Cites ISIS ‘Convert or Die’ Threats and U.S.–Nigeria Security Cooperation

U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has raised fresh alarm over what he describes as a worsening campaign of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, citing threats from ISIS-linked groups demanding that Christians “convert or die.” Speaking on Newsmax TV, Moore said he visited Nigeria in December as part of a congressional delegation sent at the direction of President Donald Trump to assess security conditions and humanitarian needs.

Moore recounted harrowing testimonies from internally displaced persons (IDPs), including women who witnessed the قتل of their children, families torn apart, and unborn babies killed. He said these accounts point to targeted religious persecution, not random criminal violence. According to him, extremist groups—such as ISIS-affiliated factions and Islamist militants active in Nigeria’s Middle Belt—are deliberately attacking churches, Christian villages, and IDP camps.

The West Virginia lawmaker stated that U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation has intensified, claiming recent joint military actions, including a reported strike around Christmas, helped deter attacks during the holiday period. While some details of these operations have not been independently verified, Moore said discussions are ongoing to establish a broader strategic security framework to strengthen Nigeria’s military capacity, improve intelligence sharing, and close operational gaps.

Rejecting explanations that attribute the violence mainly to climate change or land disputes, Moore argued that the rhetoric and actions of extremist groups clearly show a specific focus on Christian communities. He acknowledged that Nigerians of all backgrounds have suffered but insisted that Christians face targeted persecution.

Human rights groups continue to document widespread insecurity in Nigeria involving Boko Haram, ISIS–West Africa Province (ISWAP), and armed militias, with debate persisting over the root causes of the violence. Moore said his conclusions are based on firsthand observations: “What is happening in Nigeria is Christian persecution,” he maintained, urging sustained international attention and support.

Israel Offers Intelligence Sharing to Nigeria to Tackle Insecurity, Protect Vulnerable Christian Communities – Envoy

Israel plans to support Nigeria in addressing insecurity and protecting Christian communities through intelligence sharing and strategic cooperation, according to Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman. The initiative, outlined by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizes working in partnership with the Nigerian government and respecting national sovereignty.

Freeman stated the support targets broader security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and violent extremism, not just threats against Christians. He highlighted Israel’s model of religious freedom, pointing to the thriving Christian population in Israel as an example.

Amid growing concerns over attacks on Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and northern regions, the Israeli involvement is intended as cooperation rather than unilateral action, with all sensitive operations guided by Abuja. The ambassador declined to speculate on potential U.S. unilateral interventions in Nigeria, emphasizing that Israel will act only with government approval.

The announcement comes as Nigeria continues to face threats from Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandits, with recurring calls for international support to safeguard vulnerable communities.

US Lawmaker Riley Moore Condemns ISWAP’s Fresh Threat Against Nigerian Christians After Adamawa Attack, Calls It Clear Religious Persecution

A United States lawmaker, Rep. Riley M. Moore of West Virginia, has strongly condemned a reported threat by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) against Christians in Nigeria, describing it as blatant religious persecution. Moore reacted to reports that ISWAP released an image of a Christian village in Adamawa State set ablaze, accompanied by a warning declaring Christians across Nigeria as “legitimate targets.”

In a statement shared on his official X account, Moore said the threat leaves no doubt that Christians in Nigeria are being targeted solely because of their faith. He rejected explanations that frame the violence as being driven by land disputes or climate-related factors, insisting it is persecution based on religion.

According to reports, ISWAP allegedly warned Christians to convert to Islam or face death, stating they could “spare their blood” by converting or paying the jizyah tax. Moore noted that such language mirrors tactics historically used by ISIS in other conflict zones around the world.

The congressman also praised ongoing cooperation between the United States and Nigeria in combating extremist violence, expressing support for efforts by the U.S. government to counter jihadist groups and protect vulnerable Christian communities.

Nigeria has endured years of attacks by Boko Haram and its ISWAP faction, particularly in the northeast, with rights groups repeatedly warning that Christian communities are disproportionately affected. Moore’s remarks add to growing international calls for stronger action and increased global attention to religious persecution and insecurity in Nigeria.

Sowore Slams Trump as ‘Lying Machine, Racist, Hypocrite’ Over Claims of Defending Nigerian Christians

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has strongly criticised U.S. President Donald Trump, describing him as a “lying machine, racist, and hypocrite.” Sowore accused Trump of deceiving Nigerians by claiming to protect Christians in Nigeria while simultaneously banning Nigerians from entering the United States. He also condemned recent U.S. military airstrikes on suspected ISIS fighters in northwest Nigeria, warning that foreign military action threatens Nigeria’s sovereignty and regional stability. Sowore stressed that while international support is welcome, direct U.S. military attacks within Nigeria are dangerous and unacceptable.

President Trump’s US Airstrikes Send Strong Message as Nigerian Christians Receive Relief Amid Tinubu’s Leadership Failure — Opinion

In this opinion piece, Bayo Oluwasanmi argues that US President Donald Trump’s decision to launch targeted airstrikes against ISIS-linked terrorists in northwest Nigeria represents bold leadership in contrast to what he describes as President Bola Tinubu’s weak and indecisive response to the prolonged killings of Nigerian Christians. The author praises Trump for fulfilling his warning to act against terrorists allegedly responsible for mass violence, insisting the operation was a precise counterterrorism strike rather than a resource-driven or religious agenda. Oluwasanmi accuses the Nigerian government of prioritising political survival over citizen security, calling the US intervention a decisive step that could mark the beginning of the end for terrorist violence against Christians in Nigeria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nicki Minaj Faces Backlash, Loses Followers After Speaking On Christian Persecution In Nigeria At Turning Point USA Event

American rap superstar Nicki Minaj has sparked widespread controversy and social media backlash following her surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, where she spoke on faith, politics, and global issues, including the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Minaj appeared alongside conservative activist Erika Kirk and used the platform to praise former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance for what she described as their efforts in raising global awareness about violence against Christians, particularly in Nigeria.

Her remarks immediately triggered mixed reactions online. While some supporters commended her for drawing attention to religious persecution and amplifying the plight of Nigerian Christians—an issue she has previously addressed at international forums—others expressed strong opposition. Critics, especially from her progressive and LGBTQ+ fanbase, accused Minaj of aligning with conservative politics and abandoning communities that have long supported her career. Viral clips and posts alleging that she had “gone MAGA” intensified the backlash across multiple platforms.

The controversy quickly spilled into Minaj’s social media presence, with reports indicating that her Instagram account was deactivated shortly after the event. Viral claims suggested she lost up to 10 million followers, although independent checks indicate that the figure may be exaggerated, with some reports pointing to a smaller decline or noting that the account may have been inactive prior to the event.

The debate has drawn reactions from fellow artists, public figures, and commentators, with opinions sharply divided between those defending her right to speak on matters of faith and global violence, and those criticising what they see as a political and ideological shift. The Turning Point USA event itself has also attracted scrutiny, reflecting broader debates about celebrity involvement in politically charged causes.

Earlier in November, Minaj had spoken at a United Nations event hosted by the U.S. Mission, where she also highlighted alleged violence against Christians in Nigeria. That appearance marked the beginning of heightened public attention on her growing advocacy for religious freedom, a stance that continues to provoke both support and criticism worldwide.

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#NickiMinaj, #ChristianPersecution, #Nigeria

Israeli PM Netanyahu Condemns Attacks on Christians in Nigeria, Calls for Immediate End to Religious Violence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned militant attacks against Christians in Nigeria, calling the violence “must end, and it must end now” in his Christmas message from Jerusalem. Netanyahu highlighted Israel as a model of religious freedom, contrasting it with regions where Christians face persecution, including Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, the Palestinian Authority, and Nigeria. He cited the dwindling Christian population in Bethlehem, which fell from 80% to 20% under Palestinian Authority control, and criticized ongoing violence against Christian communities. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s support for Christians globally, stating that the country “stands up for Christians across the region” and sends blessings to Christians worldwide.

#NetanyahuSpeaks #ChristianPersecutionNigeria #ReligiousFreedom

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring that no Nigerian suffers persecution because of their faith, as he delivered his 2025 Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the country and around the world.

In the message released on Tuesday, December 24, President Tinubu said his government remains firmly dedicated to upholding national unity, peaceful coexistence, and the constitutional right of all Nigerians to freely practise their religion without fear, intimidation, or violence. He stressed that religious differences must never be a source of division or conflict in Nigeria.

Tinubu disclosed that throughout the year, his administration has actively engaged prominent leaders from Nigeria’s two major religions—Christianity and Islam—particularly amid growing concerns over religious intolerance, insecurity, and allegations of targeted attacks against Christian communities in parts of the country. According to him, these engagements are aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and foster mutual understanding.

The President said his government would build on these discussions to deepen cooperation with faith-based leaders, promote dialogue, and encourage peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds. He emphasised that the protection of religious freedom remains a key pillar of his administration’s governance agenda.

Extending Christmas greetings to Christians, Tinubu described the season as a period of reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and His enduring message of love, peace, hope, and salvation. He noted that Christmas goes beyond celebrations and festivities, reminding humanity of Christ’s teachings as the Prince of Peace and a symbol of unity and compassion.

Tinubu thanked God for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s President and offered prayers for peace and harmony across the nation, particularly among people of different faiths. He reassured Nigerians that his government remains resolute in safeguarding the rights of all citizens to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.

“As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence,” Tinubu said, adding that no individual, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing or practising their faith.

The President also acknowledged the role of Christians in Nigeria’s social development, noting that Christian values have inspired acts of charity, care for the vulnerable, and efforts to promote peace, tolerance, and harmony in communities across the country. He commended individuals and groups who continue to work selflessly to support the less privileged and strengthen social cohesion.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to security and stability, Tinubu said his government has consistently reassured Nigerians of its determination to safeguard the nation’s unity since assuming office in 2023. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stating that collective strength, faith in God, and national solidarity would help overcome current challenges.

As Nigerians travel during the festive season, the President urged citizens to exercise patience, discipline, and caution on the roads, wishing all travellers safe journeys and peaceful celebrations. He concluded by expressing confidence that, with divine guidance and unity of purpose, Nigeria would continue progressing toward a future that coming generations would be proud of.

PRESIDENT TINUBU'S 2025 CHRISTMAS GOODWILL MESSAGE

My Fellow Nigerians,

As we mark this year's Christmas, may the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us all.

Beyond the celebration and festivities of this season, Christmas reminds us to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ's birth and his message of salvation as the Prince of Peace.

On this Holy Day, I wish all Christians in Nigeria and around the world a Merry Christmas. I thank God for the opportunity to serve as the leader of our great country, and I pray for peace in our land, especially among individuals of differing religious beliefs.

As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us also reflect on the many contributions that Christians in Nigeria, as followers of Christ, have made and continue to make toward the progress of our country.

The love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many Christians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged in our society. We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.

For those who bring hope and faith in the midst of despair, this season is a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God is with us.

Since I assumed office in 2023, I have continually reassured Nigerians of our unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.

That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. All Nigerians have the right to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.

No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith. The love for God and love for humanity is at the heart of all the great faiths. These shared values must continue to bind us together as one indivisible and resilient people of our blessed country.

Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity. We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.

As many Nigerians travel to reunite with family and loved ones during this holiday period, I urge all citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.

I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations.

With confidence in divine providence and our collective strength, we will continue the work of building a greater Nigeria-one that future generations will be proud of.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.


Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 25, 2025

Nicki Minaj Speaks Out On Alleged Persecution Of Christians In Nigeria

American rapper Nicki Minaj has declared that she and other Christians will no longer remain silent over what she described as the persecution and killing of Christians in Nigeria, saying attempts to intimidate them into silence have failed.

Minaj made the remarks during a surprise appearance at AmericaFest on Sunday, while responding to a question from Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Speaking on religious freedom, Minaj said many Americans take the right to worship for granted, while Christians in other parts of the world are forced to practise their faith in fear or secrecy. She urged believers to remember and pray for those facing persecution, specifically mentioning Nigeria.

She said reports of kidnappings, killings and attacks on Christians during church services in Nigeria deeply disturbed her, adding that such acts should spark outrage in the United States.

> “We’re not backing down anymore. We are not going to be silenced by the bullies,” Minaj said, stressing that she would continue to speak up for Christians globally.



The rapper also reflected on her Christian faith, tracing it to her childhood in Trinidad and later years in New York, where regular church attendance shaped her life. She said although fame and career pressures sometimes pulled her away, she recently experienced a renewed closeness to God that has given her clarity and courage.

Addressing young people at the event, Minaj praised their passion and faith, saying it gives hope for the future.

The comments have since sparked widespread reactions, particularly in Nigeria, where insecurity and religiously linked violence remain major national concerns.

US Lawmakers Blame Radical Islam for Mass Killing of Christians in Nigeria

US lawmakers, including Mary Miller and Riley Moore, have attributed the mass killings of Christians in Nigeria to radical Islamic extremists. Moore visited Benue State, meeting internally displaced Christians who recounted horrific violence, including the murder of family members and attacks on women and children. The United States House Committee on Appropriations emphasized its commitment to religious freedom and atrocity response, directing efforts to inform policy recommendations under the NSRP bill. Lawmakers also engaged Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, discussing measures to combat terrorism, enhance security, and protect vulnerable populations in the North-East and Middle Belt regions.

President Tinubu: Lying Isn’t Leading – Opinion by Bayo Oluwasanmi

Bayo Oluwasanmi criticizes President Bola Tinubu for denying ongoing attacks on Christians in Nigeria. The article argues that lies undermine leadership, accountability, and public trust, calling for urgent action to address terrorism and protect citizens.

U.S. Congressman Alleges Fulani Militants Conduct “Genocidal Campaign” Against Christians in Nigeria

U.S. Republican Congressman Riley Moore has described violent attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt as a “genocidal campaign,” following a high-risk visit to Benue State. Speaking on Fox News, Moore recounted touring IDP camps and meeting victims of the attacks, including women who witnessed the murder of their children. He accused Fulani militants of targeting Christians deliberately, dismissing explanations of land disputes or climate pressures. Moore revealed that he will report his findings to former President Donald Trump and urged U.S. authorities to engage Nigerian leaders on the crisis, emphasizing that IDP camps offer little protection and that communities remain under severe threat.

U.S. House Committee Warns Nigeria Is Becoming One of the Most Dangerous Places for Christians

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has raised fresh concerns over the escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria, warning that the country is becoming “one of the most dangerous places on Earth to follow Christ.” In a statement posted on its official X account, the Committee highlighted increasing attacks by extremist groups, bandits, and armed herders, which disproportionately affect Christian communities across the Middle Belt and northern regions.
Rep. Robert Aderholt and other American lawmakers urged the White House to take firmer action, accusing Nigerian authorities of failing to protect vulnerable populations. The Committee’s warning signals renewed legislative pressure that could influence U.S. policy, including foreign aid, sanctions, and security cooperation. The development reflects rising international alarm as Nigeria’s security crisis becomes a major global concern.

U.S. Announces New Visa Restrictions on alleged Persecutors of Nigerian Christians

Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio revealed today that the United States is implementing decisive measures against those responsible for alleged atrocities and violence targeting Christians in Nigeria and worldwide.

The State Department will now restrict U.S. entry visas for any individuals or officials who “knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom.”

The new policy explicitly applies to Nigeria as well as other governments and individuals engaged in the persecution of people based on their religious beliefs.

He said, “The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world. The state department will restrict U.S. visas for those who knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom. This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs.”

BREAKING NEWS: U.S. Rep. Riley Moore says President Donald Trump has asked him and the House Appropriations Committee to investigate alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

"To all the Christians in Nigeria, if you're not sensitive to what's happening now, you will be k!ll£d unnecessarily. Psalm 91 will not save you alone, get yourself a we@pon.

When I heard Senator Kevin Cramer say, "The Christians in Nigeria today are probably feeling pretty good about Donald Trump's position", I decided I had to let him understand a few things.