Why Did Nigeria Intervene in Benin Republic? How Diplomatic Pressure Secured the Release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji Jailed for Alleged Rape After Two Years in Detention Why did the Nigerian government step in to secure the release of a pastor imprisoned abroad, and what role did diplomacy and humanitarian concerns play in his freedom? The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian cleric and businessman from Cross River State who had been detained in the Republic of Benin for more than two years over alleged rape. His freedom, announced on January 8, 2026, followed a presidential pardon granted by Benin’s President, Patrice Talon, after sustained diplomatic intervention by Nigerian authorities. According to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Egbaji was released after what officials described as prolonged detention under “dehumanising conditions.” The amnesty that secured his freedom was formally gazetted on December 17, 2025, and took effect following high-level engagements between both governments. Official statements revealed that Egbaji had initially been held in a hospital in Cotonou before being transferred to prison as his health deteriorated. His case attracted widespread attention after a photograph showing him chained to a hospital bed circulated on social media, sparking public outrage and urgent calls for intervention. Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that her office maintained consistent diplomatic pressure, including a personal visit to the detained pastor while he was hospitalised in August 2025. She described the release as the outcome of “determined diplomatic action,” adding that Nigeria’s foreign policy places the welfare of its citizens abroad at the centre of international engagement. “This release is the result of consistent and determined diplomatic action. We were deeply concerned by his condition and the circumstances of his detention,” the minister said, noting that although Egbaji is in high spirits, he requires extensive medical care after his prolonged incarceration. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had earlier appealed to Beninese authorities to free the pastor on humanitarian grounds or allow him to serve any remaining sentence in Nigeria. The request followed a joint visit by Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Benin’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, during which Nigeria emphasized both Egbaji’s failing health and the long-standing diplomatic ties between the two countries. In official correspondence, Nigerian authorities cited the humanitarian imperative, stating that the cleric’s health had “deteriorated severely while in detention.” Ultimately, the Beninese government granted a presidential pardon, bringing an end to his imprisonment. The development raises critical questions: Was Egbaji’s release driven purely by humanitarian concerns? How much influence did diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Benin Republic play? And what does this case reveal about the treatment of foreign detainees and the protection of citizens abroad? While the allegations that led to his imprisonment remain a sensitive issue, the Nigerian government has framed the intervention as a matter of human rights, medical necessity, and diplomatic responsibility. The case has since become a reference point in discussions on how far governments should go to protect nationals facing detention overseas.

Delta Police Accused of Extortion and Harassment After SaharaReporters Exposé on New Year’s Eve Arrests The Delta State Police Command is under scrutiny for alleged harassment, intimidation, and extortion following a SaharaReporters report exposing arbitrary arrests on New Year’s Eve in Asaba. Sources revealed that police operatives arrested over 40 individuals, including churchgoers attending crossover night services, allegedly demanding ₦150,000 to ₦200,000 for bail. The situation escalated when police reportedly rearrested a worshipper, Benjamin Eboka, after he was initially released, accusing him of leaking information to the media. Eyewitnesses described assaults, tear gas deployment, and wrongful detentions, highlighting claims of deep-rooted corruption within the Delta State Police. The arrests were reportedly orchestrated by DCP Adejobi Olumuyiwa, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, with many victims alleging extortion and abuse of power. Affected individuals include members of the Federal Road Safety Corps, traditional rulers, and innocent worshippers, raising concerns about human rights violations. SaharaReporters’ investigation paints a picture of a pattern of abuse, where officers allegedly label innocent citizens as hoodlums while extorting them and denying due process. Legal experts and victims have called for urgent government intervention and accountability measures within the police command. This story underscores ongoing issues of police misconduct in Nigeria, highlighting the need for transparent policing, protection of citizens’ rights, and institutional reforms to prevent arbitrary detentions and extortion.

Why Was a Woman’s Home Burnt for Worshipping Osun in Kwara, Why Were Suspects Freed, and Has Religious Extremism Now Replaced Justice in Ilorin? A disturbing case of alleged religious persecution has emerged from Ilorin, Kwara State, where a traditional worshipper, Mrs. T.A. Olorisha, says her home was deliberately set ablaze because of her faith, while suspects arrested over the incident were later released by the police. The traumatised woman has now issued a desperate plea for help, warning that she may take her own life if justice is not served. According to Olorisha, she had lived peacefully for years in the Isalẹ Koko area of Ilorin until community members allegedly targeted her over her devotion to Osun, a deity in Yoruba traditional religion. In an emotional video, she recounted how she was summoned to a meeting weeks before the incident, where nine men reportedly told her that an Islamic cleric (“Alfa”) had declared that traditional worshippers were no longer welcome in the community. She said she challenged the claim and demanded to meet the cleric face-to-face, insisting she had done nothing wrong. Instead, the men allegedly threatened her, warning that she should either comply or face consequences. Olorisha recalled that one man openly asked what would happen if her house was burnt, while a police officer present advised restraint and later warned the men against causing trouble. However, while Olorisha travelled to her hometown to attend a traditional festival, her house was allegedly set on fire on January 1, 2026. The blaze destroyed all her belongings, including livestock, leaving her homeless and destitute. She says she has since been moving around in a single piece of clothing, struggling to survive. Her anguish deepened when she learned that suspects initially arrested over the arson had been released, raising fears of intimidation and impunity. In a tearful appeal, she called on Nigerians—especially traditional worshippers—to intervene on her behalf, saying she has nowhere else to turn. She warned that continued abandonment and injustice could push her to suicide. SaharaReporters previously reported that three men were arrested in connection with the attack, and the Kwara State Police Command acknowledged awareness of the case. Yet the alleged release of suspects has intensified public concern about whether law enforcement is willing—or able—to confront religious extremism. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and publisher of SaharaReporters, who described the attack as part of a broader pattern of religious intolerance in Ilorin. He warned that extremists must be stopped immediately and reminded authorities that no individual or group has the right to impose religious beliefs on others. Sowore referenced a similar 2023 case involving traditional religion activist Tani Olohun, arguing that repeated failures to enforce the law embolden mobs and radical elements. This case has now become a national test of Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom, constitutional rights, and the rule of law. Why was a woman’s home allegedly destroyed for her beliefs? Why were suspects reportedly freed? And how long will religious intolerance be allowed to override justice in a democratic society? For many Nigerians, Olorisha’s plea is not just about one victim—it is about whether the state can still protect citizens from persecution based on faith, or whether silence and inaction will continue to empower extremism.

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 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.

Are Nigeria’s New Tax Laws Unconstitutional? Why a Lawyer Is Suing the Federal Government Over Multiple Budgets, Fiscal Transparency, and the 2026 Tax Reforms Is Nigeria running its finances in violation of its own laws—and could the country’s new tax regime be declared unconstitutional? These are the questions now before the Federal High Court in Lagos following a landmark lawsuit filed by human rights lawyer, Mr. Tilewa Oyefeso. Oyefeso has dragged the Federal Government, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the National Assembly, and the Attorney-General of the Federation to court, challenging what he describes as Nigeria’s “opaque and undisciplined fiscal regime.” At the heart of the case is the government’s practice of operating multiple federal budgets simultaneously and introducing new tax laws that he claims contradict both the Constitution and the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007. According to the suit, the Federal Government has extended capital components of the 2024 Appropriation Act into 2025 and 2026 while the 2025 budget is already in force—effectively running overlapping budgets. Oyefeso is asking the court to determine whether this practice complies with Nigeria’s Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the unified annual budgeting system mandated by fiscal law. Why does this matter? The lawyer argues that overlapping budgets, supplementary appropriations, and extended capital projects undermine fiscal transparency, distort expenditure projections, and weaken the macroeconomic discipline the Fiscal Responsibility Act was designed to protect. He also accuses the government of failing to publish quarterly budget implementation reports within the legally required 30-day period—an omission he says makes it impossible for citizens to track public spending or hold authorities accountable. But the lawsuit goes beyond budgets. Oyefeso is also challenging four major tax laws scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026: the Nigeria Tax Act 2025, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act 2025, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act 2025, and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025. He contends that the new tax framework prioritises aggressive revenue generation without first ensuring compliance with constitutional limits on borrowing, deficit thresholds, fiscal accountability, and transparency. Citing Section 16 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines Nigeria’s economic objectives, Oyefeso argues that fiscal and tax policies must promote social justice, equitable wealth distribution, macroeconomic stability, and the welfare of citizens—not merely expand government revenue. One of his key claims is that the reforms ignore the Fiscal Responsibility Act’s requirement that fiscal deficits should not exceed three per cent of GDP unless expressly approved by the National Assembly. By allegedly sidestepping these safeguards, he says, the new tax laws form part of a broader unconstitutional fiscal structure. Among the reliefs sought, Oyefeso is asking the court to declare the four tax laws unconstitutional, null, and void. He also wants an order of mandamus compelling the National Assembly to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act to strengthen transparency, fiscal discipline, and prudent resource management. In addition, he seeks a perpetual injunction to halt the implementation of the new tax laws pending such amendments. What could this mean for Nigeria’s economy and governance? If the court upholds his arguments, the ruling could upend Nigeria’s 2026 tax framework, force reforms to budgetary practices, and redefine how fiscal responsibility is enforced under the Constitution. For now, the defendants have 30 days to respond, and the case is yet to be assigned to a judge. But the questions raised are already resonating nationwide: Is Nigeria violating its own fiscal laws? Are the new tax reforms legally sound? And will the courts finally impose transparency on how public funds are budgeted, spent, and taxed?

Was Justice Denied? Why Is Inspector Oboh Still Detained After Being Cleared of Murder Charges in Rivers State? | Fintter Was justice truly served in the case of Inspector Hycenth Oboh—or is this another troubling example of power, politics, and abuse within Nigeria’s law enforcement system? In a case that is raising serious constitutional and human rights concerns, Inspector Hycenth Oboh, a serving police officer attached to the Rivers State Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources, has allegedly been illegally detained for over 18 months without trial, court order, or lawful disciplinary sanction. His prolonged detention follows a tragic shooting incident that occurred on June 18, 2024, at the Eberi-Omuma Local Government Council Secretariat, where two people were killed during a crossfire. What makes this case particularly controversial is that Inspector Oboh was reportedly discharged and acquitted during an internal police disciplinary process in August 2024. Despite this, he has remained in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt—raising urgent questions about the rule of law, police accountability, and respect for constitutional rights in Nigeria. According to sources, Oboh was initially arrested alongside 11 other officers and subjected to investigations by the Homicide Department. They were later tried under the Police Act and Regulations on three counts: discreditable conduct, unlawful exercise of authority, and destruction of government property through the alleged waste of ammunition. All officers pleaded not guilty. Oboh, in particular, denied firing any weapon and reportedly presented medical evidence showing exposure to teargas. The internal proceedings reportedly ended with eight officers, including Oboh, being cleared of all charges. However, in a twist that has left many observers baffled, the Rivers State Police Command allegedly ordered a second disciplinary trial without presenting new evidence. While six officers were later dismissed and five released, Inspector Oboh alone was kept in detention, with no official explanation, court arraignment, or detention order. Even more disturbing are allegations of political interference. Sources claim that a serving federal lawmaker, Hon. Kelechi Nwogu, who represents Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency, may have influenced senior police officials to ensure Oboh remains detained—allegedly to prevent him from testifying or being fully investigated. Although these claims have not been independently verified and the lawmaker has yet to respond, they deepen public concern about whether the case is being driven by justice or by political interests. Beyond the legal questions, the human cost is devastating. Reports indicate that Oboh’s prolonged detention has destroyed his family life, with his wife reportedly leaving with their children due to lack of support. Paradoxically, despite being held over a murder investigation, he is said to have continued receiving his salary, further highlighting contradictions in how the case is being handled. Human rights advocates argue that this situation represents a clear violation of constitutional rights, particularly the rights to liberty and fair hearing. As one advocate put it: “You cannot acquit a man, detain him endlessly, and still call it justice. This is a dangerous abuse of power.” As of now, there is no known court order, no formal charge, and no legal justification for Inspector Oboh’s continued detention. Calls are growing louder for either his immediate release or for authorities to arraign him before a competent court if credible evidence exists. 💬 What Do You Think? (Comment Hooks for Fintter) If an officer is cleared internally, can the police legally keep him locked up without a court order? Is this a case of justice delayed, or justice deliberately denied? Could political influence be overriding due process in this matter? Should Nigeria reform how police disciplinary actions and criminal prosecutions are handled? 👉 Join the conversation on Fintter: Is Inspector Oboh a victim of systemic abuse—or are there facts the public still doesn’t know?

“Sowore Accuses Global Powers of Exploiting Resource-Rich Countries Under Humanitarian Pretext: Venezuela Crisis Highlighted” Nigerian human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has sharply criticized the recent Venezuelan crisis, in which U.S. and allied forces reportedly captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sowore described the operation as a violation of international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, framing it as a pattern of global powers using humanitarian or security pretexts to intervene in resource-rich nations. Sowore contends that the official narrative of fighting drug cartels or promoting moral rescue is often a smokescreen for strategic and economic exploitation. He draws parallels to past interventions in Iraq and Libya, arguing that the true motives of foreign powers are resource extraction, destabilization, and maintaining global dominance, leaving affected countries perpetually poor and vulnerable. Criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump, Sowore described him as “merely the latest rider of this global Trojan horse,” highlighting that while rhetoric changes, the machinery of exploitation remains consistent. Sowore emphasized that such interventions are tragic for humanity, as entire societies bear the cost while foreign powers profit under the guise of benevolence. His comments come amid widespread international condemnation of the Venezuelan operation, with several African governments and activist groups questioning the legality of such actions. Sowore’s critique reignites debate over foreign interventions, exposing the tension between humanitarian claims and underlying geopolitical and economic interests.

Nigeria Divided: Why It’s Time for a Peaceful ‘Velvet Divorce’ — Bayo Oluwasanmi” In a compelling opinion piece, Bayo Oluwasanmi argues that Nigeria is no longer a united country but a collection of diverse ethnic nationalities with conflicting cultures, religions, histories, and languages. Citing Nigeria’s history of military coups, a 30-month civil war, and ongoing Christian-targeted violence, Oluwasanmi contends that attempts to maintain national unity by force have failed, leading to heightened secessionist and separatist movements such as Biafra, Oduduwa, and Arewa. Oluwasanmi highlights the rise of Boko Haram and Fulani terrorist attacks as evidence of the government’s inability to protect citizens, particularly Christians. He underscores that universal human rights guarantee the right to life, liberty, and security, which are currently under threat across Nigeria. The article criticizes the ruling elite for profiting from societal chaos while ordinary citizens face abductions, massacres, and widespread insecurity. The author draws a parallel with the “Velvet Divorce” of Czechoslovakia in 1993, advocating for a peaceful, non-violent separation of Nigeria into autonomous nations where citizens can live safely and govern themselves according to their values and priorities. He argues that a structured, peaceful split is preferable to continued bloodshed, lawlessness, and an ungovernable state. Oluwasanmi’s piece is a call for urgent action, urging Nigeria’s leaders and citizens to recognize the deep divisions and seek a solution that preserves life, dignity, and freedom, rather than perpetuating ongoing violence and insecurity.

Human Rights Lawyer Inibehe Effiong Demands Justice After 13-Year-Old Timothy Daniel Monday Shot Dead by Soldier at Sterling Oil Facility in Akwa Ibom Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has called for urgent intervention following the alleged killing of 13-year-old Timothy Daniel Monday by a soldier deployed to guard Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company Ltd. in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State. The incident occurred on New Year’s Day, during a confrontation between soldiers and the boy’s family outside a church service. Effiong revealed that Timothy’s sister, Miracle Daniel Monday, witnessed the tragic event, explaining that a minor disagreement escalated when a soldier pushed and assaulted her before opening fire, killing Timothy. The family has reported the case to both the Nigerian Army and local police. The lawyer condemned Sterling Global for its lack of response and demanded that the responsible soldier be court-martialed, and the family adequately compensated. Effiong highlighted that the killing violated Section 33 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, calling for accountability from military and state authorities.

Lawyer Deji Adeyanju Blasts Former AGF Abubakar Malami for Flouting Court Orders, Warns Against Arrogance in Power Nigerian human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has criticized former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), accusing him of repeatedly disobeying court orders while holding office. Adeyanju described Malami’s actions as shameful and dangerous to democracy, highlighting that even as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, he ignored the rule of law. Speaking on Tuesday, Adeyanju noted that Malami’s fall from influence after leaving office was a consequence of his disregard for legal procedures and accountability. He warned current leaders against arrogance and impunity, stressing that political authority is temporary and accountability is inevitable. Malami, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged money laundering offenses totaling over ₦8.7 billion. He, alongside his wife and son, is being held at Kuje Correctional Centre pending a bail ruling in a 16-count charge of conspiracy, procuring, disguising, and laundering proceeds of unlawful activities under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The matter has drawn attention to the accountability of public officers in Nigeria and the consequences of ignoring judicial authority, with civil society and rights groups monitoring developments closely.

Ex-Husband Accuses Lagos Cleric Chikere Nwafor of Forgery, Church Fund Diversion, and Death Threats in Property Dispute Martin Ugbulu, ex-husband of Lagos-based cleric Apostle Chikere Nwafor, has accused her of forging property documents, diverting church funds, and issuing threats over a protracted property dispute. Ugbulu alleges that Nwafor colluded with a surveyor to omit his name from jointly owned property deeds in Amen Estate, Lagos, and transferred large sums from UK church transactions into her personal account. The dispute escalated to police involvement, with Ugbulu filing a fundamental human rights suit, claiming his safety is at risk. Nwafor has not responded to the allegations as of the report. #ChikereNwafor #PropertyDispute #ChurchFunds #LagosNews #ForgeryAllegation #HumanRights #UKChurch #NigeriaNews #ExclusiveReport

PLATEAU GOVERNMENT TRAINS PERSONNEL IN COMMUNITY BASED SECURITY OPERATION Governor Caleb Mutfwang says investing in the security architecture of the state is a priority that must be met towards tackling insecurity in parts of the state. He stated this during the Passing Out parade of personnel of the community based state security outfit, code named, Operation Rainbow in Jos. The community based security outfit Operation Rainbow is part of strategy by the state government to provide security structure at the community level towards enhancing intelligence support, protect communities and a rapid response to emerging security threats. It is in this regard that another batch of 1450 persons were trained. The passing out parade therefore is the formal induction of the trainees into Operation Rainbow. Governor Mutfwang says security remains the bed rock for sustainable development and urged them to adhere to rule of law, human rights and the principles of responsible engagement with civilians. He emphasized that Operation rainbow is an all inclusive security outfit meant to protect all citizens irrespective of ethnic or religious background. The coordinator, Operation Rainbow Brigadier General Gakji Shipi says the recruits were trained in tactical drills and community defense modules serving as first line of protection for their communities.

Israeli Forces Raid Birzeit University in West Bank, Injure Palestinian Students with Live Ammunition and Tear Gas Amid International Law Concerns Israeli forces stormed Birzeit University in the occupied West Bank on January 6, 2026, wounding at least three Palestinian students with live gunfire and injuring dozens more with tear gas during the raid. The incursion disrupted academic activities for over 8,000 students, with university officials reporting damage to campus facilities, including the main gate, and the seizure of equipment belonging to student movements. Three students sustained gunshot wounds to the legs and were transferred to hospital by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, while others suffered suffocation or minor injuries from the chaos. The university’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, Assem Khalil, was also detained during the operation. The Palestinian Ministry of Education condemned the raid as a violation of international law, emphasizing that attacks on universities constitute assaults on the right to education and the sanctity of academic institutions. The ministry urged international organizations, human rights groups, and media bodies to intervene and protect Palestinian higher education from repeated incursions. #BirzeitUniversity #WestBank #PalestinianStudents #IsraelRaid #EducationUnderAttack #InternationalLaw #OccupiedPalestine #TearGas #Gunfire #PalestinianEducation

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.

Amnesty International Condemns Mob Lynching of Pastor Dio Idon in Southern Kaduna, Demands Investigation Amnesty International has strongly condemned the mob killing of Pastor Dio Idon in southern Kaduna, Nigeria, over allegations of witchcraft following the death of his brother. The pastor, who served at ECWA Ungwan Shaawa LC, Kasuwan Magani DCC, was reportedly lynched and burned to ashes by members of his community on January 4, 2026. The global human rights body described the incident as a disturbing example of growing mob violence in Nigeria and called for a thorough investigation to hold perpetrators accountable. Amnesty International highlighted that such acts violate fundamental human rights and reflect systemic failures in law enforcement and justice. The organisation urged the Nigerian government to investigate the killing, ensure justice for all involved, and implement measures to prevent mob violence, stressing that allegations of crime must be handled strictly through lawful means in line with domestic and international human rights standards.

UN Chief António Guterres Warns Security Council of Escalating Venezuela Crisis After U.S. Military Operation, Cites Risks to Regional Stability and International Law United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned the Security Council that recent U.S. military action in Venezuela could deepen instability, destabilise the wider region, and undermine the foundations of international law. Speaking through UN political affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo at an emergency meeting, Guterres described the situation as “grave” following the 3 January U.S. operation that reportedly led to the capture and transfer of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to the United States. According to the UN briefing, U.S. forces carried out operations across Caracas and several northern states, with the full extent of casualties still unclear. While U.S. President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged the strike, the Venezuelan government condemned the action as a violation of the UN Charter and a threat to international peace and security. At the time of the meeting, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were being held in New York to face serious criminal charges. Guterres stressed that the UN Charter prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, warning that the precedent set by the operation could erode global norms. He also placed the crisis within Venezuela’s prolonged political, social, and economic turmoil, citing disputed elections, documented human rights violations, and the mass exodus of citizens. Urging restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement, the UN chief called on all parties to respect sovereignty, human rights, and the rule of law, insisting that “the power of the law must prevail” as the international community seeks a peaceful path forward for Venezuela.

Nigerian Activist Agena Robert Warns ‘If U.S. Can Invade Venezuela, They Can Invade Nigeria,’ Criticizes Trump as Dictator Nigerian human rights activist Agena A. Robert has condemned the United States over its actions against Venezuela, labeling Washington’s foreign policy as hypocritical, imperialistic, and a threat to global sovereignty. In a statement titled “The Hypocrisy of Empire: Why the U.S. Assault on Venezuela Is a Threat to Us All,” Robert argued that U.S. claims of promoting democracy are a pretext for controlling Venezuela’s resources. He accused U.S. President Donald Trump of acting like a dictator and criticized double standards in international relations, including tolerance for elites and selective criminalization. Robert warned that developing nations, including Nigeria, are at risk of foreign intervention disguised as benevolence, citing U.S., Israeli, Chinese, Russian, and European influence under various pretexts. He called for countries in the Global South to resist domination and uphold sovereignty, stressing that Venezuela’s experience should serve as a wake-up call. The activist emphasized solidarity with Venezuela and the importance of defending self-determination against neocolonial exploitation.

Scandal Hits NJC Judicial Interview Panel as Nepotism Allegations Emerge After Member’s Daughter, Other ‘Insider Candidates’ Named for Judicial Appointments Public controversy has erupted over the composition of a key National Judicial Council (NJC) interview panel following allegations of nepotism and insider dealing in the selection of candidates for judicial appointments. Judicial sources told SaharaReporters that the panel was constituted in a manner that allegedly favours connected candidates, raising serious concerns about fairness, transparency, and conflict of interest. According to the sources, the interview panel is chaired by Justice Inyang Okoro of the Supreme Court. Allegations have emerged that a foster child and research assistant of Justice Okoro is being positioned as the preferred candidate from Akwa Ibom State. Further concerns were raised after retired Supreme Court Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs was reportedly named to replace another panel member, despite claims that his daughter is an “insider candidate” from Kaduna State and is among those to be interviewed. Other members of the panel include retired Supreme Court justices Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili and Bode Rhodes-Vivour, former Court of Appeal Justice Adeola Moshood, as well as current and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) presidents Afam Osigwe and Yakubu Maikyau. While their inclusion adds institutional weight, critics argue it does not sufficiently address the alleged conflicts of interest. Human rights lawyer and former NHRC chairman, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, publicly condemned the situation, stating that allowing a panel member to interview his own daughter violates basic principles of conflict of interest and undermines the credibility of the judicial appointment process. The allegations have sparked widespread debate among legal practitioners, civil society groups, and the public, with many warning that perceived insider dealing within the judiciary could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system. Observers are calling on the NJC to ensure strict adherence to transparency, impartiality, and ethical standards in the selection of judicial officers.

From Church To Cell: Delta Police Accused Of Random Crossover Night Arrests, Assault And ₦200,000 Extortion Of Worshippers In Asaba Worshippers arrested during crossover night celebrations in Asaba, Delta State, have accused the Delta State Police Command of carrying out random arrests, physical assault and extorting between ₦150,000 and ₦200,000 before granting bail. The arrests reportedly occurred on New Year’s Eve at multiple locations, including Inter-Bau Roundabout and Direct Labour Agency (DLA) Road, and affected over 40 people, many of whom were attending or returning from church services. Although the police described the arrested individuals as “hoodlums” involved in violent conduct, several victims told SaharaReporters that they were innocent worshippers who were rounded up without cause, detained at the state police headquarters and allegedly framed. Some suspects said they were only released after paying large sums of money for bail, which is legally free. Victims and witnesses accused officers under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Adejobi Olumuyiwa, of abusing power and violating human rights. A Federal Road Safety Corps officer and a lawyer both confirmed incidents of extortion, while another victim narrated how police allegedly assaulted her and broke her tooth during the arrest of her brother. Police insiders also criticised the DCP’s operational style, alleging repeated mass arrests and disregard for due process. Efforts to get official responses were unsuccessful, as the outgoing and incoming commissioners of police distanced themselves from the incident, while the police spokesperson said the matter involved his superiors. The allegations have renewed public outrage over police brutality, extortion and abuse of authority in Nigeria.