“Burkina Faso Foils Assassination Plot Against Military Leader Traoré, Linked to Former Leader Damiba”

Burkina Faso’s security services have successfully foiled a fresh assassination attempt targeting Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader, according to Security Minister Mahamadou Sana. The plot was allegedly orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, Traoré’s predecessor, who was ousted in September 2022. Authorities report that the plan involved not only assassinating Traoré but also launching attacks on strategic institutions and prominent civilian figures.
Minister Sana added that the operation was financed from neighboring Ivory Coast, though neither Damiba nor Ivorian authorities have issued statements in response.
Since assuming power in 2022, Traoré, 37, has faced multiple coup attempts and continues to deal with jihadist violence that has displaced millions across the country. Despite these challenges, Traoré maintains a measure of domestic support and has gained recognition across Africa. He is known for criticizing Western influence and advocating pan-Africanist ideas.
In response to the foiled plot, Burkina Faso has tightened security around government installations and is monitoring border regions, particularly with Ivory Coast. This latest incident follows previous coup attempts, including one in April 2025, in which current and former soldiers planned attacks on the presidential palace and other key locations.
The ongoing instability in Burkina Faso is compounded by jihadist attacks and a humanitarian crisis, affecting both national security and civilian safety. Authorities continue to investigate the foiled assassination attempt as part of broader efforts to protect the military leadership and maintain national stability.

Terrorists Kill Two in Southern Kaduna, Abduct 32 Including Elderly Woman and Children in Fresh Wave of Attacks Across Sanga, Kauru, and Kajuru

At least two residents have been killed and 32 others abducted in a renewed wave of terrorist attacks across Southern Kaduna, with victims including an elderly woman, children, and other vulnerable villagers. In Arak village, Sanga Local Government Area, bandits returned barely 48 hours after killing a man and another resident, abducting Mrs. Averik Arak and her granddaughter. Mrs. Arak had been mourning her son—killed in her presence—along with his wife and daughter, and was reportedly ill when the attackers struck again.

Simultaneously, in Kajuru LGA, at least 15 villagers, mostly minors, were kidnapped from Unguwan Sarki Maro, while in Kadage village, Kauru LGA, 16 people were abducted and one person killed. A local source said more than 100 residents from seven surrounding villages in Kauru have been taken between December 1, 2025, and January 4, 2026, lamenting what he described as a media blackout on the escalating violence.

The latest incidents follow previous deadly attacks in Kachia, where four members of a family were killed during an overnight raid, and residents reported that gunmen arrived in large numbers, injuring others who were rushed to hospital. Despite repeated assaults near major institutions and security formations, no official statement had been issued by the Kaduna State Police at the time of reporting.

Southern Kaduna continues to face persistent banditry, killings, and mass kidnappings, prompting renewed calls from residents for stronger security measures by federal and state authorities to protect communities and curb the growing humanitarian crisis.

Somaliland Endorses U.S. Military Action in Venezuela, Says Intervention Could Restore Democracy

The Government of the Republic of Somaliland has expressed support for the United States’ military intervention in Venezuela, describing it as a measured international effort aimed at restoring constitutional order and democratic legitimacy. In a statement issued on January 4, 2026, Somaliland said it aligns “in principle” with U.S.-led action carried out in coordination with regional and multilateral partners.

According to Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the intervention could help ease Venezuela’s worsening humanitarian crisis, counter transnational criminal networks, and support a peaceful, Venezuelan-led political transition rooted in sovereignty, accountability, and human rights. The government stressed that its position is guided by international norms and collective security considerations.

The endorsement follows U.S. military strikes that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. U.S. President Donald Trump described the operation as a major success and announced that Washington would oversee Venezuela’s affairs during a transition period. The intervention has sparked global reactions, drawing both support and sharp criticism amid concerns over sovereignty, human rights, and the future of international order.

Kogi Community in Mourning as Three Residents Die After Bandits’ Abduction Despite Ransom Payment, 30 Others Still Held Captive in Bunu Land

Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State has been plunged into grief following the death of three residents who were abducted by bandits, even after a ransom was painfully raised and paid through communal contributions. According to the community, seven abductees were released, but three were confirmed dead on arrival, while four others are hospitalised in critical condition. About 30 residents remain in captivity, with their fate unknown.

The tragedy has sparked anger and despair across Bunu land, as residents accuse authorities of negligence and failure to provide adequate security. In a statement signed by community spokesperson David Ampitan, the people lamented that instead of rescuing victims or pursuing the kidnappers, government officials allegedly responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters demanding action.

Residents described the situation as a complete collapse of security governance, noting that communities have been deserted due to persistent killings and kidnappings. They appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently intervene, rescue those still held captive, restore security across the district, and hold accountable officials accused of ignoring the humanitarian crisis, insisting that “the lives of Bunu people matter.”

Renewed Bandit Attacks Force Residents of Gebbe Village, Kebbi to Flee Homes, Sparking Humanitarian Crisis

Residents of Gebbe village in Shanga LGA, Kebbi State, have been forced to abandon their homes following renewed attacks by armed bandits. Families, including children, were seen fleeing through rough terrain and crossing streams, carrying minimal belongings. Displaced villagers now face severe challenges, lacking shelter, food, clean water, and healthcare. Social media posts have called for urgent humanitarian intervention, but as of now, the Kebbi State Government and security agencies have not issued an official response. Security analysts warn the ongoing attacks could worsen instability in the area.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Over 30 Women, Children Displaced by Bandits Forced to Share Single Room at Unofficial Zamfara IDP Camp

More than 30 women and children displaced by bandit attacks are crammed into a single room at an unofficial IDP camp in Gusau, Zamfara State. Videos shared by lawyer Mubashir Umar reveal horrific living conditions, with victims recounting abductions, killings, rape, hunger and prolonged captivity despite ransom payments. Umar blamed the worsening humanitarian crisis on the Zamfara State government’s failure to establish official IDP camps across the state’s 14 local government areas, leaving displaced persons to seek shelter in schools, unfinished buildings, markets and private homes amid escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West.

News flash

Senate approves president Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin republic for peace mission in line with provisions of section 5 part 2 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria.

The expeditious approval according to the president of the senate Godswill Akpabio is to ensure peace and stability and to avoid humanitarian crisis in the sub region.

Senate believes the action is a good step in the right direction

Yoruba political organization warns Nigerian youths not to make mistake of voting Tinubu again.

The Yoruba socio-political organisation, Ìgbìmò Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has again criticised President Bola Tinubu, accusing him of using propaganda to exaggerate progress while millions of Nigerians continue to suffer.

The union highlighted that Nigeria is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with widespread hunger forcing citizens into desperate measures.

In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by the group’s Convener, Olusola Badero, and Home Director, Princess Balogun, the union said the dignity of the Yoruba people has been eroded by harsh economic policies, including the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The union further criticised the government’s focus on foreign trips while failing to address hunger, insecurity, and domestic welfare.

The statement read, “We cannot jeopardise the future of our people because Tinubu, who is Yoruba, is confused and has run out of ideas.

“Yoruba people do not joke or compromise their integrity, but today, things have fallen apart. Ọmọ Eleran tí jẹ Egungun — ‘The son of meat sellers is now eating bones.’

“Never in history have we witnessed such dire situations. Married women have been forced into casual relationships, children are turning to internet fraud (‘yahoo yahoo’) due to poverty and anti-people policies, and insecurity has displaced many from their ancestral homes. Farmers can no longer cultivate their lands, which have been seized by terrorists.”

“A government that cannot guarantee the safety of its people has no right to govern through propaganda and deceit.

“A government prioritising negotiations with terrorists instead of neutralising them has failed its fundamental duty. Businesses have collapsed, family heads are ridiculed for their inability to provide, and children are dropping out of school because parents cannot afford education.”

“We urge Nigerians to go out in large numbers to register to vote and to never repeat the mistake of voting for Tinubu and his allies, who have subjected citizens to modern-day slavery through anti-people policies. Tinubu’s only apparent achievement has been imposing more taxes on the people,” the statement added.

UK, France, Three Others Reject Israel’s Gaza Expansion Plan
The UK, France, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia have condemned Israel’s plan to expand operations in Gaza, warning it violates international humanitarian law and worsens the humanitarian crisis. They urged Israel to reverse the decision, lift aid restrictions, and allow safe humanitarian access, stressing that Hamas must have no future governance role in Gaza but the Palestinian Authority should take a central role.

#Gaza #Israel #HumanRights #UN

News Brief: Netanyahu Defends New Gaza Offensive as ‘Best Way to End the War’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a new plan to expand military operations in Gaza, targeting the last Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps. He said the operation, to be carried out on a “short timetable,” is the “best way to end the war speedily.”

The move comes amid deep domestic division, with thousands protesting in Tel Aviv, some demanding a ceasefire and hostage deal, while far-right cabinet members push for a harsher campaign. Netanyahu insists the aim is not to occupy Gaza but to set up a civilian administration unaffiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

The UN has warned the plan could worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, where over 61,000 people have been killed since the war began.

#Netanyahu #GazaWar #Israel #Hamas

The Freedom Flotilla Handala, a humanitarian mission carrying aid to Gaza, has reportedly been captured by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). This flotilla, named after the iconic Palestinian cartoon symbol Handala, aimed to break the blockade and deliver urgent supplies to the besieged people of Gaza. Its seizure highlights the continuing restrictions on desperately needed aid and the immense obstacles faced by activists trying to deliver food, medicine, and relief. The interception of Handala underscores the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where international solidarity efforts are being blocked, intensifying calls for an end to the blockade and occupation.
#freedomflotilla #Handala #Gaza #Israel #fyp
@Jacob Berger @Gaza Freedom Flotilla

Israel Announces Daily Gaza Fighting Pause Amid Worsening Hunger Crisis

Israel has declared a daily "tactical pause" in military operations in parts of Gaza to allow humanitarian aid delivery, amid growing international concern over starvation in the enclave. The pause will last from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in areas where Israeli troops are not active, including Al-Mawasi, Deir el-Balah, and Gaza City.

The Israeli military said it is coordinating with the UN and aid groups to open secure land routes and has begun air-dropping food. It rejected accusations of using starvation as a weapon, calling such claims “false.”

Humanitarian groups remain skeptical, citing severe access restrictions and previous deadly strikes near aid centers. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini criticized air drops as inefficient and dangerous.

Meanwhile, over 50 Palestinians were reported killed on Saturday alone, and Israeli forces seized a vessel from the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla attempting to breach the naval blockade.

Gaza's humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, with over 59,000 Palestinians reportedly killed since Israel’s campaign began following Hamas’s October 2023 attack.

STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU ON THE OCCASION OF 2025 EID-EL-KABIR

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian Muslims and the global Muslim Ummah as we celebrate this year's Eid-el-Kabir.

Eid-el-Kabir represents the high point of the sacred first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, a period filled with opportunities for acts of worship and good deeds. It is a time for gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless mercies upon us as individuals and a nation. While this festival is marked with joy and celebration, its true significance lies much deeper: Eid calls us to reflect on its core values of sacrifice, devotion, and selflessness.

To truly honour Eid, we must embody these virtues, just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) exemplified complete submission to Allah's will and as our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught us. Let this sacred occasion renew our commitment to these ideals.

Eid-el-Kabir also reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country. I reaffirm my commitment to these values and express my deep appreciation for the faith, patience, and perseverance Nigerians show as we implement bold reforms. Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results. I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.

We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits.

The ultimate objective of these reforms is not just to improve statistics but to transform lives and set Nigeria firmly on the path to sustainable development. There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all. Our administration will continue acting in the nation's best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people's lives.

We crafted our Renewed Hope Agenda to bring prosperity to every Nigerian, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of it. As we celebrate today, remember that Eid-el-Kabir enjoins love, compassion, and generosity for all, regardless of faith or background. Let us care for one another's well-being during this season and always.

In this instance, I recall recent sad developments in our country, particularly the Wednesday, May 28 heavy flooding, which submerged the market town of Mokwa, Niger State, causing deaths and destruction of properties and creating an untold humanitarian crisis. Let us pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and fortitude for their relations. Let us join hands with the government to bring succour to the people of Mokwa.

Finally, as we observe this Eid, let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security.

Let us pray for our leaders at all levels and our country. Let us pray for peace in our tumultuous world of troubles and uncertainties. Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God's guidance and blessings for our country.

May those who have more remember those in need, sharing kindness and support as true brothers and sisters. Let the virtues of perseverance, sacrifice, loyalty, faith, and shared humanity bind us closer.

May the joy and blessings of Eid-ul-Adha multiply in our lives and the life of our great nation. May Almighty Allah accept our worship and devotion as acts of Ibadah, and may His blessings be with us always.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President & Commander-in-Chief,
Federal Republic of Nigeria,
June 5, 2025