Is Trump Becoming the Next “Fallen Despot”? Why Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Compared Him to Pharaoh, Nimrod and the Shah Amid Rising U.S.–Iran Tensions

Is Donald Trump being cast as the next ruler destined for historical downfall? Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has launched a sharp ideological attack on the U.S. president, accusing him of “tyrannical” leadership and warning that, like infamous rulers of the past, he too could ultimately fall from power.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei condemned what he described as Trump’s habit of judging the world with arrogance, arguing that history offers repeated lessons about leaders who rule through hubris. Drawing striking parallels, the Iranian leader invoked figures such as Pharaoh, Nimrod, and Mohammad Reza Pahlavi—rulers who, he said, collapsed at the height of their authority after overreaching their power.

“The US President who judges arrogantly about the whole world should know that tyrants and arrogant rulers of the world… saw their downfall when they were at the peak of their hubris. He too will fall,” Khamenei wrote. The message framed Trump not merely as a political rival, but as part of a long lineage of leaders whose dominance, according to Khamenei, eventually gave way to decline.

The comments come amid deepening hostility between Tehran and Washington, defined by sanctions, military posturing, and public exchanges between senior officials. Khamenei, Iran’s highest authority, has consistently portrayed U.S. foreign policy as imperialistic, often embedding his criticisms within historical and religious narratives aimed at reinforcing Iran’s resistance ideology.

Tensions intensified further following reports that Trump praised Israeli military strikes on Iran in June 2025. According to ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, Trump described the attack as “excellent,” adding that Iran had been given a chance to change course but failed to do so—and warning that “there’s more to come, a lot more.” His remarks coincided with a series of escalating confrontations between Israel and Iran, including strikes on Iranian territory, some reportedly reaching as far as Tehran.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks as a “blatant act of aggression,” while regional analysts warned that rhetoric from both sides risks further destabilizing an already volatile Middle East. Against this backdrop, Khamenei’s comparison of Trump to fallen despots appears not only symbolic but strategic—seeking to frame U.S. pressure as morally bankrupt and historically doomed.

The episode raises broader questions: Is Khamenei merely engaging in ideological posturing, or is Iran signaling that it sees Trump’s leadership style as unsustainable in the long run? And does invoking ancient and modern tyrants reflect a deeper effort to mobilize domestic and regional opinion against American influence?

As U.S.–Iran relations continue to harden, the clash of narratives—Trump’s warnings of force and Khamenei’s predictions of downfall—underscores how geopolitical conflict today is fought not only with sanctions and weapons, but with history, symbolism, and the power of storytelling. Whether Trump’s approach will reinforce U.S. dominance or mirror the fate of leaders Khamenei cited remains a question shaping global attention.

Why Is the ADC Inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees, Why Is It Rejecting Any Alliance With Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and Jonathan, and What Does This Signal for Nigeria’s 2027 Politics?

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved to strengthen its internal structure by inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees across three geopolitical zones, while firmly rejecting widespread speculation that the party is aligning with major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Goodluck Jonathan.

In a communique signed by the party’s National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC said the exercise was part of efforts to entrench internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution ahead of future elections.

According to the statement, the South-West Zonal Congress Committee was inaugurated in Ekiti State on January 7, 2026, with Hon. Bala Sani named Chairman and Hon. Kyauta Yakubu heading the Appeal Committee. The ceremony was conducted by the National Chairman himself.

In the South-East, a similar inauguration took place in Enugu State on the same date. Barrister Adamu Ado Dauda was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, while Mrs. Iyabo Salami Alibi was named head of the Appeal Committee. The event was presided over by the Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Rufus Ekenmi.

Earlier, on January 5, 2026, the party inaugurated its North-Central Zonal Congress Committee, appointing Hon. Lolo Ehirudu as Chairman of the Congress Committee and Hon. Sa’ad Aboki as head of the Appeal Committee.

Beyond organisational matters, the ADC used the occasion to directly address growing rumours of a possible political alliance with prominent national figures. The party categorically dismissed claims linking it to Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“The National Leadership reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution,” the communique stated, urging members and the public to “disregard and ignore” all reports of external political alignments. The party stressed that its focus remains on building “a strong, independent, and ideologically driven platform.”

The ADC also emphasised that only duly registered and financially up-to-date members would be eligible to vote or contest in its congresses and internal elections, reinforcing its claim of commitment to internal order and party discipline.

By distancing itself from Nigeria’s most recognisable political heavyweights, the party appears determined to project itself as an independent alternative within the country’s democratic space—one that is not defined by elite coalitions or personality-driven politics.

As speculation continues over emerging alliances ahead of future elections, observers are asking: Why is the ADC rejecting any association with established political figures? Is the party positioning itself as a third-force movement, or is this a strategic move to consolidate its base before engaging in broader negotiations? And could this internal reorganisation reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of 2027?

The ADC insists its direction is clear: no external alliances, strict internal democracy, and a people-centred political platform—a stance that may test both its independence and its appeal in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.

PDP Plans Strategic Meetings with Peter Obi, Atiku, and Key Powerbrokers Ahead of 2027 Elections”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to engage with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other influential political figures as part of its strategy to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Ogidi, PDP South-South Chairman, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday.
Ogidi revealed that the party has already begun consultations with key political actors, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), to signal that the PDP remains relevant despite internal challenges. He stressed that meetings with Obi and Atiku, both former PDP stalwarts now aligned with other political platforms, are part of a deliberate effort to reconnect with major opposition figures.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar were previously PDP vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. The outreach reflects the PDP’s commitment to unifying opposition voices and strengthening its democratic credentials.
The PDP’s efforts coincide with ongoing preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections. On Tuesday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, the delegation received Jonathan’s assurance of continued loyalty and active support for the PDP.
Turaki described the former president’s commitment as “very reassuring and encouraging”, highlighting the PDP’s determination to reorganize, strengthen internal cohesion, and mobilize key political actors ahead of critical upcoming elections.
The PDP’s outreach initiative is viewed as a strategic move to solidify its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, heal internal divisions, and present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the years leading up to the 2027 polls.

Nigerian Police Foil Kidnapping Plot in Kaduna, Rescue 76 Children and Arrest Three Suspects”

The Nigeria Police Force successfully foiled a kidnapping plot in Kasuwan Magani, Kaduna State, rescuing 76 children and arresting three suspects, according to a statement issued on January 7, 2026. The operation followed credible intelligence received on January 5, 2026, around 8:00 PM, indicating that armed bandits planned to target motorists transporting children.
The police, under the supervision of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani, mobilized a team immediately. On reaching the scene, officers engaged the suspects, repelled the attack, and ensured that all 76 children, both boys and girls aged between seven and 20 years, were rescued unharmed.
Three suspects were apprehended during the operation: Jonathan John (25), Oliver Magaji (27), and Bitrus Sawaba (23). Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects intended to transport the children to various parts of the country for child labor and other forms of exploitation. The suspects are currently in police custody, and the rescued children have been safely transferred to the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters, awaiting the identification and arrival of their parents or guardians.
Police authorities have intensified investigations to identify any additional collaborators and to fully uncover the circumstances surrounding the plot. The suspects will face court proceedings once the investigations are concluded.
In reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Nigeria Police Force urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible information, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in preventing crimes. The successful rescue demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive policing and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from criminal networks in Kaduna and other regions of Nigeria.

PRESIDENT TINUBU NOMINATES BOARD MEMBERS FOR NMDPRA, NUPRC, SEEKS SENATE CONFIRMATION

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has written two letters to the Senate, seeking confirmation of 21 nominees for the boards of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

A statement by Bayo Onanuga, special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy, indicates that in the first letter, President Tinubu nominated Senator Magnus Abe to serve as the NUPRC board chair. Abe, who represented Rivers South East in the Senate for two terms, is a former NNPC board member and current chairman of the National Agency of the Great Green Wall.

Other nominees for the NUPRC board are Engineer Paul Yaro Jezhi, a former Trade Union Congress chairman in Kaduna, and Mr Sunday Adebayo Babalola, a former deputy director of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), which was abolished by the PIA in 2021. Both men will serve as non-executive commissioners.

President Tinubu also nominated executive commissioners to the board.

They are: Muhammed Sabo Lamido, executive commissioner for finance; Mr Edu Inyang, executive commissioner for Exploration and Acreage; Justin Ezeala, executive commissioner for economic regulation and strategic planning; and Henry Darlington Oki, executive commissioner for Development and Production. Others are Indabawa Bashari Alka, executive commissioner for corporate services and administration; Mahmood Tijani, executive commissioner for health, safety and environment; and Ms Olayemi Adeboyejo, as secretary and legal adviser.

Former President Buhari appointed Lamido and Adeboyejo in 2022, while President Tinubu appointed Alka in 2023. Inyang, Ezeala, the former managing director of Nigerian Gas Marketing Limited, Mahmood Tijani, Babalola and Jezhi are new appointees of President Tinubu.

In his second letter to the Senate, President Tinubu nominated Mr Adegbite Ebiowei Adeniji, a lawyer, as chairman of the NMDPRA board. Adeniji has over 30 years of experience in energy and natural resources issues. He was a special technical adviser to the Minister of State for Petroleum on upstream and gas until 2018. He was a member of the Oil & Gas Policy team at the World Bank, which advised the Government of Nigeria on the reform and restructuring of the petroleum sector, including the development of the Strategic Gas Plan for Nigeria. He is currently the managing partner at ENR Advisory.

President Tinubu also nominated Chief Kenneth Kobani and Mrs Asabe Ahmed as non-executive members. Kobani was a former minister of state for trade under President Jonathan and secretary to the government of Rivers State, under Nyesom Wike.

Also nominated for confirmation are Abiodun Adeniji, executive director of finance; Francis Ogaree, executive director of hydrocarbon; Oluwole Adama, executive director of midstream and Downstream gas infrastructure; and Dr Mustapha Lamorde, executive director of Corporate Services and Administration. President Tinubu appointed Adama in 2024, while late President Buhari appointed Lamorde and Adeniji in 2021 and Ogaree in 2022

Other members of the NMDPRA board, as proposed by President Tinubu, are Mr Yahaya Nasamu Yinusa, executive director, distribution systems; Adeyemi Murtala Aminu, executive director, corporate services; Ms Modie Ogechukwu, executive director, economic regulation and strategic planning; and Barrister Olawale Dawodu, as board secretary and legal adviser. Dawodu is an industry player and was, at a time, the Financial Reporting Manager at Exxon Nigerian subsidiaries.

The President urged the Senate to approve the nominees expeditiously.

The requests followed the recent appointment of chief executive officers for the two regulatory agencies. The Senate confirmed Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed as CEO of NMDPRA.

Mr President has charged all the appointees and nominees to discharge their duties and responsibilities professionally as regulators of the oil and gas sectors.

Peter Obi: The Man Who Taxed Poverty in Anambra

Dear Peter Obi,

Thank you for your thoughts on the Tax Reform Act, which came into force yesterday, which was New Year's Day. However, it seems you have forgotten the following historical facts.

While you were the Governor of Anambra, poverty increased in the state, yet you imposed new and heavy taxes on the people of Anambra.

Please fact-check me: The poverty rate in Anambra was 41.4% in 2003, before you, Obi took office, and rose to 53.7% by 2009, during your governorship, a 29.7% increase.

Yet, despite the rise in poverty under your watch as Governor, on Tuesday, June 11, 2013, you imposed new and heavy taxes on Anambra markets, prompting traders in the state to protest.

And again, please fact-check me.

When 600 traders from Eke Awka Market protested and filed an appeal against you, you insisted that they must pay your new, heavy taxes.

At that, they led another protest to the Anambra State House of Assembly, barricaded it, and prevented legislative business from proceeding.

And all this was happening while you, Peter, dishonestly hid your own money in tax havens, as shown in the Pandora Papers of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.

Therefore, I find it strange that you, who increased poverty in Anambra and also simultaneously increased taxes, are now accusing the Tinubu administration, which has added $57 billion to our economy, of taxing the poor.

And just so you know, your allegations show that you haven't read the new tax laws, because in those legislations, Nigerians earning less than ₦800,000 will not be taxed.

Meaning that under President Tinubu, those petty traders in Anambra that you taxed to near death would have a tax holiday.

So, please, Peter, reread your post, and direct it at yourself, because it is all about you, the man who taxed poverty in Anambra!

You were taxing poverty as Anambra Governor, but President Tinubu is tackling poverty as Nigeria's President.

~ Reno Omokri

Gospeller. Deep Thinker. #TableShaker. #1Bestselling author of Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years. Hodophile. Hollywood Magazine Humanitarian of the Year, 2019. Business Insider Influencer of the Year 2022. 21st Most Talked About Person in Africa, 2024.

Families of Domestic Workers Detained Since 2019 Over Alleged Patience Jonathan Jewellery Theft Slam Goodluck Jonathan’s New Year Message, Demand Immediate Release or Speedy Trial

Families of domestic workers detained since 2019 over an alleged jewellery theft involving former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, have criticised former President Goodluck Jonathan’s New Year message to Nigerian leaders, describing it as hypocritical and insensitive. The families accused Jonathan of calling for people-centred leadership while remaining silent over the prolonged detention of workers linked to his household, who have been held in custody for more than five years without bail.

Speaking on behalf of the families, a relative of one of the detainees said Jonathan’s appeal for leaders to prioritise citizens’ welfare rang hollow while the accused domestic workers continue to languish in prison amid repeated court delays. The families urged the former president to lead by example by ensuring either the release of the detained workers or the speedy conclusion of their long-running trial.

The families lamented the slow pace of the case, noting that while the detainees are reportedly in good health, the prolonged detention has caused severe emotional and economic hardship. They expressed hope that the case would be concluded early in 2026, stressing that justice delayed continues to punish innocent families.

Their reaction followed Jonathan’s New Year message in which he acknowledged Nigeria’s economic hardship and insecurity, urged leaders to adopt people-oriented governance, and called for leadership anchored on humility, integrity and service to the people.

The controversy has once again drawn attention to the case of 15 domestic workers accused of stealing jewellery allegedly worth hundreds of millions of naira from Mrs. Jonathan’s residence. The defendants, who have been held at the Okaka Correctional Centre in Yenagoa since 2019, have consistently told the court that they were abducted, tortured and forced to make confessions. Some have named security personnel allegedly involved in their abuse, including claims of suspension, whipping and coercion.

Despite repeated allegations of torture and police brutality linked to the case, no security operative has been investigated or charged, further fuelling public criticism and calls for justice, accountability and the release of the detained workers.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Deeply Mourns Journalists Lost in Tragic Accident

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has received with overwhelming grief, shock and deep emotional pain the tragic news of the fatal accident involving journalists, staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe and Ministry of Information.

The accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of their colleague in Kaltungo.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged Gombe State into mourning, noting that the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the very soul of the state’s media and public service community.

Those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident include: Zarah Umar, Manager News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager Administration NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a Retired Manager News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The Governor said the deceased were committed professionals who dedicated their lives to informing, educating and serving the people, describing their deaths as a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in Gombe State.

“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the Governor said.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authorityand the entire media fraternity within and beyond Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also expressed grave concern for the injured victims currently receiving medical attention, including Emmanuel Akila (NTA Government House Correspondent), Steven Doddo of NTA Marketing Department, Nina Gadal (Ministry of Information), and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA, assuring them of the government’s full support.

“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he said.

“This is a dark moment for Gombe State. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences,” the Governor added.

The Governor prayed Almighty God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and give the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the heavy loss.

Man Charged With Murder After Prince George’s County Shooting Kills 37-Year-Old Craig Demarco Jackson in Fort Washington

Police in Prince George’s County, Maryland, have charged 41-year-old Jonathan Tyrone Howard with murder following a deadly shooting in Fort Washington. Authorities say the incident occurred just after midnight on December 19 during an argument between Howard and 37-year-old Craig Demarco Jackson, who were known to each other. Jackson was found outside with a gunshot wound, rushed to hospital, and later pronounced dead. Howard now faces first- and second-degree murder charges, along with additional counts, and is being held without bond as investigations continue.

Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Goodluck Jonathan Estate Lands to FG

The Federal High Court in Abuja has permanently forfeited lands approved for the Goodluck Jonathan Legacy Model Housing Estate to the Federal Government. Judge Mohammed Umar granted the ICPC’s request on December 11, 2025, directing supervision in collaboration with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria to ensure the housing units benefit end-users. The forfeited plots include Plot 5 in Kaba District (122,015.80 m², valued at N1.94 billion) and Plot 4 (157,198.30 m², valued at N3.34 billion), suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity. A joint ICPC-FMBN committee will oversee completion of the project. This follows similar government action on ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele’s estate, with public calls for transparency and productive use of recovered assets.

#GoodluckJonathanEstate #ICPC #AssetRecovery #FederalGovernment #NigeriaNews #HousingDevelopment #FMBN #CourtForfeiture

Breaking: President Bola Tinubu Congratulates Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on His 68th Birthday, Praises Humility, Statesmanship, and Democratic Contributions

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, celebrating his life, leadership, and contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. In a message reflecting on Jonathan’s humility and diplomatic approach, Tinubu praised the former president’s statesmanship during the 2015 elections, noting how it strengthened democratic institutions and elevated Nigeria’s global standing. He recalled their past collaborations, highlighting Jonathan’s guidance and support that influenced Tinubu’s own political journey. Beyond domestic politics, Tinubu acknowledged Jonathan’s international efforts in promoting democratic values across Africa. The President also offered prayers for Jonathan, his wife Patience, and their family, wishing them continued health and happiness. The message underscores a rare moment of unity and respect between current and former Nigerian leaders, celebrating the legacy of public service and integrity. This tribute, following similar felicitations to other political figures like former Ekiti Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose, reflects Tinubu’s commitment to honoring leadership, resilience, and dedication to nation-building.

Three inmates allegedly broke out of a Louisiana jail through a crumbling wall on Wednesday — and authorities are racing to capture the final escapee, who is a murder suspect.

The fugitive trio — Joseph Allen Harrington, 26, Jonathan Jevon Joseph, 24, and Keith Eli, 24 — escaped St. Landry Paris Jail in Opelousas by prying through a decaying wall over time and lowering themselves to freedom with sheets and other items, according to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Outrage as Remi Tinubu Confronts Gov Adeleke on Stage, Nigerians Call Incident a National Disgrace

Nigerians on social media have condemned First Lady Oluremi Tinubu after she openly confronted Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke during an event celebrating the Ooni of Ife’s 10th anniversary on the throne. Remi Tinubu reportedly approached Adeleke on stage, warning him to “stop the music” and telling him she would switch off his microphone if he didn’t conclude his speech within five minutes.

The incident sparked backlash online, with many users describing her conduct as disrespectful, intimidating, and reminiscent of past First Lady–Governor clashes during the Jonathan era. Critics argued that as an unelected official, the First Lady had no authority to issue such directives to a sitting governor. The Osun State government has not yet commented on the growing controversy.

BREAKING NEWS : The Federal Government has commenced full recovery of the 157 model Almajiri Schools built across the country under the Administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Atiku Visits Jonathan in Abuja After Returning From Guinea-Bissau Mission

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar visited ex-President Goodluck Jonathan at his Abuja residence following Jonathan’s return from an election observation mission in Guinea-Bissau. The meeting comes shortly after Atiku’s defection from the PDP to the African Democratic Congress, where he is expected to emerge as a top presidential contender for the 2027 elections. Atiku shared photos of the visit on his social media platforms.

"They are kldnå99ing people to discourage Mr president, but he is resolute. somebody wants to win election, it's not fair. They did this to Goodluck Jonathan and succeeded, but we already know their trick " - Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo on Insecvrity.

Presidential Run, Says Former Loyalists Are Now Misleading Him

ZLP Chairman has warned former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan against making a comeback bid in the 2027 presidential election, alleging that some of the same political actors who betrayed him in 2015 are now the ones urging him to run.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2011 to 2015, is reportedly facing renewed pressure from political circles pushing him to re-enter the race.

⸻

#NigeriaPolitics #Jonathan #2027Elections #ZL

Fake Coup In Guinea-Bissau: How Embaló Tried To Disrupt Democracy — Inside Story By Owei Lakemfa

The article exposes how Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló allegedly orchestrated a fake coup after losing the November 2025 election. Facing imminent loss of power and possible prosecution, Embaló reportedly staged a sham overthrow with loyal soldiers, misleading the media and foreign observers. International missions, including AU and WAEF led by Goodluck Jonathan, already had verified election results showing the opposition won. As his plot collapsed, Embaló fled Senegal, while ECOWAS and Nigeria now protect President-elect Fernando Diaz. The piece calls for the coup plotters to step down and for Embaló to face trial for treason.

EXCLUSIVE: A Bayelsa High Court has admitted the controversial “confessions” of domestic workers accused of stealing jewellery belonging to ex-First Lady Patience Jonathan — despite their testimony that the statements were extracted under torture.

The defendants — Golden Vivian, Vincent Olabiyi, Tamunosiki Achese and Emmanuel Aginwa — earlier told the court they were brutalised by officers of the notorious Operation Puff Adder before being forced to confess.

Prison and court insiders say the judge accepted the confessional evidence regardless of the torture allegations, raising fresh concerns about rights abuses and fairness in the high-profile trial.

#Bayelsa #PatienceJonathan #HumanRights #NigeriaCourt

Bayelsa Court Admits Controversial Confessions in Patience Jonathan Jewellery Theft Case Despite Torture Claims

The Bayelsa State High Court has accepted disputed confessional statements from domestic workers accused of stealing former First Lady Patience Jonathan’s jewellery, despite their detailed testimonies of torture by Operation Puff Adder operatives. The workers, who have spent over five years in detention, allege they were brutalised, forced to confess, and denied legal access. With one defendant already dead and no officers investigated for torture, the case—ongoing since 2019—has been adjourned to January 2026 amid rising concerns over judicial fairness and human rights violations.



#PatienceJonathan

#Bayelsacourt