FG, Senate Leaders Head to Washington to Stop US Sanctions Over Christian Genocide.

Top officials of the Federal Government and the National Assembly are set to travel to Washington D.C. in a diplomatic move to stop possible United States sanctions over alleged persecution and genocide of Christians in Nigeria.

The high-powered delegation, which includes federal lawmakers, senior military officers, and heads of security agencies, will meet with members of the U.S. Congress to clarify Nigeria’s position and counter the growing narrative of “Christian genocide.”

The trip follows an urgent resolution by the 10th Senate, sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume, who urged the government to “put the record straight” and prevent sanctions against the country.

According to sources, the delegation will present evidence to prove that the security crisis in Nigeria is not religiously motivated but rather a result of terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts. The team is expected to depart Abuja early next week.

In recent months, U.S. lawmakers and advocacy groups have increased pressure on Nigeria over rising attacks on Christian communities. Senator Ted Cruz recently accused Nigeria of “mass murder” of Christians and introduced the “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025” (S.2747).

The proposed bill seeks to list Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a move that could trigger travel bans, arms restrictions, and other economic sanctions.

The Nigerian Senate had earlier dismissed the genocide allegations as “false and dangerous,” warning that such claims could damage the country’s image and inflame religious tensions.

Lawmakers maintained that the ongoing violence is complex and tied to criminality and resource struggles, not state-backed religious persecution.

Data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) shows that between January 2020 and September 2025, over 11,800 civilian attacks were recorded in Nigeria. Among them, 385 incidents involved Christian victims, while 196 targeted Muslims, reflecting the widespread nature of insecurity across regions.

Nnamdi Kanu Opens Defence, Lists 23 Witnesses Including Wike, Sanwo-Olu and Ex-Military Chiefs.

Detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has agreed to open his defence, marking a major turn in his long-running trial.

This comes just hours after protests in parts of Abuja led by Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, calling for Kanu’s release.

Kanu had earlier filed a motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction, but in a fresh application on Tuesday, October 21, he informed Justice James Omotosho that he was ready to defend himself, citing a previous court order directing him to begin on October 24, 2025.

He revealed plans to call 23 witnesses divided into two groups—“ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses”—to testify under Section 232 of the Evidence Act.

He also requested 90 days to conclude his defence, indicating he may now be representing himself instead of his legal team led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).

Among those he intends to summon as witnesses are former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), ex-Army Chief Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Works Minister Dave Umahi, former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami (SAN), and ex-NIA DG Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

Kanu said he would personally testify to “deny the allegations” and explain the political context of his actions, assuring the court that he would not waste its time and that “justice must be seen to be done.”

Meanwhile, on the same day, a magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others who joined the protests demanding his release. 

They face charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance, and will appear in court again on October 24.

Wole Olanipekun Urges Suspension of 1999 Constitution Amendment, Calls for People-Driven Charter by 2031.

Legal luminary and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has urged the National Assembly to halt the ongoing amendment of the 1999 Constitution, describing the existing document as a “military albatross” that continues to hinder Nigeria’s progress.

Olanipekun made the appeal on Monday while delivering Afe Babalola University’s 13th Convocation Lecture in Ado-Ekiti, titled “Nigeria – Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Imperative of a Sober and Definitive Recalibration.”

The former Chairman of the Body of Benchers and current Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos stressed that Nigeria must chart a new constitutional course anchored on the collective will of its citizens.

“We cannot continue to live by the 1999 Constitution, which haunts us as a military albatross,” Olanipekun said. “Let us borrow a golden leaf from other countries and agree to live together on acceptable terms and conditions.”

He clarified that suspending the amendment process would not breed instability but would instead allow for sober national reflection.

“By suggesting that the National Assembly stay action on any constitutional amendment for now, one is not advocating anomie,” he explained. “Rather, I propose a transition phase, between now and 2031, to reflect on the ills that have plagued our constitutions to date.”

Olanipekun further called for a national referendum to determine Nigeria’s political and constitutional future, insisting that such a process represents the “unfiltered and undiluted voice of the people.”

His comments align with growing public sentiment that the 1999 Constitution, drafted under military rule, lacks genuine popular legitimacy. Meanwhile, lawmakers continue their review process aimed at amending the same document.

Israel Halts Gaza Aid, Launches New Strikes After Accusing Hamas Of Violating Ceasefire.

Israel has launched a new wave of air strikes in southern Gaza and suspended humanitarian aid deliveries into the territory, accusing Hamas of carrying out attacks in “blatant violation” of the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

An Israeli military spokesperson confirmed late Sunday that the strikes targeted what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as “terrorist infrastructure” in Rafah and other parts of southern Gaza.

“Hamas carried out multiple attacks against Israeli forces beyond the yellow line, the area our troops have withdrawn to in accordance with phase one of the US-brokered deal,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a bold violation of the ceasefire, and we will respond firmly.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly ordered defence and security officials to “act forcefully against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip.”

In a swift response, Hamas denied any involvement in the alleged attacks and accused Israel of breaking the agreement.

“We affirm our full commitment to implementing everything that was agreed upon, foremost among which is the ceasefire in all areas of the Gaza Strip,” Hamas said in a statement.

“We are unaware of any events or clashes taking place in the Rafah area… Contact with our remaining groups there has been cut off since the resumption of war in March of this year.”

Abducted Kwara Businessman Freed After N110 Million Ransom Payment.

A businessman identified as Suleiman Ndana, popularly known as “Manager,” who was abducted last month from Tsaragi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, has regained his freedom following the payment of a ₦110 million ransom just hours before a military rescue operation.

Sources close to the victim confirmed that Ndana was among those recovered by Nigerian Army troops during a raid on the kidnappers’ hideout on Friday. A friend of the businessman disclosed that the abductors had issued grave threats as military pressure mounted in the forest where they were hiding, vowing to kill Ndana if the ransom was not paid immediately.

Under the intense ultimatum, his family and associates reportedly delivered the ₦110 million ransom at an undisclosed location. Shortly after the payment, soldiers stormed the area, leading to Ndana’s release.

His freedom marks a breakthrough for the ongoing military operation tagged Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Kwara North, even as it underscores the moral dilemma faced by families forced to negotiate with kidnappers under life-threatening circumstances.

Meanwhile, residents of Patigi Local Government Area recently staged mass protests over the worsening insecurity in Kwara North. Youths, elders, and community leaders took to the streets demanding urgent government intervention, alleging that persistent killings and abductions had crippled economic life and driven medical personnel out of local hospitals.

Protesters accused the state government and federal representatives of neglect, citing the exodus of doctors from Patigi General Hospital and the growing presence of suspected armed herders in rural settlements. They called on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to deploy more security forces and relocate Kara Market, which they claim has become a hotspot for criminal activity.

The protesters warned that without swift action, insecurity could lead to total economic collapse in parts of Kwara North, lamenting that millions are lost daily to ransom payments, farm attacks, and the loss of livelihoods.

16 Nigerian Military Officers Arrested Over Alleged Coup Plot to Oust President Tinubu.

At least sixteen senior military officers have been detained by the Nigerian Armed Forces over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government, top security sources confirmed.

Though the military publicly described the arrests as disciplinary actions linked to “failure in promotion examinations” and “career stagnation,” insiders revealed the officers were actually accused of plotting a coup d’état.

The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, had said the arrests followed a “routine military exercise,” citing “indiscipline and breach of service regulations.”

However, intelligence gathered by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) reportedly uncovered plans led by a Brigadier General to seize power from “selfish politicians.” The officers, ranging from Captains to senior commanders, were picked up at various locations across the country.

Sources added that the October 1 Independence Day parade was cancelled after authorities discovered the conspirators planned to strike during the ceremony — allegedly targeting the President and other top officials.

The officers are currently being held at the DIA facility in Abuja.

Nigeria has recorded five successful coups since 1960, and rising reports of corruption and mismanagement within the armed forces have recently fuelled frustration and low morale among some ranks.

16 Military Officers arrested over alleged Coup Plot against President Tinubu.

At least sixteen senior military officers are currently in custody following allegations of a coup plot to topple President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, SaharaReporters has revealed.

Arrests and Official Denial
According to the online publication, the officers, ranging from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General were picked up from various locations across the country in a coordinated operation by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and other security bodies.

While the Defence Headquarters initially described the arrests as part of a “routine military exercise” involving “issues of indiscipline and breach of service regulations,” sources within the military said the official explanation was a smokescreen to avoid panic.

“The 16 officers were planning a coup. The military authorities were just being diplomatic in the statement released by the spokesperson,” a senior DIA official was quoted as saying. “They had begun holding secret meetings to overthrow the President and announce a military government.”

Official Statement
In its earlier release, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the officers’ detention followed internal investigations into misconduct and disobedience.

“Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues,” Gusau stated. “Some of the apprehended officers had been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial. Their conduct was deemed incompatible with the standards of military service.”

Foiled Plot and Security Concerns
However, insiders insisted that the arrests were linked to an attempted coup that was foiled after intelligence agencies intercepted communications and meeting plans.

A top source disclosed that the conspirators planned to execute the coup during the October 1 Independence Day parade, targeting President Tinubu and other senior officials in attendance.

“Yes, they were arrested for planning to stage a coup and take over government,” the source confirmed. “That was why the Independence Day parade marking the country’s 65th anniversary was abruptly cancelled. Intelligence indicated they intended to strike during the event.”

Trump should move against Tinubu govt; Nigerian military stands by as Fulani herdsmen murder Christians: New York Post.

President Donald Trump has again been called upon to move against the Nigerian government as its military forces “simply stand by as militant Fulani Muslim herdsmen assault their Christian neighbors in the nation’s Middle Belt. The latest call was made by the New York Post.

The newspaper, in its editorial, charged the U.S. president to “act” and “call out the deadly persecution of Nigerian Christians”.

“Government forces do battle Boko Haram and other Islamist terror groups that brutally terrorise Christians and non-Christians in northern Nigeria, but they simply stand by as militant Fulani Muslim herdsmen assault their Christian neighbors in the nation’s Middle Belt,” the publication stated.

The editorial said “Team Trump should act on its own”, albeit Senator Ted Cruz’s push for a law that sanctions Nigerian officials who facilitate or permit jihadist attacks against Christians and other religious minorities. The publication noted that since 2009, the “persecution” of Christians has resulted in 18,000 churches destroyed, 50,000 Christians murdered, and five million more displaced.

“It’s not Washington’s job to right all the world’s wrongs, but Uncle Sam can at least condemn these ongoing atrocities,” said the newspaper.

Some U.S. lawmakers have condemned the killings of Christians in Nigeria, describing them as “genocide”. The Christian Association of Nigeria confirmed the killings as such.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu’s government has continued to deny the claim.

“Let me also say this clearly, Nigeria is a proud, sovereign nation built on the faith and resilience of its people. Here, no faith is under siege, no community is excluded,” stated the Nigerian president. “Our churches, mosques, and traditional shrines stand side by side—not as rivals, but as symbols of the unity that binds us.

Mr Tinubu added, “We must never allow outsiders to tell us who we are or sow division among us. We are Nigerians, and we will stand together. Nigeria will not accept lectures from those who seek to profit from our divisions. No one loves this country more than Nigerians themselves, and no one will define us except us.”

Colonel Michael Randrianirina Sworn In as Madagascar’s President After Gen-z led protest resulted in Military Takeover.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina was officially sworn in as Madagascar’s new president on Friday, just days after leading a military coup that forced former President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.

The ceremony, held at the Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, was attended by military officers, politicians, Gen Z protest leaders, and foreign representatives from the U.S., European Union, Russia, and France.

“Today marks a historic turning point for our country,” Randrianirina declared during his oath-taking, vowing to “break with the past” and embark on comprehensive reforms.

He praised the youth-led movement that played a central role in toppling Rajoelina, saying their passion reflected “a deep love for their homeland.”

Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT unit that joined protesters during last weekend’s uprising, promised to collaborate with “all the driving forces of the nation” to draft a new constitution and electoral laws paving the way for fresh elections and referendums.

“Our mission is to reform the country’s administrative, socio-economic, and political systems of governance,” he said, signaling the start of what many are calling a new era for the Indian Ocean nation.

Army colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as Madagascar’s president Friday, just days after a military power grab that sent ex-president Andry Rajoelina fleeing and raised international alarm about a new coup on the island.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he would consider allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resume military action in Gaza if Hamas refuses to uphold its end of the ceasefire deal, telling CNN that Israeli forces could return to the streets “as soon as I say the word.”

Madagascar suspended from African Union as military colonel declares himself leader following Gen Z–led protests.

The African Union (AU) has suspended Madagascar after a military coup ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The AU said the suspension would remain “until constitutional order is restored.”

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of an elite army unit, declared himself interim president and said the military would rule for up to two years before holding elections. “We are staying for at least 18 months, at most two years,” he told the Associated Press.

The coup followed weeks of youth-led protests under the “Gen Z Madagascar” movement, demanding better governance and access to basic services. Randrianirina claimed he took power at the request of the High Constitutional Court after Rajoelina fled “for safety reasons.”

He announced the appointment of a prime minister and the dissolution of most institutions, except the lower house of parliament, to form a transitional government.

Rajoelina, who has been in power since 2018, condemned the takeover as an “illegal coup.” Randrianirina, once his ally, had been arrested in 2023 for inciting mutiny and released with a suspended sentence the following year.

Crowds in Antananarivo reacted with both celebration and fear of instability. Analysts criticised the move, calling it a civil movement hijacked by the army.

France’s President Emmanuel Macron denied aiding Rajoelina’s escape but expressed “deep concern” and reaffirmed France’s support for Madagascar’s people.

The island nation has suffered repeated coups since 1960, struggling with poverty and corruption its GDP per capita has halved, and its corruption ranking has fallen to 140th globally.

Madagascar in Political Turmoil as Military Seizes Power After President Rajoelina’s Impeachment

Madagascar’s elite army unit takes control after President Andry Rajoelina’s impeachment, sparking global concern and uncertainty over the country’s democratic future.


Madagascar has been plunged into political chaos after an elite military unit seized control of the government following the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina.

According to Punch Newspaper, the dramatic power shift occurred on Wednesday when the CAPSAT contingent, an elite arm of the military, took over key government institutions in the capital, Antananarivo, just hours after parliament voted to remove Rajoelina from office.

Reports indicate that the embattled president fled the country amid growing protests and mounting opposition. The move marks Madagascar as the latest in a string of African nations—following Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Gabon, and Guinea—to experience military takeovers since 2020.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the CAPSAT unit, has been declared interim president by the country’s top court. In a televised address, Randrianirina denied staging a coup, claiming the intervention was to “rescue the nation from collapse.” He pledged to restore civilian rule within 18 to 24 months and promised institutional reforms and elections before the transition ends.

The African Union swiftly suspended Madagascar from all its activities, calling the military action unconstitutional. The United Nations, France, Germany, and Russia also expressed concern, urging calm, dialogue, and a return to democratic order.

Meanwhile, the youth-led Gen Z Movement, which had spearheaded recent protests over water and electricity shortages, hailed the development as a victory for the people. “We’re anxious about the future, but this feels like our first real win,” said 26-year-old rugby team captain, Fenitra Razafindramanga.

However, Rajoelina’s camp insists he remains the legitimate president, describing the court’s endorsement of Randrianirina as “illegal and politically motivated.”

Rajoelina’s presidency has long been controversial—he first came to power in 2009 through a military-backed coup and later returned via disputed elections in 2023. His administration was widely criticized for corruption, economic decline, and poor governance.

As Madagascar navigates this uncertain transition, global observers are watching closely to see whether the country will truly reform—or once again fall into the cycle of military dominance and fragile democracy.

Presidential Clemency: Tinubu Pardoned 70 Drug Lords – Dino Melaye Alleges.

According to get a report by Daily Post, former Kogi senator, Dino Melaye, has alleged thar President Bola Tinubu of included about 70 convicted drug offenders among the 175 persons recently granted presidential clemency.

The allegation, shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, has sparked controversy over the nature and scope of the president’s latest pardon exercise.

Melaye described the action as “unprecedented in history,” insisting that no administration in the world had ever pardoned such a large number of convicted drug traffickers. “Pardon granted 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history. My advice to the President is to scrap the NDLEA. His action has made a beautiful nonsensical of all the efforts of the agency since inception,” he wrote.

President Tinubu recently approved the release or posthumous pardon of 175 individuals as part of his administration’s effort to promote reconciliation and decongest correctional facilities.

The list included prominent names such as the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, nationalist Herbert Macaulay, and former military officer Major General Mamman Vatsa, who was executed for treason in 1986. Also listed was Maryam Sanda, who had been sentenced to death for killing her husband, Bilyamin Bello.

The presidency framed the gesture as part of broader national healing, aimed at righting perceived historical wrongs and showing compassion. But critics say the clemency exercise lacked transparency and may have rewarded people convicted of serious crimes.

Melaye’s claim that dozens of drug traffickers were among those pardoned has heightened public concern. The former federal lawmaker did not name the allegedly pardoned drug Lords and the claim has not been verified.

Notwithstanding, following the allegations, some Nigerians warn that such a move could demoralize anti-narcotics agencies. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been praised internationally in recent years for its intensified war on drug cartels, with several high-profile convictions recorded.

October 7 Massacre a ‘Mistake That Cost Iran Dearly,’ - Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Says.

In a stunning reversal of rhetoric, an Iranian newspaper closely aligned with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has described Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel as a “grave mistake” that inflicted serious damage on Iran’s regional influence. According to a report by The Jerusalem Post on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, the statement marks one of the first public acknowledgments within Iran’s ruling establishment that the Gaza war has weakened, rather than strengthened, Tehran’s strategic position in the Middle East.

In an editorial published this week, the Islamic Republic newspaper overseen by a representative of Khamenei sharply departed from the regime’s long-standing narrative that celebrated the attack as a victory for the so-called “Axis of Resistance.” “Contrary to many opinions and analyses, the ‘Al-Aqsa Flood’ operation was a mistake,” the paper wrote, referring to Hamas’s coordinated assault that killed and kidnapped thousands inside Israel on October 7, 2023.

The editorial went on to argue that the consequences of the attack have been overwhelmingly negative for Iran and its network of allied militias and governments across the region. It specifically cited Syria’s apparent distancing from Tehran as one of the most damaging developments to result from the conflict. “Syria’s departure from the Axis of Resistance and its shift toward alignment with the United States and Israel is one of the most damaging developments of the past two years,” the paper stated, calling it a “direct outcome” of Hamas’s offensive.

The tone of the piece stands in sharp contrast to previous statements by Iranian officials, including Khamenei himself, who had hailed the October 7 assault as a “historic victory” and a “turning point in the struggle against Israel.” Iranian state media and military commanders had also praised Hamas for “changing the balance of power” in the region.

EXCLUSIVE: Nigerian Army Personnel Commits Suicide After Killing Wife Inside Wawa Military Barracks

Boko Haram Insurgents Attack Military Base in Borno, Soldiers Killed, Others Injured.

Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have launched an attack on a military base in Ngamdu, located in Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Sources told Daily Trust that the assault occurred in the early hours of Friday when a large number of insurgents stormed the camp along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway.

The attack forced the temporary closure of the Ngamdu section of the highway, leaving motorists stranded for several hours. “I left Damaturu early to reach Maiduguri by 9 a.m., but on getting to Ngamdu, the road was blocked,” a traveller said. “Security personnel asked us to be patient, but locals said Boko Haram attacked soldiers and killed some of them.”

Residents reported that the insurgents took the troops by surprise, engaging them in a fierce gun battle that lasted for hours before retreating. “They killed and wounded some soldiers,” a local source revealed.

A security source, however, told reporters that the casualty figure was not as high as initially feared. “The terrorists attempted an ambush, but our gallant soldiers repelled them. Some of our men were injured and taken to hospital, but many insurgents were also killed,” the source stated.

As of the time of filing this report, the military was yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

The Ngamdu area, which lies between Borno and Yobe states, has witnessed several attacks in recent years, as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters continue to target security formations and travellers along the busy highway.

Burkina Faso Rejects U.S. Deportation Request, Calls It “Indecent” and Against National Dignity

In a bold diplomatic move, Burkina Faso’s military government has rejected a proposal from the United States to accept individuals deported from America who are not Burkinabè citizens. The decision, announced by Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré on national television on Thursday, October 9, 2025, underscores the West African nation’s firm stance on sovereignty and national pride.

Traoré described the U.S. request as “indecent and unacceptable,” stating that it contradicts the values and vision of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s leader.

“Burkina Faso is not a land of deportation but one of dignity,” he declared.


The rejection came just hours after the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou temporarily suspended visa services, redirecting applicants to the U.S. Embassy in Togo. The embassy did not provide reasons for the decision.

In response to a U.S. diplomatic note suggesting that Burkinabè nationals were misusing visas, the foreign minister dismissed the claim as a “pressure tactic.” He reaffirmed that Burkina Faso would not bow to external influence or compromise its integrity.

As of the announcement, neither the U.S. Department of Homeland Security nor the U.S. Embassy had issued an official statement addressing the matter.

This development comes amid rising global diplomatic tensions, as the White House also criticized the Norwegian Nobel Committee over its decision to award the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, citing political bias.

Tinubu Grants Posthumous Pardon to Late Major General Mamman Vatsa

The family of Major General Mamman Vatsa has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu following the posthumous pardon of the celebrated poet and senior military officer, nearly 39 years after his execution.

Vatsa, executed in 1986 after being convicted by a secret military tribunal for allegedly plotting a coup against then Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, was finally cleared through the exercise of presidential clemency, alongside Herbert Macaulay and other notable figures.

In a statement from Minna, Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, family spokesperson and former state Commissioner for Information, described the pardon as “the greatest moment of relief since the general’s death.”

He said:

“Today is the happiest moment in the life of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness following the killing of our late father, brother and uncle. Though nothing can bring him back to life, the family is consoled by this display of statesmanship by our dear president. He has written his name in gold, and history will forever remember him.”


Jonathan emphasized that the family has long maintained Vatsa’s innocence, calling the coup charge a “frame-up” and the trial a “stage-managed process” fueled by envy and hatred. He added:

“Justice can never be denied but can only be delayed. The family is convinced that the late Vatsa must be happy in his grave today by this singular act of compassion by President Tinubu. This goes to show that truth doesn’t expire.”


He also recalled that General Domkat Bali, a member of the military council at the time, had publicly questioned the evidence against Vatsa and whether execution was justified.

While some of Vatsa’s closest relatives, including his wife and several children, are no longer alive to witness the pardon, the surviving family members celebrated being part of this historic moment.

“The family still maintains that the late General Vatsa was innocent of the coup. But we thank President Tinubu for his magnanimity in granting him the state pardon,” Jonathan concluded.

Tinubu Grants Presidential Pardon for Herbert Macaulay,  175 Nigerians

On Thursday, the Council of State approved the exercise of the presidential prerogative of mercy for 175 persons across different categories.

The decision followed a presentation by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s recommendations based on the report of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy during the council meeting held at the State House, Abuja.

Although the full list of beneficiaries is yet to be released, pardons were granted to Herbert Macaulay, Nigeria’s nationalist icon, and Maj.-Gen. Mamman Vatsa (retd.), a former FCT minister, was executed in 1986 under the Babangida regime. Members of the Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four were also named among the beneficiaries.

Macaulay, regarded as the father of Nigerian nationalism, was twice jailed by the British colonial authorities — in 1913 for alleged fund misappropriation and in 1928 for sedition following his newspaper’s publication during the Eleko of Lagos crisis. Historians have long questioned the fairness of his convictions.

Vatsa, a poet and member of the Supreme Military Council, was executed by firing squad for an alleged coup attempt, a case that has remained controversial for decades, with repeated calls for a posthumous pardon.

Of the 175 approved cases, 82 inmates received full pardons, 65 had their sentences reduced, while seven death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State said the decision reflects President Tinubu’s “commitment to justice, fairness, and correctional reform.”

The meeting, chaired by the President, also ratified key appointments, including Dr Aminu Yusuf from Niger State as Chairman of the National Population Commission and Tonge Bularafa as Federal Commissioner representing Yobe State. 

Both nominations were unanimously endorsed.