Wahala Don Burst: Boko Haram Demands $300,000 Ransom for Ex-Borno LG Vice Chairman!

Naija, wahala don show again for Borno State! A fresh video has emerged showing Hon. Hassan Biu Miringa, former Vice Chairman of Biu Local Government Area, and another unidentified man, kidnapped by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. In the chilling footage, the abductees pleaded for urgent help, saying their captors demand a whopping $300,000 (about N428 million) for their release.

The victims were reportedly abducted on December 17, 2025, while travelling from Miringa to Maiduguri. One of them said, “Alhamdulillah, we are alive. We are calling on the government and individuals to come to our rescue.”

The video captures their direct appeal to Borno State Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur and other prominent figures including Hon. Mukhtar Betara Aliyu, Hon. Sule Ali Rimi, Hon. Yakubu Gambo Kimba, and Alhaji Musa Dogo Biu, urging immediate intervention.

According to reports, Boko Haram and its ISWAP faction continue to terrorize communities in Borno, carrying out abductions, ransom demands, and attacks despite ongoing military operations in the northeast.

The abductees’ families and the people of Borno are now anxiously hoping for a swift rescue as this latest act of terrorism underscores the persistent insecurity in the region.

Wahala don burst oo, Nigerians dey pray say these men go return safely to their families.

Boko Haram/ISWAP Ambush in Gwoza, Borno State Kills One CJTF Operative as Security Forces Respond

A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Hamman Ibrahim, 40, was killed in a suspected ambush by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters along Warave–Bayan Dutse Road in Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State, on January 5, 2026. The attack occurred during a routine patrol of CJTF members and local hunters in an area that remains volatile despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
Following the ambush, troops from Operation HADIN KAI, alongside police officers and CJTF members, responded to the scene. Ibrahim was evacuated to the General Hospital in Gwoza, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body was released to his family for burial according to Islamic rites.
The incident highlights persistent security challenges in southern Borno, where local vigilantes and CJTF members continue to play a crucial role in supporting military operations against insurgent groups. Authorities continue investigations into the ambush to prevent future attacks.

#BornoState #CJTF #BokoHaram #ISWAP #NigeriaNews #GwozaAttack #SecurityUpdate #TerrorismInNigeria #NorthernNigeria

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Refutes Viral Claims of Being Targeted in US Airstrikes, Says Video is Old and Misleading

Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has dismissed viral claims suggesting he was marked for elimination in recent US airstrikes in Sokoto State. The cleric clarified that the circulating video is an old clip taken out of context and unrelated to any current military operations.

Gumi explained that the misunderstanding arose from a 2012 incident when Boko Haram allegedly attempted to assassinate him. In that event, an explosive device killed the assailants before reaching him, which Gumi attributed to divine intervention. He emphasized that he is currently living peacefully with his family and faces no present threat.

The cleric called the viral report false, urging the public to verify information before spreading unsubstantiated claims, reinforcing concerns about misinformation and misinterpretation in online media.

Topics: Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Viral Video, US Airstrikes, Boko Haram, Misinformation, Nigerian Security, Public Clarification.

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders Slams Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela as Illegal, Unconstitutional and Dangerous Violation of International Law

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has strongly condemned President Donald Trump’s military action in Venezuela, describing it as illegal, unconstitutional, and a blatant violation of international law. In a statement issued on January 4, 2026, the Vermont senator accused Trump of overstepping his authority as commander-in-chief and showing “contempt for the Constitution and the rule of law” by launching military operations without congressional approval.

Sanders stressed that the U.S. president does not have the constitutional right to unilaterally take the country to war, even against what he described as a corrupt and brutal dictator like Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He also rejected Trump’s claim that the United States has the right to “run” Venezuela, insisting that such rhetoric reflects dangerous imperial thinking.

Calling on Congress to act urgently, Sanders urged lawmakers to pass a War Powers Resolution to immediately end what he termed an illegal military operation and to reassert Congress’s constitutional responsibilities. He warned that the attack would have far-reaching global consequences, making both the United States and the world less safe, and setting a dangerous precedent in international relations.

Sanders compared Trump’s justification for the Venezuela action to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, arguing that it mirrors the same “logic of force” used by President Vladimir Putin. He further accused the Trump administration of reviving imperial ambitions in Latin America, citing references to the Monroe Doctrine and alleged interest in controlling Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, which he described as “rank imperialism.”

Turning to domestic concerns, Sanders criticised Trump for focusing on foreign military adventures while major problems persist at home, including economic hardship, a struggling healthcare system, housing unaffordability, and job threats posed by artificial intelligence. He concluded that Trump was failing in his responsibility to govern the United States, stating that the president should focus on domestic crises rather than attempting to “run” Venezuela.

‘US Crossed An Unacceptable Line’ — Brazil Condemns American Military Attacks On Venezuela, Slams Capture Of President Maduro, Monitors Potential Refugee Influx

Brazil has strongly condemned the United States’ military attack on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, describing the action as a grave violation of international law and a dangerous precedent for global stability. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the US had crossed “an unacceptable line,” warning that the bombings and arrest of Venezuela’s leader undermine national sovereignty and threaten multilateralism.

In a statement posted on X on January 3, 2026, Lula stressed that attacking countries in blatant disregard for international norms risks plunging the world into violence, chaos, and instability, where power overrides the rule of law. He called for a “vigorous” response from the United Nations while reaffirming Brazil’s long-standing opposition to the use of force and its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy.

The condemnation followed coordinated US military operations that led to the removal of President Maduro, marking Washington’s most direct intervention in Latin America since the 1989 invasion of Panama. US President Donald Trump hailed the operation as a major success, praising it as a powerful demonstration of American military strength.

Amid fears of regional fallout, Brazilian authorities convened an emergency cabinet meeting to assess the situation, with particular concern over a possible surge of Venezuelan refugees. Brazil’s foreign ministry said there had been no unusual movement along the border so far, noting that the country has hosted over 150,000 Venezuelan migrants since 2018 through ongoing humanitarian programmes.

President Lula, who joined the emergency meeting virtually, reiterated that military intervention in Venezuela could trigger a humanitarian catastrophe and renewed Brazil’s offer to act as a mediator. Brazilian officials said they remain on high alert, closely monitoring developments while engaging diplomatically with Venezuelan authorities to prevent further escalation.

US Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury Slams Trump Over ‘Illegal’ Military Strikes in Venezuela, Demands Congress Take Action to Rein in President

United States lawmaker, Rep. Melanie Stansbury, has strongly condemned President Donald Trump’s reported military operations in Venezuela, calling them unconstitutional and illegal. Stansbury, a Democratic representative from New Mexico, stated that the U.S. Constitution clearly vests war-making powers in Congress, not the presidency, and urged lawmakers to immediately intervene to prevent further executive overreach.

Her remarks came shortly after the White House confirmed that U.S. forces were conducting operations in Venezuela. Stansbury criticized the strikes as a dangerous abuse of power, warning that Trump was acting beyond his constitutional authority.

The condemnation followed Trump’s extraordinary claim on Truth Social that U.S. forces had captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife during a “large-scale strike” and flown them out of the country — though no evidence was provided to support the claim. Trump announced that further details would be shared in a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence.

The incident has sparked intense political backlash and revived debate over presidential war powers, with lawmakers like Stansbury calling for Congress to reassert its constitutional authority and ensure checks on the executive branch.

BREAKING: Terrorists Storm Plateau State Community at Night, Kill at Least Seven Residents, Leave Several Missing in Deadly Bong Village Attack

At least seven people have been killed following a late-night terrorist attack on Bong village in Doemak District of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, Plateau State. Gunmen, locally referred to as bandits, reportedly invaded the community while residents were asleep, carrying out a coordinated house-to-house assault that left women, children, and elderly villagers especially vulnerable.

Eyewitnesses described the attackers as heavily armed, striking swiftly before fleeing into the night. A resident of the area, Justin Mari, said the death toll could rise as several villagers remain unaccounted for, while many others sustained serious injuries during the attack.

The incident was confirmed by the Director of Press and Publicity to the Qua’an Pan Local Government Chairman, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, who noted that the exact number of casualties was still being verified. He disclosed that the council chairman has condemned the attack and is working closely with security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

The latest assault has heightened fears over worsening insecurity in Plateau State, which has experienced repeated violent attacks on rural communities. It comes despite recent military operations in the state, where Nigerian Army troops reportedly foiled planned attacks, neutralised suspected bandits, and recovered arms and ammunition. The renewed violence underscores ongoing security challenges and the growing human cost of terrorism in the region.

BREAKING: Nigerian Military Combat Drone Crashes In Kontagora Forest, Niger State, As Authorities Remain Silent On Cause

A Nigerian military combat drone has crashed in the Kontagora forest area of Niger State under circumstances that remain unclear. SaharaReporters obtained a photograph showing the unmanned aerial vehicle wrecked in the forest, though it reportedly did not explode. As of the time of reporting, neither the Nigerian military nor the Niger State government has issued an official statement on the incident or confirmed where the drone was launched from. The crash has raised fresh concerns about aerial military operations in Nigeria’s North-Central region, coming amid heightened scrutiny of recent military activities, including controversies surrounding foreign airstrikes and unexploded ordnance in parts of the country.

Tinubu Vows Stronger International Security Cooperation in 2026 to Eliminate Terrorists, Boost Peace, and Safeguard Nigeria’s Sovereignty

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and criminal threats in Nigeria through stronger collaboration with regional and global partners in 2026. In his New Year message to Nigerians, the President stressed that economic reforms and national development cannot succeed without peace, security, and stability.

Tinubu acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing the country, noting that criminal and terrorist groups continue to threaten lives and national unity. He disclosed that Nigeria has already carried out joint counter-terrorism operations with international partners, including the United States, citing the December 24 airstrikes against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest. According to him, military operations have continued across the Northwest and Northeast to dismantle terror networks and criminal strongholds.

Looking ahead, the President said Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies will deepen international cooperation in 2026 to eliminate all threats to national security. He reiterated the government’s resolve to protect citizens, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while also restating his support for security sector reforms such as decentralised policing and the deployment of properly regulated forest guards to combat terrorism and banditry effectively.

Beyond security, Tinubu said 2026 would mark a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. He announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through grassroots economic activities across the country’s 8,809 wards. The President added that investments in agriculture, trade, mining, and critical infrastructure—including roads, power, ports, railways, healthcare, and education—will continue without interruption.

Calling for unity and shared responsibility, Tinubu urged Nigerians to support nation-building efforts with patriotism and integrity. He concluded by wishing citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while praying for the safety of Nigeria’s troops and the defeat of forces threatening the nation’s peace and stability.

Sokoto Bombing: Senator Ali Ndume Urges FG to Extend US Missile Strikes to Boko Haram, ISWAP Strongholds in North-East

Borno South Senator and former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has called on the Nigerian government to expand its ongoing joint military operations with the United States beyond Sokoto to the North-East region. Ndume made the call while reacting to the recent US airstrike in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto State, which targeted ISIS-linked militants. According to him, extending the collaboration to areas such as Lake Chad, the Sambisa Forest, and the Mandara Mountains would significantly weaken Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents. He also advocated deeper intelligence sharing, logistical support, and deployment of attack helicopters to assist Nigerian troops. Ndume commended President Bola Tinubu for increased defence spending in the 2026 budget, while urging transparency in its execution, and expressed condolences to victims of the recent mosque bombing in Maiduguri.

Nigerian Man Refutes Claims That Trump’s Missile Missed ISIS Targets in Sokoto, Says Images Withheld

A Nigerian man has addressed viral claims that a recent U.S. missile strike on ISIS-linked militants in Sokoto, northwest Nigeria, targeted empty land. Identified on X as @ndubuixi, he rejected speculations, emphasizing that such military operations rely on precise intelligence and planning. He further claimed that local authorities in the North chose not to share images of the destruction caused to the terrorists. His comments sparked reactions from Nigerians debating the credibility of the strike and its impact, amid ongoing discussions about U.S. involvement in counterterrorism operations in Nigeria.

AAC Chairman Warns Against US Airstrikes in Sokoto, Cautions Nigeria on Sovereignty and Long-Term Instability

The African Action Congress (AAC) Chairman for the FCT, Agena A. Robert, has warned Nigerians against celebrating recent U.S. airstrikes on alleged terrorist targets in Sokoto State. He cautioned that foreign military intervention risks undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty and could lead to long-term instability. In a statement titled “A Wake-Up Call for Nigerians: Don’t Trade Sovereignty for Short-Term Gains,” Robert argued that such strikes make Nigeria a potential battleground for global power interests and criticized the government for appearing merely “notified, not consulted.” He emphasized that foreign powers exploit conflicts rather than solve them, urging Nigerians to seek local solutions, strengthen regional cooperation via ECOWAS and Lake Chad Basin partners, and hold the Presidency accountable for approving foreign military operations. Robert stressed that addressing terrorism requires tackling root causes like poverty, corruption, and governance failures, rather than relying solely on airstrikes.

Sheikh Gumi Sues Two Facebook Users Over Alleged Defamation, Says False Threat Claims Endangered His Life

Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has instituted a criminal defamation case against two Facebook users, George Udom and Bello Isiaka, at the Chief Magistrate Court in Kaduna State over publications he says were falsely attributed to him and seriously damaged his reputation. The suit, filed on December 24, 2025, followed a Facebook post alleging that Gumi threatened Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, over ongoing military operations against bandits.

According to court documents, the defendants allegedly published a statement claiming that Gumi warned that the minister’s family in Zango Kataf, Southern Kaduna, would be eliminated if military offensives against bandits continued. Through his lawyer, Suleiman Lere, Sheikh Gumi categorically denied ever making or endorsing such remarks, describing the publication as malicious, reckless and deliberately crafted to portray him as a terrorist sympathiser and a threat to national security.

Gumi maintained that the false claim gravely harmed his standing as a cleric known for advocating peace, dialogue and restraint, while also exposing him to possible reprisals from security agencies and members of the public. His legal team warned that the era of hiding behind social media platforms to spread falsehoods and destroy reputations was coming to an end.

The criminal summons cited provisions of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017, under which the alleged offences attract serious penalties upon conviction. The case has further drawn attention to the growing problem of misinformation and defamation on social media in Nigeria, particularly against high-profile figures.

Sheikh Gumi, who has previously engaged armed bandits as part of peace-building efforts in northern Nigeria, reiterated that he stepped back from such engagements after the federal government designated bandits as terrorists in 2021. He stressed that while his past interventions were aimed at peace and economic stability, they exposed him to significant personal risks he is no longer willing to take.

Renowned Islamic cleric Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has approached the Chief Magistrate Court of Kaduna State, seeking criminal action against two Facebook users over an alleged defamatory publication and death threat linked to Nigeria’s Minister of Defence. The legal action follows claims that the defendants falsely attributed a threatening statement to Sheikh Gumi, portraying him as the author of a violent warning directed at the defence minister and his family.

Court documents obtained by SaharaReporters show that the application was filed at the Chief Magistrate Court sitting on Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Kaduna. The matter, listed as Case No: KD Km 1685725, names Sheikh Gumi as the complainant, while George Udom and Bello Isiaka are listed as defendants. Sheikh Gumi is seeking the issuance of a criminal direct complaint summons against the two individuals.

According to the application addressed to the Registrar of the court, the complaint arose from a Facebook post allegedly published by the defendants on December 23, 2025. The post, described as a “Breaking News” item, reportedly stated that if the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, did not stop military operations against bandits, his entire family in Zangon Kataf, Southern Kaduna, would be eliminated.

The filing further identified the Facebook accounts allegedly used to publish the statement, including the usernames and partial phone details associated with George Udom and Bello Isiaka. Sheikh Gumi told the court that his photograph was attached to the post, leading many social media users to believe that he authored the statement. He said he received numerous calls from people who assumed he had issued the threat against the defence minister.

Sheikh Gumi argued that the publication falsely portrayed him as someone who threatened a public servant, specifically the Minister of Defence, whose constitutional responsibility includes maintaining peace and security across Nigeria, including Kaduna State. He maintained that the post not only damaged his reputation but also posed serious security implications by linking him to a potential act of violence.

Describing himself as an Islamic scholar widely known for preaching peace in Nigeria and beyond, Sheikh Gumi stated that the publication painted him as a troublemaker capable of inciting unrest and disrupting the fragile peace in Kaduna State. He further warned that the post positioned him as a prime suspect should any attack occur against the defence minister’s family or in Southern Kaduna, thereby exposing him to possible danger and state scrutiny.

According to the court filing, the alleged actions of the defendants violate several provisions of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017, including sections relating to criminal conspiracy, attempted public disturbance, and criminal defamation. Sheikh Gumi’s legal team argued that the publication was not only defamatory but also capable of inciting fear, unrest, and public disorder.

The application, dated December 24, 2025, was signed by Sheikh Gumi’s lawyers from the firm of Suleiman D. Lere & Co., Kaduna. The legal team includes Suleiman Danlami Lere Esq., Ibrahim Ahmad Esq., I.H. Yahya Esq., and Saratu Nura Hassan Esq.

As of the time of reporting, the Chief Magistrate Court has not fixed a date for the hearing of the application or for the issuance of the criminal summons. The case adds to ongoing debates around misinformation, misuse of social media, and the legal consequences of publishing unverified and potentially dangerous content in Nigeria.

The development also comes amid heightened national sensitivity over security operations, online hate speech, and the spread of false information capable of inflaming tensions or undermining public confidence in security institutions.

Libyan Army Chief Mohammed Al-Haddad Killed in Turkey Jet Crash Alongside Seven Others

A Dassault Falcon 50 jet carrying Libya’s army chief of staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad, crashed near Ankara, Turkey, after reporting an electrical malfunction. All eight people on board, including Al-Haddad and three crew members, died. The tragedy prompted Libya to declare three days of national mourning and raised concerns over the continuity of military operations. Turkish authorities recovered the flight recorders, and investigations are ongoing.

#Libya #MohammedAlHaddad #TurkeyJetCrash #InternationalNews #LibyanArmy #AviationAccident

Belgium Files Declaration to Join ICJ Genocide Case Against Israel as South Africa Leads Legal Action Over Gaza War

Belgium has formally filed a declaration of intervention at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to join the genocide case brought by South Africa against Israel over alleged violations of the 1948 Genocide Convention in Gaza. The ICJ confirmed Belgium’s move on December 23, 2025, noting that the intervention was made under Article 63 of the Court’s Statute, which allows non-party states to participate in cases involving the interpretation of international treaties to which they are signatories.

As a party to the Genocide Convention, Belgium said its intervention focuses on the interpretation of Articles I to VI, particularly Article II, which defines the intent required to establish genocide. Any legal interpretation adopted by the Court will be binding on Belgium and other intervening states. South Africa and Israel have been invited to submit written observations on Belgium’s declaration in line with ICJ procedural rules.

The case, originally filed by South Africa in December 2023, accuses Israel of breaching its obligations under the Genocide Convention in relation to military operations in the Gaza Strip. The ICJ has already issued provisional measures in January, March, and May 2024. Belgium joins a growing list of countries—including Ireland, Spain, Brazil, Türkiye, and Colombia—that have intervened or sought to intervene, underscoring increasing international scrutiny of Israel’s conduct in Gaza and the expanding global legal response to the conflict.


#ICJ
#GazaConflict
#InternationalLaw

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) MALI, NIGER REPUBLIC AND BURKINA FASO has officially launched its Unified Force, marking a major step towards joint security and defence cooperation among member states.
The unveiling of the multinational force took place on Friday in Bamako during a ceremony presided over by the President of Mali and Chairman of the AES, Gen. Assimi Goïta.
Speaking at the event, leaders of the Alliance described the launch as a historic milestone in the collective quest to safeguard the sovereignty, security and independence of the Sahel region.
They said the Unified Force was a concrete expression of solidarity, shared strategy and political determination among AES member states in the face of persistent security challenges. Brig.-Gen. Daouda Traoré was announced as the Commander of the Unified Force, which brings together military contingents from member countries under a single operational command.
According to officials, the force builds on the momentum of previous joint military operations, notably Operations Yereko I and II, which were reported to have recorded significant successes against terrorist groups in the region.
The leaders reaffirmed that the establishment of the Unified Force underscored the Alliance’s commitment to regional self-reliance in security matters, with a focus on restoring stability, protecting populations and preserving territorial integrity.
They added that the AES project had moved from concept to reality, stressing that the alliance and its joint army represented a long-term and irreversible framework for cooperation in the Sahel.

Osun Governor Adeleke Raises Alarm Over Bandits’ Infiltration From Kwara Border, Urges Nigerian Army To Sustain Military Operations

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has raised fresh concerns over the threat of bandits infiltrating the state through its border communities with Kwara State, calling on the Nigerian Army to intensify and sustain ongoing military operations in the area. Speaking at the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake at the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, the governor praised the military’s role in maintaining national security and revealed that troops are currently conducting special operations in border towns to curb banditry and kidnapping. Adeleke described the threat as real but preventable, reaffirmed the state government’s collaboration with security agencies, and assured residents of continued efforts to protect lives and property following recent bandit attacks in Ora Igbomina.

Benin Republic Issues Arrest Warrants After Foiled Coup, Seeks Regional Cooperation to Capture Fleeing Leader Col. Pascal Tigri

The Benin Republic government has issued arrest warrants for suspects involved in a failed coup attempt, identifying Colonel Pascal Tigri as the principal figure behind the plot. President Patrice Talon disclosed that several conspirators fled across international borders following military operations launched to quell the takeover, prompting Benin to seek regional cooperation for their arrest and extradition. Talon confirmed that airstrikes were conducted against some plotters after the incident, while stressing that all those responsible must be held accountable under the law to safeguard regional security and constitutional order.

Trump Refuses to Rule Out War With Venezuela, Threatens More Oil Tanker Seizures
Published December 19, 2025


U.S. President Donald Trump stated in an NBC News interview that he does not rule out military conflict with Venezuela.

He threatened that the U.S. could seize additional oil tankers operating near Venezuelan waters if they carry sanctioned shipments.

The announcement follows a recent U.S. seizure of a sanctioned oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast and an ordered “blockade” of sanctioned tankers entering or leaving the country.

The Trump administration has intensified military operations in the region, including over 24 strikes near Venezuela, reportedly resulting in at least 90 deaths.

Venezuela, under President Nicolás Maduro, condemned the actions as aggressive and warned that any direct military intervention would be resisted.

Trump did not explicitly confirm whether removing Maduro was the ultimate goal, though he claimed Maduro “knows exactly what I want.”

These developments heighten regional tensions and raise concerns among international observers about potential escalation in the Caribbean and northern South America.


Context:
Venezuela is heavily sanctioned by the U.S., particularly its oil sector, and faces economic collapse and humanitarian challenges. The standoff underscores U.S.-Venezuela tensions over control of energy resources and political influence.