How Unverified Onitsha Claims Fueled Trump’s “Christian Genocide” Narrative and US Airstrikes in Nigeria

This report exposes how unverified data from Emeka Umeagbalasi, an Onitsha-based screwdriver seller and activist, influenced powerful US politicians and former President Donald Trump’s claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. Despite relying largely on secondary sources, assumptions, and Google searches, his figures were cited by US lawmakers and echoed in rhetoric that helped justify US airstrikes in Nigeria. Investigations by The New York Times and experts reveal major flaws, confirmation bias, and exaggerated statistics, noting that Nigeria’s insecurity affects both Christians and Muslims. Critics warn that such misinformation fuels ethnic tension, global misunderstanding, and dangerous foreign policy decisions.

#NigeriaSecurity
#Misinformation
#ChristianGenocideDebate

Alayo Melody Breaks Silence on Viral Omije Ojumi Burial Flyer……

Alayo Melody has reacted to a controversial social media flyer announcing the burial of Omije Ojumi that sparked widespread reactions online. Addressing the confusion, Alayo Melody clarified the circumstances surrounding the flyer, urging the public to disregard misinformation circulating on social platforms. He explained that the situation was misunderstood and called for respect, privacy, and sensitivity for the family involved, as investigations continue into how the flyer surfaced and spread across social media.…
#fintternews

JUST IN Davido don clear air over the wahala wey one young girl talk say na she be him first daughter. OBO talk say the claims no correct at all, and say the social media account wey dey push the story no be the girl own – na her mama dey control am. He emphasize say make people no carry fake gist follow body, say the matter don turn to misinformation. Davido beg fans make dem verify tori well before spreading am, as he no wan make innocent pikin enter online drama.

Is Nigeria’s Army Under Digital Attack? Nigerian Army Hunts Operators of Fake Social Media Accounts Impersonating the Chief of Army Staff

The Nigerian Army has sounded the alarm over what it describes as a growing digital threat: the proliferation of fake social media accounts falsely claiming to be operated by or affiliated with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. The development has raised concerns about online fraud, misinformation, and the misuse of military authority in cyberspace.

In a press statement issued on January 9, 2026, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, described the trend as “disturbing,” warning that unscrupulous individuals are creating and running these accounts to mislead the public. According to the Army, the impostor profiles are being used to solicit funds, defraud unsuspecting citizens, and circulate false information in the name of the COAS and the Nigerian Army.

The Army categorically clarified that Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu does not operate or maintain any official social media account on any platform. This statement directly contradicts the claims made by the fake profiles, which present themselves as authoritative voices of the Army’s top leadership.

Colonel Anele urged Nigerians to exercise extreme caution online and avoid engaging with, responding to, or sharing content from any account claiming to represent the Chief of Army Staff. The public was advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious pages, as interaction with such accounts could expose users to financial scams, identity theft, or the spread of dangerous misinformation.

Beyond public awareness, the Army confirmed that it is actively pursuing the operators behind these accounts. It stated that necessary steps are being taken to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible in accordance with existing laws. The move underscores a broader effort by the military to combat cyber-enabled crimes that exploit public trust in state institutions.

The development highlights growing concerns about digital impersonation and information warfare in Nigeria, particularly as social media becomes an increasingly powerful tool for influence, deception, and criminal activity. By issuing a formal warning and launching a manhunt for the perpetrators, the Nigerian Army is signaling its determination to protect both its institutional credibility and the public from online exploitation.

As authorities intensify their investigation, Nigerians are being reminded that not every account bearing official names or military symbols is legitimate. The episode serves as a stark reminder of how easily digital platforms can be weaponised—and why vigilance, verification, and accountability are more critical than ever in the age of social media.

What Will 2026 Really Bring for Nigeria and the World? Azu Ishiekwene Predicts Power Shifts, Economic Strain, AI Disruption, 2027 Politics and Who Wins the World Cup

Is 2026 a year of quiet recovery—or the beginning of deeper political, economic and global turbulence? And is Nigeria already slipping into the politics of 2027?

In what he describes as possibly his final annual forecast, journalist and columnist Azu Ishiekwene delivers a sweeping, high-stakes outlook on Nigeria and the world, blending political prediction, economic analysis, technology trends and global power shifts. Known for earlier forecasts that accurately anticipated election outcomes and cabinet shake-ups, Ishiekwene argues that 2026 will be a year where politics collides head-on with harsh economic realities, leaving citizens caught between daily hardship and recycled political promises.

He warns that Nigeria’s economy will remain under pressure, with tensions growing between tight monetary policy and rising demands for fiscal expansion in a pre-election year. Could divisions inside the Ministry of Finance undermine investor confidence? And will petrol prices remain stable around ₦850 per litre, as he suggests, only if oil output rises and NNPC escapes its heavy crude obligations?

While cheaper fuel from the Dangote Refinery may offer temporary consumer relief, Ishiekwene predicts continued instability in electricity supply, pointing to a fragile transmission system that still requires massive investment. He also foresees President Bola Tinubu possibly unveiling private-sector-led reforms in power transmission involving major business players.

But is Nigeria already entering the politics of 2027 in 2026?

Ishiekwene argues that although early elections are unlikely, political realignments are accelerating. With multiple opposition governors defecting to the ruling APC, claims of a creeping one-party state are growing. Yet, he suggests the reality is more complex: a weakened opposition plagued by internal fractures, financial constraints and a lack of coherent alternatives.

Turning to the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition—uniting figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso—he raises a critical question: is ADC truly built to win in 2027, or merely to survive until 2031? He predicts Atiku will clinch the party’s ticket over Obi, with Obi likely offered the vice-presidential slot—potentially triggering backlash among “Obidients.” With limited grassroots reach and the enormous financial demands of a presidential campaign, Ishiekwene concludes that ADC may struggle to pose a serious challenge to the ruling party in the next election cycle.

Beyond Nigeria, he paints 2026 as a year shaped by geopolitical rivalry, especially between Donald Trump’s America and Xi Jinping’s China, and by growing global unease over U.S. trade policies, immigration enforcement and economic nationalism. Could gold and non-dollar assets accelerate as the world quietly prepares for a less dollar-centric future?

He also highlights the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, warning that 2026 will mark a shift from basic generative AI to agentic, autonomous systems capable of independent action. As AI blurs the line between reality and fabrication, he predicts rising confusion, misinformation, and ethical challenges—ushering in what he calls the “Year of the Humanoid.”

Even football is not spared his forecasting. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Ishiekwene tips Spain to win, citing tactical depth and cohesion, while acknowledging Morocco as Africa’s strongest hope.

Ultimately, the essay asks uncomfortable but urgent questions:
Is Nigeria drifting toward political dominance by one party?
Will economic reforms truly ease citizens’ burdens—or merely reshuffle the pressure?
Can a fractured opposition reorganise in time?
And in a world increasingly shaped by AI and geopolitical rivalry, where does Nigeria truly stand?

For Ishiekwene, 2026 is not just another year—it is a crossroads where technology, politics, power and survival intersect, setting the tone for Nigeria’s future well beyond the next election.

“Tinubu Government Cites Fiscal Challenges for Delayed Support to Nigerian Scholars in Morocco”

The Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has addressed allegations that Nigerian students studying in Morocco under federal scholarships have been abandoned, attributing delays to “temporary fiscal challenges.” This response comes amid claims by several students that they were left without financial support, shelter, or medical care over several years, with some facing life-threatening situations.
One final-year medical student reported that scholarship beneficiaries, recruited to train as future doctors for Nigeria, were struggling to meet basic needs. Another case involved a student named Umar, who suffered from appendicitis requiring urgent surgery, highlighting the serious risks faced by the scholars.
In a statement released by the Federal Ministry of Education, Director of Press Boriowo Folasade quoted Education Minister Dr. Maruf Alausa, who confirmed that no Nigerian student on a valid Federal Government scholarship has been abandoned. The ministry explained that students enrolled under the Bilateral Education Scholarship Programme prior to 2024 received funding up to the 2024 budget year. Any delays in payments were attributed to fiscal constraints, with ongoing coordination between the Ministries of Education and Finance to resolve outstanding issues.
The ministry further clarified that no new bilateral scholarships were awarded in 2025, dismissing circulating documents as “fake and unauthenticated.” According to the government, overseas scholarships have been scaled down following a policy review, citing sufficient capacity in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to accommodate affected programs locally. Under the new framework, only scholarships fully funded by host foreign governments are supported.
Despite these changes, the government reiterated its commitment to students already enrolled abroad, promising continued support until they complete their studies. Students wishing to discontinue overseas programs may return to Nigerian institutions, with the Federal Government covering return travel costs. The ministry justified the reforms as a measure to reduce avoidable financial burdens on public resources while strengthening domestic educational capacity.
The government concluded by rejecting what it described as misinformation or attempts to undermine policies, emphasizing that it remains dedicated to the welfare and academic progress of Nigerian students abroad.

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.

Ghanaian Self-Styled Prophet Ebo Noah Remanded in Custody, Court Orders Psychiatric Evaluation Over Doomsday Flood Prophecy That Sparked Nationwide Panic

A Ghanaian self-styled prophet, Ebo Noah, born Evans Eshun, has been remanded in custody by the Adenta District Court and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation following his arrest over a controversial doomsday prophecy. Eshun was arrested on December 31, 2025, by operatives of the Ghana Police Service Special Cyber Vetting Team for false communication and causing fear and panic after he predicted that the world would be submerged by a global flood on December 25, 2025.

The prophecy, widely circulated on social media, triggered widespread anxiety, with hundreds of people—some from neighbouring countries—reportedly abandoning their homes and travelling with luggage to Eshun’s premises, where he claimed an “ark” he built would save humanity. When the predicted flood failed to occur, Eshun released a video claiming that prayers and fasting had convinced God to postpone the destruction, rather than admitting the prophecy was false.

Public outrage intensified after he appeared at rapper Sarkodie’s Rapperholic 2025 concert, telling attendees to celebrate because the alleged doom had been delayed. The court has adjourned the case to January 15, 2026, pending the outcome of the psychiatric assessment. The incident has reignited national debate in Ghana over religious extremism, misinformation, public safety, and the limits of free expression, as authorities move to hold the self-proclaimed prophet accountable for the social disruption caused by his claims.

Tinubu Government Denies ‘ADP4VIP’ Plot to Arrest and Detain Opposition Figures, Calls Allegations Fake and Baseless Disinformation

The Federal Government has firmly denied allegations that it established a secret programme known as “ADP4VIP” to arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition politicians in Nigeria. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described the claims as false, fabricated, and deliberately misleading. According to the government, the alleged programme—which purportedly involved a multi-agency task force comprising the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser—does not exist. The administration said the forged document behind the claims was designed to portray lawful accountability as political persecution, particularly targeting members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and constitutional freedoms, the government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association. It stressed that law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies operate independently and within legal boundaries. The government also warned Nigerians against the spread of misinformation and fake news as the 2027 general elections approach, cautioning that political actors may increasingly deploy disinformation for relevance. Despite accusations of a crackdown on opposition parties, the Tinubu administration insisted it remains focused on economic reforms, tackling insecurity, restoring investor confidence, and delivering measurable progress for Nigerians.

FG Reaffirms Unwavering Commitment to Rule of Law, Dismisses Fabricated Allegations of Targeting Opposition

The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.

The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite “multiple credible sources” to allege a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically:

1. There is no such programme as “ADP4VIP.”

2. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.

3. The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.

The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.

Under President Tinubu's leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation's best interest.

Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.

Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation's interest.

As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated to delivering.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Stella Dimoko Korkus Debunks Rumours That Late Singer Mohbad’s Wife Welcomed a Baby Girl

Popular celebrity blogger Stella Dimoko Korkus has dismissed viral rumours claiming that Omowunmi, the widow of late Nigerian singer Mohbad, recently gave birth to a baby girl. The speculation sparked widespread reactions online, with fans expressing curiosity and concern. Addressing the claims, Stella stated that thorough checks confirmed the story was false and urged Nigerians to ignore the misinformation, stressing that the rumour was fabricated by individuals seeking attention and personal gain.

Ex-Governor Tambuwal Urges Calm After US Counterterrorism Strikes in Sokoto, Says Operation Targeted Terrorists, Not Civilians

Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has called on residents to remain calm following recent US military airstrikes in parts of Sokoto State. In a statement, Tambuwal said the operation was part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and was strictly aimed at terrorist elements, not civilians. He assured constituents that he is in active engagement with security agencies to clarify the circumstances surrounding the strikes and ensure civilian protection. Tambuwal also urged community leaders and residents to avoid misinformation, support security agencies with credible intelligence, and remain united in efforts to restore peace and stability in Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.

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.

EFCC Denies Illegally Detaining Ex-AGF Malami

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims that it is illegally detaining former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, insisting that no bail order has been served on the agency.

In a statement obtained by SaharaReporters on December 24, 2025, EFCC’s lead counsel, Chief J.S. Okutepa, SAN, described reports suggesting an ex-parte bail order in Malami’s favor as misleading, bizarre, and professionally irresponsible. Okutepa explained that these claims originated from a press release by someone claiming to be Malami’s aide.

He clarified that:

No court order granting Malami bail has been served on EFCC or its law firm.

The existing remand order by Justice S.C. Oriji of FCT High Court No. 2, dated December 10, 2025, remains valid. This order remanded Malami in EFCC custody for 14 days pending investigation.

Despite knowing this, Malami’s legal team filed a fresh bail application before another court in Nyanya, alleging unlawful detention. This application was dismissed by Justice Babangida Hassan on December 18, 2025, who confirmed that Malami was lawfully detained.


Okutepa also criticized attempts to seek ex-parte bail before Justice Bello Kawu without disclosing prior court orders, calling it an abuse of judicial process.

He emphasized that the clarification aims to prevent public misinformation, reaffirming that Malami is being detained under valid and subsisting court orders.

This statement comes amid ongoing allegations against Malami involving money laundering and unlawful acquisition of assets, which remain under investigation by the EFCC.

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.

NIN Now Serves as Tax ID for Nigerians, CAC Number for Businesses
Policy Update: The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) announced that the National Identification Number (NIN) now automatically functions as the Tax Identification Number (TIN) for individual Nigerians.
For Businesses: Registered companies no longer need a separate TIN; their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number will serve as their official tax identifier.
Legal Basis: This aligns with the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) effective January 2026, building on provisions from the Finance Act of 2019.
Purpose: The reform aims to simplify tax identification, reduce duplication, close loopholes for tax evasion, and promote fairness in tax contribution.
Implementation: No physical card is required—the Tax ID is a unique number linked directly to the individual or business. Banks will request this TIN for all taxable Nigerians.
Takeaway: The FIRS emphasizes that this measure is intended to improve efficiency and transparency in Nigeria’s tax administration and urges the public to ignore misinformation about the reform.

Tinubu Presidential Tax Committee Denies Circulating Document Claiming Alterations to Nigeria’s Gazetted Tax Laws

The Chairman of Nigeria’s Presidential Tax Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has dismissed circulating reports claiming amendments to newly gazetted tax laws, stating that the alleged committee behind the changes has not met. Oyedele warned that misinformation risks undermining public trust in taxation and urged stakeholders to focus on process improvements. Meanwhile, SERAP has called for an independent panel to investigate alleged discrepancies between the National Assembly-approved bills and the gazetted laws, urging transparency and accountability.

Rev Uma Ukpai’s Son Raises Alarm as Alleged Burial Arrangements of Late Preacher Surface Online, Urges Public to Await Family’s Official Statement

Daniel Uma Ukpai, son of late renowned preacher Rev Dr Uma Ukpai, has reacted strongly after alleged burial arrangements of his father surfaced on social media without the family’s consent. The leaked details, which outlined funeral activities across Akwa Ibom and Abia States, sparked widespread reactions online. Describing the situation as “alarming,” Daniel cautioned the public against sharing private family matters for publicity and stressed the need to wait for an official statement from the family to avoid misinformation. His response has further ignited conversations around privacy, respect, and sensitivity following the death of the highly respected evangelist.

Kwara Government Labels PDP Members ‘Bandits Without Guns’ Amid Insecurity Claims
Published 19 Dec 2025 | By Atanda Omobolaji

A senior aide to Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state of spreading misinformation about insecurity, describing their actions as “destructive” and capable of inciting panic.

Ibrahim Lateef, the Senior Special Assistant on Communications to the governor, said anyone deliberately spreading falsehoods for political gain is “no different from criminals terrorising communities—all they lack are guns.” He warned residents to be cautious of narratives that could undermine ongoing security efforts.

The PDP, however, dismissed these claims, alleging that suspects in a viral video implicated the state government in sponsoring attacks. Olushola Olusegun, PDP’s state spokesperson, referenced a previous attack in Oke-Ode, claiming that a government representative allegedly withdrew ammunition prior to the incident.

Meanwhile, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) clarified that arms provided to vigilante groups are part of legally sanctioned hybrid security operations to combat banditry and terrorism. Abu Michael, Head of Strategic Communications at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, stressed that all operations follow legal frameworks and that media reports suggesting otherwise are inaccurate.

Earlier reports highlighted that repeated attacks in Kwara’s Ifelodun, Ekiti, Lafiagi, and Patigi areas have forced farmers to abandon their farms, with many taking up commercial motorcycle riding for safety.

The situation underscores ongoing security challenges in Kwara State and the sensitivity of information surrounding counter-terrorism operations.

Miyetti Allah Denies Involvement in Arrests and Neutralisation of Suspected Bandits in Kwara and Kogi

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has clarified that it has no connection to recent arrests in Kwara State and the neutralisation of suspected bandits in Kogi State, despite reports that suspects were found with MACBAN ID cards. In a statement by President Baba Othman Ngelzarma, the association stressed that it is not a security group and condemned the misuse of its identity by criminals. MACBAN reiterated its commitment to peaceful livestock production, conflict resolution, and cooperation with authorities, while urging the public and media to avoid spreading unverified reports that could fuel misinformation and public distrust.