Trump Claims He Boosted NATO Spending, Prevented Russia from Taking Ukraine, and Deserves Nobel Peace Prize January 7, 2026 – International News U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy on Truth Social, claiming that before his presidency, most NATO members were failing to meet financial obligations, leaving the United States to shoulder the burden. Key points from his post: He allegedly pushed NATO allies to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP, insisting they now pay promptly. Trump claimed his leadership prevented a total Russian takeover of Ukraine, without providing detailed evidence. He boasted that he ended eight wars during his presidency. Expressed frustration that Norway did not award him the Nobel Peace Prize, describing it as “foolish.” He credited himself with rebuilding the U.S. military, which he says is the only force respected by Russia and China. Despite skepticism about NATO’s loyalty, he affirmed that the U.S. will continue supporting the alliance. Trump framed these achievements as central to saving millions of lives and ensuring NATO’s relevance in global security.

Why Is Datti Baba-Ahmed Refusing to Follow Obi Out of Labour Party? As Nigeria looks toward the 2027 general elections, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed has declared he will remain with the Labour Party, distancing himself from the political move made by his former running mate, Peter Obi. Baba-Ahmed, who was Obi’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, said he has no intention of leaving the Labour Party, insisting that loyalty and consistency matter in politics. Peter Obi recently exited the Labour Party and aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a coalition-backed platform aimed at challenging the ruling APC. However, Baba-Ahmed dismissed the ADC, describing its members as “disgruntled politicians” and questioning the credibility of the alliance. Speaking at the Labour Party’s national headquarters in Abuja, the former Kaduna North senator also signaled his readiness to play a role in fixing Nigeria ahead of 2027. Discussion Questions: Is Datti Baba-Ahmed right to stay with the Labour Party despite Obi’s exit? Does political loyalty matter more than strategy in Nigerian politics? Is the ADC a genuine alternative or just a coalition of unhappy politicians? Who stands a better chance in 2027: Labour Party loyalists or the new coalition? What do you think?

Can Datti Baba-Ahmed Really Replace Peter Obi? LP’s 2023 Running Mate Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition Amid Party Crisis Is a new political battle for Nigeria’s presidency already taking shape within the opposition—and could Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed be positioning himself as the next major contender? These are the questions dominating political discussions after the former Labour Party (LP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidency. Baba-Ahmed made the announcement at a rally at the Labour Party’s national secretariat in Abuja, at a time when the party is grappling with internal realignments following the high-profile exit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His declaration comes barely days after Obi’s departure, instantly igniting debate about the future direction of the Labour Party and the broader opposition ahead of the next general election. Addressing party members and supporters, Baba-Ahmed was quick to dismiss any suggestion that his ambition was a reaction to Obi’s political move. Instead, he insisted that his presidential aspiration predates his alliance with Obi, stressing that he was not “following anybody’s trajectory” or attempting to step into anyone’s political space. According to him, records clearly show that he had sought the presidency even before Obi entered the 2023 race. He recalled his participation in the 2018 presidential primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt, noting that his eventual decision to serve as Obi’s running mate was driven by what he described as a rare opportunity for national unity rather than personal ambition. For Baba-Ahmed, aligning with Obi was not a surrender of his own political vision but a strategic choice aimed at offering Nigerians an alternative leadership model. Beyond ambition, his speech touched on sensitive but unavoidable themes in Nigerian politics—religion and ethnicity. Baba-Ahmed openly acknowledged his identity as a practising Muslim and a Hausa man, but maintained that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every qualified citizen the right to seek elective office. According to him, his decision to run is rooted in what he described as a genuine desire to help rescue Nigeria from its many challenges, rather than sectional or personal interests. However, he also struck a cautious tone, emphasizing that he would respect due process within the Labour Party and the electoral framework. While affirming his intention, he stated that he would not formally pursue the ticket until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases its timetable and the party leadership officially calls for aspirants. To him, this approach reflects both loyalty to party structures and adherence to democratic norms. His declaration has added a new layer of complexity to an already evolving opposition landscape. With Peter Obi now outside the Labour Party, questions are being raised about who will command the loyalty of the party’s grassroots supporters, many of whom were mobilized by the “Obidient” movement in 2023. Can Datti Baba-Ahmed inherit that momentum, or will the party struggle to redefine itself without its most visible figure? Reacting to the announcement, Labour Party National Chairman Julius Abure praised Baba-Ahmed for remaining within the party despite speculation that he might defect following Obi’s exit. For party loyalists, his decision to stay is being interpreted as a signal of continuity and internal stability. For critics, however, it raises deeper questions: does the Labour Party still have a unified ideological direction, or is it entering a phase of leadership contest and fragmentation? As 2027 approaches, Baba-Ahmed’s declaration invites broader national reflection. Is Nigeria’s opposition finally preparing early for the next election, or is this the beginning of another cycle of internal rivalry that could weaken alternative voices? Can Baba-Ahmed’s experience, ideology, and personal narrative convince Nigerians that he offers something fundamentally different from the political establishment? And perhaps most importantly, can he fill the vacuum left by Peter Obi’s departure—or will the Labour Party need a complete reinvention to remain politically relevant? On Fintter, this development is more than a headline. It is a conversation about leadership, loyalty, and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria. Is Datti Baba-Ahmed the natural successor within the Labour Party, or is his ambition likely to deepen internal divisions? Can he rally young voters and reform-minded citizens the way Obi once did? 💬 What do you think? Is Datti Baba-Ahmed the right figure to lead the Labour Party into 2027—or is the party losing its political identity? Share your views and join the debate on Fintter.

First Lady Appreciates RHI Team For Sustained Support Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu extends heartfelt gratitude to Renewed Hope Initiative team across the country, led by Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, First Ladies of States and RHI State Coordinators, Wives of federal legislators,ministers, service Chiefs, and other women leaders across the nation for their support to the initiative since the inception of this administration. In a personal message to begin the new year, the First Lady applauds their compassion, dedication, and readiness to act, noting that this has strengthened the collective efforts aimed at delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and empowering all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of status or background. Wishing them a peaceful, productive, impactful and a prosperous 2026, the First Lady again appreciates all their efforts and partnership, while looking forward to continued support in 2026 and beyond.

UK, France, Germany, and EU Allies Stand with Denmark Against Trump’s Threat to Annex Greenland The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark have jointly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to annex Greenland. The European leaders emphasized that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and NATO territory, insisting that Arctic security must follow international law, collective defense, and respect for sovereignty. They highlighted that unilateral actions by the U.S. could undermine NATO, and stressed that Greenland’s governance is exclusively for Denmark and Greenland to decide. The move comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. actions in Venezuela and growing strategic interest in the Arctic region. #Greenland #Trump #Denmark #EUUnity #ArcticSecurity #NATO #InternationalLaw #Geopolitics #TransatlanticRelations #EuropeNews

PLATEAU GOVERNMENT TRAINS PERSONNEL IN COMMUNITY BASED SECURITY OPERATION Governor Caleb Mutfwang says investing in the security architecture of the state is a priority that must be met towards tackling insecurity in parts of the state. He stated this during the Passing Out parade of personnel of the community based state security outfit, code named, Operation Rainbow in Jos. The community based security outfit Operation Rainbow is part of strategy by the state government to provide security structure at the community level towards enhancing intelligence support, protect communities and a rapid response to emerging security threats. It is in this regard that another batch of 1450 persons were trained. The passing out parade therefore is the formal induction of the trainees into Operation Rainbow. Governor Mutfwang says security remains the bed rock for sustainable development and urged them to adhere to rule of law, human rights and the principles of responsible engagement with civilians. He emphasized that Operation rainbow is an all inclusive security outfit meant to protect all citizens irrespective of ethnic or religious background. The coordinator, Operation Rainbow Brigadier General Gakji Shipi says the recruits were trained in tactical drills and community defense modules serving as first line of protection for their communities.

Ex-Kano Governor Shekarau Defends Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Says Leaving NNPP Won’t Constitute Betrayal Amid Party Divisions Former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau has defended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf amid speculation that he may defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking to DCL Hausa, Shekarau stated that political alignments are personal choices shaped by circumstances and consultations, not acts of disloyalty. Shekarau referenced historical precedent, noting that Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso previously left the PDP for APC while holding office without relinquishing his mandate, suggesting Yusuf’s potential move would follow a similar path. He also highlighted past disagreements within the NNPP over power-sharing arrangements, which led him and his supporters to exit the party. Shekarau emphasized that defection, when done in consultation with supporters, should not be framed as betrayal, and insisted that Governor Yusuf should be allowed to make his decision freely without being demonized. #ShekarauStatement #AbbaKabirYusuf #NNPPPolitics #KanoPolitics #KwankwasiyyaMovement #APCDefection #PoliticalRealignment #NigeriaPolitics #GovernorYusuf #NNPPControversy

Abuja Health Centre in Kuje Left in Ruins for Years, Linked to Childbirth Deaths as Residents Urge FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to Intervene Residents of Sabo community in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, have raised alarm over the prolonged neglect of their only primary healthcare facility, linking its dilapidated condition to preventable maternal deaths. The Sabo Primary Health Care Centre, which serves an estimated 7,200 people, has been largely non-functional for years, severely limiting access to basic and emergency medical services, particularly for pregnant women. According to Tracka, BudgIT’s public expenditure tracking platform, the centre’s infrastructure has collapsed, with damaged roofs and ceilings, wards without beds, and a complete lack of drugs and essential medical equipment. The facility has reportedly remained abandoned and vandalised for nearly seven years, forcing residents to depend on local chemists and unqualified alternatives for treatment. Community members disclosed that several women have died during childbirth due to the absence of functional maternal healthcare services. In response, Tracka and affected residents have appealed directly to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, alongside Senator Ireti Kingibe and Hon. Abdullahi Sabo, urging them to prioritise the reconstruction, equipping, and staffing of the centre. They stressed that restoring the facility is critical to safeguarding public health, reducing maternal mortality, and ensuring that vulnerable residents can access lifesaving medical care within their community.

APC National Secretary Basiru Tells FCT Minister Wike to Resign Over Rivers State Politics Interference Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to resign immediately, accusing him of meddling in Rivers State politics while serving in an APC-led government. Basiru argued that Wike, a non-APC member, has no right to interfere in the party’s affairs and dismissed allegations of corruption involving Rivers APC as “cheap blackmail.” He described Wike’s actions as an attempt to import PDP-style politics into the APC and destabilize party structures. The APC secretary emphasized that peaceful party operations must be respected and warned that continued interference could lead to legal action. Basiru stressed that Wike’s support for President Tinubu does not confer APC membership and reiterated that party governance should remain free from external disruption.

President Tinubu Nominates Magnus Abe as NUPRC Chairman, Seeks Senate Confirmation for 21 Oil and Gas Board Members President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has submitted two letters to the Senate seeking confirmation of 21 nominees for boards of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). For the NUPRC, former senator Magnus Abe is nominated as chairman. Other nominees include seven executive commissioners covering finance, exploration, production, and corporate services, along with non-executive commissioners and a secretary/legal adviser. Some members were previously appointed under Presidents Buhari and Tinubu, while others are new nominations. For the NMDPRA, Adegbite Ebiowei Adeniji, a lawyer with over 30 years in energy and natural resources, is nominated as chairman. The board also includes executive and non-executive members with expertise in finance, hydrocarbon, midstream and downstream infrastructure, and corporate administration. The Senate has been urged to expedite confirmation following recent CEO confirmations for both agencies. President Tinubu emphasized that all appointees must perform their regulatory duties professionally to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

PRESIDENT TINUBU NOMINATES BOARD MEMBERS FOR NMDPRA, NUPRC, SEEKS SENATE CONFIRMATION President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has written two letters to the Senate, seeking confirmation of 21 nominees for the boards of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). A statement by Bayo Onanuga, special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy, indicates that in the first letter, President Tinubu nominated Senator Magnus Abe to serve as the NUPRC board chair. Abe, who represented Rivers South East in the Senate for two terms, is a former NNPC board member and current chairman of the National Agency of the Great Green Wall. Other nominees for the NUPRC board are Engineer Paul Yaro Jezhi, a former Trade Union Congress chairman in Kaduna, and Mr Sunday Adebayo Babalola, a former deputy director of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), which was abolished by the PIA in 2021. Both men will serve as non-executive commissioners. President Tinubu also nominated executive commissioners to the board. They are: Muhammed Sabo Lamido, executive commissioner for finance; Mr Edu Inyang, executive commissioner for Exploration and Acreage; Justin Ezeala, executive commissioner for economic regulation and strategic planning; and Henry Darlington Oki, executive commissioner for Development and Production. Others are Indabawa Bashari Alka, executive commissioner for corporate services and administration; Mahmood Tijani, executive commissioner for health, safety and environment; and Ms Olayemi Adeboyejo, as secretary and legal adviser. Former President Buhari appointed Lamido and Adeboyejo in 2022, while President Tinubu appointed Alka in 2023. Inyang, Ezeala, the former managing director of Nigerian Gas Marketing Limited, Mahmood Tijani, Babalola and Jezhi are new appointees of President Tinubu. In his second letter to the Senate, President Tinubu nominated Mr Adegbite Ebiowei Adeniji, a lawyer, as chairman of the NMDPRA board. Adeniji has over 30 years of experience in energy and natural resources issues. He was a special technical adviser to the Minister of State for Petroleum on upstream and gas until 2018. He was a member of the Oil & Gas Policy team at the World Bank, which advised the Government of Nigeria on the reform and restructuring of the petroleum sector, including the development of the Strategic Gas Plan for Nigeria. He is currently the managing partner at ENR Advisory. President Tinubu also nominated Chief Kenneth Kobani and Mrs Asabe Ahmed as non-executive members. Kobani was a former minister of state for trade under President Jonathan and secretary to the government of Rivers State, under Nyesom Wike. Also nominated for confirmation are Abiodun Adeniji, executive director of finance; Francis Ogaree, executive director of hydrocarbon; Oluwole Adama, executive director of midstream and Downstream gas infrastructure; and Dr Mustapha Lamorde, executive director of Corporate Services and Administration. President Tinubu appointed Adama in 2024, while late President Buhari appointed Lamorde and Adeniji in 2021 and Ogaree in 2022 Other members of the NMDPRA board, as proposed by President Tinubu, are Mr Yahaya Nasamu Yinusa, executive director, distribution systems; Adeyemi Murtala Aminu, executive director, corporate services; Ms Modie Ogechukwu, executive director, economic regulation and strategic planning; and Barrister Olawale Dawodu, as board secretary and legal adviser. Dawodu is an industry player and was, at a time, the Financial Reporting Manager at Exxon Nigerian subsidiaries. The President urged the Senate to approve the nominees expeditiously. The requests followed the recent appointment of chief executive officers for the two regulatory agencies. The Senate confirmed Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed as CEO of NMDPRA. Mr President has charged all the appointees and nominees to discharge their duties and responsibilities professionally as regulators of the oil and gas sectors.

BREAKING: APC Senator Kelvin Chukwu Caught on Video Assaulting Constituent During Football Tournament in Enugu as Security Operatives Look On A serving senator of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kelvin Chukwu, representing Enugu East Senatorial District, has come under intense public scrutiny after video footage emerged showing him physically assaulting a constituent during a football competition in Enugu State. The incident, which occurred during the final match of a community football tournament organised by the lawmaker on January 3, 2026, was exclusively obtained by SaharaReporters. The videos show Senator Chukwu visibly angry, engaging in a heated confrontation with the constituent before pursuing him outside the football pitch and slapping him, while armed security operatives attached to the senator reportedly watched without intervening. Another clip also captured one of the senator’s security aides assaulting the same individual, who was later arrested and detained despite being the victim of the attack. Eyewitnesses alleged that the assault followed a minor disagreement during the match, accusing the senator of staging the football competition mainly for political reasons ahead of upcoming elections. The incident has sparked outrage, raising serious concerns about abuse of power, police conduct, and the role of security personnel in protecting public office holders rather than citizens. Senator Chukwu, who recently defected from the Labour Party to the APC, was elected in 2023 following the assassination of his elder brother, Oyibo Chukwu. The latest development has reignited debates about accountability, political violence, and the treatment of constituents by elected officials in Nigeria.

BREAKING: Nigerian Government Withdraws Criminal Defamation Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Over Allegations Against Akpabio, Yahaya Bello The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally withdrawn the criminal defamation and cyberbullying case instituted against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly. Court documents show that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation filed a notice of discontinuance on December 12, 2025, effectively terminating the prosecution at the Federal High Court. The charges stemmed from petitions by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, following comments made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview on Politics Today, where she alleged that both men were plotting to eliminate her. Despite earlier petitions to the Inspector General of Police alleging threats to her life, the senator was charged for publicly raising the claims. Several prominent figures, including Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru, had been listed as witnesses for the complainants. The withdrawn case is one of two criminal matters filed by the Federal Government against the senator, with the second case expected to come up in court and possibly face a similar fate. The development follows a public announcement by Senate President Akpabio that he had instructed his lawyers to withdraw all defamation-related lawsuits against individuals, after a cleric’s sermon influenced his decision. However, Akpabio still has a separate ₦200 billion civil defamation suit pending against Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment, in which he is demanding massive damages and public apologies.

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.

World Council of Churches Urges EU to Impose Sanctions, Enforce Arms Embargo on Israel Over Gaza War and Alleged Violations Against Palestinians The World Council of Churches (WCC) has called on the European Union to impose sanctions and implement an arms embargo on Israel, citing what it described as a war of genocide in Gaza and continued violations against Palestinians in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The appeal was made amid growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories. In a statement reported by the Middle East Monitor, Iskandar Majlton, local coordinator of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel under the WCC, said the council was deeply disturbed by the escalating cycle of violence and the immense human suffering it has caused. He stressed that the WCC’s position is firmly rooted in international law and human rights principles, condemning all attacks on civilians without exception. Majlton highlighted what he described as an unprecedented humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip, noting that thousands of civilians—mostly women and children—have been killed, while nearly the entire population has been displaced amid widespread destruction, hunger, and disease. He further argued that the ongoing violence did not begin in October 2023 but is the result of decades-long occupation, the prolonged blockade of Gaza, and systemic inequality faced by Palestinians. The WCC’s call adds to mounting global pressure on international bodies to take decisive action to address the conflict and uphold accountability under international law.

Nigerian Military Arrests Shariff Umar, Alleged Mastermind of North-East Suicide Bombings Including Deadly Maiduguri Mosque Attack Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested Shariff Umar, also known as Yusuf, identified as the key coordinator of a suicide bombing network responsible for multiple attacks and attempted attacks across Nigeria’s North-East region, including the Maiduguri mosque bombing. The arrest followed intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. According to a military statement, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were apprehended during the operation. Investigations revealed that Umar played a central role in recruiting, preparing, and deploying suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and supplying improvised explosive device (IED) components. A detained suspect, Ibrahim Muhammad, reportedly identified Umar as the ringleader of the terror cell. The military said Umar directly coordinated the December 24, 2025, suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque, where the attacker detonated a suicide vest and died. He was also linked to a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, having allegedly handed over IED materials to the intended bomber in Maiduguri. Further investigations implicated Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu, while his stepdaughter confirmed seeing the suspected bomber at their residence prior to the attack. The Nigerian Army said all suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive interrogation to dismantle the network, uncover additional collaborators, and recover remaining explosives. The military emphasised the importance of community cooperation, noting that terrorist networks often survive by hiding within civilian populations, and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Nigerian Military's OPHK Identifies Shariff Umar as Key Suspected Coordinator of Suicide Bombing Network in the North East, Calls for Public Cooperation Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by identifying Shariff Umar as the primary coordinator behind suicide bombing operations linked to recent attacks and attempted strikes in the North East region. According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, this development stemmed from intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. During these operations, 14 individuals suspected of involvement in suicide bombing activities were apprehended. In the course of the investigation, a detained suspected suicide bomber, Ibrahim Muhammad, clearly identified Shariff Umar (also known as "Yusuf") as the mastermind and leader of the terrorist network. Further probes uncovered that Shariff Umar orchestrated the suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, where his associate, Adamu (now deceased), detonated an explosive vest. He was also pinpointed as the organizer of a thwarted suicide bombing plot in Damaturu, having personally delivered IED components to the bomber in Maiduguri. Additional connections in the network were uncovered, including the role of Shariff Umar's wife, Yagana Modu, and corroboration from his step daughter, Amina, who confessed to having seen the suspected bomber at their home previously. These revelations have bolstered the investigation and highlighted the use of household and community-based hiding tactics by terrorist enablers. The public is therefore encouraged to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious individuals, activities, or movements to security forces. Building trust and collaboration between the military and local communities is crucial for eradicating terrorism and achieving enduring peace in the region.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk Warns Israel Against Death Penalty Bills Targeting Palestinians, Says Proposed Laws Violate International Law The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called on Israeli authorities to abandon proposed legislation that would introduce mandatory death sentences, warning that the bills violate international law and fundamental human rights standards. The proposed laws, currently before the Israeli Knesset, seek to lower the threshold for imposing capital punishment and would apply almost exclusively to Palestinians, particularly those tried under military law in the occupied West Bank. Türk said the bills raise serious concerns about discrimination, due process violations, and breaches of international human rights and humanitarian law, stressing that the United Nations opposes the death penalty under all circumstances. He warned that mandatory death sentences, which remove judicial discretion, violate the right to life enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and carry an unacceptable risk of executing innocent people. According to the UN, the legislation would require military courts to impose death sentences for intentional killing and amend Israel’s Penal Law to introduce capital punishment for acts defined as terrorism involving the killing of Israelis. Türk noted that the proposals appear explicitly discriminatory, citing language in the bills and public statements suggesting they are intended to apply only to Palestinians, many of whom are convicted after what the UN describes as unfair trials. The High Commissioner also warned that parts of the legislation could be applied retroactively to cases linked to the October 7, 2023 attacks, violating the principle of legality, and criticised vague definitions that could allow arbitrary use of the death penalty. He further cautioned that denying Palestinians in occupied territories fair trial guarantees under the Fourth Geneva Convention could amount to war crimes. The UN human rights office has urged Israeli lawmakers to halt the legislative process and ensure that any criminal justice measures uphold equality, due process, and the protection of life under international law.

Governor Mbah Holds Strategic Meeting to Reposition Igbos in Nigeria political space Governor Peter Mbah has held a strategic closed door meeting, with some prominent Igbo leaders, to discuss the position of Igbos in Nigeria's political arrangements. Chika Ugwu reports that the meeting which was held in Amechi Awkunanu Enugu, had in attendance, the former Governor of Old Anambra State,Senator Jim Nwobodo and Senator Orji Uzo Kalu. As political alignments and realignments continue ahead of 2027 general elections,the closed door meeting is part of renewed efforts by leaders in the South East to forge a united front, and reposition Igbos effectively in Nigeria's political equation. Briefing Journalists at the end of the meeting, Elder Statesman, Jim Nwobodo said the consultative and reflective engagement was driven by the desire to end ambiguity surrounding the place of the Igbos in NATIONAL affairs, stressing thatthe Igbos must have a clearly defined and respected place in the country's power structure. The Political leaders emphasized the need for unity,identifying internal division as a major weapon that can weaken the region's influence at the National level. They however noted that the conversation will be expanded to include other leaders to ensure that the Igbos remain relevant and strategically positioned in Nigeria's political space.

First Lady Oluremi Welcomes First Baby Of Year, Assures Of Peaceful 2026 First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has kicked off the New Year with visits to new mothers at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, where she welcomed the first baby of the year.