Guinea-Bissau’s opposition is urging ECOWAS to intervene to protect the country’s democracy.

They are calling for the same kind of involvement the bloc showed recently in Benin.

Rising political tensions have sparked worries about the state of democratic institutions.

Opposition leaders warn that without ECOWAS action, those institutions could be undermined.

The regional organization has a record of mediating governance issues across West Africa,
and supporters hope it will step in to help preserve peace and stability.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Detective Amber Leist, a 12-year veteran and devoted mother of two sons, tragically lost her life on Sunday while performing an act of kindness.

Off-duty, Detective Leist stopped her vehicle to help an elderly pedestrian who had fallen in the street. After assisting the person to safety, she was struck by a passing car as she returned to her own vehicle. Despite immediate aid from the driver and rapid transport to the hospital, she passed away.

Sheriff Alex Villanueva
@AlexVilanueva33
called her “an outstanding detective who led by example.” Leist is survived by her 17-year-old son and her 20-year-old son, who serves in the U.S. Navy. Rest in peace, Detective Leist. Your selfless heart and service will never be forgotten.

(Photo: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office

At least 17 people were killed and eight others injured when armed men, suspected to be Jukun militia, launched a coordinated attack on returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Tse Ajogo village, Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, on Wednesday, 10 December 2025.

According to sources, the attackers stormed the village at about 6 a.m., firing indiscriminately at residents and IDPs. Several others remain unaccounted for, while seven houses were set ablaze during the assault.

The sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident marks the second attack on returning IDPs in Tse Ajogo within a two-month period. The village, located approximately four kilometres from Rafin Kada town, has been described as highly vulnerable to armed incursions by the militia.

Sources said that the assailants were heavily armed and coordinated their attack to inflict maximum casualties and disrupt resettlement efforts.

Authorities have called for heightened vigilance in the area and urged troops to sustain patrols along key routes to protect resettling communities.

Security operatives are working to track and neutralise the attackers.

Residents of the Tiv communities in Taraba State have been advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious movements to authorities, while prayers have been offered for peace to return to the affected areas.

Viewers discretion strongly advised

Fear Grips Enugu Community as Hoodlums Attack Secondary School Amid Leadership Crisis

Residents of Mburubu Community in Nkanu East, Enugu State, are living in fear after hoodlums reportedly sponsored by political actors attacked the Community Secondary School, vandalising classrooms and school property. The attacks are linked to a prolonged traditional leadership dispute. Police confirmed the assault and are investigating, while parents and elders urge urgent government intervention to restore peace and protect students.


#EnuguCommunityCrisis #SchoolAttackNigeria #PoliticalViolence

Amnesty International Demands Probe After Military Allegedly Kills Women in Adamawa Protest

Amnesty International Nigeria has released the photo of Mary Talmon, one of nine women reportedly killed by military personnel during a peaceful protest in Lamurde Local Government Area, Adamawa State, on December 8, 2025. The rights group condemned the alleged excessive use of force and called on the federal government to conduct a full, transparent, and impartial investigation. Amnesty also criticized the inadequate response of security agencies to ongoing communal clashes between the Bachama and Chobo communities, highlighting systemic failures in protecting civilians.



#AdamawaProtest #AmnestyInternational #MilitaryExcessiveForce

Ibom Air Flight Aborts Lagos Landing, Returns to Abuja Due to Bad Weather

An Ibom Air flight travelling from Abuja to Lagos on Thursday was forced to return to the capital after severe weather conditions made landing impossible. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who was on board, said the aircraft hovered over Lagos for about 30 minutes before the captain diverted back to Abuja. Passengers spent roughly two hours in the air before landing safely.
The airline has not issued an official statement yet, though weather-related disruptions have recently affected multiple Nigerian airlines, including Air Peace, which previously announced delays due to heavy rainfall in Lagos and Port Harcourt. Airlines continue to emphasise safety as their top priority amid recurring adverse weather patterns nationwide.

YRC Celebrates Acquittal of 11 #EndBadGovernance Protesters, Demands Public Apology From Nigerian Government

The Youth Rights Campaign (YRC) has welcomed the Federal High Court’s acquittal of 11 #EndBadGovernance protesters previously charged with treason and terrorism over the August 2024 demonstrations against hunger and economic hardship. Justice Emeka Nwite dismissed the case, citing the prosecution’s lack of diligence and repeated delays. The activists, who had spent weeks in detention before their arraignment, were discharged and acquitted after the prosecution failed to appear in court.
YRC described the ruling as a victory for democratic rights and accused the government of attempting to use the charges to intimidate future protesters. The group demanded a public apology, return of seized belongings, unfreezing of bank accounts, compensation for victims, and the release of other detained protesters, emphasizing that peaceful protest must not be criminalized in Nigeria.

Catholic Laity Council Joins Bishops in Condemning Rising Insecurity, Urges Government Action

The Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria (CLCN) has joined the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in strongly condemning the escalating insecurity affecting communities across Nigeria, especially in the Northern and Middle Belt regions. In a statement signed by its national leaders, the council lamented the increasing attacks on innocent citizens and praised Catholic bishops in Benue State for their steady leadership during the crisis. CLCN also welcomed a US-based fact-finding team for drawing global attention to Nigeria’s worsening security situation. The council urged the government to take immediate, decisive action to protect lives and property, while calling on Nigerians to reject violence and promote unity and peaceful coexistence.

TIB Delta to Protest ‘Unlawful’ Prosecution of Activist Aghogho Amid AGF Authorization Dispute

The Take It Back Movement (TIB), Delta State chapter, plans a peaceful protest at the Federal High Court in Warri on December 15 over the alleged unlawful prosecution of activist Ighorhiohwunu Aghogho. The group says Delta State initiated federal charges without the Attorney-General of the Federation’s consent, despite conflicting positions presented before the ECOWAS Court. Aghogho is challenging the case as unconstitutional and seeking its dismissal along with ₦500 billion in compensation. TIB argues that the AGF’s filings expose inconsistencies, calling for judicial accountability as tensions rise ahead of the next court hearing.

BOOM

Nigerian troops have intensified operations against armed bandits and insurgents in the Lakurawa axis. Within the last 48 hours, security forces successfully carried out coordinated strikes that led to the neutralization of several key criminals, including Kachalla Kallamu, the reported deputy to the notorious Turji.

This operation marks another significant step in restoring peace and security in the region.
More at fintter.com
#fintter

HEARTBREAKING NEWS FROM AAU EKPOMA

A final-year student of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, has trag!cally l0st his life in a motorcade accident while celebrating the completion of his final exams.

What was supposed to be a moment of joy turned into a painful l0ss for his friends, family, and the entire AAU community. Truly heartbreaking.

May his soul rest in peace, and may every student celebrating academic milestones do so safely.

🕊 Drop a heartfelt RIP for him in the comments.

And if you’re a student or have a loved one in school, please—celebrate, but celebrate safely. Life is precious.

NIGERIA POLICE FORCE CONDUCTS PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING ON PREVENTING THE RECRUITMENT AND USE OF CHILDREN IN ARMED CONFLICT

The Nigeria Police Force has conducted a week-long Pre-Deployment Training on Preventing the Recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflict held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja. The programme was declared open by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, represented by AIG Aminu Baba Raji, AIG Training and Development and fully equipped officers with child-sensitive policing during internal security operations.

The programme was delivered in partnership with the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, featuring international facilitators and certified Nigeria Police Trainers-of-Trainers. Officers were trained to detect and prevent child recruitment and to recognize that children associated with armed groups are primarily victims deserving confidentiality, empathy, and protection.

In his remarks, the IGP stressed that children remain among the most vulnerable in situations of violence and that their recruitment by armed actors whether as fighters, spies, or in other roles, is a grave violation of their rights and a threat to national security. He emphasized the need for officers deployed to conflict-affected areas to identify these risks and respond with professionalism, sensitivity, and gender-responsive approaches.

The training further strengthened existing Nigeria Police child-protection initiatives such as the Safer Schools Programme and POCACOV. A total of 25 officers were certified as ready for deployment to conflict-affected areas.

IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation to the organizers for their support and assured that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding human rights and enhancing child-protection capacity through continuous training and strong partnerships.

CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
December 9, 2025

News flash

Senate approves president Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin republic for peace mission in line with provisions of section 5 part 2 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria.

The expeditious approval according to the president of the senate Godswill Akpabio is to ensure peace and stability and to avoid humanitarian crisis in the sub region.

Senate believes the action is a good step in the right direction

NEWS FLASH

PRESIDENT TINUBU SEEKS SENATE CONSENT ON TROOPS DEPLOYMENT TO BENIN REPUBLIC

President Bola Tinubu this Tuesday transmitted to the senate a request seeking its consent to deploy Nigerian troops on peace mission to Benin Republic.

In the communication the President explained that the deployment is to provide support in the country as requested by President Patrice Talon, following the recent failed coup attempt.

The deployment is in line with the protocol of the regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

It is also in tandem with section 30 sub 5 of Nigeria's constitution in consultation with Nigeria Defence Council.

The request has been referred to the committee of the whole for immediate consideration.

Nigeria had earlier provided air intervention following the unconstitutional breach in Benin.

Finest Dad Alive”: 2Baba’s Wife Natasha Celebrates Him After Welcoming Their First Child

Nigerian music legend 2Baba and his wife, Natasha Osawaru Idibia, are celebrating the arrival of their first child together. Natasha shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling him the “finest dad alive” as she posted a video of them bonding.

The couple, who recently welcomed their baby in late November, have kept the newborn’s gender private, teasing fans online. Natasha also reaffirmed her love for 2Baba in earlier posts, saying she has placed their marriage in God’s hands.

Their public appearances—from her birthday celebration to a recent event with Nollywood star Yvonne—have continued to draw attention, especially as their union followed a private traditional wedding that surfaced online. 2Baba previously praised Natasha for bringing him peace and happiness.

Uganda Electoral Commission Condemns Police Attack on Bobi Wine’s Campaign Rally in Gulu

The Uganda Electoral Commission has criticized the violent police and military crackdown on presidential candidate Bobi Wine’s campaign rally in Gulu, describing the clashes as a threat to free and fair elections. Tear gas, beatings, and force were reportedly used to disperse supporters, with Bobi Wine alleging he was personally assaulted. EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama urged all stakeholders to obey electoral laws, resolve disagreements peacefully, and allow candidates to campaign freely. The Commission called for a full police investigation and warned law enforcement to exercise restraint and use only lawful, proportionate measures during the election period.

Dozens Feared Dead as Tribal Militia Attack Bachama Communities in Adamawa

Dozens are feared dead after heavily armed Chobo-speaking tribal militia from Gombe State, supported by local allies, launched coordinated attacks on Bachama communities in Adamawa’s Lamurde LGA. The attackers reportedly advanced through creek routes, burning Tingno and Waduku to ashes and displacing residents before security forces repelled their push toward Lamurde. The violence erupted days after a fragile peace deal brokered by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri. A 24-hour curfew has now been imposed, with police and military tactical units deployed to restore order.

Orji Kalu Slams IPOB Over Sit-At-Home Killings, Calls Ultimatum ‘Childish Theatre’

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has condemned IPOB’s ultimatum against him, describing the group’s actions and sit-at-home killings in the Southeast as “self-destruction.” In an interview on Arise TV, he accused IPOB of crippling commerce, terrorising communities, and causing over 30,000 deaths tied to enforced lockdowns. Kalu denied sponsoring any militant factions, challenged IPOB’s spokesperson to face him publicly, and insisted that Nnamdi Kanu’s detention should be resolved politically—not through violence. He urged the Southeast to abandon bloodshed and return to commerce, peace, and negotiation.

NIGERIA CONDEMNS ATTEMPTED UNCONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF BENIN

The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received with grave concern and unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted forcible seizure of power in our friendly neighbour and brotherly nation, the Republic of Benin in the early hours of Sunday 7th December, 2025.

This act of destabilization represents a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to peaceful political transitions. Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace.

We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President. Their dedication ensured that the unfortunate attempt to subvert democracy was decisively repelled.

Nigeria reiterates its strong commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as fundamental pillars for peace, development and regional stability. Unconstitutional changes of government are an unacceptable and retrogressive step that threatens the hard-earned democratic gains and socio-economic progress of our sub-region.

As a steadfast partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria calls on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and in reaffirming our shared commitment to the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.

The Federal Government of Nigeria reassures the Government of the Republic of Benin of its full support and continued cooperation as we work together, as brothers and partners, to deepen democracy and ensure lasting peace and prosperity for our peoples and the entire West African region.

Signed:

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Sunday, 7th December, 2025

Nigeria Withdraws Fighter Jets as order is restored in Benin Republic After Failed Coup

Nigeria has recalled the fighter aircraft deployed to Benin Republic after authorities confirmed that Sunday’s abrupt coup attempt had been contained and the situation stabilised. The jets, sent from Lagos for aerial surveillance, were ordered back after intelligence showed that loyalist forces had regained control of Cotonou and that Nigeria faced no immediate security risk.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported on X that the attempted takeover of President Patrice Talon’s government was swiftly foiled. The crisis began when mutineers attacked the president’s residence in the early hours. Their assault was repelled, prompting them to storm the national broadcaster, ORTB, where they attempted to seize the state signal. Benin’s security forces responded rapidly.

National Guard units surrounded the ORTB headquarters and cut off escape routes as they moved to isolate the rebels. “The situation is under control. The National Guard has everything surrounded,” a senior security official said. Local media, including 24 Hours in Benin, reported that some mutineers were still barricaded inside the TV station on Sunday evening, with negotiations underway for a peaceful surrender.

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed that the coup attempt had been thwarted after soldiers briefly appeared on state TV claiming to remove President Talon, close borders, and suspend political parties. The presidency also reassured the public that Talon was safe, saying the regular army was steadily restoring order.

The coup plotters, identifying as the Military Committee for Refoundation and reportedly led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, had declared him “chairman of the military re-establishment committee” during their brief broadcast. West Africa continues to see a troubling rise in coups, raising fresh concerns about the region’s democratic stability.