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.

Ibadan Airport Shutdown Exposes Double Standards as Government Officials Enjoy Exclusive Access

This follow-up report by Dr. Oludare Ogunlana reveals how the Federal Government continues to deny commercial operations at Ibadan Airport while secretly using the facility for VIP movements. Despite public claims that the airport is unsafe, new images and official documents show aircraft landing, ground staff working, and directives authorizing flights for the First Lady’s events. The report argues that the airport is fully operational but restricted to political elites, forcing ordinary Nigerians to rely on the dangerous Lagos–Ibadan expressway. It questions the government’s justification for selective access and calls for fairness, transparency, and immediate reopening of the airport for public use.

Nigeria Condemns Failed Coup in Benin, Affirms Strong Support for President Talon

The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin, describing the attack as a direct assault on democracy and regional stability. In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria praised Beninese security forces for swiftly repelling the plot and safeguarding President Patrice Talon. The government reaffirmed its commitments under ECOWAS and the African Union, urging all member states to reject unconstitutional changes of government. Nigeria also called for calm among political actors in Benin and pledged continued cooperation to defend democracy and maintain peace across West Africa.

The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Salem Al Shamsi, paid a courtesy visit to the former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Muhammadu Buhari. The Ambassador was accompanied by Mr. Saif Al-Katheeri, Head of the Political and Economic Section at the UAE Embassy.

JUST IN: Pat Utomi, a professor of political economy and management expert, says Nigerian politicians are responsible for the divisions in the country.

Nigeria’s Waning Influence Blamed for Rising Coups in West Africa — Activist Nwapa

Human rights advocate Francis Nwapa has linked the recent military coup in Benin Republic to Nigeria’s declining leadership role and governance failures in West Africa. Responding to reports that soldiers led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri tried to remove President Patrice Talon and seized national institutions, Nwapa argued that Nigeria’s inability to provide strong democratic leadership, economic stability, and respect for human rights has weakened its regional credibility.

Nwapa said Nigeria once shaped stability across Africa but has now lost the moral authority needed to discourage military takeovers. He noted that frustrations with Nigeria’s economic decline, especially the weakened naira, are felt across neighbouring countries, citing interactions with traders from Togo and Benin during his 2025 visit to Ghana. The activist warned that unless Nigeria’s political elites urgently improve governance, the region could face more instability and internal unrest.

Insecurity: Kano gov gathers 4,444 Qur’an reciters for prayers against banditry

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has warned against politicising insecurity, stressing that the growing threat of banditry demands collective action from all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

The governor made the remarks on Saturday night during a special prayer session at the Government House, where 4,444 Qur’an memorizers (Huffaz) gathered to recite the Holy Qur’an and offer prayers for lasting peace in the state following recent attacks by armed bandits.

The event drew notable figures, including the 16th Fulani Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, top government officials, clerics and community leaders.

Governor Yusuf emphasised that insecurity affects everyone equally, urging Nigerians to unite in confronting the menace.

“Insecurity does not know politics or party affiliations. This is why everyone, regardless of their leanings, must join hands to fight the monster of banditry. We want to see everybody working together to free Kano,” he said.

According to him, the government is working round-the-clock with security operatives to protect Kano and its environs.

Describing the mass prayer session as a vital spiritual effort, the governor noted that such initiatives should be appreciated by all well-meaning residents.

The prayer session drew Islamic scholars, Qur’an reciters and participants from all 44 local government areas, all united in seeking divine intervention and an end to insecurity in the state.

Rights Group Condemns Armed Police Raid, ‘Unlawful’ Arrest of Kano Prosecutor Muhuyi Magaji

A human rights organisation, Advocacy for Human Right and Cultural Values for Development Initiative (AHRCV), has criticised the arrest of Barrister Muhuyi Magaji, lead prosecutor in the Dala Inland Dry Port corruption case. Magaji was reportedly taken by a heavily armed team allegedly sent from Abuja without a warrant, despite court orders protecting him from intimidation. Although he was released on bail the following day, AHRCV described the operation as unlawful, politically motivated, and a threat to judicial independence.

The group said the arrest appeared aimed at obstructing an ongoing corruption case involving powerful individuals. It called on the Nigeria Police Force to justify the raid, urged judicial bodies to protect legal practitioners, and demanded an impartial investigation. AHRCV warned that using security agencies for intimidation undermines the fight against corruption and violates citizens’ fundamental rights.

Nigerian Fighter Jets Sent to Benin Republic Amid Military Takeover

Nigeria has dispatched military aircraft to Benin Republic in response to a military coup that ousted President Patrice Talon on Sunday, according to credible security sources.

The fighter jets departed from Lagos on Sunday and have been observed flying in Benin Republic’s airspace. Nigeria has heightened its surveillance operations to closely track the fast-changing political and security developments in its neighboring country.

Adeyanju Blames Wike, Akpabio for Making Coups Appealing in Africa

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has criticised Nigerian politicians such as Nyesom Wike and Godswill Akpabio, accusing them of reckless behaviour that fuels public frustration and makes military coups seem attractive across Africa. Reacting to a failed coup attempt in Benin Republic, Adeyanju said widespread political arrogance and disregard for democratic principles have eroded public trust. He warned that unless African leaders embrace transparency and good governance, citizens may continue sympathising with military interventions.

Cubana Chiefpriest Hails Davido, Throws Shade Amid Ongoing Wizkid Saga

Nigerian socialite Cubana Chiefpriest sparked reactions online after publicly praising Davido while appearing to shade Wizkid and his camp. In a viral Instagram post, Chiefpriest boasted about Davido’s influence and financial power, claiming critics could only “type trash” because they lacked his level of success. His comments surfaced amid ongoing online tensions involving Davido and Wizkid, triggering strong reactions from fans on both sides.
Chiefpriest’s statement comes just days after he made political remarks about Nnamdi Kanu’s sentencing and the 2027 elections, further keeping him in the public spotlight. Fans of Davido celebrated his loyalty, while Wizkid supporters fired back, fueling another round of Afrobeats rivalry debates.

Tinubu’s ‘Security Emergency’ Is Not a Constitutional State of Emergency — Odinkalu Warns Against State Police

In a detailed opinion piece, Chidi Anselm Odinkalu critiques President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a “nationwide security emergency,” arguing that it does not meet the constitutional requirements for a state of emergency and bypasses necessary oversight by the National Assembly. Odinkalu warns that the move appears politically calculated and masks the administration’s reluctance to acknowledge Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
He further cautions against the push for state police, citing historical abuses—from Native Authority Police to Bakassi Boys—and the failure of state-led security initiatives in Zamfara, Benue, and Anambra. Odinkalu warns that creating 37 separate police forces could decentralize despotism, enabling governors to weaponize security agencies against opponents. He argues instead for decentralizing the Nigeria Police Force with stronger oversight, autonomy, and professionalism.


#StatePoliceDebate

#ChidiOdinkalu

#NigeriaSecurity

Man Accuses Activist Harrison Gwamnishu of Withholding Recovered Millions, Shares Year-Long Ordeal

A Nigerian man, Awuzie Frankline, has narrated his troubling encounter with embattled activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who is already facing allegations of diverting missing ransom funds. Frankline claims his brother engaged Harrison to help recover millions owed to him, but after retrieving the money, Harrison allegedly kept it for personal use following his political campaign.
Frankline said Harrison initially admitted holding the money and agreed to repay it gradually, but later blocked him on Facebook and WhatsApp. The dispute dragged on for over a year until social commentator VeryDarkMan intervened, prompting Harrison to start making small repayments. Frankline shared screenshots and insisted he holds no personal grudge, only seeking justice.
Reactions online remain divided, with some defending Harrison’s humanitarian work while others accuse him of repeated misconduct.

#HarrisonGwamnishu

#VeryDarkMan

#NigeriaNews

Army Withdraws Soldiers From Ondo Tantita Coordinator After Allegations of Illegal Escort, Intimidation

The Nigerian Army has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all soldiers allegedly serving as personal escorts to Chief Idowu Asonja, the Ondo State coordinator of Tantita Security Services. The directive, issued by the Chief of Army Staff, follows reports that soldiers accompanied Asonja to nightlife outings, palace confrontations, and political events without official approval.
The decision comes amid rising tension in Okitipupa, where protesting Tantita workers accused Asonja of diverting salaries for two years and inflating payrolls with ghost names. Youths also alleged arson, assault, and disrespect toward traditional rulers, including the Jegun of Idepe-Okitipupa. They demanded withdrawal of soldiers, relocation of Tantita’s office, a public apology to the monarch, and a full corruption probe. Evidence of alleged payroll fraud is set to be submitted to Tantita’s Delta headquarters.


#OndoState

#NigerianArmy

#TantitaSecurity

Fubara Says He Remains Rivers Governor by Tinubu’s ‘Special Favour’ After Emergency Rule

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has stated that he remains in office after the six-month emergency rule only through the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at the Rivers State University convocation, Fubara linked the institution’s funding challenges to the political instability triggered by his rift with former governor Nyesom Wike. He assured that full administrative control has resumed and pledged priority funding for infrastructure, security, staff welfare, and struggling satellite campuses in 2026.
The governor also commended the university’s progress and congratulated over 13,000 graduating students. Rivers State had experienced months of turmoil, prompting federal intervention and the suspension of parallel legislative activities. Fubara’s reinstatement to full executive power followed high-level negotiations led by President Tinubu.

#RiversState

#Fubara

#Tinubu

Omisore Slams APC Panel After Disqualification From Osun Governorship Primary

Senator Iyiola Omisore has condemned his disqualification from the All Progressives Congress (APC) Osun governorship primary, describing the screening panel’s decision as biased and politically motivated. Omisore, alongside six other aspirants, was barred for allegedly failing to meet nomination requirements, a claim he insists is false and unsupported by evidence. He accused former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of influencing the process in favour of Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji. Omisore said the committee failed to provide specific infractions and called on the APC National Working Committee to overturn what he termed an unfair and non-transparent decision.

#OsunPolitics

#APCPrimary

#IyiolaOmisore

Kenya Warns Citizens in Tanzania Ahead of December 9 Protests After Election Tension

The Kenya High Commission in Dar es Salaam has issued a security advisory to Kenyan citizens in Tanzania over possible nationwide demonstrations expected on December 9, Tanzania’s Independence Day. The warning follows rising political tension after the October 29 general elections. The Mission urged Kenyans to avoid protest zones, stay indoors during unrest, monitor verified updates, and prepare for potential internet or mobile shutdowns. Citizens were also advised to keep emergency supplies, ensure valid documentation, and maintain secure communication plans as the situation “can change rapidly.”

#Kenya

#Tanzania

#SecurityAlert

Kola Ologbondiyan Resigns From PDP, Cites Personal Reasons

Former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party. In a letter shared on his X account, he informed party leaders of his decision to withdraw his membership, citing personal reasons. Ologbondiyan, a former aide to ex-Senate President David Mark, has not revealed his next political move.

Ex-Kano Anti-Corruption Chairman Muhuyi Magaji Narrates Police Ordeal After Arrest in Abuja

Former Chairman of the Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Magaji, has recounted his ordeal after being arrested by heavily armed police officers and transported overnight to Abuja. Magaji said his detention was linked to his role as lead prosecution counsel in the multibillion-naira Dala Inland Dry Port case. He revealed that he spent over 24 hours in custody, was denied access to the arrest warrant, and was later charged with defamation. Rights group HEDA condemned the arrest as politically motivated and part of a pattern of intimidation against Magaji following his anti-corruption investigations.

Elon Musk Calls for EU Abolition, Says Sovereignty Should Return to Member States

Tech billionaire and X owner Elon Musk has sparked controversy after publicly calling for the abolition of the European Union, arguing that sovereignty should be restored to individual member states. His comments, posted on X, come at a time of rising nationalist sentiment across Europe and ongoing disputes between Brussels and tech platforms over regulatory compliance.
Musk’s statement coincides with mounting tensions between X and EU regulators, who accuse the company of violating the Digital Services Act, prompting investigations into content moderation and transparency practices.
His remarks drew mixed reactions online, with critics accusing him of meddling in European politics, while supporters echoed concerns about centralized EU bureaucracy. EU officials have not yet responded to his comments, which add to the ongoing global debate about the political influence of tech billionaires.