Trump Bombs Farmlands in Sokoto, Tinubu Travels Abroad as Defence Minister Musa Goes Silent: A Scathing Review of Nigeria’s Security Crisis by Dr. Nasiru Aminu

In this hard-hitting opinion piece, Dr. Nasiru Aminu delivers a blistering critique of Nigeria’s leadership and security architecture following the controversial US airstrikes on Christmas night, which reportedly bombed farmlands in Sokoto rather than confirmed terrorist hideouts. He argues that the strikes were justified by former US President Donald Trump using claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria—claims the author describes as exaggerated, misleading and rooted in Trump’s polarising, post-truth political style.

Dr. Aminu questions why Sokoto was targeted instead of known terror hotspots in the North-East, noting that no credible evidence has emerged to confirm that ISIS or other terrorists were neutralised. He criticises Trump for belittling Nigeria publicly while simultaneously imposing visa restrictions on Nigerians, including Christians he claims to defend.

The article further examines the Nigerian government’s response, highlighting conflicting narratives from officials. While the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Information publicly supported the US action, Tinubu’s policy communication adviser, Daniel Bwala, openly described the situation as “sketchy.” Other ministers offered what the author calls unhelpful or misplaced commentary, while President Bola Tinubu himself remained silent and left the country on an end-of-year trip days after the bombing.

A major focus of the piece is the silence of the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, whom Dr. Aminu accuses of failing in his responsibility at a critical national moment. Despite widespread public anxiety, Musa did not address the nation or clarify whether he was involved in, or even informed about, the bombing. Instead, media reports showed him attending personal celebrations and ceremonial events, behaviour the author describes as unprofessional and insensitive during a national security crisis.

Dr. Aminu concludes that the absence of leadership, accountability and clear communication following the bombing reflects deeper systemic failures in Nigeria’s security management. He warns that unless this pattern changes, Nigerians should brace for continued mediocrity, insecurity and public disillusionment in the year ahead.

Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar has come under intense scrutiny after her assets appeared to skyrocket from only $1,000 to almost $30 million in just one year.

Two companies, both owned by her husband and listed on Omar’s most recent financial disclosure form, appear to have experienced significant growth in value between 2023 and last year.

Rose Lake Capital LLC was valued between $5 million and $25 million in 2024, according to the document, filed in May.

The venture capital management firm is headquartered in Washington, DC. Omar lists the asset as ‘partnership income’ on her form and claimed she doesn’t receive any income from Rose Lake.

However, in her 2023 report, released in May 2024, Rose Lake Capital is valued at between $1 and $1,000.

In the same report, the Somali-born socialist stated that another company, ESTCRU LLC, was worth between $15,001 and $50,000.

The firm is a winery in Santa Rosa, California. Its value is now listed between $1 million and $5 million, according to Omar’s recent disclosure.

In response to the significant increase, the National Legal and Policy Center, a conservative nonprofit that monitors the ethics of liberal public officials, has confirmed it is ‘certainly looking’ at the progressive Congresswoman.

Peter Flaherty, chairman of the organization, confirmed to the New York Post that the center is investigating Omar’s assets.

Rose Lake’s website says it has worked with five diplomats in more than 80 countries to structure deals, mergers, and acquisitions.

‘From distressed assets to buying publicly traded companies – our team has the prowess to execute the right opportunities,’ the company’s description reads.

‘At Rose Lake we tap into our extensive global network to create strategic partnerships to maximize the strength of the businesses we partner with.’

Rose Lake’s LinkedIn page also appears to have been removed amid reports of Omar’s wealth gains.

The company’s website stripped team members’ names and bios. The webpage now only displays a brief summary of Rose Lake’s work.

New Tax Law 2026: Simple and Legal Bank Transfer Narrations Nigerians Can Use to Avoid Overpaying Tax as FG Begins Digital Monitoring

As Nigeria prepares to roll out a new tax regime in January 2026, financial experts are urging Nigerians to pay closer attention to how they describe bank transfers. The federal government plans to rely more on digital banking data to improve tax compliance, meaning bank transfer narrations could play a key role in determining whether funds are classified as taxable income.

Tax consultants explain that tax is charged mainly on income earned from services or business activities. When bank transfer narrations are vague or misleading, such transactions may be flagged as income, potentially leading to higher tax liabilities, audits, or penalties during annual filings. Using clear, accurate, and honest descriptions helps ensure individuals only pay tax when it is legally required.

To guide Nigerians, experts recommend simple and lawful narrations such as “Gift/Family support” for personal gifts, “Refund/Reimbursement” for returned money, “Personal transfer” for moving one’s own funds, “Loan received” for borrowed money, and “Capital contribution” when injecting personal funds into a business. For business transactions, describing the exact goods or services sold is advised.

However, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, clarified that banks will not automatically deduct money from accounts regardless of narration. He stressed that Nigerians will still declare their income themselves at year-end, adding that the reform is meant to promote awareness and fairness, not to impose hidden taxes.

The government also dismissed widespread fears surrounding the new tax law, noting that low-income earners, gifts, remittances, pensions, and Nigerians in the diaspora remain exempt. Overall, the reform is positioned as a move to reduce the tax burden on vulnerable groups, strengthen compliance, and stimulate economic growth—making accurate bank transfer narrations an important habit for Nigerians ahead of 2026.

Oba of Benin Denies Authorising Assault on Pedro Obaseki Amid Viral Video

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has denied authorising the brutal assault on Pedro Obaseki, cousin of former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki. The Benin Traditional Council clarified that the monarch, a peace-loving leader, had no involvement in the attack and condemned vigilantism. Pedro Obaseki was reportedly kidnapped, beaten, stripped, and forced to kneel at the palace by men claiming to act on behalf of the Oba, following his attendance at a London event for his cousin. The Council also urged youths and social media users to respect the law and verify information before sharing it online.

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Ondo Judiciary Workers Decry Poor Court Infrastructure and Welfare, Warn of Justice System Collapse Under Governor Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State judiciary workers have raised alarms over the deteriorating state of courts and worsening welfare under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. They reported that many courts, including High Courts, Magistrates’ Courts, and Customary Courts, suffer from neglect, with roof leakages halting proceedings during rain. Staff face inadequate facilities, scarce office furniture, delayed vehicle replacements, and low allowances, hampering judicial efficiency.

The workers warned that the 2026 judiciary budget cuts could further cripple the justice system and stressed that financial autonomy without proper funding is ineffective. They highlighted that magistrates often rely on public transport, including motorcycles, to reach courts. The judiciary coalition has threatened to withdraw services from January 5, 2026, citing ongoing government inaction and insufficient support for judicial autonomy.

Nollywood Actor Ijebu Cries Out Over Staggering N1.8 Trillion Internet Data Expenses in 2025, Shares Sleepless Nights and Digital Spending Struggles

Nollywood actor Amokade Olatayo, popularly known as Ijebu, revealed on social media that he spent an estimated N1.8 trillion on internet subscriptions, data, and Wi-Fi in 2025. The Yoruba actor shared that the enormous cost of staying connected left him sleepless and deep in thought. His post sparked widespread reactions online, highlighting both the humor in the staggering figure and the broader reality of the essential role of the internet in work, entertainment, and social media influence. Previously, Ijebu had made headlines for gifting his wife a new car and unveiling his multimillion-naira lounge, showing his high-profile lifestyle.

Offa, Kwara: Suspected US Airstrike Hits Hotel, Couple and Child Injured, Residents Panic

Panic gripped Offa, Kwara State, after a suspected US airstrike struck Solidworth Hotel in Lamodi on December 26, 2025. A family source confirmed structural damage to the hotel and three other buildings, with at least five people, including a couple and their child, injured. Security operatives quickly secured the site. Residents reported loud explosions and undetonated explosives, intensifying fear. The incident follows US strikes on ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, confirmed as a joint operation by US and Nigerian authorities.

Air Peace CEO Warns New Tax Law Could Push Nigerian Domestic Flight Fares to ₦1 Million

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema has raised alarms over Nigeria’s new tax provisions, warning they could push domestic flight fares beyond ₦1 million and threaten airline operations. Speaking on ARISE NEWS, Onyema explained that cumulative levies—including VAT on aircraft and spare parts, and NCAA charges—are straining airlines’ finances, with only a fraction of ticket revenue reaching operators. He called for urgent government intervention to prevent sector collapse, stressing that implementing the new tax framework could force airlines to pass high costs to passengers, potentially crippling Nigeria’s aviation industry and impacting the wider economy.

I Was Kidnapped, Stripped And Humiliated’: Nigerian Actor Don Pedro Obaseki Recounts Abduction, Assault And Palace Ordeal In Benin

Nigerian actor and university lecturer, Dr Don Pedro Obaseki, has narrated how he was allegedly abducted, beaten, stripped naked, and publicly humiliated by armed men who dragged him to the Oba of Benin Palace in Benin City. Speaking in an interview with AIT, Obaseki said the incident occurred while he was playing football and described the experience as traumatic and degrading. He alleged the assailants claimed they were acting on palace orders but presented no identification. Obaseki said police later intervened and ordered his release, adding that palace chiefs told him the abduction was unauthorised. He claimed his ordeal stemmed from comments he made in London praising Edo people, which was allegedly deemed a cultural violation. The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for investigation and accountability.

Nigeria Governed by Sick People’: Sowore Alleges Tinubu Was Flown to Europe for Medical Reasons, Raises Fresh Concerns Over Akpabio’s Health

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is unwell and was hurriedly flown to Europe for medical treatment. In a post on X, Sowore claimed the president had been “managing himself” before the sudden trip and also questioned the health of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging he is seriously ill. Sowore criticised what he described as a pattern of Nigerian leaders seeking medical care abroad while governing the country. The presidency, however, said Tinubu’s trip was part of his end-of-year break and ahead of his scheduled participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit. Akpabio has also previously denied reports of ill health, insisting he remains fit and active in his duties.

Lawyer Demands Probe After Actor Don Pedro Obaseki Is Stripped, Assaulted, Dragged to Benin Palace Over ‘Disrespect’ Allegations

An entertainment lawyer, Rockson A. Igelige, has called for an urgent investigation after Nigerian actor Dr Don Pedro Obaseki was allegedly ambushed, kidnapped, stripped to his boxers, assaulted, and forcibly dragged to the Oba of Benin’s palace in Benin City. The incident, reportedly carried out by youths claiming to act on behalf of the Benin Traditional Council, followed accusations that the actor disrespected the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. Igelige described the act as criminal, barbaric, and a gross violation of Obaseki’s fundamental human rights, urging the Edo State Government and security agencies to ensure all perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of status or affiliation.

Tinubu’s Government Explains Roles of 7,000 Newly Recruited Forest Guards Deployed to Tackle Banditry

The federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has clarified the job description of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards deployed across seven frontline states to combat banditry and insecurity. The guards, trained for three months under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative, are tasked with protecting Nigeria’s forests, gathering intelligence, supporting security agencies, and reclaiming territories overtaken by criminal elements. According to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the initiative marks a decisive step toward restoring state authority, with plans to recruit up to 180,000 forest guards nationwide to curb terrorism, kidnapping, and other crimes operating from forest reserves.

B+mb Scare in Jabo, Sokoto as Villagers Discover Suspected Undetonated Explosive Device

Tension gripped Jabo community in Sokoto State on Saturday after villagers discovered what appeared to be an explosive device, prompting the intervention of security agencies.

An Arise News reporter at the scene said eyewitnesses revealed that a local farmer found the object in the afternoon, close to early evening. The farmer reportedly alerted other residents, who gathered at the spot and attempted to dig out the device.

According to the reporter, the situation nearly turned d%sastrous when the villagers, unable to remove the object, tied a rope to it and attempted to pull it out using a camel. He noted that the action could have resulted in a devastating explosion if the device had detonated.

“This was clearly a calamity averted, because if that device had gone off, it wouldn’t have been a funny scenario,” the reporter said. Security operatives, including an ordnance disposal team and police personnel, have since cordoned off the area.

Restrictions were placed around the site as experts worked to assess and secure the device. Although some villagers remained nearby, security officials were seen cautioning them and stressing that the situation was still active.

The reporter added that authorities suspect there could be more unexploded devices in the area. Residents are being sensitised to immediately report any suspicious objects to security agencies to allow trained experts handle them safely, as investigations and safety operations continue in the community.

Breaking: President Tinubu Departs Lagos for Europe Ahead of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Summit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Lagos for Europe as part of his end-of-year break and in preparation for his official trip to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The presidency confirmed that Tinubu was invited by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed AlNahyan to attend the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) Summit scheduled for early January. The weeklong global summit will bring together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development, innovation, and finance, after which the president is expected to return to Nigeria.

Breaking: President Tinubu Departs Lagos for Europe Ahead of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Summit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Lagos for Europe as part of his end-of-year break and in preparation for his official trip to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The presidency confirmed that Tinubu was invited by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed AlNahyan to attend the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) Summit scheduled for early January. The weeklong global summit will bring together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development, innovation, and finance, after which the president is expected to return to Nigeria.

President Tinubu Departs Lagos for Europe Ahead of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Summit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Lagos on Sunday for a European trip, the destination of which has been officially withheld. According to his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the trip continues the President’s end-of-year break and precedes his official visit to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tinubu has been invited by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed AlNahyan to attend the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) Summit, scheduled for early January. The summit aims to bring together leaders from government, business, and society to promote sustainable development under the theme “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go.” Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after the weeklong event.

VIDEO: Thugs Allegedly Acting for Benin Traditional Council Assault, Strip Actor Don Pedro Obaseki, Drag Him to Palace Over ‘Disrespect’ Claims

Nigerian actor Dr Don Pedro Obaseki was allegedly seized, stripped, and assaulted by a group of youths said to be acting on behalf of the Benin Traditional Council over claims that he disrespected the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. The incident, captured in a viral video, showed the actor stripped to his boxers, forced to kneel and crawl within the Benin Kingdom Palace premises before being taken inside to meet palace officials. Sources said the action was linked to Obaseki’s recent participation in a London event organised in honour of his cousin, former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, who has been at the centre of a long-running dispute with the Benin Palace. The controversy is rooted in years of tension between the former governor and the Oba over control of repatriated Benin artefacts, traditional authority, and alleged withholding of statutory allocations to the Benin Traditional Council. The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed debate over the use of mob action, traditional authority, and the limits of cultural enforcement in Nigeria.

Air Peace Resumes Daily Ibadan–Abuja Flights from December 24, Offers Tickets from ₦95,000 to Boost Festive Travel

Air Peace has announced the resumption of daily commercial flights between Ibadan and Abuja starting December 24, 2025, following the reopening of Ibadan Airport to full operations. The airline said fares will start from ₦95,000, providing travelers with a safer, faster, and more convenient alternative to long road trips during the festive period. The service renewal is part of Air Peace’s ongoing domestic expansion, which includes restoring suspended routes, increasing flight frequencies, and adding new aircraft to its fleet. The company recently received its third Embraer 190 aircraft to enhance schedule reliability and service efficiency. Air Peace described the Ibadan–Abuja route as strategic for linking major cities and boosting regional connectivity. The airline encouraged early booking through its website and mobile app to enjoy introductory fares.

Senator Oshiomhole Accused of Humiliating Labour Icon Pa Michael Imoudu in Death, Blocking Burial Funds — Daughter Speaks Out

Fresh revelations from the family of Nigeria’s foremost labour leader, Pa Michael Imoudu, have accused former NLC president and ex-Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole of humiliating the late icon even after his death. Dr Veronica Imoudu-Omosun, Pa Imoudu’s daughter, disclosed that despite the establishment of a tripartite burial committee and contributions from unions and the Edo State government, the family received no financial support for his burial. She revealed that Oshiomhole allegedly denied releasing funds, asking the family, “Can’t you bury your father?” His actions reportedly also prevented a lying-in-state in Lagos, depriving workers the opportunity to pay their respects. The revelations raise serious questions about Nigeria’s treatment of its heroes and the legacy of Oshiomhole’s labour leadership.

Innovations in Heat Treated Steel Plates Fueling Industrial Resilience and Performance Across Global Sectors

The Heat Treated Steel Plates industry is gaining substantial traction as manufacturers and end-use industries increasingly recognize the value of advanced, high-performance steel solutions. These heat treated plates are fundamental components across construction, automotive, heavy machinery, energy, and defence sectors — thanks to their enhanced durability, strength, and versatility. This press release highlights the latest trends, technological advancements, and broader industrial adoption shaping the landscape of heat treated steel plates.

Access full description of the report- https://www.theinsightpartners.com/reports/heat-treated-steel-plates-market