Several Venezuelan Civilians and Combatants Killed in Aftermath of U.S. Military Airstrikes Targeting President Maduro

Following U.S. airstrikes in Venezuela aimed at capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, reports indicate multiple deaths and injuries among Venezuelan civilians and military personnel. The strikes, conducted on Saturday in Caracas and other areas, have escalated the country’s ongoing crises and triggered a state of emergency.

The Venezuelan government condemned the operation as “imperialist aggression,” while international reactions have been divided, with some supporting Maduro’s removal and others decrying the attacks as violations of international law.

Recent U.S. military actions, including maritime strikes targeting alleged narco-trafficking, have also resulted in civilian casualties, drawing scrutiny over legality and humanitarian impact. Venezuela continues to experience high violence rates, extrajudicial killings, and human rights concerns.

BREAKING: Trump Claims US Captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Wife in Large-Scale Military Strike as Explosions Rock Caracas

United States President Donald Trump has claimed that the US has captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife following what he described as a “large-scale” American military operation against Venezuela. In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump alleged that Maduro and his wife were apprehended during the operation and flown out of the country, though he provided no evidence or operational details to back the claim.

Trump said the operation was carried out in conjunction with US law enforcement agencies and announced that further details would be disclosed at a news conference scheduled for 11 a.m. at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

The claim comes amid reports of multiple explosions in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, where residents reportedly heard loud blasts and saw thick smoke rising near Fortuna, one of the country’s most strategic military bases. Al Jazeera and the Associated Press reported that at least seven explosions were heard, accompanied by power outages and the sound of low-flying aircraft, intensifying speculation of a coordinated military action.

While the Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency, the exact cause of the explosions remains unclear, with analysts suggesting possibilities ranging from a US-linked strike to internal military sabotage. The developments have heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas, raising fears of a major international crisis in the region.

Akwa Ibom Communities Cry Out as Mount Carmel Hospital in Ibesikpo Asutan Lies in Ruins for Years, Exposing Deep Neglect of Rural Healthcare Infrastructure

Residents of Akpautong community in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State are facing severe hardship as Mount Carmel Hospital—the only primary healthcare facility serving at least six surrounding communities—has fallen into advanced decay after years of abandonment. The situation was uncovered by the Tracka monitoring team during its nationwide assessment of primary healthcare centres, revealing widespread neglect of rural health facilities.

According to the report, large sections of the hospital are unusable, with roofs blown off by wind, cracked walls, damaged floors, overgrown bushes, and broken, rusted hospital beds scattered across wards. The facility lacks basic amenities such as running water, electricity, and proper sanitation, forcing health workers to rely on personal funds, generators, and purchased water to carry out basic medical services.

For over seven years, only the female ward has remained partially functional, now overcrowded and used to admit men, women, and children together amid unsafe conditions that increase infection risks. Despite this, doctors and nurses continue to work daily, showing dedication in the face of life-threatening conditions.

Civic organisations Tracka and MonITNG condemned the neglect, noting the stark contrast between the hospital’s condition and Akwa Ibom State’s ₦1.65 trillion revised 2025 budget and declared state of emergency in the health sector. They also referenced the Federal Government’s ₦32.9 billion Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) allocation for Q4 2025, expected to be disbursed from January 2026, stressing that there is no justification for continued neglect of rural hospitals.

The groups called for urgent rehabilitation of Mount Carmel Hospital, urging the Akwa Ibom State Government and relevant authorities to bridge the urban–rural healthcare gap and ensure access to safe, dignified healthcare for all citizens, regardless of location.

Explosions Shake Caracas as Venezuela Declares State of Emergency Amid Rising US Tensions, Military Base Hit and Blackouts Reported

A series of powerful explosions rocked Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, in the early hours of Saturday, triggering widespread panic and raising fears of a major security escalation amid worsening tensions between Venezuela and the United States. At least seven blasts were reportedly heard across the city, with thick smoke and fire seen near Fortuna, one of Caracas’ most strategic military bases, according to Al Jazeera and The Associated Press. Witnesses also reported low-flying aircraft and a sudden blackout in parts of the capital following the explosions.

While the exact cause of the blasts remains unclear, speculation ranges from a coordinated military operation to possible internal sabotage aimed at destabilising President Nicolás Maduro’s government. Venezuelan authorities accused the United States of launching coordinated attacks on civilian and military infrastructure in Caracas and several other states, describing the incident as an act of “military aggression.” In response, President Maduro declared a nationwide state of emergency, placed security forces on high alert, and ordered the protection of critical infrastructure. The United States has not issued an official response to the allegations.

Igbo Association Warns Abuja–South-East Roads Are “Death Traps,” Calls for Federal Intervention

The Igbo Community Association in the FCT (ICA FCT) has raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of major roads connecting Abuja to the South-East, describing them as “death traps.” The group condemned decades of neglect, citing increased insecurity, disrupted trade, and growing marginalisation in the region. ICA FCT urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the affected roads, demanded urgent action from lawmakers and the Minister of Works, and warned that political inaction could influence the 2027 elections. The association emphasized the strategic economic importance of the South-East and called for equitable resource allocation, improved security, and safer infrastructure.

#NigeriaRoads #SouthEastNigeria #RoadSafety #InfrastructureNeglect

Year-In-Review 2025: Peter Obi, El-Rufai, Fubara And Other Nigerian Politicians Who Lost Power, Influence And Political Ground

Nigeria’s political landscape in 2025 was marked by intense power struggles, elections, defections, and shifting alliances that reshaped the fortunes of several prominent politicians. While some leaders consolidated influence, others suffered major setbacks that weakened their political standing ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi endured a difficult year as his party failed to record meaningful victories in key bye-elections and the Anambra governorship poll, including losing his own polling unit. Labour Party’s Anambra candidate, George Moghalu, also struggled at the polls despite strong pre-election expectations. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced suspension, political isolation, and a forced realignment after a prolonged crisis that led to a six-month state of emergency. Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai equally lost ground as the ruling APC gained strength through defections, weakening his influence in Kaduna and nationally. The year-in-review highlights how these political losses have compelled affected politicians to reassess strategies as Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 elections.

Gov. Ododo’s Executive Proclamation Not State of Emergency

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has clarified that his recent Executive Proclamation on security protocols in the state is not a declaration of a state of emergency but a set of necessary measures to enhance the security architecture to crackdown on criminals in all parts of the state.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, explaining that the proclamation is a lawful constitutional measure aimed at strengthening security coordination and protecting lives and property across Kogi State.

Gov. Ododo emphasized that it is within his powers as the Chief Security Officer of the state under Section 14 subsection 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

He noted that the proclamation seeks to enhance collaboration among security agencies without suspending constitutional rights or declaring a state of emergency.

The Governor explained that the measures include verification of security operatives, mandatory identification checks, and prosecution of anyone aiding or abetting criminal elements such as bandits and terrorists.

He also clarified that the proclamation aims to curb the rise of fake security personnel and improve the overall security architecture of Kogi State.

He warned that individuals or organizations found supporting criminal activities will be treated as enemies of the state and prosecuted under applicable laws.

The Governor further stressed that all properties used in the commission of such crimes shall be forfeited to the Kogi State Government.

This, in addition to relevant constitutional provisions is backed by the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016, which empowers the state government to seize properties and assets used in the perpetration of violent crimes in any part of the state.

The Governor expressed gratitude to security agencies for their efforts and reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to peace and security.

Recalled that Governor Ododo on Tuesday rolled out a number of security protocols following the recovery of a large cache of weapons in the state by security agencies acting on intelligence.

Emergency Rule: Supreme Court Judgment Threatens Democracy — PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming the president’s powers to declare a state of emergency and suspend elected officials in any part of the country, warning that the ruling poses serious risks to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, the party described the apex court’s decision as a “dangerous democratic bend with far-reaching implications” for federalism and constitutional governance.

While acknowledging the authority and finality of the Supreme Court, the PDP said it was compelled to highlight what it termed the grave dangers that could arise from the interpretation and application of the judgment.

According to the party, the ruling could negatively alter Nigeria’s political landscape if unchecked, especially in relation to the balance of power, democratic accountability, and the autonomy of elected state governments.

#SupremeCourt #EmergencyRule #PDP #NigerianPolitics

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS PRESIDENT'S POWER TO DECLARE EMERGENCY RULE

The supreme court has affirmed the president's constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency in a state threatened by breakdown of law and order, including the power to temporarily suspend elected officials as an extraordinary measure to restore stability.

The seven-man panel of justices of the apex court gave the order in a 6 to 1 split decision on a suit filed by Adamawa state and 10 others challenging president Bola Tinubu's march 18, 2025 declaration of emergency rule in Rivers state.

The declaration had led to the six-month suspension of the state's governor, deputy governor, and members of the house of assembly amid prolonged political crisis and security concerns.

Although the court initially dismissed the suit on jurisdictional grounds, ruling that the plaintiffs failed to establish a sufficient cause of action invoking its original jurisdiction, it proceeded to address the substantive issues for clarity.

In the lead judgment read by Justice Mohammed Idris, the court held that section 305 of the 1999 constitution (as amended) empowers the president with broad discretion to implement "Extraordinary measures" in an emergency situation to avert anarchy or restore public order.

While the provision does not explicitly list permissible actions, the court interpreted it as permitting temporary suspensions of elected officials, provided such measures are time-limited and aimed at achieving normalcy.

The lead verdict also states that "The president is vested with the responsibility to protect the federation, and this includes deploying necessary tools during crises where governance has collapsed,".

In a dissenting verdict, Justice Obande Ogbuinya, who maintained that the president's emergency powers, though valid for declaration, do not extend to suspending democratically elected leaders such as governors, deputies, or lawmakers.
He argued that such actions undermine federalism and the constitutional processes for removing elected officials.

ECOWAS Declares Regional State of Emergency as Coups and Instability Surge in West Africa

ECOWAS has declared a regional state of emergency following a spike in coups, attempted mutinies, and worsening insecurity across West Africa. ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray announced the decision during the 55th Mediation and Security Council meeting in Abuja, stressing the urgent need for coordinated action to protect democracy and stability. The emergency move comes amid rising political tensions and security breakdowns in several member states, with further operational directives expected after ongoing deliberations.


#ECOWAS #WestAfricaCrisis #RegionalSecurity

NBA Warns Osun Governor Adeleke as Months-Long Court Shutdown Threatens Constitutional Breakdown

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Osun State has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Governor Ademola Adeleke, demanding an immediate resolution to the judiciary shutdown that has crippled the state since September 22, 2025.
The five NBA branches warned that the prolonged closure—triggered by a JUSUN strike over welfare issues and alleged neglect by the Judicial Service Commission—risks plunging Osun into a constitutional crisis “akin to a state of emergency.”
The lawyers accused the governor's JSC appointees and JUSUN leadership of sabotaging mediation efforts, leaving detainees stranded, cases abandoned and the justice system at a standstill.



#OsunJudiciaryCrisis

#NBAUltimatum

#GovernorAdeleke

FG Secures Release of 100 Abducted Niger Catholic Schoolchildren After Months in Captivity

The Federal Government has secured the release of 100 schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara LGA of Niger State. The students were part of the 303 children and 12 teachers kidnapped by armed bandits who invaded the school on November 21 at 2 a.m. The mass abduction triggered nationwide outrage and led President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on security and order large-scale recruitment into the police and military. Authorities continue efforts to rescue the remaining victims still in captivity.

Macron Backs Tinubu as France Pledges Full Support to Nigeria Amid Escalating Terror Threat

French President Emmanuel Macron has assured President Bola Tinubu of France’s full support as Nigeria battles a worsening wave of terrorism, mass kidnappings, and violent attacks across the North and Middle Belt. Macron revealed via his official X account that he spoke directly with Tinubu, expressing solidarity and promising to strengthen France’s security partnership with Nigeria at the president’s request.

The call comes as Nigeria declares a nationwide state of emergency after multiple mass abductions of schoolchildren and deadly assaults on churches and rural communities. Tinubu announced plans to recruit 20,000 additional police officers, deploy forest guards, and reinforce security in schools and places of worship.

The crisis coincides with international concern, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s warnings and rising criticism over Nigeria’s handling of insecurity. Analysts caution that Tinubu’s increased troop deployment may not be enough to curb the escalating violence.

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

Wike Loses Influence With Tinubu as Rivers Assembly Plans Defection to APC

Nyesom Wike is reportedly losing political influence with President Bola Tinubu despite efforts to prove loyalty, including orchestrating a vote of confidence from the Rivers State House of Assembly. As pressure mounts from international and religious leaders, Wike is said to be pushing lawmakers to defect to the APC. Meanwhile, Governor Siminalayi Fubara gains stronger support following the lifting of the state of emergency, leaving Wike increasingly isolated. The former governor also faces multiple controversies involving alleged corruption, land racketeering, abuse of office, and a deepening rift with Tinubu over INEC leadership appointments.

GOVERNOR UBA SANI CONGRATULATES CHRISTOPHER MUSA

The Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), a son of the State, as Minister of Defence.

The Governor, in a press statement, says the nomination from a leader who has shown sustained commitment to national security is a clear vote of confidence in General Musa’s record, capacity, and dedication to duty.

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the gesture, noting that it is directed not only to General Musa as an officer of the Nigerian Army, but also to the people of Kaduna State, who hold him in high regard.

Governor Uba Sani says the President’s action shows his recognition and reward for merit, and that the nomination strengthens the effort to improve the nation’s security framework at a time when the country has declared a state of emergency on insecurity.

The Exact Modalities and Strategies Following The State of Emergency Declaration Are Missing - Jega

President Tinubu declares state of emergency on nigeria’s security training institutions.

President bola tinubu has declared a state of emergency on nigeria’s security training facilities, describing their poor state as a threat to the efficiency of the nation’s internal security agencies.

The announcement covers institutions under the nigeria police force (npf), the nigeria security and civil defence corps (nscdc), and other agencies. the development was confirmed by enugu governor peter mbah, who heads the nec ad-hoc committee on security training reforms.

During an inspection in lagos, mbah said the president’s directive followed his october 23 approval for a total overhaul of police and civil defence training centres. “the president recognized the urgent need to restore pride, professionalism, and confidence among our security personnel,” mbah stated.

He noted that the committee, which has 30 days to submit its report, divided into two teams — one led by nasarawa governor abdullahi sule to inspect institutions in the north, and another led by himself in the south. according to him, consultants are assessing what needs to be rebuilt, re-equipped, and modernized.

Mbah explained that the move would establish an intervention fund for rebuilding and digital transformation, adding that tinubu’s approval of 30,000 new police recruits required proper training infrastructure. “we cannot train a 21st-century force using 20th-century systems,” he said, emphasizing the need for digital skills in ai, robotics, and mechatronics.

He stressed that the initiative was proactive and not in reaction to any external comment. “this directive was issued before recent foreign remarks. the president is simply addressing decades of neglect,” he clarified.

Governor dapo abiodun, former igp alkali usman baba, and aig olatunji disu, who oversees the spu, affirmed that the committee’s findings will guide the next phase of comprehensive reforms across nigeria’s security training institutions.

BREAKING: Supreme Court Reserves Judgment on Tinubu’s State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers State


The Supreme Court of Nigeria has reserved judgment in the suit challenging President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

A seven-man panel of justices led by Justice Inyang Okoro reached the decision after hearing final arguments from all parties involved. The date for the judgment will be announced later by the apex court.

According to Naija News, the plaintiffs in the case include the Attorneys General of 10 states, while the Federal Government and the National Assembly are the defendants.

During Tuesday’s proceedings, Delta State withdrew from the suit — a move that went uncontested by Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), counsel for the Federal Government.

Representing the plaintiffs, Eyitayo Jegede (SAN) clarified that the suit does not challenge the President’s constitutional power to declare a state of emergency, but rather questions its scope and implications, particularly on the offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly in Rivers State.

The matter now awaits a final decision from the nation’s highest court.


Source: Naija News / Polance Media Inc.

Fubara Dissolves Rivers Pension Board.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has dissolved the Rivers State Pensions Board with immediate effect.
Fubara Image was communicated in a Government Special Announcement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday evening by the State Head of Service, Mrs Inyingi Brown.

According to the Special Announcement, the office of the State Accountant General will handle the functions of the Board until a new board is constituted.

While no reason was given for the dissolution of the board, the statement directed members of the former board to hand over all properties and assets of the board in their possession to the Director of Administration of the Board.

The statement reads, “The Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the immediate dissolution of the Rivers State Pensions Board.

“Consequently, the Office of the Accountant General of Rivers State, henceforth, will handle the functions of the Board.

“Members of the defunct board are by this notice advised to hand over all properties and assets of the board in their possession to the Director of Administration of the Board.

“His Excellency, the Executive Governor, will in due course constitute a new board to manage the affairs of Pensions.”

Fubara was on September 18 reinstated as governor by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after he lifted the State of Emergency imposed on the South-South state.