Lagos Police Transfer Pastor Chris Okafor Rape Allegations to Force HQ for Investigation January 7, 2026 – Lagos, Nigeria The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that allegations of rape against Pastor Chris Okafor, Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, have been transferred to the Force Headquarters via Zone 2 Command for further investigation. Key updates: Pastor Okafor was formally invited to appear before the police but initially failed to honor the invitation. He later appeared voluntarily. Police Commissioner Moshood Jimoh explained that the matter was escalated because Zone 2 Command, under the supervision of an AIG, was already handling it. Social media complaints are now considered valid sources of information for law enforcement investigations. Investigations are ongoing, and the police stress that public interest will guide their actions. Background: In December 2025, Pastor Okafor issued a public apology to actress Doris Ogala over a marriage dispute, while denying several other allegations. A former church member named Ama accused Okafor of raping her at age 15, impregnating her, and later sexually abusing the daughter born from that assault. Both women have shared their accounts with SaharaReporters. The Lagos Police continue to investigate these serious allegations under the Force’s hierarchy and protocols.

Who Killed Princess Ochigo? Why Was a High Court Staff Found Dead by the Roadside in Abuja? | Fintter Who is responsible for the mysterious death of Princess Ochigo—and why are so many questions still unanswered? Shock and anxiety are spreading across Nigeria’s capital after the lifeless body of Princess Ochigo, a female staff member of the High Court, was reportedly found dumped by the roadside in Abuja. Identified through an official identity card found on her body, her death has sent fresh waves of fear through the city, already grappling with growing concerns over unexplained killings. According to reports, Ochigo was discovered lying motionless under circumstances that remain unclear. There were no immediate signs of a road accident, raising disturbing questions about whether foul play may have been involved. As of the time of reporting, authorities have not confirmed the cause of death, leaving the public to speculate—and worry—about what may have truly happened. What makes the incident even more alarming is its timing. Just days earlier, the body of an Igbo nurse was also found abandoned by the roadside in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The back-to-back nature of these grim discoveries has intensified public anxiety and sparked concerns about a possible pattern of targeted or unexplained deaths in Abuja. The FCT Police Command has acknowledged the case. According to spokesperson Josephine Adeh, investigators are currently working to “unravel the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident,” promising that more details will be released as inquiries continue. Yet for many Nigerians, the absence of immediate clarity only deepens mistrust and frustration over security in the nation’s capital. Beyond the tragedy itself, this case raises urgent questions about public safety, women’s security, and the effectiveness of law enforcement in Abuja. How could a court worker—someone within the justice system—end up dead by the roadside with no immediate explanation? If a public servant can vanish and be found lifeless without answers, what does that mean for ordinary residents? For residents, activists, and observers, Princess Ochigo’s death has become more than a single incident—it is now a symbol of broader fears about crime, accountability, and silence. Many are demanding transparent investigations, swift identification of those responsible, and stronger measures to protect citizens, especially women who are increasingly vulnerable in urban centers. As investigations continue, one question remains at the center of national attention: Was this a tragic accident, or a crime that someone is trying to hide? 💬 Debate Starters for Fintter Comments Why are more bodies being found by the roadside in Abuja? Coincidence or pattern? Can residents still consider the FCT a “safe city”? Should there be a special probe into recent unexplained deaths? What must the government and police do differently to restore public confidence? 👉 Join the conversation on Fintter: Do you believe Princess Ochigo’s death will be properly investigated—or will it become another unresolved tragedy?

Controversy Erupts as Olu of Warri Greets Governor Sanwo-Olu After Female Executive’s Handshake Blocked” A viral video has sparked widespread discussion after Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, visited Lagos State and was seen greeting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with a handshake, contrasting a recent incident where a female executive’s handshake attempt was blocked by his aides. The event took place during the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, with the governor also giving the traditional ruler a tour of the renovated National Theatre in Iganmu. The footage shows Olu of Warri standing to shake hands with Governor Sanwo-Olu, prompting social media users to comment on the apparent double standard regarding his interactions with men and women. Many pointed out that the king’s aides had previously prevented a woman from shaking his hand, a decision interpreted by some as cultural tradition, while others criticized it as outdated or unfair. Social media reactions captured the variety of opinions, with some defending the traditional protocol: tontolofabrics argued hierarchy should be respected, noting the king’s status versus the executive. defenderofjust cited African customs where kings typically avoid handshakes with women due to traditional beliefs about purity. Others highlighted perceived inconsistencies: _ismo99 and Jamesdeyemi pointed out the king shakes hands with prominent officials like the governor but blocks ordinary individuals, especially women. ashleightatti commented on the irony of cultural traditions intersecting with modern governance and social expectations. The incident reignited discussions on gender norms, protocol, and respect for traditional authority in Nigeria. It also followed previous highlights of Olu of Warri’s public appearances, including inspecting road projects on a scooter and hosting Big Brother Naija stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who donned Itsekiri-themed attire and posed with the traditional ruler. This episode underscores the public scrutiny of cultural leaders in modern Nigeria, especially when their actions intersect with official government figures and evolving social expectations. While some praise the adherence to tradition, others call for reconsideration of gendered protocols in public interactions.

“Southern Kaduna Crisis: 138 Kidnapped, 16 Killed in Less Than Two Months — Communities Petition Governor Sani” Communities in Southern Kaduna have submitted an urgent petition to Governor Uba Sani and top Nigerian security officials, highlighting a “silent and neglected crisis” that has left 138 people kidnapped and 16 others killed between late November 2025 and early January 2026. The petition, presented by Comrade Nasiru Jagaba, provides a detailed village-by-village account of the violence in Kauru Local Government Area, underlining the severe human toll on residents. The worst-affected village, Kabari (Gobirawa), recorded 53 abductions and four killings, followed by Rumaya (28 kidnapped, 3 killed) and Nasarawan Kadage (29 kidnapped, 2 killed). Other villages, including Kajunga, Fadan Rishiwa, Darmanu, and Ningi Karku, reported similar abductions and deaths. Smaller incidents occurred in Rafin Iwa, Fagen Rawa, Unguwan Baka, and Zaman Chawai, showing the widespread nature of the attacks. The petition emphasizes that the victims are not mere statistics but farmers, women, youths, and breadwinners whose lives have been shattered. It draws particular attention to a 30 November 2025 incident, in which the Chawai Youth Leader and six others were killed just meters from a military checkpoint, yet there was no immediate response from security forces. The petition criticizes local authorities, highlighting the “continued silence” of the Kauru LGA Chairman and the absence of advocacy from state and national lawmakers, which has deepened the community’s sense of abandonment. The community is calling for urgent action, including: Immediate deployment of security personnel. Intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts. A public government plan to address ongoing insecurity. An independent investigation into the November killings. Accountability from elected officials. While Governor Sani has promoted a “whole-of-society approach” to tackle insecurity, at the time of reporting, neither the Kaduna State Government nor federal security agencies had responded to the petition, leaving residents desperate for intervention.

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.

“Is Night Duty a Death Sentence for Female Workers in Nigeria? How Safe Are Women Like Nurse Chinemerem?” The tragic killing of Nurse Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem on January 3, 2026, after returning home from night duty at the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja has exposed a stark reality for female workers in Nigeria: the night shift can be deadly. In a country where insecurity is rampant, especially in major cities, women working late hours are disproportionately targeted by criminals, including notorious “one-chance” taxis. Despite widespread awareness of these risks, many employers continue to schedule female staff for night shifts without providing safe transportation or alternatives, a failure that amounts to negligence. Under Nigerian labour laws, organizations have a duty of care to protect employees, but for female workers on night duty, these protections often stop at the workplace gate. The predictable dangers faced by women like Nurse Chinemerem demand accountability, not mere condolences. The article highlights that employers have practical solutions: dedicated night buses, transport allowances for safe services, or support for personal vehicle acquisition. Unions, too, must do more than issue statements—they must demand safety as a non-negotiable condition for night work. Failure to do so signals that women’s lives are valued less than their labour. This tragedy raises critical questions for Nigerians: Should female workers be forced into dangerous night shifts without protection? Are unions and employers doing enough to prevent such deaths? How can Nigeria reform workplace safety to ensure women are not exposed to predictable dangers? Fintter readers, we want your voice: How should the government, employers, and unions act to protect women like Nurse Chinemerem? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments to join this urgent conversation.

Bauchi State Pensioners Suffer Delays as Auditor-General Reveals ₦1.2 Billion in Undocumented Payments Across Ministries Bauchi State pensioners continue to face severe financial hardship as delays in pension and gratuity payments persist. Danjuma Babaji, who retired in November 2022, went nine months without salary or pension, surviving on subsistence farming and livestock rearing. While he eventually began receiving monthly pension in July 2023, his ₦3.7 million gratuity remains unpaid. Similarly, Adamu Ibrahim, retired in 2017, endured months without income and now relies on his children for support. An analysis of the Bauchi State Auditor-General’s 2024 report reveals widespread failures in financial accountability, with millions of naira spent across ministries without proper documentation, approval, or authorisation. Notable figures include ₦182.8 million spent without supporting documents, ₦104.5 million paid without approval, and ₦261.7 million disbursed without Accounting Officer authorisation. Ministries affected include the Office of the Chief of Staff, Finance, Budget, Women Affairs, Religious Affairs, Education, and Housing & Environment, with the largest undocumented payment totaling ₦565 million in the latter. The findings underscore systemic lapses in public finance management, leaving pensioners and citizens unable to hold officials accountable and raising further questions about corruption and institutional oversight in Bauchi State.

Olu of Warri’s Security Aide Blocks Female Executive’s Handshake Attempt During Lagos Visit, Sparking Social Media Debate During the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III’s visit to Lagos on January 6, 2026, a viral video captured a female executive attempting to shake the traditional ruler’s hand. The king’s security aide swiftly blocked the gesture, adhering to cultural protocol that prohibits direct physical contact with the monarch. The encounter took place at an airport lounge while the Olu of Warri was in Lagos for the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts. The aide acknowledged the executive with a nod, respecting tradition without physical contact. The video has sparked a heated debate on social media, with some praising the aide for upholding cultural etiquette, while others questioned the strictness of the protocol. Experts and netizens emphasized that many Nigerian cultures require subjects, especially women, to show deference through gestures such as bowing, kneeling, or prostrating rather than handshakes. The story also highlighted the Olu of Warri’s public engagements, including inspecting the Trans-Warri-Ode-Itsekiri Road and receiving BBNaija stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who honored him in Itsekiri-themed attire.

Minister Sympathises with Borgu Victims After Deadly New Year Terror Attack In a heartfelt statement, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi expressed deep sorrow over a brutal terrorist attack on Kasuwan Daji rural communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed 42 lives just three days into the New Year. The assault, which occurred on January 3, left scores injured, homes destroyed, and an unknown number of residents abducted, including women, children, and the elderly. Dr Abdullahi described the violence as "senseless, deliberate, and murderous," highlighting the "depravity of the terrorists and bandits" who disrupted the peaceful livelihoods of the affected communities. "My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones, just as I wish a quick recovery to the many who were injured during the rage of atrocities," the minister said in his statement released on Tuesday. He extended support to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, acknowledging the "challenging times" and praising the governor's efforts to enhance security for residents, particularly in vulnerable areas. Urging resilience among Borgu residents, the minister called for unity against the perpetrators. "Let us grieve, because we have lost our loved ones and our possessions. But I call on the Borgu communities to invoke their age-old spirit of resilience, wipe away their tears, and firmly resolve to never allow the lawless terrorists and bandits dictate their rhythm of life," he stated. Dr Abdullahi emphasised the indiscriminate nature of the violence, noting that the attackers target individuals regardless of religion or ethnicity whether Bussawa, Hausa, Kambari, or Fulani. He encouraged communities to collaborate with security forces to eliminate the threats, asserting that Borgu must not become a "haven nor a theatre for their atrocities." The minister reassured residents of President Tinubu's commitment to pursuing and prosecuting those responsible for the "heinous crimes." Security agencies have yet to provide further details on the ongoing investigation or rescue efforts for the abducted.

Authorities Seal Divine Hope Orphanage in Abuja Amid Investigation Into Alleged Unlawful Activities The Federal Capital Territory authorities have sealed Divine Hope Orphanage and Less Privileged Home in Kagini, Abuja, as part of an ongoing probe by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat. Officials cited concerns over alleged unlawful activities and non-compliance with child welfare regulations. The orphanage operator reportedly ignored multiple summons to cooperate with the investigation. Authorities have called on the public to assist in locating the operator to ensure the investigation is completed. The closure underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing standards and protecting vulnerable children in Nigeria. #AbujaOrphanage #DivineHopeOrphanage #ChildWelfare #FCTAuthorities #NigeriaNews #OrphanageInvestigation #ChildProtection #FCTWomenAffairs

FCT DEPARTMENT OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT RESCUES CHILDREN FROM AN ORPHANAGE HOME The Federal Capital Territory Administration, through the Department of Child Development under the Women Affairs Secretariat, has intensified efforts to protect vulnerable children with the commencement of a rescue and monitoring operation involving adopted children within the FCT, some of whom were reportedly brought in from Benue State. The operation, conducted with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and other security and social welfare agencies, led officials to an orphanage in Kagini, under the Bwari Area Council. The intervention followed weeks of discreet investigations by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, led by the Director of Child Development, Dr. Idris Attah, over concerns about the orphanage’s operations and child welfare. However, upon arrival, officials discovered the proprietress had fled hours earlier, abandoning the facility. Authorities suspect her disappearance is linked to the investigation and possible violations of adoption and child protection laws. Officials say Some of the rescued children have been identified and placed in protective custody, with arrangements underway for their safety, medical checks, and psychological support. The FCT Administration reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Child Rights Act and sanitizing the adoption process, warning that offenders will face the law. Investigations continue as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the suspect and uncover the full scope of the orphanage’s activities.

US Congressman Riley Moore Warns of Escalating Violence Against Christians in Nigeria, Cites ISIS ‘Convert or Die’ Threats and U.S.–Nigeria Security Cooperation U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has raised fresh alarm over what he describes as a worsening campaign of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, citing threats from ISIS-linked groups demanding that Christians “convert or die.” Speaking on Newsmax TV, Moore said he visited Nigeria in December as part of a congressional delegation sent at the direction of President Donald Trump to assess security conditions and humanitarian needs. Moore recounted harrowing testimonies from internally displaced persons (IDPs), including women who witnessed the قتل of their children, families torn apart, and unborn babies killed. He said these accounts point to targeted religious persecution, not random criminal violence. According to him, extremist groups—such as ISIS-affiliated factions and Islamist militants active in Nigeria’s Middle Belt—are deliberately attacking churches, Christian villages, and IDP camps. The West Virginia lawmaker stated that U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation has intensified, claiming recent joint military actions, including a reported strike around Christmas, helped deter attacks during the holiday period. While some details of these operations have not been independently verified, Moore said discussions are ongoing to establish a broader strategic security framework to strengthen Nigeria’s military capacity, improve intelligence sharing, and close operational gaps. Rejecting explanations that attribute the violence mainly to climate change or land disputes, Moore argued that the rhetoric and actions of extremist groups clearly show a specific focus on Christian communities. He acknowledged that Nigerians of all backgrounds have suffered but insisted that Christians face targeted persecution. Human rights groups continue to document widespread insecurity in Nigeria involving Boko Haram, ISIS–West Africa Province (ISWAP), and armed militias, with debate persisting over the root causes of the violence. Moore said his conclusions are based on firsthand observations: “What is happening in Nigeria is Christian persecution,” he maintained, urging sustained international attention and support.

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.

Afenifere Condemns Attack on Peaceful Women Protesters in Ilorin, Calls for Arrest of Pro-Government Thugs Amid Rising Insecurity Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has condemned the assault on peaceful women protesters in Ilorin, Kwara State, demanding the arrest of the attackers. The protesters had gathered at the Kwara State Government House to demand action over kidnappings and insecurity in their communities. According to reports, men allegedly linked to the state government attacked the women with canes, despite the presence of security personnel who failed to intervene. Afenifere described the incident as a disturbing reflection of the state’s inability to protect its citizens and warned that continued failure to act could erode public trust and embolden criminals. Community leaders in Kogi State also raised concerns after security operatives used tear gas to disperse residents protesting kidnappings, highlighting a broader trend of insecurity and violent suppression of peaceful protests across the country.

VIDEO: Niger State Bandits Attack Community Police Checkpoint Two Days After Kasuwar Daji Massacre, Facility Riddled With Bullets Just two days after the deadly Kasuwar Daji market massacre in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State, a Mobile Police (MOPOL) checkpoint in New Kalli, Wawa Ward, came under attack by gunmen reportedly riding motorcycles. The assailants set parts of the facility on fire, looted officers’ belongings, and destroyed farm produce, although no casualties were recorded. Photos obtained by SaharaReporters show the checkpoint building riddled with bullets and some residents holding spent cartridges. The Borgu Local Government Disaster Officer, Musa Saidu, confirmed the attack, while the Niger State Police Command described the location as a border patrol “nipping point” along the Borgu axis. According to Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle and successfully repelled them, restoring normalcy after the incident. Local sources corroborated that officers’ accommodation was burnt and personal items were taken. The attack is part of a growing pattern of insecurity in the area following the Kasuwar Daji massacre, which left over 40 people dead and many—including children and elderly women—abducted from rural communities in Borgu Local Government Area. WATCH: How Bandits Attacked Niger Community Police Checkpoint Two Days After Kasuwar Daji Massacre, Riddled Facility With Bullets [Video link via SaharaReporters]

BREAKING: Gunmen Attack Mobile Police Checkpoint in Niger State Days After Kasuwar Daji Massacre That Killed Over 40, Torch Officers’ Quarters Barely two days after the deadly Kasuwar Daji market attack that left more than 40 people dead and scores abducted in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, gunmen have launched another assault in the same area, targeting a Mobile Police (MOPOL) checkpoint. According to SaharaReporters, the attack occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Sunday at New Kalli in Wawa Ward. The assailants reportedly stormed the MOPOL checkpoint, set fire to the officers’ living quarters, destroyed farm produce, and carted away personal belongings belonging to the police personnel stationed there. No casualties were recorded during the raid. A local source confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers burnt the officers’ rooms and looted some of their possessions before fleeing the scene. The renewed violence has heightened fears among residents, coming on the heels of the recent Kasuwar Daji market massacre in the same local government area, where armed attackers killed about 40 people and abducted many others, including children and elderly women. Most of the victims were said to be residents of rural communities in Borgu. The latest attack underscores growing insecurity in Niger State, particularly in Borgu Local Government Area, as residents and security operatives continue to grapple with repeated assaults by armed groups despite the heavy human toll recorded in recent days.

‘I’m Left With Only the Clothes I Wore’: Survivor Recounts Niger State Terror Attack as Over 40 Killed and Many Abducted in Kasuwar Daji A survivor of the deadly terror attack in Kasuwar Daji, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, has narrated the harrowing ordeal that left over 40 people dead and many others abducted, including women, children, and the elderly. Mohammed Suleiman, one of the victims, said the attackers destroyed everything the community depended on for survival, leaving residents destitute and traumatised. Speaking in a video shared online, Suleiman revealed that farmlands, food stores, and harvested crops such as rice, maize, guinea corn, and sugar cane were completely burnt during the coordinated assault, which involved machetes, gunfire, and arson. He lamented that he was left with only the clothes he wore during the attack, with no footwear or personal belongings remaining. According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, believed to have emerged from the Kainji Lake National Park forest, launched the attack in the late afternoon and continued into the night, setting homes, markets, and food reserves ablaze. Several villagers, including children and elderly residents, were reportedly rounded up and killed, while others were taken away by the attackers. Survivors say the community now faces severe food shortages, with nothing left to feed displaced children and families. Suleiman and other affected residents are appealing for urgent government intervention, calling for improved security, humanitarian assistance, and long-term solutions as fear and trauma continue to grip Kasuwar Daji and surrounding communities.

Paris Court Convicts 10 People for Cyber-Harassing France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron With False Claims She Is Transgender, Hands Down Suspended Jail Sentences A Paris court has convicted 10 individuals—eight men and two women—for cyber-harassing France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, by spreading false claims that she is a transgender woman. French media reported that the defendants received suspended prison sentences of up to eight months for their roles in circulating the allegations online. The conspiracy theory falsely claimed that Brigitte Macron was born male under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which is actually the name of her older brother. The Macrons have faced years of online abuse, also fueled by criticism of their 24-year age difference, but have recently intensified legal action against such attacks. The ruling comes as President Emmanuel Macron and his wife pursue a separate defamation case in the United States against right-wing podcaster Candace Owens over similar allegations. Speaking to TF1, Brigitte Macron said the harassment had been relentless, including identity tampering on official websites, and stressed that official documents such as birth certificates clearly prove her gender. She said her legal fight is aimed not only at defending herself but also at setting an example for young people facing online harassment, warning that unchecked cyber abuse can have serious personal and societal consequences.

Ekiti 2026: APC Aspirant Kayode Ojo’s Supporters Allege Police Arrests, Intimidation and Secret Detention Under Governor Oyebanji as Party Crisis Deepens Supporters of Engineer Kayode Ojo, an aspirant in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship race on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have accused the Ekiti State Government and the police of sustained intimidation, arrests and harassment aimed at silencing dissent within the ruling party. The allegations were contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Kayode Ojo Campaign Organisation, Femi Awojobi, who described the situation as a serious threat to democracy, rule of law and internal party freedom in the state. According to the campaign, APC members who openly or quietly support Ojo have been targeted through arrests, unlawful detention and intimidation, allegedly under the administration of Governor Abayomi Oyebanji. Several party members across different local government areas were named as victims, including ward executives, women and youth leaders, raising concerns about what the group called a deliberate attempt to crush alternative political opinions within the APC. The statement highlighted the arrest and alleged secret detention of Akogun Abayomi, popularly known as Lustay, as the most alarming case. Abayomi was reportedly arrested on January 1, 2026, by police officers without a warrant or explanation and denied access to his family, lawyers and medication. The campaign alleged that police initially denied holding him, only for his wife to later discover his vehicle inside the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) premises, sparking fears of abuse of power and lack of transparency. The group further alleged that Abayomi was subjected to political intimidation, including pressure to renounce his support for Kayode Ojo, and accused the police of acting as a political tool. Describing the situation as a national embarrassment, the campaign called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Judicial Council, civil society organisations and prominent Ekiti stakeholders to intervene, investigate alleged abuses and ensure the immediate release of all supporters detained over their political beliefs.

Tinubu Orders Security Agencies to Intensify Operations Around Forest Communities After Deadly Niger State Market Attack That Killed Over 40 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security agencies to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, particularly those located near forests, following a deadly terrorist attack in Niger State that left more than 40 people dead and many women and children abducted. The attack occurred at Kasuwa Daji market along the Sokobara–Tunga Demo axis in Borgu Local Government Area, sparking outrage among residents who accused security forces of responding only after victims’ bodies were being evacuated. In a statement personally issued on January 4, 2026, President Tinubu said he had ordered the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to hunt down those responsible for the attack and ensure they are swiftly brought to justice. He described the attackers as terrorists who had tested the resolve of the nation and warned that they would face the full weight of the law. The President also cautioned that anyone found aiding, abetting, or enabling the attackers would be prosecuted, regardless of their status or intent. He further instructed security agencies to urgently rescue all abducted victims and strengthen security presence in at-risk areas across the country, with particular focus on communities near forests that have increasingly become targets of violent attacks. Calling for national unity, Tinubu urged Nigerians to confront insecurity collectively and deny criminal elements any safe haven. He expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the attack and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security to affected communities, stressing that Nigeria must stand together to defeat terrorism and reclaim safety for its citizens.