STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

President Tinubu commends Nigeria's Armed Forces for protecting democracy in Benin Republic

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the gallantry of Nigeria's military on Sunday for responding swiftly to the request by the Government of Benin Republic to save its 35-year-old democracy from coup plotters who struck at dawn today.

Acting on two separate requests from the Government of Benin, President Tinubu first ordered Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter the country and take over the airspace to help dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp where they had regrouped.

The Republic of Benin, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a Note Verbal, requested immediate Nigerian air support "in view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation and to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population."

In the second request, the authorities in Benin requested the deployment of Nigerian Air Force assets within Beninoise airspace for surveillance and rapid intervention operations under Benin-led coordination.

The Benin government also requested Nigerian ground forces, "strictly for missions approved by the Beninese Command authority in support of the protection of constitutional institutions and the containment of armed Groups."

Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said all the requests have been fulfilled, with Nigerian ground forces now in Benin.

"Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu," he said.

Constitutional order was upended in the Republic of Benin, Nigeria's neighbour, when some soldiers led by Colonel Pascal Tigri announced a coup on Sunday morning. The putschists seized the National TV and claimed they had toppled President Patrice Talon and suspended all democratic institutions.

It took some hours before the government's loyal forces, assisted by Nigeria, took control and flushed out the coup plotters from the National TV.

In his remarks after the restoration of the democratic and constitutional order, President Tinubu saluted the Nigerian armed forces for standing firm as a protector and defender of democracy.

“Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government. Our armed forces acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin."

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President

(Information and Strategy)

December 7, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Signed:

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

Benin Failed Coup Is a Warning to Tinubu to Address Nigeria’s Hardship — Yoruba Union

The Yoruba Union Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá has warned President Bola Tinubu that the failed coup in the Republic of Benin should serve as a serious wake-up call for Nigeria’s leadership. The group says widespread corruption, insecurity, poverty, collapsing healthcare, and decaying infrastructure have left Nigerians disillusioned with democracy. They caution that continued neglect and suppression of citizens’ rights could push the public toward supporting undemocratic alternatives. The Union urged the government to urgently restore accountability, improve living conditions, and address rising social inequalities to prevent instability in Nigeria.

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.

YPP Expels House of Reps Member Over Anti-Party Activities, Elects New National Officers

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has expelled House of Representatives member Uzokwe Peter over verified cases of anti-party activities, following multiple petitions and video evidence presented to the NEC. The decision, upheld by the National Working Committee, was based on violations of key sections of the party’s constitution.
During its 24th Extraordinary NEC meeting in Abuja, the party also elected new national leaders to fill vacant positions, including a Deputy National Chairperson, National Legal Adviser, and National Security Adviser. The NEC passed a vote of confidence on National Chairman Bishop Amakiri and voiced support for newly appointed Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (rtd), insisting security positions must remain non-politicised.
The party further warned against any push toward a one-party system, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy while reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy and national development.

HEDA Demands Immediate Release of Ex-Kano Anti-Graft Chairman Muhuyi Magaji, Condemns Police Arrest

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has condemned the arrest of former Kano State anti-graft chairman Muhuyi Magaji, calling it politically motivated and unlawful. Magaji was taken into custody by heavily armed police officers who stormed his law firm and transferred him to Abuja on the orders of the Inspector General of Police. HEDA noted that Magaji has been repeatedly targeted since exposing alleged corruption linked to former governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The organisation accused the police of political interference, warning that such actions threaten democracy and due process. HEDA demanded a public explanation for his arrest and urged his immediate release if no lawful basis exists.

Fake Coup In Guinea-Bissau: How Embaló Tried To Disrupt Democracy — Inside Story By Owei Lakemfa

The article exposes how Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló allegedly orchestrated a fake coup after losing the November 2025 election. Facing imminent loss of power and possible prosecution, Embaló reportedly staged a sham overthrow with loyal soldiers, misleading the media and foreign observers. International missions, including AU and WAEF led by Goodluck Jonathan, already had verified election results showing the opposition won. As his plot collapsed, Embaló fled Senegal, while ECOWAS and Nigeria now protect President-elect Fernando Diaz. The piece calls for the coup plotters to step down and for Embaló to face trial for treason.

Sultan of Sokoto Defends Sowore, Warns Government Against Silencing Critics

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged Nigerian authorities to stop repressing activist Omoyele Sowore, stressing that dissenting voices strengthen democracy. Speaking at a National Peace Committee event in Abuja, the Sultan praised Sowore’s resilience, playfully referring to him as “President Sowore” and praying he might one day lead Nigeria. He cautioned the government against muzzling critics and emphasized that free expression is vital for peace and accountability. His remarks have since sparked nationwide debate on leadership, democracy, and political tolerance.

PRESIDENT TINUBU'S TRIBUTE TO CENTENARIAN ALHAJI TANKO YAKASAI

Of the noble men and women who stood firm for our liberty and freedom from repressive colonial subjugation, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai is the last man standing. Born a hundred years ago in Kano City, Alhaji Yakasai exemplifies a purposeful life, carving out a meaningful legacy despite humble beginnings.

Disturbed by the injustice and maltreatment he witnessed under colonial rule, he chose to join the fight for Nigeria’s liberation. As a young man, Baba Yakasai channelled his energy into the struggle for the emancipation of his people and the rest of the country as a freedom fighter, journalist, and frontline political activist.

His activism led him to join hands with comrades in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by the visionary radical Mallam Aminu Kano. Through NEPU, Yakasai and his co-travellers launched a massive awakening campaign in Northern Nigeria, igniting the fire for the Independence struggle.

In the aftermath of Nigeria's Independence in 1960, Yakasai maintained an abiding faith in the country and its development. He played several significant roles, including serving as State Commissioner in Kano under Military Governor Audu Bako and as Special Assistant on National Assembly Liaison to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic.

In both youth and old age, Yakasai remains a shining example of commitment to Nigeria. He is a consensus builder who consistently weighs in on the side of national cohesion, peaceful coexistence, and democratic consolidation.

In celebrating Baba Yakasai today, I am not only celebrating the man and his personal achievements, but also a century of dedicated service to freedom and democracy and many years of supporting me and the progressive cause.

I am pleased to join family, friends and associates to celebrate the life and commitment of Alhaji Tanko Yakasai as he turns 100 on December 5.


President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief
Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 4, 2025

Nigeria Is Only Functioning Democracy in Sahel, Must Be Protected — NSA Nuhu Ribadu Warns

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has warned that Nigeria will confront anyone attempting to destabilise the country, stressing that the nation remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel region. Speaking at a forum in Abuja, Ribadu highlighted rising security threats, community-level conflicts, and recent coup attempts, calling for stronger collaboration among traditional leaders, communities, and state authorities to prevent violence. His remarks follow heightened tension after an alleged coup plot and increased insecurity that has drawn international concern.

BREAKING - According to CNN, Donald Trump will meet with the highest-ranking U.S. national security officials at the White House on Monday evening to discuss the next steps regarding Venezuela.

Expected attendees include:
— Secretary of War Peter Hegseth
— Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Caine
— Secretary of State Marco Rubio
— Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
— Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal writes that:

Trump has chosen the path of direct confrontation with Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.

Removing Maduro serves American interests and would restore Venezuela’s legitimate government, which was in fact elected in 2024. However, the reaction of the Venezuelan armed forces remains uncertain, and any intervention would require sustained support. If Nicolás Maduro flees and democracy is restored, U.S. influence could potentially expand across Latin America — even to Cuba.

But if Trump falters and Maduro endures, both Trump and America’s credibility, as well as its reputation, would be significantly undermined.

EMERGENCY: ANTIFA CIVIL WAR

Today, Antifa is tearing apart the entire city of Giessen in Germany to protest against the formation of an AfD youth group.

57,000 protesters are expected to show up under the motto “GIESSEN MUST BURN”.
Up to 6,000 police officers are being deployed.

We pay taxes for leftist NGOs behind this civil warfare!

The VlOLENCE is already spreading, young AfD members are under attack, fearing for their LIVES.

The AfD will arise as the winner.
They are already the most popular party in the polls.

The Left is not defending democracy.
The Left FEARS democracy.

Footage:
@Deu_Kurier

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, praising his humility and statesmanship—especially during the 2015 presidential election, which Tinubu noted helped strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Tinubu joined Jonathan’s family, friends, and political associates in celebrating his life, highlighting his contributions to national development. The President also reflected on their past collaborations and offered prayers for Jonathan’s continued health and blessings for his family.

Belgium, UK, USA connived and assassinated Lumumba, hacked him into pieces, dissolved his body into acid and took his teeth to Brussels, simply because he was struggling for Congo independence. These are the same people that want to lecture us about human rights and democracy.

"Justice must never be sold"— President Tinubu warns Nigerian Judges.

President Bola Tinubu on Monday called on the judiciary to uphold integrity, warning that justice must never be for sale. He highlighted public concerns over delays in case resolutions and limited access to justice, stressing that courts must become efficient and trustworthy institutions.

Addressing judges at the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference in Abuja, themed “Building a Confident Judiciary,” Tinubu emphasized that public confidence is essential for the judiciary’s legitimacy. He affirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting judicial dignity, eliminating misconduct, and enhancing institutional capacity, saying this responsibility extends beyond the National Judicial Council to all judicial officers.

The President stressed that a judgment, however legally sound, loses authority if perceived as unfair. He called for reforms to restore public trust, noting that the judiciary exists to serve the people, not the Bench or Bar.

Tinubu underlined the need for synergy among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, and described a strong, efficient, and principled judiciary as vital for democracy and national prosperity.

He pledged tangible support, including modern infrastructure, digital case management, and well-equipped courtrooms to ensure transparency and speed in justice delivery. Highlighting judicial welfare, training, and independence, he affirmed continued backing for the National Judicial Institute to promote professional development.

Tinubu warned against corruption within the judiciary, stressing that compromise erodes governance and democracy. He urged judges to be bold and practical in addressing challenges like case backlogs, discipline, affordability, and accessibility of justice for all, particularly the vulnerable.

Concluding, he called judges “guardians of Nigeria’s moral conscience,” urging them to deliver fair, courageous rulings that strengthen democracy and ensure that every citizen is heard, promising continued governmental support in their sacred duty.

US House of Representatives launches Probe into Christian Genocide in Nigeria.

The United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to scrutinise President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious freedom violations.

The session, slated for 11 a.m. in Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building and streamed live online, will be chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a long-time advocate on global religious liberty issues.

According to an invitation issued to members of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, the hearing will convene two panels. The first panel will feature senior officials from the US Department of State, including Jonathan Pratt, the Senior Bureau Official for African Affairs, and Jacob McGee, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor.

A second panel will include prominent voices from religious and policy organisations, among them the Director of the Centre for Religious Freedom, Ms. Nina Shea; Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of the Makurdi Catholic Diocese; and Ms. Oge Onubogu of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

The review will assess the scale of religious persecution in Nigeria and explore possible US responses, ranging from targeted sanctions to humanitarian assistance and increased cooperation with Nigerian authorities.

Trump’s Hardline Position
President Trump reignited debate on October 31, 2025, when he returned Nigeria to the CPC list, a designation that paves the way for sweeping punitive measures against foreign officials implicated in religious repression. In a strongly worded statement the following day, he alleged that Christians in Nigeria were facing an “existential threat,” claiming thousands had been killed by Islamist extremists.

“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria,” Trump warned. “We may very well go into that country ‘guns-a-blazing’ to completely wipe out the terrorists committing these atrocities.”

He also directed the US “Department of War” to prepare for possible intervention, saying any strike would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”

Group Petitions Tinubu, Demands Removal of INEC Chair Over Alleged Ethnic, Religious Bias.

Group Petitions Tinubu, Demands Removal of INEC Chair Over Alleged Ethnic, Religious Bias
The recent appointment of Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sparked a major controversy, as a coalition of citizens has petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately remove him, citing what they describe as “grave threats to national unity, democracy, and electoral integrity.”

In a petition submitted through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the group—operating under the banner Concerned Citizens for Peace, Justice, and Democratic Integrity—warned that Prof. Amupitan’s past writings and alleged biases make him unfit to oversee Nigeria’s electoral process.

According to the petition, Prof. Amupitan authored a controversial legal brief in 2020 titled “Genocide in Nigeria: The Implications for the International Community.” The document, the petitioners allege, contained “inflammatory and divisive claims” accusing certain ethnic and religious groups of orchestrating genocide and pursuing domination.

The petitioners argue that such views reveal a “deep-seated bias” incompatible with the neutrality required of an INEC Chairman. “These writings expose a worldview that cannot guarantee fairness to over 200 million Nigerians of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds,” the petition stated.

The coalition warned that Prof. Amupitan’s appointment has already created fear and suspicion among communities referenced in his writings. They noted that the perception of bias in the leadership of INEC could reignite ethnic tension, heighten religious polarization, and sow distrust ahead of future elections. The petition further stressed, “When citizens doubt the neutrality of the umpire, the entire democratic process collapses. When elections are tainted by fear and bias, democracy dies in spirit.” The group insisted that allowing Prof. Amupitan to remain in office would pose “a clear and present danger to national peace, cohesion, and stability.”

Describing their advocacy as patriotic rather than partisan, the petitioners urged President Tinubu to swiftly replace Prof. Amupitan with a more neutral and credible figure to safeguard the electoral system.

“INEC must be led by someone whose words and conduct embody impartiality, inclusiveness, and national cohesion—not division and distrust,” the statement read. The petitioners argued that Nigeria’s unity is “too precious to be endangered” by leadership weighed down by alleged religious or ethnic prejudice.

Wike vs Soldiers: Ordinary President hails Lieutenant Yerima.

The host of Brekete Family, a Human Rights Radio and Television programme, Ahmed Isah, popularly known as “Ordinary President,” has hailed Naval officer, Lt. A.M. Yerima, for his conduct during a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, and FCT Administration officials.

He spoke while calling on Wike or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to apologize over the Minister’s abusive language on Lt. Yerima.

Speaking on the Brekete Family programme on Wednesday, Ordinary President said: “Nigerians, in case we are deceiving ourselves, it’s not democracy that is holding this country [Nigeria] together.

“If the military decides to remove its hands from the matter that concerns this country, all of us are finished. I am not supporting the military to intimidate people, and I will not support the military being disrespected.

“What happened yesterday, that soldier that stood there [Lt. Yerima was representing Tinubu and Nigerians, and Wike disrespected him, and the people around Wike cannot advise him.

“I was expecting Wike to tender an apology since yesterday, and up till now, he has not apologized. This Lieutenant Yerima is the true reflection of the discipline our Nigerian military has. Let’s appreciate him.

“He respectfully neutralized the situation. Lieutenant Yerima, we are proud of you; you made the military proud and Nigerians proud. We are waiting for Wike to tender an unreserved apology.

“If Wike doesn’t apologize, Tinubu must apologize on his behave. We demand that you apologize. This is getting too much; people around him should advise him. Go and see El-Rufai, where is El-Rufai today?”

“Soludo Will Soon Join APC”, Orji Kalu Declares, Hints at Major Political Realignment in South East

According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North) has disclosed that Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, is expected to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) soon.

Speaking with journalists at the National Assembly, Kalu revealed that there have been ongoing interactions between the APC and Governor Soludo as part of strategic political discussions in the South East.

The former Abia governor noted that Soludo shares similar political and developmental ideologies with leading figures in the APC, adding that his policies and governance style in Anambra align closely with the federal government’s reform agenda.

“Soludo is a progressive. He will come to APC. In fact, it is confirmed that he will join APC. He has no other alternative,” Kalu confidently stated.

According to him, the discussions are part of a broader effort to strengthen cooperation and unity within the South East, as regional leaders seek greater participation in national decision-making.

Kalu also praised Soludo’s track record in public service and economic planning, describing him as a technocrat capable of fostering partnerships across party lines.

The senator added that the APC remains open to visionary leaders from all parts of Nigeria who share its development-driven philosophy and are willing to contribute to good governance.

He explained that political realignment is an ongoing process in democracy, noting that leaders continuously assess opportunities that align with their governance goals and state interests.

While he did not announce a formal date for Soludo’s defection, Kalu said stakeholders’ meetings and consultations are ongoing, hinting that a major political shift could unfold ahead of future elections.

Chidoka Slams Wike Over Verbal Clash With Soldier, Calls It “Grave Error in Judgment”

According to a report by Vanguard News on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has strongly criticised FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for verbally attacking a military officer during a confrontation in Gaduwa District, Abuja, describing the act as a serious lapse in judgment and a breach of protocol.

In a viral video making rounds online, Wike was seen engaging in a heated exchange with a uniformed officer, accusing him of illegally protecting a disputed plot of land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff — even calling the officer a fool.

Reacting through a statement titled “Minister Wike: Power, Process, and the Rule of Law,” Chidoka said the minister’s outburst was disrespectful to the Nigerian state and undermined the authority of uniformed officers, who represent the President and national sovereignty.

“Every law enforcement officer embodies the authority of the Nigerian state. To insult one is to insult the nation itself,” Chidoka asserted.

He stressed that Wike’s direct involvement in the confrontation was a constitutional misstep, noting that in a democracy, power must be exercised through institutions, not through personal showdowns.

According to Chidoka, if the officers were acting outside their mandate, the proper step would have been a formal communication to the Minister of Defence, not public humiliation.

He further warned that public disputes between ministers and uniformed officers weaken discipline within the military and blur the lines of command and respect.

“A minister’s power lies in process, not in display,” Chidoka said, urging Wike to apologise for his language and uphold the dignity of his office.


Chidoka also faulted the DSS personnel attached to Wike for failing to de-escalate the tension, insisting their duty was to protect the minister — not to fuel the confrontation.

He concluded that the incident should serve as a lesson in restraint and governance, reminding public officials that true authority is exercised through due process, not personal confrontation.