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Year: 2025

Nigeria’s Peace Lies in Unity, Not Division – NCPC Boss

Fola Badmus04 mins

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, has called on Nigerians to uphold unity and mutual understanding as the foundation for lasting peace and national progress. Speaking during a press briefing on national issues at the NCPC Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, Bishop Adegbite stressed that Nigeria’s peace cannot be achieved through divisive narratives or religious antagonism. The NCPC boss was reacting to recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria and hinted at possible foreign military intervention. “While we appreciate global concern for the welfare of Christians, we must clarify that the security challenges confronting Nigeria should not be misconstrued as a religious war,” Bishop Adegbite said. “It is a national security crisis driven by terrorism, banditry, and criminality that have affected citizens of all faiths.” Citing reports from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) and the Observatory of Religious Freedom in Africa (ORFA), he noted that between 2020 and 2025, more than 20,000 civilians—both Christians and Muslims—lost their lives in various violent conflicts across the country. “These figures show that Nigeria’s challenge is not genocide against a particular religion but a multifaceted security emergency,” he explained. Bishop Adegbite commended the Federal and State Governments for their sustained efforts in combating insurgency and restoring stability, noting that substantial progress has been recorded in recent years. “The government has never sanctioned violence against any faith group,” he emphasized. “What Nigeria needs from the international community is partnership, intelligence sharing, counterterrorism training, and humanitarian assistance — not threats of military intervention.” He cautioned that any foreign military action could destabilize the entire West African sub-region, potentially triggering widespread humanitarian and economic crises. “Nigeria is a complex, multi-ethnic democracy with over 220 million citizens and more than 250 ethnic nationalities,” the NCPC Executive Secretary stated. “What we need is cooperation and solidarity, not coercion or divisive rhetoric.” Bishop Adegbite also praised the ongoing collaboration between Christian and Muslim leaders under the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), describing it as a critical platform for fostering peace and dialogue. “We, as religious leaders, stand united against violence,” he said. “Our calling is to heal, not to divide — to build bridges, not walls.” He concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria’s struggle is not a clash of religions but a collective fight against terror and insecurity. “The battle is not Christians versus Muslims; it is Nigerians versus terror,” he declared. “Our nation’s strength lies in our shared humanity, faith, and hope for a peaceful future.” Bishop Adegbite urged the media, international observers, and advocacy groups to rely on verified facts and support initiatives that promote healing, justice, and national reconciliation.

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FG Warns ASUU Against Strike, Vows To Enforce No Work No Pay Policy

ASUU Dismisses Minister’s ₦50 Billion Claim, Issues Warning Of Possible Strike

Wale busari05 mins

The University of His branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has dismissed the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Maruf Alausa’s claim that the federal government released ₦50 billion for university revitalisation, accusing him of making “misleading statements” about the government’s fulfillment of agreements with university staff. In a statement signed by branch chairperson Prof. Jurbe Joseph Molwus, ASUU recalled that it issued a four-week ultimatum to the Federal Government on October 22, 2025, demanding the payment of outstanding entitlements or risk a total strike. The union warned that industrial action may resume if the issues are not addressed within the next two weeks. According to the union, “not much progress has been recorded” since the ultimatum, with staff yet to receive withheld salaries, wage award arrears, promotion arrears, and other entitlements. “As we prepare for our National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled for November 8–9, we expect that outstanding entitlements, including 3.5 months of withheld salaries, 25–35 per cent wage award arrears, promotion arrears, and unpaid salaries of some members, would have been settled. But all we get are press releases from the Honourable Minister of Education. What we need are credit alerts, not misleading statements,” the statement read. Reacting to Dr. Alausa’s claim that ₦2.3 billion had been disbursed to clear salary and promotion arrears across federal universities, ASUU described the figure as “grossly inadequate and almost insulting,” noting it could barely cover three universities. “The Minister’s claim of clearing the backlog exists only in his imagination. He must clarify what portion of the outstanding entitlements this money is meant to cover and for whom,” ASUU said. The union also criticized the minister for “inconsistent and contradictory statements” regarding ASUU’s demands, urging him to engage sincerely with stakeholders rather than issue “empty rhetoric.” “It is time the Honourable Minister of Education recognized that only genuine engagement can resolve ASUU’s demands. Palliatives do not solve systemic problems; perhaps he should take a cue from his counterpart in the Ministry of Health,” the statement added. ASUU further questioned the effectiveness of the Minister of State for Education, stating that, as a former member of the university system, she should have demonstrated greater understanding and commitment to addressing the challenges. The union called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to show genuine commitment to resolving the longstanding crisis in tertiary education by appointing a minister who understands the sector’s issues. “If President Tinubu truly wants to end the prolonged dispute with university unions, he needs a competent minister who understands the challenges facing higher education,” ASUU said. The union urged students, parents, and the public to pressure the government to act promptly, warning that the four-week ultimatum expires on November 21, 2025. “The strike was only suspended as a mark of goodwill in collective bargaining. We expect the government to reciprocate by addressing our demands without further delay,” Prof. Molwus said.

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Nigeria Immigration Service Announces Single Travel Emergency Passport for Nigerians Abroad

Wale busari03 mins

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has unveiled plans to introduce a new biometric travel document called the Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) to help Nigerians abroad whose passports are expired, lost, or stolen return home safely. The announcement was made by Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap, during the Joint Thematic Meeting of the Khartoum, Rabat, and Niamey Processes held in Abuja, co-hosted with the Government of France. NIS Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday. According to Nandap, the STEP will replace the current Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) as part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening identity management and border governance in line with global best practices. “The STEP will serve as a temporary travel document for Nigerians abroad whose passports are expired, lost, or stolen, enabling them to return home in a secure and verifiable manner,” she said. Nandap added that the document will be issued at designated Nigerian embassies and consulates abroad and will be valid for single entry only, highlighting the Service’s commitment to efficiency and identity protection. The high-level meeting brought together key stakeholders in migration management, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, NAPTIP, ECOWAS, AU, EU, and representatives from various African and European countries. Discussions focused on combating migrant smuggling and human trafficking, emphasizing prevention, protection, and prosecution across regional migration routes. In her keynote address, titled “Insights on Prevention and Protection as Strategic Pillars to Effective Law Enforcement and Prosecution Responses,” Nandap outlined the broader reform agenda of NIS, including enhancing migration management systems, international cooperation, and capacity building. “The Comptroller-General reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional and global migration dialogues, stressing that the Nigeria Immigration Service will continue aligning its policies and operations with international standards to ensure safe, orderly, and regular migration across borders,” the statement added.

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Kunle Afod Visits Ailing Daddy Fresh, Appeals For Urgent Support

Kunle Afod Visits Ailing Daddy Fresh, Appeals For Urgent Support

Wale busari03 mins

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Kunle Afod has drawn attention to the critical health condition of veteran Nigerian musician Innocent Onyebuchi, popularly known as Daddy Fresh, after sharing a video of him hospitalized and battling a prolonged illness. The video, shared on Afod’s Facebook page on Wednesday, shows Daddy Fresh lying in a hospital bed. Afod captioned it: “Daddy Fresh must not die – one of Nigeria’s finest artists is in a terrible condition.” In the video, Daddy Fresh, wearing a blue sleeveless top, initially struggled to recognize Afod. “Oba,” he murmured, to which Afod replied, “It’s Afod, Kunle Afod.” Surprised and relieved, Daddy Fresh expressed that seeing Afod was a moment of hope amid his long-term health struggles. The musician revealed he has been bedridden for over two and a half years and described the severe impact of his illness on his finances and wellbeing. He listed several health challenges, including kidney and liver issues, neuropathy, vision problems, and hallucinations. “My blood is dangerously low, just 25%, and I urgently need two or three pints of blood,” he said. “If I try to stand, I will fall unless supported. Look at my face, my knees, my wounds from falling like a child learning to walk.” Daddy Fresh also disclosed that he faces potential eviction from his apartment due to unpaid rent, despite his bedridden state. Afod provided some immediate financial support and used the visit to appeal for help from the public and the Nigerian entertainment industry. “This is Daddy Fresh. Anyone familiar with him knows his contribution to music. He has been seriously ill for over three years. I visited him in the hospital and found him in a very bad state. Nigerians, entertainers, we need your help—financially and morally. Let’s support this legend and keep him alive,” Afod said. He urged Nigerians and industry stakeholders to come together to provide urgent assistance to Daddy Fresh during this critical time.   View this post on Instagram  

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Regina Daniels’ Family Gives Ned Nwoko 48 Hours To Accept Bride Price, Stop Alleged Harassment

Wale busari03 mins

Kinsmen of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels have given her estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, 48 hours to accept the return of the bride price and stop allegedly harassing her family members. The directive came in an open letter signed by Favour Awele Obi on behalf of the Ogwashi-Uku community in Delta State. The kinsmen accused Nwoko of disrespecting cultural traditions and using his influence to intimidate Regina’s relatives. “With due respect to your office and person, we must express deep disappointment over your recent actions concerning our sister and her family. As a people, we value peace, fairness, and respect for our cultural traditions,” the letter stated in part. According to the community, under Ogwashi-Uku customs, a woman cannot be forced to remain in a marriage. If she decides to leave, her family is required to return the bride price. The kinsmen said Regina’s family had attempted to do so, but Nwoko allegedly refused to accept it. The letter warned that if he continues to decline, the bride price would be deposited at Ikeleke Quarter in Ogwashi-Uku, a traditional step that would formally end the marriage. The community also condemned the reported arrest and intimidation of Regina’s relatives, calling it “oppressive and an affront to our people and long-standing traditions.” The letter, which was shared on Instagram by Regina’s elder brother, Sweezzy, and actor Stanley Ontop, urged Nwoko to respect customs and ensure the immediate release of all affected family members. Regina Daniels had earlier accused her estranged husband of ordering the arrest of her brother and sister after she refused to return to him. The actress and Nwoko, who married in 2019, have two sons together. As of now, Nwoko has not responded to the family’s ultimatum.

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Nnamdi Kanu Skips Defence In Terrorism Trial, Case Adjourned To November

Federal High Court Gives Nnamdi Kanu Fourth Opportunity To Open Defence

Wale busari03 mins

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), another chance to defend himself against terrorism charges brought by the Federal Government. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to November 7, marking the fourth time Kanu has been allowed to respond to the charges. The IPOB leader, however, continues to insist that the terrorism charges against him are invalid and has refused to open his defence. Kanu faces a seven-count terrorism-related charge. The prosecution concluded its case on June 19, 2025, after calling five witnesses. Kanu initially filed a no-case submission, which the court dismissed on September 26, ruling that a prima facie case had been established. At Wednesday’s hearing, Kanu again argued that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act under which he is being tried had been repealed. He told the court, “The Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act has been repealed. I cannot put up a defence under a repealed law. I won’t do that.” Justice Omotosho urged Kanu to “keep his gunpowder dry” and prepare his defence, but Kanu said he needed to consult with his legal team—Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Okpara, and Mandela Umegborogu—before proceeding. The judge, citing the interest of justice, granted another adjournment, advising Kanu to seek guidance from lawyers experienced in criminal law. Earlier, the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, had asked the court to compel Kanu to open his defence or forfeit the right to do so, but the judge said he was willing to allow Kanu one more opportunity to reconsider.

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US Senator, Ted Cruz Pledges To Expose Nigerian Officials Behind Christian Persecution

Wale busari02 mins

US Senator Ted Cruz has pledged to expose and sanction Nigerian officials allegedly responsible for persecuting Christians and other religious minorities. His remarks come after US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a classification reserved for nations accused of severe violations of religious freedom. Cruz, the sponsor of the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, said the next step following the designation is to ensure that those enabling or participating in religious persecution face direct consequences. In a post on his official X handle Tuesday, Cruz expressed gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and determination to end the killings of Christians in Nigeria. “I’ve been pushing legislation to designate Nigeria a CPC and to impose sanctions on the Nigerian officials responsible. Thank you to President Trump for his leadership in imposing the designation, and more broadly, for fighting to stop the murder of Christians in Nigeria. Now we should take the next step and hold Nigerian officials accountable. I intend to be very explicit about who they are in the coming days and weeks,” he wrote.  

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Akwa Ibom Village Head Suspended Over Alleged Terrorism and Market Looting

Wale busari02 mins

The Akwa Ibom State Government has suspended Chief Monday Esu, the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien in Essien Udim Local Government Area, over allegations of terrorism and criminal misconduct. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Frank Archibong, announced the suspension Wednesday, stating that it will last six months to allow for a thorough investigation into the claims against Esu. According to the commissioner, the village head is accused of sponsoring the destruction and theft of property at newly built blocks of shops in the Ikot Ekpenyong community market. Reports indicate that hoodlums, allegedly from Ikot Umo Essien, vandalized and looted the shops, which were constructed as a constituency project by former Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency representative Mr Nsikak Ekong in February 2024. The attackers also damaged a Fadama-funded borehole and VIP lavatory, seizing items including aluminium roofing sheets, windows, doors, overhead tanks, a water pump, and a generator. Residents were reportedly left living in fear following the incident. Preliminary investigations have named Chief Esu as the prime suspect. He has been ordered to surrender all government property in his possession to the village council secretary.

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