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Stop Calling Me “Bro” or “Blood” – 22-Year-Old Ondo Monarch Oba Akinghare II Warns Public

The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has issued a stern warning to the public against addressing the traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, in informal or disrespectful ways. In a statement released on Friday, the monarch’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, stressed that the 22-year-old king must always be referred to as His Royal Majesty, cautioning that casual or derogatory forms of address would no longer be tolerated. The palace noted that some individuals have been calling the young monarch “bro” or “blood,” actions described as attempts to undermine the dignity of the throne. “I write on behalf of the palace to draw the attention of the general public to an issue that must be corrected immediately. Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times. Any deviation from this is unacceptable,” the statement said. Prince Olorunfemi emphasized that the king’s youth does not lessen his authority, noting that age is not a measure of respect for the throne. “The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yorubaland does not permit any form of disrespect. Using casual or demeaning terms such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood’ is highly inappropriate and will attract firm and decisive action,” the statement added. He also highlighted that the monarch’s calm and tolerant nature should not be misinterpreted as weakness. “Our customs demand respect for constituted authority. Regardless of age, status, or social standing, respect for the king is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and honouring it preserves our cultural identity,” Prince Olorunfemi said. The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the wider public to always uphold the dignity of the monarchy, stressing that respect for the throne is central to Yoruba heritage. Oba Akinghare ascended the throne at age 16 while still in secondary school, following the death of his father. As the only son among four children, tradition required that he succeed his late father. The kingmakers promptly presented him as the new ruler, a decision later ratified by the Ondo State Government.

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Drug war: Marwa Sets 2026 Operational Targets for NDLEA Commanders

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has set the tone for the 2026 operational goals with a high-level strategic meeting with directors, commanders and heads of formations during which he charged them to sustain the current momentum in the war against illicit substances by going all out to dismantle drug cartels and intensify sensitization efforts across the country. Marwa gave the charge at the annual review and planning meeting that brought together, at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, the top echelon of the Agency, including: members of the Management; Zonal Commanders; Commanders from the 36 states and the FCT; Commanders of Seaports and International Airports; the Marine Unit Commander; Commanders of the Strike Force and the Special Operations Units, among others. ​Addressing the Commanders, Marwa emphasized that the Agency has kicked off the year on a strong footing, building on the record-breaking successes of previous years. He noted that 2026 would be a year of unprecedented consolidation especially in the areas of Drug Supply Reduction (DSR) and Drug Demand Reduction (DDR). “The results we achieved last year were significant, but we cannot afford to rest on our oars. Our 2026 goals are clear: we are here to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitized against the scourge of substance abuse”, he declared. ​During the session, he directed the various Commands to ensure a seamless execution of the 2026 strategic work plan. According to him, “When I first assumed office, I made certain declarations about the direction of this Agency and the resolve to confront drug barons and kingpins. Looking back, the progress achieved is the result of your collective efforts, and all glory belongs to God. “We have now successfully concluded five years, which passed remarkably quickly. While we acknowledge the achievements recorded during this period, we must not rest on our past successes. Rather, we must consolidate these gains and aim for even greater outcomes. Today, the Agency commands increased respect, both locally and internationally, and you should be proud to identify yourselves anywhere as officers and men of this Agency. “The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. While I may issue directives, real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field. Without these results, there would be nothing to communicate to the public. For this reason, I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment, and hard work. “This year, we are here to set clear targets. Directors have already submitted their proposed objectives, but these will only be complete with input from commanders. Discipline and professional conduct must remain central to our operations. “Operational professionalism and zero tolerance for compromise are non-negotiable. Commanders must ensure thorough surveillance and planning before any operation. Where operational capacity is insufficient, commanders must request reinforcement rather than risk avoidable casualties. Advocacy and sensitization efforts have recorded encouraging progress, particularly in schools and communities nationwide. These efforts must be intensified. “State Drug Control Committees must be strengthened across all states, with efforts extended down to local government and ward levels. This year, all states must have functional committees. I urge all commanders to remain focused, professional, and committed to the mandate of the Agency. Together, we will continue to strengthen our impact and uphold the confidence reposed in us.” The NDLEA boss reassured the public that the Agency remains more committed than ever to protecting Nigerian youths and families from the drug scourge. He said the Agency’s strong footing at the start of 2026 is a signal to drug cartels that there will be no vacuum or breathing space for their illicit trade. He encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to the Agency, reminding all that the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking is a collective responsibility.

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Gombe Army Trainee Ibrahim Nazifi Dies During Training At Zaria Depot

The Gombe State Government has announced the death of Ibrahim Nazifi, a newly recruited Nigerian Army trainee, who passed away while undergoing training at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria. Nazifi was part of the first group of successful candidates from Gombe State in the Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (NA RRI 90). In a statement on Thursday, Ambassador Yusuf Danbayo, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters and Intergovernmental Affairs, said the recruit died following a brief illness at the training facility. Danbayo identified Nazifi as a native of Buba Bani Village, Kashere Ward, Akko Local Government Area, with application number 90RRI-GO-9017726. “It is with deep sorrow, humility, and submission to the will of Almighty Allah that I announce the passing of Ibrahim Nazifi, one of our promising recruits at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria,” Danbayo said. He described Nazifi as a patriotic young man who answered the call to serve his country and noted that his loss is deeply felt by his family, the Gombe State Government, the people of Akko Local Government Area, and the wider state. “The pain of this loss is shared by his family and the entire people of Gombe State,” he added. Danbayo extended the government’s condolences to the deceased’s family, relatives, friends, and colleagues, praying for mercy on his soul. “We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his efforts as acts of worship, and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus,” he said, emphasizing that the incident serves as a solemn reminder of the transient nature of life and that every soul shall taste death, returning ultimately to Allah.

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Lagos Court Bars VeryDarkMan, Doris Ogala, Others From Mentioning Dr. Chris Okafor Pending Suit

Justice Akintunde Savage of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, has restrained social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), actress Doris Ogala, and Kelvin Chimaobi Emmanuel from making any references to Dr. Chris Okafor, his ministry, or church on any platform until the resolution of a pending lawsuit. The suit, filed by Dr. Okafor and marked ID/14399GCMW/2026, lists Ogala, VeryDarkMan, and Emmanuel as the first to third defendants. The ex parte application was brought under Order 43, Rules 1, 2, and 7 of the High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, as well as the court’s inherent powers. In his ruling, Justice Savage ordered the defendants and their associates to stop publishing or circulating any private materials related to the claimant, including chats, text messages, images, pictures, or videos. The court directed that the defendants must not mention Dr. Chris Okafor’s name, images, videos, or the name of his church, Grace Nation International (also known as Liberation City), in any form—written or spoken—on social media or other media outlets. They were further barred from releasing any content allegedly intended to blackmail or extort money from Dr. Okafor. Justice Savage also allowed for substituted service of the claimant’s legal documents, including the writ of summons, witness list, and statements on oath, through publication in a national newspaper. The matter has been adjourned to February 2, 2026, for hearing.

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Tinubu Approves Commercial Oil Drilling In Ogun

President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead for commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State, signaling a major step for the state’s coastal development. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the approval on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior officers during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The governor also disclosed that Tinubu has authorized the immediate launch of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of anticipation for the multibillion-dollar port. According to Abiodun, both projects hold particular significance for the President. While the Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to reduce congestion at Lagos ports, commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island aims to foster economic inclusion and empower residents of coastal communities. “Mr President has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island, and activities will soon begin there. Our Olokola Port project, long in the planning stages, is now officially back on track. I sincerely thank Mr President, as this initiative comes entirely from him. In just the past two weeks, we have held multiple meetings on Olokola, and the President is committed to making this port a reality,” the governor said. Abiodun added that the President has instructed that port construction be significantly advanced by next year. The project, to be named the Blue Marine Economic Zone, will serve as a strategic coastal hub and provide an alternative logistics corridor to ease pressure on Lagos ports. The governor also commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the presence of naval forces will help prevent incursions from the Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Abiodun said his administration is working to improve living conditions on the island by providing basic amenities to support residents and boost emerging economic activities. He also praised the Navy’s role in Ogun State’s security, emphasizing that inter-agency cooperation has helped maintain the state’s relative peace. Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a highly experienced officer, Abiodun expressed confidence that Ogun State would benefit from enhanced security and development under his leadership. “We are happy that someone with your training, background, and experience is in this role. You are truly a round peg in a round hole,” he said.

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‘I’m Not Here for Influencers, Africa Tour Is About Real Culture and Talent’ – IShowSpeed

American online streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr., popularly known as iShowSpeed, has addressed criticism over claims that he ignored Nigerian content creators during his ongoing Africa tour, insisting that the trip is focused on culture and everyday people, not influencer collaborations. The clarification came after reactions trailed his Wednesday livestream of his first full day in Lagos, which drew massive crowds, unfiltered street interactions and viral moments that quickly spread across social media within and outside Africa. The controversy started after some Nigerian content creators accused Speed of deliberately avoiding collaboration requests during his Lagos visit. Fans repeatedly urged him to meet Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, a Nigerian streamer active on TikTok and Kick. Peller made several attempts to get Speed’s attention, including trying to climb onto his vehicle and later riding a horse through traffic to approach him. In a widely circulated clip, he was heard saying, “Please, I’m a streamer. I’m big. Please let’s do something. I have suffered because of you,” but Speed did not respond and continued with his scheduled activities. The repeated attempts and Speed’s silence sparked heated online discussions, with fans and creators questioning why one of the world’s biggest streamers would tour Africa without linking up with well-known local personalities. Reacting to the backlash, Speed explained that the purpose of his Speed Does Africa tour had been misunderstood. “This tour is not about collaborations with influencers or streamers,” he said. “The goal is to show African culture, the people on the streets, and the talent that doesn’t usually get seen.” He added that many of those expressing dissatisfaction already have established audiences, noting that “a lot of the people complaining already have audiences, while this tour is meant to give exposure to people who normally don’t get it.” Speed also clarified that his movements throughout the tour are tightly planned by his team. “Every day on this tour is scheduled — the locations, the time, everything,” he said, stressing that adding last-minute meetups or collaborations is not possible. He further explained that “cutting short cultural visits or cancelling plans made by local communities would be disrespectful,” insisting that the tour must follow its original structure. According to him, similar reactions occurred earlier during his visit to South Africa, where some creators also felt sidelined, but he remained focused on the central aim of the tour. “This trip is about the real Africa — the street performers, the local artists, and the communities with real talent that don’t usually get global attention,” he said. iShowSpeed’s Africa tour, titled Speed Does Africa, began on December 29, 2025, and is scheduled to run for 28 days across 20 countries. He is expected to visit Benin Republic next as the tour continues.

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Lagos Police Warn Against Fake Bomb Scares After Ikeja Schools Threat Messages

The Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents over the spread of false security alerts after anonymous messages sparked panic at two private secondary schools in Ikeja. The caution was given by the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, through a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Abimbola Adebisi, following reports of an alleged bomb threat sent to the schools. According to the police, the Human Resources Manager and the Chief Security Officer of the affected institutions separately reported the incident at the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters after receiving threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number at about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. “The reports were made about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday after they received threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number. “Upon receiving the reports, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, immediately mobilised a high-powered security team and personally led operatives to the schools for an on-the-spot assessment. “The team comprised personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), and other tactical units of the command,” Adebisi said. She disclosed that EOD-CBRN experts carried out a detailed and methodical sweep of the school premises to rule out any danger. “The operation covered classrooms, administrative offices, halls, playgrounds, and surrounding areas to rule out the presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) or other dangerous materials. “No explosive or hazardous items were found, and the schools were subsequently declared safe for continued academic and administrative activities,” she said. Adebisi added that the police commissioner expressed displeasure over the circulation of false information and directed that investigations be intensified to track down those behind the threat messages and bring them to justice. She also revealed that joint teams of police operatives have now been permanently deployed to the schools to provide 24-hour security for students, staff and facilities. Reassuring parents, guardians and school authorities, the police spokesperson affirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State. She urged members of the public to remain calm, stay alert and report any suspicious activities to nearby police stations or through the command’s emergency lines. It was gathered that immediately after the threats were received, the two schools located in Ikeja GRA sent their students home as a precaution. Parents were contacted and advised to keep their children at home over the alleged bomb scare until security agencies confirmed that the situation was under control.

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