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Dozens Killed in Fierce Gunfight Between Soldiers and Terrorists at Timbuktu Triangle

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Dozens Killed in Fierce Gunfight Between Soldiers and Terrorists at Timbuktu Triangle

Following a gunfight between the criminal elements and the soldiers of the Nigerian Army’s Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), several terrorists were killed.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, said this in a statement on Tuesday.

He claimed that important terrorist sites throughout the triangle, including as Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the broader Ajigin/Abirma districts, were successfully cleansed and taken over by the forces.

He continued by saying that numerous terrorists were neutralized as a result of soldiers engaging fleeing terrorist forces with heavy fire throughout the operation.

Some brave troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force were reportedly killed during the operation, while others were injured.

While confirming the losses, Uba stated in the statement that some soldiers were killed and injured when terrorists used Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED) to breach the defensive position.

He confirmed that the injured individuals were successfully transported to the hospital, where they are undergoing treatment, and that the troops’ morale is still good.

“Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) troops have continued to move into the Timbuktu Triangle, making notable operational progress and significantly undermining terrorist networks in the region. Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general regions were among the important terrorist locations in the triangle that soldiers successfully cleared and took control of during the most recent phase of operations. Several terrorists were neutralized as a result of the army’ sporadic encounters with escaping terrorist members and their intense gunfire.

On January 20, 2026, forces came across two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIED) while consolidating at a harbor area around six kilometers north of Chilaria. One VBIED was successfully neutralized with alertness and prompt action. However, certain logistics systems were impacted by the second VBIED’s breakthrough of the defensive position. Some brave soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force lost their lives during this attack, while others were injured. Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters quickly transported the injured to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital. Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component worked in tandem with other Nigerian Army air platforms to offer constant overwatch during the evacuation, ensuring the security of ground personnel and the safe extraction of casualties while neutralizing further terrorists.

“forces found mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies slain during clashes with forces in the Timbuktu Triangle and buried by their colleagues, further demonstrating the militants’ severe losses. This finding significantly undermines terrorist propaganda narratives and reveals the extent of terrorist casualties.

The security situation is largely stable throughout the theater. Operations continue with constant pressure on terrorist elements that are escaping, and troops’ morale and fighting effectiveness remain high. The complete statement states, “OPHK troops are unwavering in their resolve to defend civilians, destroy terrorist networks, and establish enduring peace and security throughout the North East.”

Police Arrest Church General Overseer Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Two Minors

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Police Arrest Church General Overseer Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Two Minors

Bishop Gideon Osazee, the “General Overseer” of Rollo Life of Christ Brethren Ministry, has been arrested by the Edo State Government on suspicion of sexually abusing two biological sisters who are minors.

The victims are 13 and 17 years old, according to government officials, which raises grave concerns about child abuse and safeguarding in places of worship.

Authorities also disclosed that four additional young women have purportedly come forward with similar accusations against the clergyman, suggesting that the accusations may go beyond the two sisters.

According to reports, the revelation has raised public anxiety and prompted demands for a comprehensive and open investigation.

After days of monitoring to ensure a successful arrest, it was reported that Bishop Osazee was arrested by Edo State Government personnel.

The operation, according to officials, was meticulously designed to stop the suspect from eluding law police.

Eugene Abdullah, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, spoke about the development and added that other children connected to the church had also experienced unsettling encounters.

He claimed that these reports included claims of sexual harassment purportedly associated with the suspect.

Faith Edebor of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre also commented on the case, stating that investigators’ initial findings have validated important aspects of the victims’ testimonies.

She pointed out that although investigations were still in progress, preliminary data seemed to corroborate the complainants’ allegations.

However, Bishop Osazee refuted the accusations made against him.

He insisted that he only had a consensual relationship with the older of the two sisters and denied having any sexual relations with children.

According to the authorities, the case is still being investigated, and statements and evidence from victims, witnesses, and other pertinent parties are still being gathered.

The Edo State Government reiterated its dedication to safeguarding children and making sure that those found guilty are held accountable.

Strong responses to the case have persisted, rekindling conversations about child protection and responsibility in religious organizations.

Atiku Warns: Insulting Me or Peter Obi Is Not in Nigeria’s Best Interest

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Atiku Warns: Insulting Me or Peter Obi Is Not in Nigeria’s Best Interest

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, has cautioned against disintegration within the African Democratic Party (ADC).

According to reports, the warning was issued after a 𝕏 user questioned Atiku’s silence about his followers’ criticism of former Anambra State governor Peter Obi.

“Atiku’s people want to insult Peter Obi without Atiku getting the heat back,” the post stated. Perhaps they believe Atiku is deserving of respect whereas Peter Obi is not.

The former vice president responded by saying in a post on his 𝕏 Twitter that individuals who disparage Peter Obi or himself do not have the best interests of the leaders, the ADC coalition, or the nation at large in mind.

Atiku warned supporters against internal attacks, emphasizing that they jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic progress and the unity of the opposition.

He claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which he accused of profiting from divide within the opposition, is the only party that benefits from internal differences.

He emphasized the necessity of unity between supporters and opposition leaders.

“Anyone who insults Obi or Atiku does not mean well for the leaders, the Coalition ADC, and for Nigeria and Nigerians,” he added. The APC urban bandits who wish to uphold the demonic status quo are the only ones who stand to gain from such a civil war. Together, we perform better!

PDP National Secretary Suit: Court Dismisses Anyanwu’s Claim

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PDP National Secretary Suit: Court Dismisses Anyanwu’s Claim

Samuel Anyanwu, the former factional National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), filed a lawsuit demanding court recognition as the party’s substantive scribe, but it was denied by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to reports, Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed the case after pointing out that Anyanwu’s term as national secretary ended in December 2025, so events had taken precedence over the lawsuit.

In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/254/2025, Anyanwu filed a complaint with the court, identifying the Independent National Electoral Commission and Umar Damagun, a former acting National Chairman of the PDP, as the first and second defendants.

Through his attorney, Ken Njemanze, Anyanwu filed an ex parte action on February 13, 2025, requesting an interim injunction prohibiting INEC from receiving or acting upon any PDP letter that was not signed by him. Additionally, he requested that the court prevent Damagun from sending any party letter to INEC without his countersignature.

The People’s Democratic Party and Sunday Udeh-Okoye were added to the list of defendants on February 28, 2025. As fifth and sixth defendants, the party’s South-East Vice Chairman, Dr. Ali Odela, and Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, were also added.

U. C. Njemanze-Aku, Anyanwu’s attorney, told the court that his client’s tenure had ended when the subject came up.

He stated, “In the interest of justice, I apply to withdraw this matter to save the time of the court,” adding that it would be inappropriate to continue with a case that has already been overrun by circumstances.

Akintayo Balogun, INEC’s attorney, requested that the lawsuit be dismissed at a cost of ₦1 million, arguing that it should never have been brought in the first place. Other defense attorneys supported the expense request.

Njemanze-Aku, however, objected, claiming that the withdrawal was the result of uncontrollable circumstances.

“We chose to withdraw the case in order to fulfill our obligation to the court and prevent wasting its time. He stated that it is unfair to penalize the plaintiff and urged the court to let the parties pay their own expenses.

Following the hearing of the arguments, Justice Umar dismissed the case without imposing any fees.

“I’m going to reject this complaint since you have joined issues. The judge decided to dismiss the case.

“The delay is not on any of the parties,” he continued, referring to expenses. That’s what happened. Because of this, I grant no expense.

Anyanwu’s resignation from the PDP national secretary post to run for governor of Imo in 2023, which he lost, sparked a leadership struggle. Internal party strife resulted from his attempt to retake the post, with Udeh-Okoye emerging as a competitor.

On December 20, 2024, the Federal High Court’s decision to dismiss Anyanwu and confirm Udeh-Okoye as secretary was sustained by the Enugu Court of Appeal. The Supreme Court heard Anyanwu’s appeal and reversed the rulings of the lower courts in March 2025.

Anyanwu filed a new lawsuit in Abuja to have his position enforced since PDP groups persisted in claiming power despite the verdict of the highest court. The dismissal on Tuesday has now put an end to that legal dispute.

Rector Tells Students to Report Sexual Harassment or Pressure by Lecturers

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Rector Tells Students to Report Sexual Harassment or Pressure by Lecturers

Students are urged by Mrs. Eduma Essien, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, to report any sexual pressure or harassment from instructors to the Polytechnic’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit or management for proper investigation and punishment.

Additionally, Essien warned pupils that the institution would not support any of the vices, including exam malpractice, cultism, or any other antisocial activity.

She also required them to be familiar with the policies, rules, and regulations of the polytechnic.

Speaking on Tuesday at the 12th Orientation Exercise for newly admitted students, the rector added that handouts are not allowed at the polytechnic and that students should only buy recognized textbooks.

Essien gave the pupils the assurance that studying would be simple in a setting that encourages order, security, and academic success as long as she is in charge.

“I encourage you to report any form of sexual pressure from lecturers to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit or management,” she stated. The trading of gifts for grades is discouraged at this institution.

“We also want to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere, so we have zero tolerance for exam malpractice and cultism.”

The rector clarified that through the polytechnic’s required skills acquisition program, students will not only graduate with academic credentials but also gain useful talents.

She claims that the world is becoming more and more interested in what people can contribute to society.

In order to make teaching and learning efficient and fulfilling, Essien also urged the students to collaborate with their instructors by assiduously completing their assignments.

Additionally, resource people gave lectures on a range of topics related to the polytechnic system throughout the orientation exercise. Among them are Mr. Idhigu Lucky, the Registrar, Sir Emmanuel Esomonu, the Bursar, and Mr. Ehikioya Uduebor, the Polytechnic Librarian.

‘Kill Him Immediately’ — Kano Father Demands Son’s Execution After Family Murders

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‘Kill Him Immediately’ — Kano Father Demands Son’s Execution After Family Murders

In an interview on Freedom Radio on Monday, Umar Auwal, along with three other suspects, was detained in connection with the horrific killings of the family in the Dorayi Chiranchi neighborhood of Kano city on Saturday. The father, Malam Auwal, urged the government to punish his son right away.

Umar, who is presently being held by the police, is charged with killing his aunt, Fatima Abubakar, and her children, Maimuna (17), Aisha (16), Bashir (13), Abubakar (10), Faruk (7), and Abdussalam (1.5 years old), in broad daylight.

The suspect’s confession to the deaths and the latest attack in Tudun Yola, where two housewives were killed and their home set on fire, was also confirmed by the police.

Speaking about the incident in Hausa, Malam Auwal distanced himself from his son, calling him “useless to society” and demanding that he be put to death rather than imprisoned.

It is abhorrent what he did to my wife’s younger sister and her co-wife, as well as to my younger sister and her six children. “I keep my distance from him,” Malam Auwal remarked.

“I don’t even want the prosecution to take up time.” It is intended to eradicate Umar and those like him. He continued, “They shouldn’t be remanded and fed with government money.

Declaring that he had already “sacrificed” his kid, the distraught father praised the police for their handling of the case and promised that neither he nor his wife (Umar’s mother) would make any court appearances throughout the trial.

Abdulkarim Kabiru-Maude (SAN), Kano State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, also told reporters that the state has assumed responsibility for the prosecution of the alleged horrific killing of Fatima and her six children.

Kabiru-Maude stated that the decision to take over the case’s prosecution was made at Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf’s request and pledged that the government would make every effort to guarantee accountability, openness, and rigorous adherence to due process during the case’s investigation and prosecution.

Rivers APC Says Felix Morka Must Step Down as Party Spokesperson

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Rivers APC Says Felix Morka Must Step Down as Party Spokesperson

The National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has been requested to step down from his position immediately.

After hearing Morka’s interview on national television and his remarks criticizing the party’s stance on legislative overreach and what he called a coup d’etat by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Odu, the party said the call was necessary.

The party added that Morka’s response to the inquiry on the status of Mr. Darlington Nwauju, who made statements on the party’s behalf in Rivers, was embarrassing.

Nwauju was “an official of the old exco, saying he doubts if he is still part of the current exco,” according to Morka.

The APC in Rivers State said in a statement signed by Nwauju on Tuesday that it is concerned about Morka’s persistent mockery, disrespect, and disdain for legitimate court decisions, which he claims has raised serious doubts about the veracity of the remarks, opinions, and statements made by the legally recognized Party Spokesperson in Rivers State.

The statement continued, “We are therefore calling for his disbarment, owing to the fact that Suits No. PHC/3592/CS/2023 (Sam Sam Etetegwung Vs APC) and No. 3859/CS/2024 (Okwu Joe Brown Ndke Vs APC) both voided the kangaroo congress held in November 2023 to replace the Executives elected in October 2021, giving Mr. Nwauju the audacity to speak on behalf of the party in Rivers.”

“Mr. Morka has lost the moral high ground to continue acting as a national officer of our great party after being elected to appear on national television to promote partisan interpretation to existing court rulings over the party leadership question in Rivers APC, since we are practicing a Constitutional democracy and our Party is built on progressive ideals to defend democratic practice and promote the rule law.”

“Any sincere member of our party who is hoping for the party to mobilize and win fair and square elections in Rivers for Mr. President should not disregard this deceptive story.

“We dare claim that Mr. Morka ought to have remained silent instead of using his interview to disguise himself as a non-party member above and beyond one of the Party’s governors who also serves as our party’s undisputed leader in Rivers State.

Once more, we understand that the National Working Committee, which operates independently of the National Executive Committee (NEC), represents our party’s conscience and should not continue to support individuals who prioritize internal party cohesion over divisiveness.

We are also aware of Article 13.4 (xvi), which states that “the National Working Committee shall communicate with governments established by the Party at all levels with a view to ensuring that members of the Party are accorded priority in appointments into public offices and shall furnish the National Executive Committee with periodic reports in this regard.”

Therefore, we don’t understand why Mr. Morka, an APC national officer, would minimize the grave problem of a self-serving impeachment procedure against an APC governor in office. There is much to be desired in Mr. Morka’s opinion, which we all know is wholly personal and cannot pass for the position of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress in Nigeria. It also raises concerns about his allegiance to the APC.

“Party supporters throughout Rivers State and beyond are left with a bad taste in their mouths and a black eye due to Mr. Morka’s disregard for the collective welfare and interests of our Party. We are tempted to wonder: “Is Morka genuinely working for the APC’s victory?

Mr. Morka is a qualified attorney who ought to know better, but he has deliberately decided to ignore the situation as it benefits him financially.

“We think it’s time for the NBA, and more especially the Legal Practitioners Privileges Council, to look into and examine the intentional, scandalous behavior of Mr. Morka, whose remarks and actions on national television are intended to undermine the court’s dignity and harm the Nigerian legal profession’s reputation irreversibly.

“We reaffirm this fact and inform everyone, including our wonderful party’s National Working Committee, that the actions of individuals who were allegedly “elected” to lead the APC in Rivers State through kangaroo congresses led by Alhaji Umar Ganduje in November 2023 are a direct insult to the courts because their actions are based on flawed principles and cannot withstand the test of legal fireworks!

“What happened to Rivers APC in 2019 cannot be repeated by our National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, and Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru.”

Bala Ibrahim Dismisses Speculations on Shettima’s Position as Overhyped and Divisive

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Bala Ibrahim Dismisses Speculations on Shettima’s Position as Overhyped and Divisive

The issue surrounding the removal of Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s photo from a party banner has been rejected by Bala Ibrahim, National Director of Publicity for the All Progressives Congress (APC), as needless and motivated by malice.

In a phone interview with Daily Trust, Ibrahim characterized the conjecture regarding the Vice-President’s political prospects as inflated and intended to incite conflict inside the Presidency.

Before you reach the bridge, you don’t discuss crossing a river. He claimed that the rumors about the vice president’s role were exaggerated, full of mischief, and meant to cause a wedge within the presidency.

Ibrahim emphasized that the Constitution acknowledges a single presidency and clarified that the Vice-President’s post serves mainly as constitutional cover in the event that the President is unable to carry out his responsibilities.

“The Vice President has never voiced complaints about being ignored or left out. As talks about the 2027 general elections heat up, he continued, “It is troublemakers who are creating a storm in a teacup.” He urged party members to exhibit moderation.

Protest Is Sparked by Banner Omission
After Shettima’s picture was left off of a poster at a significant party event in Maiduguri, Borno State, the APC spokesperson’s response coincides with fresh internal concerns inside the ruling party regarding Shettima’s political future ahead of 2027.

Governors, party leaders, and other regional stakeholders attended the North-East zonal public hearing on proposed revisions to the APC constitution on Monday when the event took place.

The Vice-President, who is from Borno State, was noticeably left out of the banner, which included pictures of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the five APC governors from the Northeast, and the party’s National Legal Advisor.

Abdulkarim Lawan, the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, immediately protested the deletion, calling it unjust, inflammatory, and untimely.

Speaking during the event, Lawan urged organizers to be aware of the sensitivities surrounding party unity in the area and cautioned that such efforts could revive unresolved fault lines within the ruling party.

Primate Ayodele Issues Election Warning to Tinubu Over Planned Protests in Five States

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Primate Ayodele Issues Election Warning to Tinubu Over Planned Protests in Five States

Primate Elijah Ayodele, the leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has issued a warning that there will be a large-scale demonstration to overthrow the current administration before to the presidential election.

Primate Ayodele stated in a statement signed by his media assistant, Osho Oluwatosin, that although the demonstration will begin slowly, the government won’t take it seriously until it abruptly grows in size.

The man of God urged the president to take it very seriously, saying that it is a part of the plan to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and that it will have an impact on the economy.

“Five states will be the first to participate in this big demonstration. If the president is careless, this is still one of the ways to remove him from office. The president shouldn’t take this for granted since the protest has the power to shut down the economy.

The prophet cautioned the president to pay attention to security reports, particularly those from the DSS, since certain actions could trigger a protest.

He also disclosed that certain former leaders are now plotting to overthrow the current administration.

“The administration will not take the protest seriously, but it will begin gradually. The president should pay attention to the security, particularly the DSS, since it will greatly assist him in preventing protests.

“To destabilize the current administration, some of the heads of state are conspiring against it.”

FG Opens 2026 PTDF Scholarship Applications for Study in UK, Germany, France, Malaysia

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FG Opens 2026 PTDF Scholarship Applications for Study in UK, Germany, France, Malaysia

The 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme, which offers Nigerian postgraduate students the chance to study in the UK, Germany, France, and Malaysia, is now accepting applications, according to the Federal Government.

Dada Olusegun, Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, made the statement on Monday via X (previously Twitter).

The post said, “FG has announced that the 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Scholarships overseas are now accepting applications.”

Benefits include tuition, return flights, housing, living allowances, health insurance, and, if appropriate, bench fees. The program targets MSc and PhD applicants in fields related to the oil and gas industry.

The initiative seeks to develop domestic capacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry while giving access to top-notch training, research facilities, and international expertise, according to a statement on the PTDF scholarship board website.

Scholarships for PhD candidates in the UK will be split-site, enabling research to be carried out at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) as well as a few UK partner universities, such as Robert Gordon University, the University of Strathclyde, and the University of Portsmouth.

The PTDF emphasized that the scholarships are extremely competitive, and candidates are evaluated based on their academic background, research projects, professional body membership, and how applicable their studies are to the oil and gas sector.

Requirements for Eligibility:

MSc candidates must have finished the NYSC program and have at least a Second Class Lower (2.2) or higher in their first degree.

A five-page research proposal detailing the goals, methods, and data collection strategies must be submitted by PhD candidates.

Every applicant must have a valid National Identity Number (NIN), and submitting false documents or submitting repeated applications will result in instant disqualification.

For authorized programs at PTDF partner universities, interested individuals are encouraged to apply online at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng. The application deadline is February 27, 2026.

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