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After Almost a Year Behind Bars, Niger Frees Ex-Petroleum Minister

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Family members and close acquaintances reported on Tuesday that Mahaman Moustapha Barke, the former minister of petroleum for Niger, had been freed from detention nearly a year after being arrested by the nation’s military rulers.
Barke regained his release earlier in the day, according to a relative who spoke on condition of anonymity for security concerns. According to the Daily Post, a former minister’s assistant independently confirmed the news.

After the coup that overthrew the civilian administration just weeks earlier in 2023, Barke was named petroleum minister by Niger’s new military rulers. Later on, he was taken into custody for reasons that were never made public.

Since the military command has not released a statement on the subject, neither the grounds for his incarceration nor the terms of his release have been made public.

Human rights organizations have consistently criticized Niger’s junta for allegedly suppressing journalists, political rivals, and other dissident voices since seizing control.

In the meantime, Hamadou Tinni was named the new Minister of Petroleum by authorities on Tuesday. He takes over for Sahabi Oumarou, who took over in 2024 after Barke was fired.

Rufai Oseni Attacks Osimhen: ‘What Nonsense Attitude, Are You God?’

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Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was chastised by Arise TV presenter Rufai Oseni for his altercation with teammate Ademola Lookman on the field during Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to reports, Nigeria won the round-of-16 match on Monday night, with Osimhen scoring twice and Lookman and Akor Adams also scoring to guarantee a spot in the quarterfinals.

Lookman missed a chance to score during the second half, which sparked an altercation between the two players.

Other teammates intervened to defuse the tension.

Later, Osimhen motioned to the bench to be removed, and Moses Simon took his position.

During Tuesday’s Arise News Global Sports Update, Oseni shared his thoughts on the event and questioned Osimhen’s motivation.

Lookman has accomplished just as much as Osimhen, he claimed.

“With all due respect, they said that Osimhen wants to travel to Turkey; he ought to go,” he stated. What rubbish? What absurd mindset?

“You have accomplished what Ademola Lookman has.” African Footballer of the Year goes to both of you. Why do you act in this way?

Oseni also demanded disciplinary punishment, saying Osimhen ought to issue an apology before rejoining the team.

“Set down your hands. We can only implement discipline in this manner. He stated that Osimhen should only be permitted to rejoin the team following his apology to his teammate.

He also took issue with Osimhen’s alleged response to the altercation.

“He ought to express regret for abandoning his accreditation and declaring, ‘I’m done, I want to travel to Turkey.'” Oseni stated, “They ought to hire a private jet so he can travel.”

Osimhen is not essential to the team, Rufai Oseni continued.

“Are you Allah? He will realize that you are not essential if they win the Nations Cup behind him, which is what I want to happen. “People were there before you, and now you’re there,” he remarked.

Avoid Wike Scenario — Dele Momodu Raises Alarm Over ADC Aggression

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The leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have been instructed by former presidential candidate Dele Momodu to impose discipline within the coalition before it is too late.
According to reports, Momodu said that certain groups had brought aggression into the party in a statement posted on his 𝕏 Twitter on Tuesday headlined “My Candid Advice to ADC: Avoid Wike Scenario.”

The seasoned journalist questioned why certain organizations are demanding that a specific candidate receive the ADC presidential ticket.

Dele Momodu claims that the principal organizers of the coalition that approved ADC have pledged to make it an inclusive party that will respect democratic principles.

He emphasized that, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), no organization or individual will be permitted to wreak havoc within ADC.

“I was present when some members of Nigeria’s opposition political parties gathered in Abuja last year to adopt ADC as their new vehicle for driving out the ruling APC from power,” the statement stated. I paid close attention to all of the speeches. Nobody compelled anyone to enlist. The principal organizers pledged to maintain democratic principles and make the party accessible to everybody. Discipline will be enforced by ADC, and no individual or group would be permitted to wreak havoc as was the case in PDP.

“Hearing these lovely remarks made me really happy. I was pleased to see General David Mark, an Army veteran, as Chairman because I knew he wouldn’t put up with any crap. However, certain organizations have recently infused a nascent cooperation and collaboration of all with violence and boisterousness. If certain organizations insist on producing the top ticket by donation and coronation without election or persuasion, how can a coalition function? Why act as though one group can win national elections without the others by throwing tantrums and cursing at each other?

For this reason, ADC needs to step up and impose discipline before it’s too late. NYESOM WIKE used this tactic to keep the PDP in check until it was too late to remove or expel them. Instead of being a chaotic Fuji house, ADC ought to be a celebration of love.

Wike’s ‘Renewed Hope Family’ Gains Support from Rivers Elders Ahead of 2027

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In an effort to secure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection in 2027, the Rivers Elders Council has joined forces with the “Renewed Hope Family,” a project supported by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.

During Wike’s “thank you” visit to Rivers State’s Akuku-Toru Local Government Area on Tuesday, the endorsement was revealed.

Speaking at the gathering, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, the Chairman of the Council, stated that the elders had decided to back the Renewed Hope Family, characterizing it as the proper political path ahead of the general election in 2027.

According to Alabraba, the campaign, sometimes referred to as the “Rainbow Coalition,” has united members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State to support Tinubu’s ambition for a second term.

The 86-year-old elder said that supporting Tinubu in the 2023 presidential race had greatly benefited Rivers State and that the choice had stabilized the state’s political and economic landscape.

He claims that Wike’s political arrangement is still the most practical one going forward.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda is the way to go in 2027, and I can assure you that Rivers people know where to go,” he stated.

Alabraba also called Wike a symbol of contemporary Nigerian politics, pointing out that his style of leadership is appealing to all age groups. He also gave the former governor credit for fostering ethnic harmony in Rivers State, which he characterized as a multiethnic community.

Major Jack, the majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, commended Wike for the development initiatives carried out in Akuku-Toru when he was governor.

“We followed you to support Tinubu, and we are reaping the benefits of that choice today. In 2027, we will follow suit,” he declared.

Speaking as well, Lolo Opuende, the legislator for the Akuku-Toru Constituency, proclaimed the region’s allegiance to Wike’s political agenda.

“To bring Tinubu back for a second term in 2027, we will stand by you and support your renewed hope family,” he declared.

Aboiya-a Bob-Fubara, the chairman of the Akuku-Toru Local Government Council, praised Wike for his inclusive leadership and humility, stating that the visit would improve grassroots government even more.

Bob-Fubara reassured the minister that the council would remain loyal and supportive, pointing out that working with Wike would benefit the state and local government.

In response, Wike stated that the purpose of the visit was to thank the locals for their support ever since he announced his decision to run for Rivers State governor in 2014.

He expressed gratitude to them for supporting Tinubu’s reelection across party lines and for embracing the Rainbow Coalition.

The two main political parties are cooperating in this state only to bring Tinubu back in 2027.

“We are no longer talking about party politics but renewed hope because this rainbow coalition is in no other state than Rivers,” he stated.

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“Malicious and False” — Danagogo Refutes Claims of Plot Against Wike

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Tammy Danagogo, a former secretary to the Rivers State government, has refuted claims that he is involved in a plot to kill Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

Danagogo claimed in a statement released on Monday by his Special Assistant, Obele Briggs, that he has never participated in any illegal or assassination-related actions.

“Baseless, false, and deliberately fabricated” is how he characterized the accusation against him.

The former Sports Minister maintained that the accusations against him are deliberate attempts to damage his reputation, deceive the public, and bring his name into matters about which he has no information.

“The claims, which are being circulated on certain online platforms, are false, malicious, and deliberately crafted to smear my hard-earned reputation, mislead the public, and drag his name into issues he knows absolutely nothing about,” the statement states.

According to the statement, the former SSG has served Nigeria and Rivers State with “distinction and integrity” and is a law-abiding, peace-loving person.

It further stated that he has continuously supported the rule of law in both his public and private lives.

The public was urged in the message to ignore the “unfounded and mischievous reports,” which he claimed only existed in the minds of their peddlers.

Army Investigates Soldier After Fatal Shooting of 13-Year-Old Boy

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Timothy Daniel, a 13-year-old child, was tragically shot and killed by a soldier on watch duty in the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The Nigerian Army has opened an investigation into the incident.

The incident, which happened early on January 1, 2026, along Akongntekong Road in Ete, caused tension and indignation in the neighborhood.

The issue has been formally taken over by the Military Police, according to Captain Lawal Mohamed, Army Public Relations Officer, 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo.

“The Military Police handled the incident and are currently conducting an investigation.” He promised to uphold due process.

Witnesses claim that the shooting happened at around 12:05 a.m. while the victim and his 15-year-old sister, Miracle Daniel, were on their way home from a crossover service at Mount Zion Full Gospel Church.

Anthony Akpan, a local, informed Channels TV that Miracle had momentarily crossed the street close to the late former clan chief Clement Idemudo’s home, which is said to be a compound housing expats.

Akpan claimed that Miracle was approached inappropriately by a soldier stationed at the house. The soldier allegedly became hostile and threatened her when she objected and raised her voice.

A heated altercation apparently resulted from Timothy, who had been waiting nearby, confronting the soldier about the harassment.

The soldier allegedly fired his rifle, killing Timothy, escalating the tension. It was reported that the adolescent instantly passed away.

According to Akpan, “the soldier then withdrew into the compound, while other security personnel arrived later and removed the boy’s body.”

The murder caused fear and interfered with the local New Year’s celebrations. Akpan further disclosed that during the subsequent disturbances, a car owned by Obong Uyai Udoiwod, a former political aide to the chairman of the Ikot Abasi Local Government, was wrecked.

Katsina: Bandits Break Peace Deal, Attack Malumfashi Communities, Kill Residents

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According to reports, bandits have invaded multiple settlements in Katsina State’s Malumfashi Local Government Area, killing and wounding locals while kidnapping others.

Security analyst and crisis journalist Bakatsine revealed the development on Tuesday through his X handle.

“SAD NEWS: Last night, bandits stormed Unguwar Alh. Barau, Gidan Dan Mai-gizo, and Gidan Hazo communities in Na’alma Ward, Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State,” the report states. During the attacks, they kidnapped some locals and killed and injured numerous others.

“What is the current state of the recent peace agreement that Malumfashi LGA leaders are said to have reached with bandits, and why did this attack still take place within Malumfashi LGA territory?” Bakatsine penned.

According to reports, the most recent assault has rekindled worries about the frequent breakdown of peace accords between armed bandits and local authorities in Katsina State.

According to locals, bandits frequently engage in peace negotiations with local authorities before breaking the agreements and attacking impacted areas again.

Residents reported that the situation has increased anxiety and uncertainty, with many doubting the ability of such peace agreements to ensure security.

In order to restore peace and safeguard people and property in the area, the impacted communities have urged the Katsina State Government and security authorities to take swift action and put long-term safeguards in place.

Gov. Mbah Challenges Enugu MDAs to Achieve N870bn IGR Target Amid Global Tensions

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Dr. Peter Mbah, the governor of Enugu State, has assigned the state government’s various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) the responsibility of achieving the N870 billion Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target outlined in the state’s 2026 budget.

Given the current geopolitical concerns throughout the world, the governor emphasized the unpredictability of external revenue sources like the Federal Account distribution Committee (FAAC) distribution.

During a Holy Mass at the Government House Chapel on Monday, Mbah delivered the order to formally begin work in all government agencies in the new year.

According to him, the state shouldn’t let itself be caught off guard in light of world events.

Recall that Mbah recently signed a record N1.62 trillion budget for 2026, explaining that it would be financed by an estimated N870 billion IGR, N387 billion FAAC allocation, and N329 billion capital receipts.

Speaking at the Holy Mass attended by heads and members of the three arms of government, political office holders, business captains, traditional rulers, and other important stakeholders, he urged all civil servants and political appointees to step up their efforts, pointing out that the projected IGR could result from the caliber of services they provide to the state’s citizens and businesses.

“It is not going to be easy, especially with our income predictions, given all the geopolitical uncertainties across the world. The future course of events is simply unclear to us.

“It is crucial that we achieve the domestic revenue target we set for ourselves this year in order to be able to absorb the shock caused by all these geopolitical concerns throughout the world.

“To understand that performing your own part is the source of projection. Throughout the many MDAs, we have high revenue goals. The timeliness and caliber of services you provide determine how much we get paid. “Let’s play our individual roles and do our share with renewed vigor,” he said.

In 2026, he emphasized the importance of commitment and teamwork among the state’s civil servants, characterizing them as the foundation of the administration’s success or failure.

Crucially, as public officials and Permanent Secretaries, we will continue to rely on your support.

“You are the engine room of any success we attain, as we have always stated. This year, we need to step it up. The small things we do, like as arriving at work on time, processing paperwork quickly, and ensuring that we contribute to the overall scheme of things, are quite important.

We also need to keep promoting collaboration. In essence, we must realize that we are only as good as our weakest connection. Knowing that we are all striving toward the same goal—serving the people—we must help one another,” he stated.

He emphasized the need for pure and unrestricted feedback while thanking the state’s citizens and the church for their ongoing prayers, wise guidance, and support.

“We don’t promise to be flawless. We take pride in our commitment to providing the best possible service to the people. Unadulterated criticism and keeping us accountable become crucial as a result, he said.

Governor Mbah is a servant leader who is sincerely committed to the welfare of his people, according to Rev. Fr. Anthony Udeh, the chaplain of the Government House Chapel, in his homily.

Citing thousands of finished and ongoing projects as well as changes started by the Mbah Administration, he claimed that such initiatives could only come from a leader who is passionate about serving his people and creating a brighter future for the state’s children and future generations.

Prominent government officials, such as Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, Chief Judge of Enugu State Justice Afojulu Ozoemena, and Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council HRM Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, among many others, attended the Holy Mass.

AFCON 2025: Eric Chelle Signals Possible Sanction for Osimhen After Clash With Lookman

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Following Victor Osimhen’s furious on-field altercation with Ademola Lookman following Nigeria’s decisive victory against Mozambique at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has hinted that Osimhen may face sanctions.

The second half of Monday night’s Round of 16 match, which the Super Eagles won 4-0 to secure a spot in the continental showpiece’s quarterfinals, was the flashpoint.

Television cameras saw Osimhen and Lookman in a heated dispute as the Super Eagles led by three goals. Both players were obviously upset as they exchanged words on the field.

Osimhen indicated to the bench that he wished to be replaced a short while later. In response, Chelle introduced Paul Onuachu to take his position.

That was not the end of the matter. The Galatasaray forward chose not to participate in the post-match festivities with his teammates and instead headed straight down the tunnel after the final whistle.

During his post-match press conference, Chelle addressed the incident, stating that it would be handled internally and refusing to get into specifics.

The coach declared, “What happened on the pitch will stay in the group.”

“I keep what will happen to myself; I don’t need to tell you.”

Even if Osimhen had a successful night in front of goal, the drama still transpired. Lookman scored once and contributed two assists to Osimhen’s brace, increasing the striker’s tournament total to three goals as the three-time African champions quickly took a dominant lead.

But halfway through the second half, a good team move failed, and tensions erupted. Osimhen became irritated with a delayed pass and yelled at Lookman.

After the striker asked to be removed off the field, some members of the crowd expressed their disapproval by booing him as he exited the field.

Lagos APC Launches Electronic Membership Registration

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State chapter has formally launched an electronic membership registration drive in all of the state’s wards.

The party declared that the e-registration program, which started on Monday and will run until the end of January, will target both new and current members in order to build a thorough digital membership database.

Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC spokeswoman, said in a statement that the action is intended to improve the accuracy of party statistics, boost internal democracy, and get the party ready for future elections.

According to Oladejo, “the adoption of digital registration will help eliminate duplication and impersonation, ensuring that every member is accurately documented and verifiable.”

The measure, he continued, ensures equal recognition for both new and long-standing members, reducing gatekeeping practices and fostering transparency throughout the party’s structures.

Oladejo emphasized that holding transparent congresses, primaries, and leadership selection procedures depends on having a trustworthy membership registry.

He pointed out that utilizing technology will enhance grassroots coordination and electoral preparedness while promoting involvement from young people, professionals, and new political entrants.

The APC spokesperson called on all Lagos State members to participate fully in the activity, characterizing it as a shared duty essential to the party’s expansion and democratic procedures.