Saturday, April 18, 2026

DSS: Over 100 Terror Suspects Facing Prosecution Nationwide

By
Kazeem Busari
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The Department of State Services (DSS) has provided a comprehensive update on ongoing terrorism-related prosecutions across Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to justice and national security.

The agency confirmed that the trial of two high-profile terrorism suspects — Mahmud Muhammad Usman (also known as Abu Bara’a) and Abubakar Abba (also known as Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri) — will continue on November 19 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The duo, described as key leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), an Al-Qaeda affiliate in Nigeria, were captured in a high-risk intelligence operation in July after months of surveillance. Usman, alleged to be the Emir of ANSARU, reportedly coordinated sleeper cells and financed terrorism through kidnappings and robberies. Abba, said to be his deputy, allegedly led the “Mahmudawa” cell operating around Kainji National Park, spanning Niger and Kwara states and extending into Benin Republic.

According to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Usman received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to be skilled in weapons handling and improvised explosive device (IED) fabrication.

Both men are facing 32 counts of terrorism, including illegal mining. Usman has already been sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count, while Abba pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The DSS also provided updates on the ongoing prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the 2011 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Abuja, which killed 20 people and injured more than 70. Al-Barnawi and four co-defendants are being tried before Justice Nwite, but the case has faced multiple delays due to procedural challenges, including the absence of defence counsel at previous hearings.

The court recently granted a DSS request for an accelerated hearing, with trial sessions held on October 23 and 24, during which videos of the defendants’ confessional statements were played.

In another case, the DSS said five men have been arraigned over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, where over 40 people were killed and more than 100 injured.

The suspects — Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al-Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar — were arraigned on a nine-count charge of terrorism. They are accused of being members of the Al-Shabab terror network and carrying out the attack to advance extremist ideology. All five pleaded not guilty, and their bail application was rejected by Justice Nwite, who ruled that the offences were capital in nature and the evidence against them substantial.

The DSS also confirmed ongoing trials of suspects arrested for the Yelwata massacre in Benue State’s Guma Local Government Area on June 13, 2025, where dozens were killed and over 100 injured. President Bola Tinubu visited the state to console victims and directed the immediate arrest of the perpetrators.

Following extensive investigations, the police arrested 26 suspects, and the DSS later charged nine individuals before the Federal High Court in Abuja for terrorism-related offences. Two others, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, remain at large.

Two additional suspects — Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede — are being prosecuted for alleged reprisal attacks linked to the same violence. All defendants have pleaded not guilty, and their trials are ongoing.

Speaking on the developments, DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi said the prosecutions demonstrate the diligence of Nigeria’s security agencies in countering terrorism through lawful means.

“The various arrests and trials of terrorism suspects show that Nigeria’s security agencies are diligent in dealing with those who disrupt our peace,” Ajayi said. “These cases are separate from the hundreds of suspects under military custody, whose prosecutions are being handled by the Office of the Attorney-General. In July last year, 125 terrorists were convicted.”

Ajayi assured Nigerians that the DSS would continue to pursue justice “in consonance with the rule of law.”

Nigeria Raises $2.35 Billion In Eurobond Sale

By
Kazeem Busari
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully raised $2.35 billion in its latest Eurobond issuance, marking a major milestone in the country’s return to the international capital markets.

According to a statement from the Debt Management Office (DMO), the Eurobonds were issued in two tranches — a $1.25 billion 10-year bond maturing in 2036 and a $1.10 billion 20-year bond maturing in 2046. The 10-year note was priced at a yield of 8.63 percent, while the 20-year note was priced at 9.13 percent.

Nigeria’s government described the transaction as a strong vote of confidence in its ongoing economic reforms. The issue attracted a record-breaking orderbook of over $13 billion, the largest ever achieved by the country. Investors from the United Kingdom, North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East — alongside Nigerian investors — participated in the offering, highlighting broad-based global interest.

“This development reaffirms Nigeria’s position as a recognised and credible participant in the global capital market,” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said, lauding the successful outcome. “We are delighted by the strong investor confidence demonstrated in our country and our reform agenda.”

Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, said the issuance reflected “the international community’s continued confidence in Nigeria’s reform trajectory and our commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth.”

DMO Director-General Patience Oniha described the transaction as “a major achievement for Nigeria,” noting that it would help fund long-term projects consistent with President Tinubu’s economic growth agenda. “Accessing the Eurobond market to raise long-term financing supports development while diversifying Nigeria’s funding sources,” she said.

The newly issued notes will be listed on the London Stock Exchange, the FMDQ Securities Exchange Limited, and the Nigerian Exchange Limited. Proceeds from the sale will be used to finance the 2025 fiscal deficit and support the government’s wider budgetary needs.

The Federal Government appointed Chapel Hill Denham, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Standard Chartered Bank as joint bookrunners for the deal, while FSDH Merchant Bank Limited acted as financial adviser.

PDP Faction Protests at US Embassy Amid Leadership Crisis

By
Kazeem Busari
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A faction within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday staged a peaceful demonstration outside the United States Embassy in Abuja, calling on the international community to intervene and protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The protesters, grouping under banners reading “Fix PDP, fix Nigeria” and “Save our Democracy,” marched to the embassy’s Maitama district gate early in the afternoon. Their aim: to draw global attention to what they described as escalating intimidation of opposition voices and a drift towards a one-party system under the current administration.

In a coordinated move, demonstrators also submitted letters of protest to the US Embassy, the European Union mission, and the Federal Ministry of Justice. The letters warned of weakening democratic structures and said that the ruling party was using state institutions to suppress dissent.

This public appeal comes amid a deepening leadership crisis within the PDP. In recent days, factional suspensions have proliferated: One wing, led by National Chairman Umar Damagum, suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu and other officials, only for Anyanwu’s faction to counter-suspend Damagum and his loyalists.

One protester addressed journalists at the embassy gate: “We are calling on the United States, the European Union and all lovers of democracy to intervene before it’s too late. Nigeria must not slide into a one-party dictatorship.”

Security operatives were visibly stationed at the site, though no incidents were reported. Organisers described the action as a peaceful yet urgent appeal for foreign and domestic actors to support institutional integrity in Nigeria.

DSS Dismisses 115 Officers in Major Reform Drive

By
Kazeem Busari
-

The Department of State Services (DSS) announced on Tuesday that it has dismissed 115 personnel as part of a sweeping internal reform aimed at strengthening discipline and integrity within the agency.

In a statement issued concurrent with the announcement, the agency said the affected officers were removed following a series of internal reviews and investigations into misconduct and corruption. The dismissals, it noted, were not the result of a single event but had been carried out “over a period of time” as part of ongoing efforts to rid the service of personnel who fall short of professional standards.

The DSS also issued a public warning, alerting citizens to the possibility that some of the dismissed persons continue to pose as serving security operatives. It specifically named two individuals — Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin — whom the agency said had been publicly disowned and remain a risk to unsuspecting members of the public.

To ensure transparency, the service published the names of the dismissed officers on its official website and provided a hotline for verification and complaints.

The scale of the purge signals a heightened focus by the DSS on internal governance at a time when Nigeria’s security agencies face mounting scrutiny over accountability.

However, some observers raise questions about the process and criteria for dismissal, calling for clarity on whether the individuals were afforded due process and whether the agency will publish the specific nature of the misconduct findings.

Liverpool Edge Real Madrid 1-0 in Thrilling Champions League Clash Conor Bradley

By
Kazeem Busari
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Liverpool's Conor Bradley vies with Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior in their UEFA Champions League clash on Tuesday.

Liverpool delivered a statement performance on Tuesday as they edged out Real Madrid 1-0 in a tightly contested UEFA Champions League fixture at Anfield. The decisive moment arrived in the 61st minute when Alexis Mac Allister met a sharply-whipped free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai to head the winner past Thibaut Courtois.

Despite Real Madrid’s dominance in possession for large parts of the match, Liverpool’s intensity and defensive discipline proved the difference. The hosts pressed early and established control of the tempo, with Conor Bradley and Virgil van Dijk leading a resolute back-line that thwarted several of Madrid’s attacks.

The goal itself reflected Liverpool’s commitment to set-piece efficiency. Szoboszlai curled a fine delivery into the six-yard box, where Mac Allister met it with a thunderous header that left Courtois with no chance.

Real Madrid had their moments — Jude Bellingham came close, and Courtois produced crucial saves — but the visitors lacked the final cutting edge. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s attacking transitions, led by Mo Salah, Florian Wirtz and Szoboszlai, repeatedly placed Madrid under pressure.

Liverpool’s victory not only provides momentum but also boosts their Champions League credentials at a vital stage of the group phase. For Real Madrid, the loss signals a rare misstep and heightens pressure ahead of the next fixtures.

In a night defined by controlled aggression and tactical discipline, Liverpool reaffirmed their status as contenders in Europe’s premier club competition, while Real Madrid were left to reflect on their failure to convert dominance into results.

Jonathan Bailey Named People Magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive”

By
Kazeem Busari
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Jonathan Bailey

British actor Jonathan Bailey has been crowned People Magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive” for 2025 — a landmark win for the 37-year-old who is known for his roles in Bridgerton and Wicked.

Bailey’s selection was officially announced on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he expressed both gratitude and humour. “It’s a huge honour … and it feels completely absurd,” he told host Jimmy Fallon. Reflecting his sense of humour and humility, he revealed that his only earlier admission of the title was to his dog, Benson.

The accolade comes at a peak moment in Bailey’s career. He gained global attention with his portrayal of Lord Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix hit Bridgerton, and more recently as Prince Fiyero in the blockbuster film adaptation of Wicked. The prestige of the film and his broad visibility in the fashion and entertainment worlds helped make him a strong contender for the title.

In his acceptance remarks, Bailey spoke about the significance of the honour beyond mere appearance. He also highlighted his commitment to advocacy and visibility, especially in his role as founder of the charity The Shameless Fund, which supports LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. “I genuinely cherish the value of a sexy man, and the importance of being seen for more than just a character,” he shared.

Industry observers have noted that Bailey’s win also signals broader cultural progress — as one of the first openly gay actors to hold the title, he is helping reshape what celebrity, attractiveness and representation look like in the 2020s.

With this Milestone achieved, Bailey now enters a new phase. On the professional front, he is set to reprise his role in Wicked: For Good, the sequel to Wicked, while his popularity in global fashion and media means the moment is likely to open further opportunities. Personally, the honour adds to his rising profile as both actor and influencer for positive change.

Whether on screen, stage or through his charitable work, Jonathan Bailey’s transformative moment as 2025’s “Sexiest Man Alive” marks a high point in a career built on talent, versatility and a growing platform for advocacy.

Merino Double Propels Arsenal to 3-0 Victory Over Slavia Prague

By
Kazeem Busari
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Arsenal 15-year-old Max Dowman in history-making debut in the UEFA Champions League

Arsenal extended their flawless start in the UEFA Champions League with a commanding 3-0 win at Slavia Prague on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, thanks to a brace from midfielder Mikel Merino. The victory keeps the Gunners unbeaten in Group E and moves them closer to qualification.

The scoring began in the 32nd minute when Bukayo Saka coolly converted a penalty awarded after VAR reviewed a handball by Slavia’s captain. The game then tilted heavily in Arsenal’s favour in the second half. Within 36 seconds of the restart, Merino volleyed home a cross from Leandro Trossard to double the lead. His second goal came in the 68th minute, a header from a long ball by Declan Rice that deceived the goalkeeper.

The result marked Arsenal’s 10th consecutive win across all competitions and eight matches in a row without conceding a goal, a defensive streak the club hadn’t achieved since 1903. Slavia Prague, meanwhile, remain winless in the group stage and still searching for their first points.

Manager Mikel Arteta praised Merino’s performance, especially given the Spanish midfielder was deployed in a makeshift striker role due to an injury to regular forward . “Mikel adapted brilliantly,” Arteta said, noting the team’s depth and flexibility allowed them to maintain their momentum under difficult circumstances.

The win not only cements Arsenal’s status as favourites in their group but also sends a clear message across Europe: even amid injuries, they maintain attacking firepower and defensive solidity. For Mikel Merino, who stepped up in an unfamiliar role, the match will be viewed as a breakout moment on the biggest stage.

Arsenal now turn their attention to upcoming challenges in both domestic and continental competition, confident that tonight’s display will serve as a springboard for the season ahead.

Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney Dies at 84

By
Kazeem Busari
-

Dick Cheney, one of the most powerful and influential vice presidents in U.S. history, has died at the age of 84, his family announced Tuesday. He passed away Monday from complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, closing a chapter on a career that profoundly shaped American foreign and domestic policy.

The former vice president served two terms under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, a period defined by the September 11 attacks, the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, and sweeping changes in national-security architecture. He had previously served as U.S. Secretary of Defense in the Gulf War era and held multiple senior positions in government.

Cheney’s legacy is one of both substantial achievement and deep controversy. During his vice presidency, he was a chief architect of the 2003 invasion of Iraq and an advocate for expansive executive power, including the use of warrantless surveillance and so-called “enhanced interrogation” methods.

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1941 and raised in Wyoming, Cheney entered public service in the late 1960s. His rise included roles as White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford, a House member for Wyoming, and later Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush.

Despite severe lifelong health challenges—including multiple heart attacks and a heart transplant in 2012—Cheney remained active in public and political life. In recent years, he broke from parts of his party’s conventional path, notably supporting Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, citing profound concerns about former President Donald Trump’s fitness for office.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. President Bush described Cheney as a “patriot” and “calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges.” Others offered sharp criticism of his foreign-policy legacy, calling him a war hawk whose decisions contributed to long-lasting regional instability.

Cheney is survived by his wife Lynne, daughters Liz and Mary, and several grandchildren. Details of the funeral or memorial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.

As America marks the passing of one of its most consequential vice presidents, the discussion of Dick Cheney’s place in history is already underway—bravo for his public service, caution for his wartime decisions, and reflection on the enduring consequences of his policies.

Gumi Urges Negotiations with Boko Haram Amid U.S. Threats

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Ahmad Gumi

Prominent Islamic cleric and mediating figure, Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has called for urgent negotiations with the terrorist group Boko Haram, warning that U.S. military action would only worsen Nigeria’s security crisis. His comments come amid escalating tensions following Donald Trump’s threat of possible intervention in Nigeria.

Speaking on the Arise Television network on Tuesday, Gumi condemned the idea of a U.S.-led bombing campaign in Nigeria, stating: “America are known to be liars … So when they say they want to help Nigeria by bombing terrorists, I don’t believe them.” He argued that foreign airstrikes would lead to massive civilian casualties and deepen the conflict.

Gumi went on to say that a military approach alone was insufficient: “There’s no way to just drop bombs and think you’ve finished them. They have infiltrated society.” He claimed that dealing with Boko Haram and other armed groups requires dialogue rather than purely forceful action.

Nigeria finds itself in a challenging position. While the U.S. has designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” and suggested military pressure over alleged religious persecution, domestic analysts say the country’s security deterioration stems from a complex mix of insurgency, communal violence and governance failures.

In his appeal to the government of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Gumi urged decisive diplomatic action and caution over foreign military involvement. “They either retract their threats or we sever diplomatic ties,” he said, emphasising that Nigeria has options beyond the U.S. for security and economic partnerships.

Gumi, who has a history of engaging with armed groups in Nigeria’s north, said his approach involves understanding grievances and persuading militants to surrender their arms peacefully. He asserted that this route had shown progress: “I’ve been seeing them, listening to their grievances… we are able now to contain the problem.”

Eric Sékou Chelle: “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything”

By
Kazeem Busari
-

Since taking charge of the Super Eagles in March 2025, coach Éric Sékou Chelle has made no secret of his ambition: head into tournaments with nothing less than winning the crown. Speaking exclusively to Confederation of African Football (CAF), Chelle declared, “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything.”

Chelle’s mandate is significant. The Super Eagles currently find themselves in a transitional phase — building momentum ahead of both the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and the final rounds of the FIFA World Cup 2026 African Qualifiers. Since his arrival, the team has posted four wins and two draws in six matches, accruing 14 points from a possible 18.

In the interview, the coach reflected on the magnitude of his new role. “Nigeria is a massive team — arguably the best in Africa in sporting terms and aura,” he said. For him, wearing the green jersey is both a privilege and a responsibility that transcends sport. He continued, “I consider myself Nigerian and I’m ready to give everything for this team and country.”

Chelle emphasised that managing the Super Eagles goes beyond tactics. He stressed the importance of creating a “bubble” around the squad to keep focus amid the noise of millions of passionate fans. “There are 230 million coaches, journalists and decision-makers!” he noted.

Regarding Group C at AFCON — featuring Nigeria alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania — Chelle was unequivocal: “At AFCON there are no small teams… Given our history, our quality of play and the calibre of past and present players, we must deliver a great AFCON.”

On his team-selection strategy, he revealed that the Super Eagles now track roughly 80 players every week, scrutinising club performance, tactical fit and consistency. In a squad loaded with attacking talent — including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Raphaël Onyedika — the competition is fierce. “We’ll have to be very serious and trust our mindset,” Chelle said.

Nigeria has not lifted the AFCON title since 2013. When asked how he deals with the accompanying pressure, the coach simply replied: “We’re working in parallel, but our mindset must first be on those immediate tests… When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything.”

Chelle’s decade-spanning career includes leading Mali national football team to the quarter-finals at a previous AFCON, and now he faces arguably his greatest challenge: restoring the Super Eagles to their rightful place at the summit of African football.

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