Tuesday, April 14, 2026

US Lawmaker Calls for Nigeria to Be Designated a “Country of Particular Concern” Over Killings of Christians

By
Kazeem Busari
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US Representative Riley Moore has called on the United States government to officially designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over what he described as “systematic persecution” of Christians by terrorist groups and extremist militias.
Speaking in an interview on Fox News, Moore said the situation in Nigeria has reached crisis levels, with thousands of Christians reportedly killed in recent months. “What we want is for the killings to stop,” he said. “It’s a systematic campaign of persecution by Islamic terrorist organizations. It’s not just Boko Haram, but IS West Africa, and also the Fulani tribe that lives in that middle band, that has been indiscriminately targeting Christians and killing them.”
Moore argued that a CPC designation would pressure the Nigerian government to take stronger action and allow Washington to reconsider aspects of its security cooperation with Abuja. “Making this country a particular concern will limit and restrict their security assisting programmes with the United States,” he explained. “We have been training and equipping the Nigerians in hope that they’re going to stop Boko Haram and eliminate them from Nigeria. Well, that’s not happening.”
The Congressman also suggested possible government complicity, alleging “a question of collusion between the current Islamic government in Nigeria and these terrorist organizations that are killing Christians en masse.” He urged President Donald Trump to reinstate Nigeria’s CPC designation, which was lifted in 2021.
In a post on X.com, Moore wrote: “The killings must stop. That’s why I’m urging @SecRubio (Secretary of State Marco Rubio) to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. We must use every diplomatic tool to end this horrific slaughter of our brothers and sisters in Christ.”
Moore also expressed disappointment at what he described as a lack of coverage by mainstream US media. “It absolutely should be [a major news story in the US],” he said. “We’ve had 7,000 Christians murdered — that’s 35 a day — killed in Nigeria just for professing their faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We cannot allow this to continue.”
His comments have sparked renewed debate among human rights groups and policymakers in Washington, some of whom have long pushed for Nigeria’s return to the US religious freedom watchlist.
The US State Department is yet to respond to Moore’s latest appeal. However, advocacy groups such as Open Doors USA and the International Christian Concern (ICC) have repeatedly ranked Nigeria among the deadliest countries for Christians, citing ongoing attacks by insurgent groups and communal militias.
Moore’s remarks come as international pressure mounts on the Nigerian government to improve security in the country’s Middle Belt and northern regions, where most of the killings have occurred.

ADC Warns FG Against Using Alleged Coup Plot to Silence Opposition

By
Kazeem Busari
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Abuja — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cautioned the Federal Government against using reports of an alleged coup plot as a pretext to clamp down on opposition leaders or engage in extra-judicial surveillance of dissenting voices.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed concern over what it described as “conflicting signals” from government and security agencies regarding the alleged coup, warning that the situation could be exploited to intimidate critics and weaken democratic freedoms.

“The ADC views any threat to Nigeria’s democratic order with utmost seriousness,” the statement read. “However, the Federal Government must not exploit this moment to instil fear, silence dissenting voices, or engineer political advantage under the guise of national security.”

The party said it has been monitoring reports of the alleged coup plot involving arrested military officers and claims that a former southern governor is under investigation for funding the suspects. While reaffirming its opposition to any unconstitutional change of government, the ADC expressed equal concern about “the potential misuse of such allegations to justify political witch-hunts or manipulate public sentiment.”

The ADC also faulted the government’s silence on the issue, describing it as suspicious and damaging. “The Federal Government has not deemed it fit to make a categorical statement on this very serious matter, especially after the Defence Headquarters publicly denied ever mentioning a coup plot,” the party noted. “By keeping quiet, the government has deliberately allowed the coup story to fester.”

According to the ADC, the narrative surrounding the alleged coup appears politically motivated. “What is clear, however, is that the government is exploiting the coup story to divert attention from the real issues of misgovernance in the country and to curry sympathy,” the statement said. “Unattributed media reports implicating unnamed politicians now provide a pretext for the government to clamp down on opposition figures or mount undue surveillance on them.”

The party urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to clarify the true situation immediately. “If indeed there has been any such threat to national security, the government has a duty to be transparent about it and brief the nation accordingly,” Abdullahi said. “Government must desist from weaponising national security as a pretext to silence opposition and political dissent.”

Reiterating its commitment to democracy, the ADC said it “opposes dictatorship in any form—whether military or civilian.” The statement concluded: “We support any legitimate action taken in defence of our constitution, but we will resist any ploy by the government to intimidate legitimate voices under the guise of national security.”

The party’s comments come amid rising political tension following reports of multiple arrests of military officers and speculation about possible political involvement, even as the Defence Headquarters recently denied any coup threat.

EFCC, NIS, NCoS Complete Deportation of 192 Foreign Cyber-Terrorism Convicts

By
Kazeem Busari
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EFCC officials monitors foreign cybercrime convicts at Lagos Airport. Credit: EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has completed the deportation of 192 foreign nationals convicted for cyber-terrorism, internet fraud, and other financial crimes in Lagos.

The final batch of 51 convicts, including 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian, was deported on October 16, 2025, marking the conclusion of a large-scale repatriation exercise that began in August 2025. According to the EFCC, the deported individuals had been convicted and sentenced by the Federal High Court in Lagos for offences related to cybercrime, money laundering, and Ponzi scheme operations.

Credit: EFCC

The deportation followed a sweeping sting operation carried out on December 10, 2024, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, which led to the arrest of 759 suspects. The operation exposed what the EFCC described as “a sophisticated transnational cybercrime network” involving both foreign and Nigerian nationals.

The first group of 42 convicts—comprising Chinese and Filipino citizens—was deported on August 15, 2025, with subsequent batches following through August and September. The coordinated repatriation involved citizens from China, the Philippines, Tunisia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Timor-Leste.

Investigations revealed that the convicts were part of a syndicate operating under the cover of Genting International Co. Limited, a front company used to coordinate online fraud and Ponzi schemes. According to officials, digital evidence showed that the group engaged in large-scale identity theft, cyber-enabled financial scams, and money laundering, defrauding victims in Nigeria and abroad.

Credit: EFCC

“The operation was based on credible and actionable intelligence,” EFCC sources said, noting that the syndicate also trained recruits to manage fraudulent digital platforms designed to lure unsuspecting investors.

The Nigeria Immigration Service carried out the deportations in line with court directives and existing immigration procedures, ensuring that each convict served their sentence before removal from the country.

Credit: EFCC

The EFCC described the joint effort with NIS and NCoS as a “milestone in Nigeria’s fight against international cybercrime,” reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward digital fraud networks operating within its borders.

With the completion of the deportation, Nigerian authorities say they will now intensify collaboration with Interpol and other global law enforcement bodies to track down fugitive accomplices and dismantle remaining cybercrime networks operating across borders.

DHQ Denies Coup Rumours, Says Independence Parade Cancellation Not Linked to Military Plot

By
Kazeem Busari
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Nigeria Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa
Nigeria Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities was connected to an alleged attempted military coup, describing the claims as “false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension.”

In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ clarified that the decision to suspend the Independence Day parade was purely administrative and had nothing to do with security concerns or any purported plot within the military.

According to the statement, the cancellation was made “to allow Mr. President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.”

The military high command also reacted to reports linking the recent arrest of 16 officers to an alleged coup plot, stating that the detained officers are only under investigation for “professional misconduct.” The DHQ said an investigative panel has been constituted to handle the matter and assured that “its findings would be made public.”

“The claims by the said publication are entirely false and intended to cause distrust among the populace,” the DHQ stated, urging citizens to disregard the rumours. It reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain “firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The military further appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies as they work to protect national stability and promote development. “The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation,” the statement read, concluding with the reassurance that “democracy is forever.”

The DHQ’s clarification follows a wave of social media speculation after the federal government quietly announced the cancellation of the traditional Independence Day parade, which some online reports falsely claimed was linked to a failed coup attempt.

Macaulay Family Rejects Inclusion of Nationalist in Tinubu’s Mass Pardon

By
Kazeem Busari
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Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

The descendants of the late Herbert Macaulay, widely regarded as Nigeria’s “Father of Nationalism,” have formally rejected the posthumous pardon granted to him by Bola Tinubu, claiming the gesture is disrespectful because it lumps their ancestor together with criminals.
During a press conference at his Ikoyi residence, former PDP deputy national chairman Olabode George—speaking on behalf of the family—said they appreciate the intent behind the pardon but object to the manner it was granted. “The pardon should not have been lumped up with drug barons, ex-convicts and murderers,” George stated.
The pardon was announced on 9 October 2025 when President Tinubu approved the exercise of prerogative of mercy for 175 persons, including Macaulay and others.
The family, however, argue that categorising Macaulay—a colonial-era activist imprisoned for his political fight for Nigerian self-rule—alongside modern criminals diminishes his legacy.
At the briefing, a number of Macaulay’s descendants joined George, including Erelu Adeola Macaulay, Lanre Oshodi, Mayokun Thomas, and Kofoworola Macaulay. They called on the federal government to recognise their patriarch with “an honour befitting his stature,” rather than a generic pardon. “If Papa is to be honoured, he must be honoured independently,” George said.
The family’s demands include the reconstruction of Macaulay’s historic residence at Marina, Lagos—a structure demolished during the colonial period to make way for the General Post Office. They argue that such a national monument would serve as lasting recognition of his contributions.
In response to the controversy, the Attorney‑General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), clarified that no convict has yet been released under the latest pardon list and that the process remains under review to ensure procedural compliance.
Analysts say the row reflects broader tensions in Nigeria over how the country honours its historical figures. While pardons are sometimes used as symbolic gestures, the Macaulay family’s reaction signals that many feel such acts must be handled with sensitivity to legacy and symbolism.
For now, the pardon remains on the books but the family’s rejection and demands pressure the government to revisit how it recognises Macaulay. Whether the administration will accede to calls for separate national honour remains to be seen.

Police Warn Protesters to Respect Court Order

By
Kazeem Busari
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File photo

Abuja — The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to all protest groups, urging them to comply strictly with a subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which restrains demonstrations around key government institutions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The statement follows growing tension over planned protests related to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police reaffirmed their “unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions.” The warning comes after Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, issued an order on October 17, 2025 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, restraining Sowore and other respondents “from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.”

The Force emphasized that the directive remains binding and enforceable until the court decides otherwise. “In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order,” the statement read.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun
IGP Kayode Egbetokun

The Police acknowledged citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression but stressed that these rights must be exercised within legal limits. “The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement noted, underscoring that the restrictions are aimed at preventing violence, maintaining national security, and protecting the rights of other citizens.

The Force further warned that anyone using the guise of protest to commit crimes will face severe consequences. “Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively,” the statement warned. It also noted that individuals inciting unrest through social media “should note that digital evidence will be used in investigations and prosecutions.”

Inspector-General of Police Kayode  Egbetokun has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other operational commands to “ensure strict enforcement of the Court’s Order, maintain visible and strategic deployments across vulnerable locations, and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities in the FCT.”

Reiterating its readiness to maintain peace, the Force assured law-abiding Nigerians that adequate security arrangements have been made. “Non-participants should go about their lawful businesses without fear. Anyone found to be in breach of the Court’s Order or in contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement concluded.

The warning comes amid heightened political and social tension in Abuja, as authorities move to prevent any breakdown of law and order ahead of planned demonstrations.

Pyramids Beat Berkane To Lift Super Cup

By
Kazeem Busari
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Pyramids FC celebrate victory. Credit: CAFonline.com

Pyramids FC have taken a giant leap in African club football, clinching their first-ever TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Morocco’s RS Berkane at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, on Saturday.

The decisive blow came in the 75th minute, with Congolese forward Fiston Mayele securing the historic triumph for the Egyptian side.

The victory adds to Pyramids’ late-emerging continental pedigree after they won the CAF Champions League earlier this year.

Beyond the trophy itself, the win signals a shift in the African club-football landscape. Pyramids’ management, backed by heavy investment and ambitious planning, now look to position the club not just as domestic challengers but as genuine continental heavyweights.

RS Berkane were unable to convert a strong showing into silverware. The team pushed hard but were undone by a resilient Pyramids defence led by the likes of Ahmed Sami and Mahmoud Marei, and an inspired performance from goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy.

With the Super Cup win, Pyramids now gain entry into the upcoming Intercontinental Cup in Qatar later this year, placing them on a global stage and opening commercial and playing opportunities that few African clubs enjoy.

The win also injects pressure on Egypt’s domestic giants, Al Ahly and Zamalek, as Pyramids seek to upend the established order not just domestically but continent-wide.

Nottingham Forest Sack Postecoglou After Just Over a Month in Charge

By
Kazeem Busari
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Ange Postecoglou
Ange Postecoglou. Credit: TalkSport.com

Nottingham Forest have relieved Ange Postecoglou of his duties as head coach following a dismal run of form, making his tenure at the City Ground one of the shortest in Premier League history. The club issued a brief statement shortly after their 3–0 home defeat to Chelsea, saying Postecoglou had been “relieved of his duties … with immediate effect” after a “series of disappointing results and performances.”

The decision came less than 20 minutes after the full-time whistle of the match in which Chelsea dominated much of the second half. Pedro Neto assisted and scored, before Reece James added a third in Forest’s misery. Even though Chelsea were reduced to 10 men late on, they held firm.

Postecoglou, 60, never won a game in his eight matches in charge. His tenure featured two draws and six defeats, making him the first Forest manager to begin with a winless run of that length. His spell lasted 39 to 40 days (depending on how one counts), ultimately becoming the shortest managerial reign at Forest in the Premier League era.

Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, left the stadium early during the match after Forest fell 2–0 behind. Observers suggested the move signaled the impending dismissal. The club declined further comment at this time.

Postecoglou had been appointed on 9 September, replacing Nuno Espírito Santo, whose relationship with the club hierarchy was reported to have broken down.

His time in charge started with high expectations; the owner and parts of the media backed him strongly, pointing to his trophy-winning record and aggressive football philosophy.

However, the results never materialized. Forest’s attacking output was poor, defensive lapses crept in, and the club found itself precariously above the relegation zone at 17th place when the sack was confirmed.

Several losses came in matches Forest should have been more competitive in, adding to pressure on the manager.

With Postecoglou’s exit, Forest now face an urgent task: appointing a new manager midseason under difficult conditions. Whoever replaces him will inherit a squad low on confidence, with European obligations via the Europa League adding to fixture load.

As for Postecoglou, the sacking adds to a turbulent year. He was dismissed earlier in June by Tottenham despite winning the Europa League, and this latest exit underscores how unforgiving club football can be, especially when expectations are high and patience thin.

Tanzania Vows to Maintain Identity Against Nigeria

By
Kazeem Busari
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Tanzania coach, Hemed Suleiman
Tanzania coach, Hemed Suleiman

Tanzania is preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with steely resolve, especially as they face Nigeria in a crucial Group C fixture. Coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman emphasized that, despite the stature of opponents like the Super Eagles, his side will not abandon the identity they have built.

In his interview with CAFonline.com, Suleiman warned of Nigeria’s threat, saying, “Nigeria is full of attacking talent and lethal creativity. They punish lapses in concentration.” He insisted that tackling the Super Eagles would require balance, discipline and adapting per opponent, yet “without losing our own identity.”

He spoke of lessons drawn from past tournaments, saying: “We have taken lessons from 2019 and 2023. We’ve invested more in sports science, nutrition and recovery, as well as psychological resilience.”

That preparation is part of his belief that Tanzania must come in sharp and composed—even when confronting teams with more star power.

On match strategy, Suleiman outlined that transitions, set pieces, and game management would be priority areas, insisting that those fine margins often decide tight contests.

He also stressed that a mixed blend of youthful energy and experienced heads would underpin his squad selection: “Balance is the guiding principle … you must blend … youth, energy, flair and discipline.”

Veteran striker Mbwana Samatta came in for special praise. Suleiman described him as “more than a striker — he’s a leader,” pointing to his influence in high-pressure moments as well as in guiding younger teammates.

Mbwana Samatta. Credit: CAFonline.com

As far as Nigeria is concerned, expectation is high that the Super Eagles will approach the match with attacking intent and look to dominate possession, test defensive lines, and punish errors. But Tanzania will hope to exploit any overcommitment, remain compact, and make the most of set-piece chances—something their coach has emphasized in training.

With emotions likely to run high on matchday, Suleiman also underscored the importance of mental strength. He said the squad has built greater psychological resilience through their preparation, making them better able to respond when the heat is on.

Nigeria’s fans and media will expect a commanding performance, but Tanzania arrives believing that identity, structure and resolve can yield surprises. The clash between the Super Eagles and Taifa Stars is shaping up to be one of the defining tests of Group C—one that could reveal whether Nigeria’s attacking might can break a disciplined opponent or whether Tanzania’s carefully built approach can frustrate a heavyweight.

Burna Boy Makes History as First African to Headline Major Arenas in Australia

By
Kazeem Busari
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Burna Boy performing in Australia

Nigerian Afrobeats megastar Burna Boy has once again etched his name in global music history after performing to a sold-out crowd of 25,000 fans at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne on Thursday. The concert marked the kickoff of the Australian leg of his “No Sign of Weakness” World Tour, making him the first African artist ever to headline—and sell out—all four major arena venues across Australia.

The energy in Melbourne was electric as Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, delivered an unforgettable performance filled with hits such as Last Last, City Boys, and new tracks from his eighth studio album. Fans sang along word-for-word, celebrating both his artistry and the growing global wave of Afrobeats.

Following Melbourne, the Grammy-winning artist is scheduled to perform at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney (21,000 capacity), Brisbane Entertainment Centre (13,500 capacity), and RAC Arena in Perth (15,500 capacity). Tickets for all shows sold out within hours of release, reaffirming Burna Boy’s dominance as a global touring force and his unmatched role in bringing African music to the world’s biggest stages.

Burna Boy
Burna Boy

This milestone follows a string of major achievements in 2025. In August, Burna Boy became the first African artist to headline Madison Square Garden twice and performed alongside global stars at the Paris La Défense Arena and Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, both sold-out events. Earlier this year, he was nominated for Best Global Music Performance and Best African Music Act at the 2025 MTV Europe Music Awards, where he is expected to perform next month in Berlin.

Beyond music, Burna Boy has also made headlines for his philanthropic work. In September 2025, his Reach Foundation partnered with UNICEF to fund educational and mental health programs for displaced children in Northern Nigeria. His ongoing advocacy for African youth empowerment and creative independence continues to resonate deeply with fans and policymakers alike.

In a recent interview with Apple Music, Burna Boy reflected on his journey, saying, “Every time I step on a stage outside Africa, I carry my people with me. Afrobeats isn’t just music—it’s a movement, and we’re proving that Africa is the heartbeat of global sound.”

As the “No Sign of Weakness” tour moves across continents, Burna Boy’s trailblazing run in Australia cements his place as one of the most influential African artists of all time—an ambassador of sound, pride, and resilience whose beats continue to echo across the world.

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