Former militant leader and Niger Delta activist, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has warned Boko Haram fighters not to enter Port Harcourt, saying he will not hesitate to confront and kill any terrorist who attempts to operate in the city. In a viral video reacting to the rising cases of killings and kidnappings across Nigeria on Tuesday, Asari-Dokubo said his faith as a Muslim will not stop him from fighting back if attacked. He said, “If Boko Haram comes to Port Harcourt, you know sey my business na to kill them. I dey Zamfara dey kill them, I dey Plateau dey kill them, I dey Niger dey kill them. If they come to Port Harcourt, my business is to kill them. “This thing I’m telling you is raw. I’m not like those people who do sisi sisi, this and that, apologetic. I am a Muslim. If you come to fight me, I will kill you. That one is no compromise.” His comments sparked fresh debate over his growing influence in security matters and his long history of armed activity in the the Niger Delta. Asari-Dokubo is an Ijaw activist, businessman, and former militant commander from the Niger Delta. He was born into a Christian family but converted to Islam in the 1990s. He later became involved in student activism and Ijaw youth struggles after dropping out of law programmes at two Nigerian universities. His rise began with the Ijaw Youth Council, where he became president in 2001, pushing for resource control and environmental justice. By 2003, he founded the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, a militant group that carried out attacks on oil infrastructure during the height of the region’s unrest. He was detained on treason charges in 2005 but released in 2007, later receiving a presidential pardon in 2011. After laying down arms, Asari moved into business and private security work. Reports have linked him to multimillion-naira pipeline security contracts in the 2010s. He later moved some of his investments to the Benin Republic, where he also launched an educational venture. He now runs Royal Foushe Security Services, a licensed private security outfit that has been involved in several rescue operations, including the release of 19 hostages in the Niger Delta in May 2025. Earlier this year, Asari was installed as a traditional ruler in Rivers State with the title Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri. He has also been active in politics, shifting alliances between southern and northern blocs, and has made a series of bold statements, including threats to resist foreign intervention in Nigeria

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Tuesday swore in Prof. Rahmon Tella as the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Oyo State. The event, held at the commission’s headquarters, marked Tella’s redeployment to Oyo State and, according to INEC, forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen electoral administration across the country. In a statement posted on its X handle, INEC said the ceremony was conducted with “solemnity and purpose,” in line with Amupitan’s drive to entrench discipline, integrity, and punctuality within the commission. Administering the oath, Amupitan said, “An occasion of an oath-taking is a solemn occasion. It is an occasion that calls to duty,” adding that the role of a Resident Electoral Commissioner carries significant trust and responsibility. He reiterated his stance on electoral integrity, noting that the commission’s mission “transcends regulatory duty” and represents a “moral and legal duty” to Nigerians. “I admonish you that the integrity of our election is not negotiable. You must uphold the highest standard of professionalism and integrity in every action you take… Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated,” he said. The INEC chairman also charged Tella to ensure that voters in Oyo State have full confidence that their ballots will count, urging him to serve as “a beacon of hope and democratic values.” Responding, Tella expressed appreciation for the chairman’s guidance, saying, “The honourable chairman’s remarks are very much brimming with value and experience,” and pledged to align his work with the commission’s vision. A Professor of Strategic Management and Public Policy, Tella currently serves as the Deputy Dean, Faculty of Arts, Social and Management Sciences at Atiba University, Oyo. He had previously served as REC in both Oyo and Ekiti states, representing Osun. His first term ended in September 2025, according to INEC records.

Former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has said that a final decision on the political platform Governor Ademola Adeleke will use for his 2026 re-election bid will be taken when the governor returns from an overseas trip. Oyinlola made the remarks while addressing speculation about the governor’s potential defection to another party ahead of the upcoming governorship election. Speaking during a live interview on the Rave FM Osogbo programme Oro Oselu, monitored on Monday, the former governor described the Accord Party as a fair option for Adeleke. He explained that any political move Adeleke makes would depend on whether the chosen party aligns with his principles, adding that he would not defect to a platform he does not believe in. UK rejects Nigeria’s request to transfer Ekweremadu Oyinlola said he previously resisted a proposal for Adeleke and his supporters to join the All Progressives Congress, APC, stressing that he would not have accompanied the governor to the party. He stated: “There was a time we considered moving to the APC, but I informed them I know that party well and would not follow them there. My stance remains the same. “The APC does not honour promises. As secretary of the New PDP during the formation of the APC, I received nothing for my efforts. My decision to move with Adeleke depends on the party we choose.” He noted: “If we were to opt for APGA, it would be a one-shot chance. The Accord party is a fair option. I know how the Accord party was formed and its founder, Olusegun Obasanjo.” Bandits claim Kebbi, Niger abductions, vow more attacks on soldiers, politicians [VIDEO] Oyinlola also mentioned his role in forming the African Democratic Congress, ADC, adding that the party had unresolved issues despite attracting prominent politicians. He disclosed that the Osun Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, stakeholders would meet Adeleke upon his return to deliberate and announce their decision to the public. Addressing internal disputes within the PDP, Oyinlola said disagreements in four out of six affected states had been resolved by the committee handling reconciliation. Reports indicate that Adeleke may leave the PDP to seek re-election, although he has not publicly announced his preferred party. The Independent National Electoral Commission has set December 15, 2025, as the deadline for political parties to submit candidates’ names for the August 8, 2026, Osun governorship election.

The South West Governors’ Forum has announced a series of security, economic and administrative measures aimed at strengthening safety and development across the region. The announcement was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the forum’s meeting held on Monday at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and made available to THENEWSCREDIT The governors said the resolutions followed extensive deliberations on agriculture, economic and regional development, as well as security challenges affecting the South West region. The forum also threw its weight behind ongoing Federal Government rescue efforts in the North-West and North-Central following recent attacks. The communique read, “The torum commends Mr President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the fight against insecurity and various economic reforms and other developmental agenda. “The forum expresses solidarity with the Federal Government in its efforts in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger States after the recent spate of kidnappings, at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town, the Catholic institution of St. Mary’s in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger and the CAC Church at Eruku, Kwara State. “The forum applauds the swift response of the Federal Government towards the rescue of the Kwara abductees and more than 51 students of the Catholic School, Niger State. The forum reviewed the current state of security of our region and took some decisions to ensure the security of the lives and property of our people.” The communiqué outlined several security-focused decisions, including a regional fund and a new tech-driven intelligence network. “South West Regional Security Fund: The Forum agreed to set up a South West Security Fund (SWSF) under DAWN Commission to be administered by the Forum of Special Advisers on Security of all South West States and to meet monthly. “Joint Security Intelligence Sharing and Communication Platform: The forum resolves to establish a live, digital intelligence-sharing platform among all six South West states (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti). This platform will exchange threat notifications, incident logs, traveller and cargo alerts and coordinate state-to-state rapid response,” the communique added. The governors also raised the alarm over criminal activities in forests and the security risks posed by unregulated migration. On forest surveillance, the communiqué stated, “Forest Surveillance: the Forum commends the efforts of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Hunters, Amotekun Corps Members and all the other security agencies. “The Forum calls on the Federal Government to note the urgent need for enhanced forest surveillance across the South West States and calls for the Federal Government to secure the vast forest belts that have become hideouts for criminal elements. “To this end, the Forum agrees that the Federal Government should help deploy Forest Guards across the South West states, with each State Government responsible for providing the required personnel. The Governors reaffirm their collective commitment to reclaiming the forests and ensuring that these spaces no longer serve as safe corridors for banditry, kidnapping, or any form of criminal activities.” On interstate movement, it added, “Interstate Migration: the forum expresses deep concern on the unregulated interstate migration that continues to pose significant challenges across the Southwest. The forum calls for stricter border monitoring, data collection and self-identification, and for each South West State to work with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for proper identification. The forum agrees to intensify security collaboration to ensure that interstate migration does not become a conduit for insecurity.” Sharing its opinion on illegal mining in the country, the Forum warned that it was becoming a major threat to stability and safety in the region. “Illegal Mining Activities: The forum expresses deep concern over the escalating illegal mining activities across the South West States, which continue to threaten environmental safety, public health and regional security. “The forum calls for a comprehensive and enforceable licensing framework, strengthened monitoring mechanisms, and strict enforcement actions against violators who may perpetrate violent crimes under the guise of mining”, it stated. The governors, however, reiterated their long-standing demand for state-controlled policing, stating, “State Police: The Forum reaffirms its support for the establishment of State Police, emphasising that ‘The Time is Now’ and It can no longer be delayed.” They also acknowledged ongoing national efforts in food security and climate resilience. It stated, “Agriculture, Food Security Climate Resilience: The Forum acknowledges and appreciates the efforts of the Federal Government in providing food sufficiency and in particular, commends the various farmers in the region for the increase in agricultural output and subsequent stability and reduction in food prices.” The Forum further expressed gratitude to Tinubu for establishing the South West Development Commission. “South West Development Commission (SWDC): The Forum thanks Mr President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the establishment of the commission and charges the Commission to effectively deliver on its mandate. DAWN Commission: The Forum commends the DAWN Commission and its activities on regional integration and security.” The governors ended by urging residents of the South West to uphold peace and harmony. “Finally, the forum enjoins all the south west people to remain united and committed to the peace that exists in our dear region. We remain one, indivisible entity that will continue to enjoy and guard the religious tolerance that we have always been known for”, the communique concluded. The South West Governors’ Forum, comprising the governors of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, has in recent years positioned itself as a key regional bloc addressing the economic, security and development challenges confronting the zone. With rising concerns over insecurity — including kidnapping incidents, forest incursions, illegal mining, and unregulated migration — the forum has intensified coordination efforts through platforms such as the DAWN Commission and regional security outfits like Amotekun. Monday’s meeting came at a time when the region continues to grapple with evolving security threats and economic pressures. The governors had previously advocated the creation of state police, improved federal collaboration and the strengthening of security intelligence-sharing across member states.

Governor Seyi Makinde has presented a ₦891.9 billion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the Oyo State House of Assembly. During the presentation, the governor said the 2026 budget is aimed at consolidating the state’s accelerated development agenda. This marks the seventh budget he has submitted to the Assembly. According to the breakdown, recurrent expenditure is projected at ₦389.3 billion, while capital expenditure stands at ₦502.64 billion. Governor Makinde disclosed that ₦210 billion has been earmarked for infrastructure, ₦70.84 billion for health, and ₦19.9 billion for agriculture. The remaining ₦435.91 billion will fund other priority sectors, including security, education, and other critical areas. In his remarks, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, pledged continuous cooperation with the executive arm to ensure the effective implementation of the budget. He also commended the governor for maintaining a harmonious relationship with the legislature in driving meaningful development across the state. The total budget estimate for 2026 stands at ₦891,985,074,480.79, eight hundred and ninety-one billion, nine hundred and eighty-five million, seventy-four thousand, four hundred and eighty naira, seventy-nine kobo.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a strong warning to politicians planning to manipulate the 2027 governorship election in the state. The governor also declared that anyone attempting to rig the polls “will be met with madness.” In a viral video circulating on social media on Monday, the governor cautioned political actors against plotting to undermine the electoral process, stressing that Oyo voters are now more politically aware and will resist any form of manipulation. Makinde said, “In a few months, I will be out of here. I have already started preparations for the transition. “In 2027, other players will be there. If they think attacking Seyi Makinde and politicising this issue will make the people vote for them, maybe they should think again. Oyo State people are wiser.” Speaking further, he warned those contemplating election malpractice to rethink their plans. “The next set of leaders will be the ultimate deciders. If you think you can rig the gubernatorial elections in Oyo State in 2027, think again. ‘Were, la n fi wo were’ (We will use madness to cure madness),” he said. The governor’s latest remarks come months after he declared that the choice of who succeeds him in 2027 lies strictly with the people of Oyo State, not political godfathers or those claiming entitlement.

A survivor of the November 18 attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, Kwara State, has described the conditions he and other abducted worshippers faced while held by their captors. He was one of the 38 victims rescued by security operatives, a development President Bola Tinubu confirmed on Sunday. Speaking in an interview with TVC, the victim said the attackers stormed the church shortly after the evening service began, firing shots around the premises before herding the worshippers into the bush. “It was a sudden act, a terrifying act. Because that evening, after 30 minutes of the programme, we just heard gunshots,” he said. “Even to my own perspective, I didn’t know it was gunshots. I thought it was just sparking of some wire. “By the time we got up, they surrounded the whole church. Even some people there began to narrate that they were seeing drops of blood everywhere.” He said the captives were taken deep into a forested area controlled by the group. According to him, the abductors openly identified themselves as bandits and boasted about their dominance in the region, claiming that “no one can slip away” from their territory. “It was unimaginable because when we got there, we didn’t know that it was a dominated area. “They even had the courage to tell themselves that they are bandits. They made us know that there is no one who can slip away without being caught. And with what we saw, nobody can escape,” he said. “From that place, they have dominated. They knew all the routes surrounding all those bushes within Kwara and other cities. They knew it,” he added.

The founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide and Senior Pastor of the Faith Tabernacle, Bishop David Oyedepo, has stated that Nigeria will never become an Islamic state, condemning the surge in killings and insecurity across the country. Oyedepo, while addressing the congregation during the 4th Pre-Shiloh Encounter Service on Sunday, expressed concern over continued attacks on worshippers and communities, describing the growing violence as “unacceptable” and “a direct assault on innocent lives.” He said, “The Church of Christ in Nigeria is indestructible. The gates of hell cannot prevail against it. Nigeria will never become an Islamic state. Never, never, never. The battle is raging. The Islamic jihadists are running. But we belong to a higher realm of authority.” He condemned the attackers and those he accused of sponsoring them, placing a curse on them. “Five people were shot dead in a church last week. Thirty-five abductees can’t tell where they are. And they are demanding a hundred million from a village setting. “Every perpetrator of these killings and their sponsors come under a curse today,” he said. Oyedepo urged members of the church and Christians nationwide to engage in seven days of intensive prayer beginning at midnight, describing it as a spiritual response to worsening insecurity. “When this church prays, God hears. All who are baptised in the Holy Ghost will join me in praying extensively in the spirit. By so doing, we are sending angels on a run. There will be catastrophes. “There will be catastrophes. There shall be catastrophes. In the camp of the wicked, there shall be catastrophes,” he said. He directed congregants to anoint their homes and workplaces as “no-go areas” and to take spiritual responsibility for the protection of their families and communities. He added that attacks on church members would no longer go unanswered, announcing that a spiritual operation would begin at midnight. “I’m asking every living winner, no matter how much anointing you have for sleep, that anointing is broken. Amen. Amen. Amen. As the Lord lives, who sent me as one of the watchmen over this nation. This shall not continue. “12 midnight tonight, the operation begins. Satan is in trouble.Its agents and it is arrayed, in the name of Jesus. Any member of this church touched, equals fire and brimstone, in the camp of the enemy. I’m saying so by the Holy Ghost. Go and try it.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially registered as a member of the African Democratic Congress in Adamawa State, signalling a major development in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. The registration took place on Monday, following Atiku’s announcement to ADC supporters and stakeholders in Adamawa over the weekend. Abdul Rasheeth, an aide to the former vice president, had confirmed the development in a statement obtained by THENEWSCREDIT Videos and photos from the event showed Atiku’s convoy arriving in the town to the cheers of supporters, who beat drums, sang, and carried placards with his image. Atiku waved and greeted well-wishers from his vehicle as he received his ADC membership card. In a brief X (Formerly Twitter) post on his handle shorty after his registration, Atiku wrote,” It’s official. -AA” This move formalises Atiku’s association with the coalition party, which he had previously endorsed in July as a platform for opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Babachir Lawal, to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Until now, Atiku and other opposition leaders had delayed their formal registration with the ADC. The former vice president’s registration is expected to strengthen the party’s profile and consolidate the opposition ahead of the next general election.

In recent times, Nigeria has gone through turbulent periods of different kinds. THENEWSCREDIT examines 10 tragic events that occurred in the last 10 days as the security of the country continues to deteriorate. 11/11/25 – Six Senior Directors from the Ministry of Defence were kidnapped along the Kogi axis, reminding us that even those tasked with securing our nation are no longer safe. 15/11/25 – A senior military officer, a Brigadier General, was brutally executed, a grave signal of the danger engulfing both civilians and security personnel. 16/11/25 – Sixty-four civilians, including women and children, were abducted in Zamfara, with innocent lives also lost in the attack. 17/11/25 – Twenty-five schoolgirls, young children with dreams and innocence, were abducted in Kebbi, and their Vice Principal was killed, adding to the heartbreaking list of attacks on our nation’s future. 18/11/25 – Worshippers praying peacefully in a church in Kwara State were violently attacked, with some killed and about 38 abducted. A place of worship, meant to be a sanctuary, became a scene of fear. The kidnapped victims were reportedly released on Sunday. 18/11/25 – A disturbing crisis unfolded at the PDP Wadata Plaza headquarters. Instead of de-escalation, elements within the security agencies worsened the situation and further instigated it. Rather than focusing on protecting citizens, the government appeared to watch with amusement, encouraging the destruction of political parties and the weakening of our democracy. Nigerian Newspapers: 10 things you need to know Monday morning 18/11/25 – During the All Nigeria Judges’ Conference, judges who should embody neutrality and integrity were seen standing as the APC partisan song “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand” played ahead of the President’s address. This troubling moment further eroded public trust in institutions expected to protect the rule of law. The judiciary, however, denied the allegation. 19/11/25 – Soldiers heading to rescue the Kebbi State abducted schoolgirls were ambushed, showing once again how undersupported our security forces have become. 21/11/25 – Nigerians awoke to the devastating news that over 300 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State. Fifty of them reportedly escaped on Sunday and reunited with their families. 22/11/25 – Bandits opened fire on farmers in Kaduna, killing one. Terrorists also ambushed and gunned down five police officers and injured two in Sabon Sara, Darazo LGA, Bauchi State.