The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has warned that worsening insecurity across the nation is actively undermining Nigeria’s democratic gains. In a powerful statement marking 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the group declared that rampant banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes have cast a dark shadow over the country`s milestones. The statement, issued by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, urged federal and state governments to immediately adopt a more coordinated and decisive response to criminal elements. Ajayi noted that instead of celebrating democratic progress, the nation is mourning a continuous wave of abductions and killings. He highlighted the May abductions of schoolchildren and teachers in both Oyo and Borno states as clear indicators of a deteriorating national security apparatus. Afenifere expressed deep concern over the rising audacity of criminal syndicates targeting traditional institutions. Ajayi cited the recent abduction of the monarch of Odo-Oriya in Ondo State, Oba Adeniyi Adelana, who was seized directly from his palace while his wife sustained gunshot injuries. "It is embarrassing because our Obas, who used to be symbols of authority and power, are now being picked up like lame ducks," Ajayi lamented. This follows a bloody trend that began earlier in January, which saw the brutal killings of the Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti, Oba Olatunde Samuel Olushola; the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Oba David Babatunde Ogunsakin; and the Olukoro of Koro, Oba Segun Aremu. The group further pointed to the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Army spokesman who died in captivity after being abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State. Afenifere warned that the crisis is escalating beyond control. Echoing a previous warning by former Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai (rtd), the group stated that if urgent measures are not taken, bandits will become emboldened enough to target governors and lawmakers. “When the situation degenerates to that level, what remains for the country? It would mean that bandits are taking over," Ajayi warned. Afenifere criticized northern leaders and the federal government for failing to decisively confront the socio-economic roots of northern banditry. The group emphasized that this inaction is spilling over into southern Nigeria. They pointed to a recent disclosure by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, revealing that kidnappers operating in the Oriire Local Government Area are using a massive forest network spanning 10 local government areas. Afenifere concluded by demanding that South-West governors immediately strengthen regional security collaborations, while calling on the Federal Government to crush both the criminals and their sponsors to safeguard Nigeria`s future.

A severe supply crunch has pushed the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to an unprecedented ₦2,000 per kilogramme in Osun State, forcing thousands of households and small businesses to abandon cleaner energy for firewood and charcoal. A survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in the state capital and surrounding communities revealed that the sharp price hike has strained domestic budgets, inflated operational costs for food vendors, and triggered a quiet return to biomass fuels. Vendors, Housewives Cry Out For local food vendors, the price surge threatens their very survival. Mrs. Rukayat Abiola, a fast-food operator at the Owode-Ede Market, disclosed that her operational expenses have skyrocketed. To stay afloat, she has marginally increased food prices and integrated charcoal into her daily operations to cut costs. "The government must step in," Abiola pleaded. "This persistent increase is killing small businesses." Domestic consumers are feeling an identical pinch. Mrs. Folasade Adebayo, a resident of Owode-Ede, likened the current cost of refilling a standard gas cylinder to paying school fees. She noted that the rapid jump from ₦1,400 to ₦2,000 per kg left her with no choice but to purchase a traditional coal pot. Civil service families are also adjusting. Mrs. Juliet Adeosun, a housewife in Osogbo, noted that her husband’s fixed salary can no longer absorb the erratic spikes in energy costs. "We are rationing our spending," Adeosun said. "If prices do not drop by the end of the month, we are transitioning to a coal pot." The crisis marks a full circle for many residents. Mrs. Foluke Olugbemiga, a petty trader, recalled how high kerosene prices years ago forced her family to adopt gas. "Now that gas is unaffordable, we have no choice but to return to firewood," she lamented. Retailers Blame Depot Costs Gas marketers in the state have defended the pricing, attributing the spike to forces beyond their control. At Dada Estate in Osogbo, retail prices have hovered as high as ₦2,150 per kg. Retailer Dayo Efunkunle explained that the adjustment reflects surging depot rates, severe supply fluctuations, and high logistics overheads. "We are not profiteering," structural marketer Kunle Ibiyemi added. "The high retail price is strictly driven by acute supply shortages." Ibiyemi warned that without immediate federal intervention to boost local production, improve distribution networks, and stabilise prices, the environmental gains made in promoting clean energy over the last decade could be entirely erased.

Prominent Yoruba leader, Iba Gani Adams, and renowned historian, Professor Akin Alao, have jointly tackled the federal government over rising insecurity, demanding the immediate passage of the state police bill. Speaking at the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) North America Online Summit 2026, the duo urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to fast-track the ongoing constitutional amendment. The House of Representatives has already approved the decentralized policing framework. Economic Paralysis Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, warned that banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes have crippled regional commerce. "Trade and commerce have suffered immensely," Adams stated. "Nightlife and related economic activities have virtually disappeared in many cities due to fear." He added that local and foreign investments are drying up, triggering mass unemployment and acute poverty. To combat this, Adams proposed a multi-pronged approach:Rapid state police deploymentJoint South-West governance security initiativesYouth vocational training programsFinancial bailouts for small businesses. Agricultural Collapse Prof. Alao of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) warned that Nigeria`s food security is under imminent threat as regional instability targets agrarian communities. "Greater attention must be given to rural security," Alao argued. "We must make it safe for farmers to return to their lands to boost food production." The academic noted that the security crisis is actively de-industrializing Nigeria. He revealed that manufacturers are fleeing to neighboring nations like Ghana, while local commercial activities now grind to a halt by 6:00 PM. Alao called for immediate funding boosts, technology-driven intelligence sharing, and a total restructuring of the national security architecture to halt the drift.

Warning that "Nigeria is bleeding," the House of Representatives Minority Caucus on Wednesday demanded an immediate overhaul of the country`s security architecture and issued a 72-hour ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu to rescue abducted school children and teachers in Oyo State. Led by Minority Leader Fred Agbedi at a press conference in Abuja, the opposition lawmakers asserted that politics must be set aside to prioritize national safety. They reminded the administration that Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution explicitly mandates government to prioritize the security and welfare of its citizens. The caucus strongly condemned the murder of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, the former Nigerian Army spokesman, who was killed while held captive by terrorists in Katsina State. While extending condolences to his family, the lawmakers expressed concern over the "questionable circumstances" surrounding the release of the late general`s wife. They demanded a transparent investigation, questioning how terrorists can now assassinate military generals with impunity. Action Over Propaganda The lawmakers noted that despite the President declaring a state of emergency on November 25, 2025, the security situation has continued to worsen. “The nation requires funding on security intelligence, not propaganda, improved welfare for frontline troops, and not wildcards for appointees,” Agbedi stated. The caucus insisted on a coordinated, no-ransom special military operation within 72 hours to free the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oyo State, emphasizing that the government must offer "no excuses." Judiciary and 2027 Electoral Warnings Shifting focus to democratic stability, the caucus criticized a recent Federal High Court judgment that ordered the de-registration of five political parties—a ruling subsequently overturned by the Court of Appeal. To prevent further institutional damage, the opposition urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to intervene and resolve conflicting judgments regarding political party registrations. Agbedi additionally cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against being used to compromise democratic processes, vowing that the opposition would reject any pre-rigged outcomes ahead of the 2027 general elections. "We will not be silent. We will not be intimidated," Agbedi declared, reassuring citizens that opposition parties will resist political suppression. "To Nigerians, do not despair. 2027 will not be decided in a room or by compromised courts. It will be decided by you, the people."

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has promised that a specialized tactical operation is underway to safely rescue the dozens of pupils and teachers recently abducted by terrorists in the state. Governor Makinde made the declaration on Tuesday while addressing a crowd of demonstrators at the Government House. The mass protest, aimed at demanding urgent government intervention, was led by popular social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan. The demonstration follows a tragic incident last month in the Oriire Local Government Area, where heavily armed terrorists invaded schools in Yawota and Esiele. More than 40 students and educators were seized during the targeted raids and remain in captivity. While addressing the crowd, Makinde acknowledged the community`s outrage and sought to reassure the public that state security forces are actively working on a solution. "The operation to rescue them is a special type of operation," Makinde told the protesters. "As the Governor of Oyo State, I give you assurance that we will bring back those children."

ABUJA — The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the recent Federal High Court ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the civic organization warned that the court`s decision, which was based on a narrow interpretation of constitutional performance requirements, could significantly shrink Nigeria`s civic space and undermine democratic pluralism. According to CHRICED, democracy is not merely the periodic administration of elections, but the continuous protection of citizens` rights to organize, associate, and choose from a broad spectrum of political alternatives. By reducing the number of available political platforms, the group argued that limiting participation weakens public trust and narrows the diversity of ideas required to keep the democratic system healthy. CHRICED questioned whether electoral rules are being applied consistently and fairly, noting that selective enforcement could severely damage confidence in democratic institutions. The organization is calling for caution in executing the judgment, urging that all affected parties be guaranteed full access to legal remedies and due process. Furthermore, CHRICED appealed to INEC, the judiciary, and key stakeholders to act in ways that inspire public trust ahead of the approaching electoral cycle.

ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian judiciary, stating that a compromised legal system poses an immediate threat to the nation’s democratic stability. The President demanded that judicial officers eliminate prolonged court delays and dispense justice without bias toward ethnic background, social status, or financial power. President Tinubu gave the charge on Monday in Abuja during the official commissioning of the ultra-modern Court of Appeal Abuja Division building complex located in Dakibiyu. The President, whose speech was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, expressed deep concern over growing public frustration regarding mounting case backlogs and delayed trials across the country. "To my Lords Justices, as you move into this complex, Nigeria asks one thing of you: let justice be swift. Let it be fair. Let it be blind to status, tribe, or purse," the President stated. "Let the common man feel that this Court is truly his last hope." He emphasized that an accessible, fair, and efficient justice system remains non-negotiable for sustaining public confidence in governance and upholding the rule of law. According to THENEWSCREDIT, the President, the completion of the state-of-the-art judicial complex underscores his administration`s commitment to reforming the justice sector under the "Renewed Hope" agenda. He assured that the federal government will continue to provide a conducive and well-equipped working environment for judicial officers to enhance productivity and clear the backlog of pending cases.

Justice Binta Fatimah Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced a father of 11 children and husband of two wives, Isa Isiaka, to 20 years imprisonment for deliberate refusal to lodge information on the activities of Boko Haram to the Federal Government. Isiaka was jailed on Monday following his admission of guilt to terrorism charges instituted against him by the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice. Immediately after the charge was read, the accused person, without wasting the time of the court, admitted that he was guilty as charged. AGF and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who stood for the Federal Government, accused the convict of concealing information that would have led to immediate arrest of members of the proscribed Boko Haram sect. The convict however urged the judge to be lenient with him on grounds of being a first offender and also for being a father to 11 children and husband to two wives. In his judgment, Justice Binta Nyako rejected his plea as untenable and sentenced him to 20 years imprisonment without option of fine.

ABUJA — The Federal Government has commenced a massive new phase of terrorism trials involving more than 600 suspects, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on insurgency and threats to national security. Speaking to THENEWSCREDIT in Abuja on Monday at the launch of the judicial exercise, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, declared that the administration would deploy every available resource to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians. Massive Docket Cleared for Trial The current exercise marks the fourth phase of mass terrorism trials undertaken since the inception of the current administration. Providing a statistical breakdown of the suspects currently appearing before the court, the AGF disclosed that nearly 600 individuals are scheduled for appearance in the coming days.490 suspects scheduled for day one hearings.84 suspects billed for the following day.102 suspects carried forward from the previous judicial phase. Fagbemi confirmed that presiding judges have given firm assurances to expedite the hearings and clear the extensive docket within the scheduled period. Uncompromising Stance on Security The Chief Law Officer of the Federation emphasized that the ongoing proceedings underscore the government’s resolve to tackle insecurity head-on, warning that criminal elements will find no hiding place within the country. "The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see ongoing trials," Fagbemi stated. He added: "Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated. We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe haven for everybody." Broader Anti-Terror Strategy The mass trial is part of a coordinated legal and security framework designed to prosecute individuals accused of terrorism, insurgency, and related offenses. Legal experts note that the speed and scale of these trials are critical to decongesting detention facilities while ensuring justice is served in line with international human rights standards. Government officials maintain that the judicial push forms a vital component of the state`s broader strategy to restore total peace and stability to regions heavily impacted by insecurity.

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions to promote peace, security, unity and sustainable development across the country. The position was conveyed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Dutse, Jigawa State, according to a statement by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim. The President acknowledged the role of traditional rulers in governance, peacebuilding and community mobilisation, describing them as critical partners in advancing national development. “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fully recognises the strategic role of traditional institutions and remains committed to deepening engagement with traditional rulers in advancing peace, security, national cohesion, and development,” Idris said. The minister commended the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its contributions to peace, security and development across Northern Nigeria. Speaking on the theme of the meeting, ‘Peace, Unity and Development of the North’, Idris said peace and unity remain essential for progress and prosperity. “Without peace, development becomes difficult; without unity, progress cannot be sustained. The pursuit of both must remain our collective responsibility,” he stated. The minister noted that traditional rulers remain important stakeholders because of their close relationship with communities and their ability to mobilise citizens around national objectives. On security, Idris said the Federal Government had continued to strengthen coordination among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions, resulting in gains against criminal and terrorist groups in different parts of the country. “While challenges remain, the administration is sustaining military operations, improving intelligence gathering, and enhancing inter-agency collaboration,” he said. He added that the government was also addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and limited economic opportunities, which he said contribute to insecurity. The minister highlighted ongoing government initiatives in agriculture, livestock development, solid minerals, infrastructure, education financing, consumer credit and support for small businesses. He described the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as a strategic intervention aimed at modernising livestock production, improving productivity and reducing conflicts linked to competition for natural resources. Idris also cited the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Calabar-Abuja Super Highway and the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Road Corridor as major infrastructure projects designed to boost economic growth and national integration. The minister further stressed the role of traditional rulers in promoting public awareness and combating misinformation, noting that development programmes are more effective when citizens understand and participate in them. “In an age characterised by the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, traditional rulers remain among the most trusted leaders in our society,” he said. He expressed confidence that the meeting would produce recommendations capable of strengthening peace, unity and development across Northern Nigeria and the country. Idris also extended condolences to the government and people of Katsina State over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, describing his passing as a loss to the nation. The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, government officials and other stakeholders from across Northern Nigeria.