Author: James Obasi

The National Peace Commission (NPC) has cautioned political actors and stakeholders against vote-buying and rising insecurity ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State. The commission urged security agencies to take proactive measures to curb kidnapping and interpersonal violence, describing them as significant threats to voter participation and the credibility of the electoral process. Speaking on Friday in Ado Ekiti at a three-day Stakeholders’ Validation Forum, NPC Project Manager Asabe Ndahi said conflict prevention remains vital to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The forum was organised by the commission through its secretariat, the Kukah Centre, with support from the European Union, and drew participants from security agencies, political parties, civil society organisations, faith leaders, traditional rulers, media practitioners and community representatives. Ndahi explained that the validation forum was aimed at strengthening local ownership of electoral risk assessments and developing practical strategies to prevent violence. She reaffirmed the NPC’s commitment to collaborating with electoral authorities, security agencies and community stakeholders to promote dialogue, preventive engagement and adherence to peace accords before, during and after the election. According to her, the commission will deploy evidence-based interventions, mediation initiatives and peace advocacy programmes to ensure the poll is peaceful, credible and reflective of the people’s will. NPC Senior Programmes Manager Esrom Ajanya also warned that vote-buying continues to undermine democratic participation and accountability in the state. He noted that the practice, which has been widely reported in previous Ekiti elections, has entrenched transactional politics. “Vote-buying, previously documented as pervasive in Ekiti elections, has normalised transactional politics. When votes become commodities, policy debates weaken and civic motivation declines. This dynamic is reflected in turnout trends,” Ajanya said. He attributed declining voter turnout to growing distrust in political institutions, economic hardship and dissatisfaction among political elites. Ajanya observed that voter participation in Ekiti dropped from over 50 per cent in the 2014 governorship election to below 37 per cent in 2022, despite high political awareness among residents. Security concerns were also identified as factors discouraging electoral participation. NPC Monitoring, Evaluation and Training Officer Deborah Obafemi disclosed that Ekiti recorded eight security incidents across six local government areas between August 2025 and January 2026, resulting in two fatalities. Although none of the incidents were directly classified as election-related, she warned that kidnapping and recurring interpersonal violence pose indirect risks to election logistics, voter confidence and the mobility of electoral personnel. “Even though there were no overt electoral violence incidents in the dataset, the patterns recorded, particularly kidnapping and repeat interpersonal violence, represent measurable indirect threats to election logistics, turnout confidence and the willingness of communities and ad-hoc staff to move freely during electoral periods,” Obafemi said. She called on security agencies to implement hotspot-focused deterrence strategies, intensify patrols in kidnapping-prone areas during the pre-election period and strengthen intelligence monitoring of rural travel routes and farming communities. Obafemi also advised the Independent National Electoral Commission to review deployment schedules and operational movements to minimise exposure to high-risk corridors, while reinforcing security at collation centres and during the transportation of election materials at the local government level. Participants at the forum emphasised the need for responsible political conduct, conflict-sensitive media reporting and sustained civic education to guarantee a peaceful electoral process. They stressed that strengthening democratic participation and reducing electoral violence would be crucial to delivering a credible and inclusive governorship election in Ekiti State.

US President Donald Trump has warned that the world will know within “probably the next 10 days” whether the United States will reach a deal with Iran or consider military action. Speaking at the first meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington DC, Trump said regarding negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program: “We have to make a meaningful deal; otherwise, bad things happen.” In recent days, the US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, even as reports emerged of progress in talks between American and Iranian negotiators in Switzerland. Iran has informed the UN Secretary-General that it would consider US bases in the region legitimate targets if used for military aggression against the country. Tehran’s UN mission stressed in a letter that while it does not want war, Trump’s comments highlight the real risk of conflict. Some Democratic lawmakers, along with a few Republicans, have voiced opposition to any military action in Iran without congressional approval. Trump noted that Special Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, had held “some very good meetings” with Iranian officials. He added, “It’s proven to be, over the years, not easy to make a meaningful deal with Iran. Otherwise, bad things happen.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt had earlier urged Iran to be “very wise” in negotiating, emphasizing that the administration still hoped for a diplomatic resolution to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. The Board of Peace, initially announced to help end the two-year war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and oversee reconstruction, has recently taken on a broader remit, prompting speculation that it may operate independently of the United Nations. US forces have been bolstering their presence in the region, including deploying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Satellite imagery indicates Iran has also reinforced its military facilities, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei has issued social media warnings threatening US forces. Several US lawmakers have stressed that a conflict with Iran could be disastrous. California Democrat Ro Khanna and Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie said they plan to push for a congressional vote under the 1973 War Powers Act, which allows Congress to limit presidential authority to engage in armed conflict. Khanna warned that thousands of US troops could be at risk, and that Iran’s military capabilities make any war “catastrophic.” However, analysts note that the likelihood of such a resolution passing in both chambers of Congress is low. A similar measure was blocked in January when Senate Republicans prevented a vote requiring approval for further US military operations in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

Mexican authorities have extradited 37 inmates allegedly linked to major drug cartels to the United States to face trial, following President Trump’s earlier suggestions of potential US land strikes against organised criminal gangs in Mexico. This marks the third round of extraditions from Mexico to the US in the past year, amid accusations that President Claudia Sheinbaum’s government is appeasing Washington. Mexico’s Secretary of Security, Omar García Harfuch, said on X that the transferred detainees posed a “threat to the country’s security.” The US Justice Department welcomed the move, describing it as part of a broader strategy to dismantle the cartels. “These 37 cartel members will now face justice on American soil for their crimes against the US,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi. García Harfuch confirmed that US prosecutors agreed not to seek the death penalty and that the detainees were transported under “National Security Law and bilateral cooperation mechanisms, with full respect for Mexico’s sovereignty.” The inmates were flown on seven armed Mexican aircraft to Washington, New York, Houston, Pennsylvania, San Diego, and San Antonio. Mexico previously extradited 26 key cartel operatives last August and a similar group in February, bringing the total sent to the US under Trump’s second administration to 92. President Sheinbaum’s administration has been pursuing a strong crackdown on drug trafficking and cited a 50% drop in fentanyl seizures at the US southern border in its defence. Earlier in January, Trump stated that after targeting drug trafficking by sea, “we are going to start now hitting land,” adding that “the cartels are running Mexico.” Last week, Sheinbaum reiterated that US troop deployment on the southern border was “not on the table.” Since the removal of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from Caracas, Trump has issued threats against other regional countries, including Mexico, Cuba, and Colombia.

The African Union and the International Executive Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, sponsors, partners, and media organisations for their roles in the successful hosting of the 9th AFRIMA awards. Held in Lagos from January 7 to 11, the event brought together artistes, delegates, and stakeholders from over 48 African countries. In a statement on Wednesday, Angela Martins, Head of Culture at the African Union Commission, highlighted the awards’ success as a reflection of African music’s growing influence and the effective collaboration between public and private institutions. “AFRIMA continues to showcase Africa’s musical and cultural excellence to the world. The support from Lagos State Government, sponsors, partners, and media ensured a seamless and memorable celebration of African music,” Martins said. “The awards have evolved beyond a ceremony to become a platform for African unity and cultural expression. Through music, we tell Africa’s stories in our own voice, demonstrating our creativity. Each edition strengthens bonds among African countries and highlights culture as a key tool for integration and development.” She also praised Lagos for its capability to host major international events, describing the state as a hub for Africa’s creative economy. AFRIMA President and Executive Producer Mike Dada also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government, partners, and sponsors. “We sincerely thank all our partners and sponsors who supported AFRIMA’s vision throughout the planning and execution of the 9th edition,” Dada said. “Their backing reflects a shared belief in African music as a driver of unity, cultural pride, and economic growth. Special thanks go to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government for their strong support, cooperation, and enabling environment. From logistics to security and hospitality, Lagos once again proved to be a welcoming home for Africa’s creative industry.” The five-day event began with a Welcome Soiree on January 7 at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, which brought together music professionals to discuss the future of African music. On January 9, the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall hosted performances by over 25 top artists for more than 30,000 fans. The grand finale took place at the Eko Convention Centre, where artistes, producers, and directors received the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy. Key sponsors and partners included First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, The Address Homes, Guinness Nigeria, Utilita, and Gobet247, with cultural exchange support from the UK in Nigeria (British High Commission) and the Embassy of Sweden. Additional partners included Glenfiddich, Jägermeister, Super Travels Limited, Pan-Atlantic Travels, Wakanow, Dorf Travels & Tours, Vaniti Lagos, Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency, and Mainland Block Party Lagos. AFRIMA also acknowledged its Official Media Partners, including DSTV/Multichoice, Television Continental, African Union of Broadcasters, Silverbrid Group, Kennis FM, Afro Music Pop, Hip TV, Base FM, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hot FM, Lagos Talks Inspiration FM, Lasgidi FM, Legit.ng, Max FM, Nigeria Info, Nigezie, The Culture Newspapers (TCN), QED, and Yanga FM. Out-of-home visibility was supported by Motomedia, Yartview Ltd, Optimus Exposure, Plural Media, Folham Nigeria Limited, and Nimbus Media. Dada noted that the strong support from sponsors and media partners demonstrates growing confidence in AFRIMA and the African music industry.

US President Donald Trump is set to present his newly created “Board of Peace” and meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, reinforcing his self-styled image as a global peacemaker. This comes a day after he eased tensions by withdrawing earlier threats over Greenland. On Wednesday, Trump announced he would abandon proposed tariffs on Europe and rule out the use of military force to take Greenland from Denmark, moves that helped calm a dispute that had unsettled the gathering of world leaders and business elites. During his second day in the Swiss resort, Trump plans to promote the “Board of Peace,” a controversial initiative aimed at resolving international conflicts, with a formal signing of its charter. The body reportedly requires a $1 billion fee for permanent membership, and Trump has invited leaders such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban to participate. Calling it “the greatest board ever formed,” Trump made the remarks while meeting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, one of the leaders who has agreed to join. The board’s launch follows Trump’s long-standing frustration at not receiving a Nobel Peace Prize, despite his claims of having ended multiple conflicts. Although initially conceived to oversee post-war reconstruction in Gaza, the board’s mandate extends beyond the territory, raising concerns among some countries that it could rival the United Nations. Allies such as France and Britain have voiced doubts, while several Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have signaled support. According to a senior administration official, about 35 leaders have committed so far from roughly 50 invitations issued. Trump also said Putin had agreed to join, though the Kremlin has indicated it is still reviewing the proposal. Putin’s possible inclusion has heightened unease among US allies, particularly Ukraine, which remains locked in a nearly four-year conflict with Russia. Trump said he would meet Zelensky after the Board of Peace session as negotiations toward a ceasefire continue. Speaking in Davos, Trump argued that both Russia and Ukraine would be “stupid” not to reach an agreement, reiterating his belief that a deal is within reach, even as he alternates between blaming both sides for the lack of progress. He has consistently maintained that Europe and NATO should shoulder more responsibility for supporting Kyiv. Meanwhile, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to travel from Davos to Moscow alongside Jared Kushner for talks with Putin. Zelensky has expressed concern that Trump’s earlier Greenland ambitions could distract from Ukraine’s war effort. Late Wednesday, Trump said he had reached a “framework of a future deal” following talks with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, prompting him to suspend tariffs that were due to affect European allies from February 1. Rutte described the meeting as productive, though he noted that significant work remains regarding Greenland, which Trump argues is strategically vital for US and NATO security amid competition with Russia and China.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, has provided cash, food items, and household essentials to 300 widows and elderly women in Ifedore Local Government Area. The distribution took place on Tuesday at Igbara-Oke, the council headquarters, as part of the 2026 edition of Osamaye’s personal empowerment programme, Give Back A Portion. Speaking to the beneficiaries, the commissioner said the outreach, which began as a family initiative, has been running for over 10 years and has empowered hundreds of people. She noted that this year’s edition is the seventh specifically targeting widows and vulnerable women in Ifedore. Osamaye assured that the programme will continue to expand and impact more lives in future editions. “No fewer than 300 widows and elderly women from Ijare, Igbara-Oke, and Ilara-Mokin communities have received food packs and cash support,” she said. “This initiative stems from my passion to give back to society and support women facing economic and social challenges. I am grateful to God and to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for providing the platform to serve humanity. By God’s grace, this programme will keep growing and reach more vulnerable women across our communities.” The commissioner also expressed appreciation to the governor for creating a supportive working environment, which she said has enabled her to extend assistance to more people. She added that the current administration remains committed to the social welfare of residents. In his remarks, Pastor Gideon Adegboye urged the beneficiaries to stay hopeful and remain thankful to God despite life’s challenges.

The traditional ruler of Oriendu Autonomous Community in Ohuhu clan, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Eze Phillip Ajomiwe, has urged the Abia State Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of Oriendu Community Primary School, Ubaha, warning that its current condition undermines quality education in the rural area. Speaking at his palace in Ubaha during the annual Iri Egwu/Igba Ekpe festival, the monarch said the school, established in the 1940s, has fallen into disrepair, with crumbling classrooms and a lack of basic facilities, including sanitation. He noted that the school’s poor state has persisted for decades, despite its critical role in the educational development of the community. Eze Ajomiwe recalled that the last major intervention occurred during the administration of former Governor Theodore Orji and expressed disappointment that a planned junior secondary school for the community was never realised, leaving many pupils without access to local secondary education. “I recognise the ongoing reforms under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, and I am confident the government will include the rehabilitation of the primary school and the revival of the long-delayed junior secondary school project in its development agenda,” he said. “Such intervention would improve learning conditions, reduce school dropouts, and support human capital development in the area.” The monarch also called attention to other infrastructural needs, including the community’s main market, a key commercial hub for neighbouring areas. He urged government support to upgrade the market and improve sanitation and safety for traders and visitors. In the health sector, Eze Ajomiwe appealed for the equipping of the community health centre, stressing that accessible and functional healthcare is vital for rural populations, particularly women, children, and the elderly. Describing Oriendu as an agrarian community that serves as a gateway between Abia and Imo states, he further called for enhanced security patrols and surveillance around border areas to protect farmers, traders, and residents. Beyond infrastructure, the monarch highlighted the cultural significance of the Ekpe festival in Igbo land, noting its role in promoting discipline, unity, and shared values. He emphasised the importance of preserving cultural practices and connecting younger generations with their heritage. Eze Ajomiwe added that Abia State could generate revenue through properly developed cultural and recreational activities.

Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has accepted an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join a newly established “Board of Peace” focused on conflict resolution, his office confirmed on Wednesday. According to a statement, Netanyahu agreed to become a member of the board, which is expected to include leaders from across the globe. The initiative was initially proposed to oversee reconstruction efforts in post-war Gaza. However, a copy of its charter reviewed by AFP suggests its mandate extends beyond the Palestinian territory. Membership reportedly requires a financial commitment of up to $1 billion for a permanent seat. The charter states that the board aims to promote stability, re-establish lawful and reliable governance, and achieve lasting peace in regions affected by or at risk of conflict. Trump will chair the board and will also serve separately as the representative of the United States. Invitations have been extended to dozens of countries and leaders, including close US allies as well as rivals. France, a longstanding US ally, has indicated it will not participate. While announcing the board last week, Trump also revealed plans to create a “Gaza Executive Board” operating under the larger body. This executive board is expected to include Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Qatari diplomat Ali Al-Thawadi, a development that Netanyahu has strongly opposed. Relations between Turkey and Israel have worsened since the Gaza war began in October 2023, following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. In addition, a separate committee made up of 15 Palestinian technocrats has been formed to manage Gaza’s day-to-day administration as part of the second phase of a truce plan announced by Trump in October. The committee is led by Gaza native and former Palestinian Authority deputy minister Ali Shaath and began its initial work in Cairo this week.

The Spiritual Head of the Cherubim and Seraphim Agbojesu Conference Worldwide, Samuel Akintobi, has urged the Federal Government to ensure that revenues from the new tax system are properly managed and used to benefit ordinary Nigerians. Akintobi made the appeal on Saturday during the church’s Annual General Conference in Iseyin, Oyo State. He emphasized that transparent and purposeful use of tax proceeds is crucial to addressing public concerns about the recently implemented tax reforms. Nigeria’s new tax regime, effective from January 1, 2026, has drawn criticism from some quarters over fears that it could place additional burdens on citizens already facing economic challenges. Some groups have called for suspension or amendment of the reforms, warning that mismanagement could worsen living conditions. Addressing delegates, Akintobi said, “As a church, we recognise the importance of a strong revenue base for national development, but taxation must be transparent and purposeful. Citizens need to see that every naira collected translates into projects and services that improve lives.” He added, “Tax revenue should not be treated as an end in itself but as a responsibility. Leaders must show that these funds are being used to enhance the welfare of the people.” Also at the conference, the church’s chairman, Hezekiah Adeleke, highlighted the creation of a comprehensive database for members as a key achievement. “We are pleased that the theme of the conference, ‘Advancing Steadfastly in the Lord’ (Philippians 3:13–14), guided our discussions, alongside the church’s efforts to register members and build a full database,” he said. Adeleke also praised the Supreme Head of the church for his guidance, noting that his advice contributed greatly to the success of the programme. The conference further inaugurated a new National Executive Council under Adeleke’s leadership.

The Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Maj.-Gen. Saidu Audu, has assured the Borno State Government that Boko Haram and other non-state armed groups operating in the Lake Chad region are nearing defeat. Audu gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to Governor Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri as part of his familiarisation tour following his assumption of office on November 13, 2025. The assurance was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Chief Military Public Information Officer of the MNJTF, Lt.-Col. Ikedichi Oweha. According to Audu, the visit was aimed at engaging the governor as a key stakeholder in the Lake Chad Basin Commission Governors’ Forum and appreciating the Borno State Government for its sustained support of MNJTF operations. He said the task force had developed a comprehensive strategy to confront Boko Haram and other armed groups by taking the fight directly to their enclaves. The MNJTF commander reaffirmed that the force would continue to operate in line with its overarching strategic objectives to restore peace and security across the Lake Chad region. He noted that ongoing operations by MNJTF troops and partner forces showed clear signs that the Boko Haram insurgency and related security challenges were close to being brought to an end. In his response, Governor Zulum congratulated Audu on his appointment and reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the MNJTF in the execution of its mandate. He praised the military and other security agencies for their continued efforts, which he said had helped lay the groundwork for peace and development in Borno State. The governor recalled the state’s past logistical and operational support to security agencies, including its contributions to the success of MNJTF operations such as Operation Lake Sanity I and II. Zulum described Audu as a disciplined and proactive officer with high integrity, expressing confidence that his leadership would further strengthen the MNJTF. He urged the force commander to intensify operations in the Lake Chad islands and tumbus, which he identified as ungoverned areas often used by terrorists as hideouts during military pressure. He also called for sustained deployments, particularly on the Nigerian side, to deny insurgents safe havens and freedom of movement. The governor assured the MNJTF of the Borno State Government’s continued support despite competing demands on its limited resources.