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Brazil Court Upholds Bolsonaro’s Imprisonment After Alleged Flight Attempt

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Brazil Court Upholds Bolsonaro’s Imprisonment After Alleged Flight Attempt

Brazil’s Supreme Court has voted to uphold the detention of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who was taken into custody on Saturday after tampering with his electronic ankle monitor. Bolsonaro, who served as president from 2019 to 2023, had been under house arrest while appealing a 27-year sentence for plotting a failed coup against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ruled that Bolsonaro “willfully and consciously violated the electronic monitoring equipment.” The first chamber of the court unanimously supported the detention, which became official when the virtual session ended on Monday evening.

The court highlighted serious indications of a possible attempt to flee, noting the proximity of the US embassy and Bolsonaro’s close ties to former US President Donald Trump, suggesting he might have sought political asylum.

During a hearing, Bolsonaro claimed he “experienced a certain paranoia between Friday and Saturday due to medication” and denied intending to flee or breaking the bracelet strap. In a court-released video, he admitted using a soldering iron on the device “out of curiosity,” which left the monitor badly damaged but still attached.

Bolsonaro’s lawyers requested a return to “humanitarian house arrest,” citing his “state of mental confusion” from medication. The Supreme Court has already denied one appeal, with another challenge allowed to be filed by Monday midnight.

This ruling marks a significant step in Brazil’s legal proceedings against the far-right leader, who was convicted in September for attempting to prevent Lula’s inauguration, including an alleged assassination plot.

NNPC Achieves N45.1 Trillion Revenue, Sets Bold Production Targets

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NNPC Achieves N45.1 Trillion Revenue, Sets Bold Production Targets

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of N5.4 trillion on N45.1 trillion revenue for the full year ended 2024, marking a 64% year-on-year increase in profit and an 88% rise in revenue compared to 2023. Earnings per share rose to N27.07, up 64% from the previous year.

The national oil company attributed the performance to improved operational efficiency, downstream market reforms, cost discipline, and the positive impact of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s decision to float the naira.

Strategic Projects and Production Goals
NNPC continues to advance major gas infrastructure projects including the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) and Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) pipelines to drive a gas-powered economy and strengthen domestic energy security. The company is targeting:

  • Crude oil production: 2 million barrels per day (bpd) by 2027, 3 million bpd by 2030.
  • Natural gas production: 10 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) by 2027, 12 bcf/d by 2030.

The company is also reviewing technical and commercial viability of refineries and pursuing a $60 billion investment pipeline to expand oil and gas output.

Operational Efficiency and Cost Discipline
NNPC reported a 15–20% reduction in overall costs in 2024, focusing on essential expenditures and eliminating non-critical spending. Pipeline performance reached near 100%, boosting confidence in midstream operations.

Downstream and Refinery Plans
The company is actively seeking partnerships with private entities to restart and optimize refineries through commercial arrangements, where private partners provide technical capacity while NNPC complements operations. A clearer timeline for refinery operations is expected by mid-2026.

Sustainability and Energy Transition
NNPC’s Chairman, Ahmadu Kida, emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing climate change and reducing emissions while leveraging oil and gas resources to finance growth, diversify energy mix, and invest in cleaner technologies.

Going Concern Status
Independent auditors, including PwC, SIAO, and Muhtari Dangana & Co., confirmed that NNPC’s financial statements were prepared under the going concern principle, with no significant events after the reporting date that could impact the company’s continuity.

NNPC’s leadership reiterated its commitment to positioning Nigeria as a regional gas hub and ensuring sustainable growth across the energy value chain.

Police Bust AAUA Rape Plot, Arrest Two Students Over Drug Assault

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Police Bust AAUA Rape Plot, Arrest Two Students Over Drug Assault

Two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, have been arrested by the police over allegations of conspiracy and rape involving a 20-year-old female student of the institution.

In a statement on Tuesday, spokesman of the Ondo State Police Command, Olusola Ayanlade, said preliminary investigations showed that the victim was invited to the residence of her long-time friend, Queen Sodo, 19, also a student of AAUA.

Ayanlade explained that the victim, trusting their friendship dating back to secondary school, accepted a drink offered to her, which was later discovered to have been laced with drugs, rendering her unconscious.

According to the police, Queen Sodo then allegedly left the room to call her male accomplice, standing guard while the assault took place.

A neighbour, who heard unusual sounds from the room, raised an alarm and rescued the victim. She was found naked, unconscious, and in a compromising position with the male suspect before being rushed for medical attention. She has since been referred to a specialist hospital, where she is receiving treatment.

The police spokesperson said both suspects have confessed to their involvement, and exhibits including the drug-laced drink have been recovered.

The suspects are in custody and will be transferred to the Gender Desk Office in Akure for further investigation and prosecution. Ayanlade assured the public that all criminal elements in the state will be brought to justice.

UN Says Terror Strikes Are Pushing Millions Toward Famine In Northern Nigeria

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UN Says Terror Strikes Are Pushing Millions Toward Famine In Northern Nigeria

Resurgent jihadist attacks and worsening insecurity across northern Nigeria are driving hunger to unprecedented levels, with thousands now facing “famine-like conditions,” the World Food Programme (WFP) has warned.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday, nearly 35 million people in northern Nigeria are projected to experience severe food insecurity during the 2026 lean season, which runs from May to September.

In Borno State — the epicentre of the 16-year jihadist insurgency — around 15,000 people are expected to reach “catastrophic hunger,” a threshold classified as “famine-like conditions.” The long-running conflict has killed more than 40,000 people, displaced about two million, and spilled into neighbouring countries.

Beyond the northeast, widespread violence by armed bandit groups in the centre and northwest continues to exacerbate the crisis. In just the past week, Nigeria recorded three mass abductions: over 300 students and teachers taken from a Catholic school in Niger State, 25 Muslim schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State, and 38 worshippers seized from a church during a livestreamed service in Kwara State.

Although overall insurgency levels have declined since their peak in 2015, attacks have surged this year as jihadist factions strengthen and security forces face mounting pressure.

The lean season typically leaves rural households with minimal food reserves. In previous years, farmers could purchase food to compensate, but soaring inflation driven by a deepening economic crisis has pushed basic staples beyond reach.

The hunger situation is being compounded by cuts to foreign aid. The United States — WFP’s largest donor — has slashed international assistance under President Donald Trump, while several European countries have also reduced humanitarian budgets.

Nearly one million people in northeastern Nigeria rely on food assistance from WFP. However, funding shortfalls forced the agency to begin scaling down programmes in July. Of the 500 nutrition centres it operates in the region, 150 were closed at the end of July, leaving more than 300,000 children at heightened risk and driving malnutrition rates from “serious” to “critical” in the third quarter of the year.

This year has also seen an escalation in jihadist activity, including the first attack in Nigeria claimed by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) late last month.

“Communities are under severe pressure from repeated attacks and economic stress,” said WFP’s representative in Nigeria, David Stevenson. “Families are being pushed closer to the edge, and the need for support is rising.”

Nigeria remains gripped by a severe economic crisis as President Bola Tinubu implements reforms welcomed by the IMF but which have sharply increased the cost of living.

Ibadan Explosion: FG Orders Immediate Shutdown Of Illegal Gas Operations Nationwide

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Ibadan Explosion: FG Orders Immediate Shutdown Of Illegal Gas Operations Nationwide

The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to all unauthorised gas retail operators, directing them to immediately vacate the sector following a deadly gas explosion in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, condemned the incident, which occurred on Friday night in the Biodun Alaadun area of Ona Ara Local Government, leaving three people dead. Authorities say the explosion happened while a tanker was offloading gas into an illegal retail facility.

Ekpo, in a statement, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and described the explosion as a preventable tragedy caused by unlawful and unsafe operations.

“Preliminary reports indicate that the explosion occurred while a gas tanker was offloading LPG into a 2.5MT illegal skid situated within a densely populated neighbourhood,” he said, noting the extensive damage to nearby homes, shops, and a church.

He stressed that while gas is safe when properly handled, negligence, substandard equipment, and failure to obtain required licenses continue to fuel such disasters.

The minister disclosed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has opened a full investigation into the explosion and urged residents to support the inquiry.

He warned that the Federal Government will enforce strict compliance going forward.

“Illegal operators must immediately vacate the sector. The Federal Government will not hesitate to shut down unsafe sites, prosecute offenders, and enforce all safety regulations to protect lives, property, and public confidence in Nigeria’s gas sector,” Ekpo stated.

Court Adjourns DSS–SERAP Defamation Case To February 2026

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Court Adjourns DSS–SERAP Defamation Case To February 2026

Justice Yusuf Halilu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, has adjourned proceedings in the ₦5 billion defamation suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to February 19, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses.

The suit, marked FCT/HC/CV/4547/24, was instituted by DSS officials Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele.

At Monday’s hearing, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, opened the organisation’s defence after the court granted a housekeeping application to amend its processes. Testifying, he explained SERAP’s mandate and addressed allegations surrounding the disputed visit of DSS operatives to its Abuja office.

Oluwadare said SERAP is a registered non-governmental organisation committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights. He denied claims that the organisation exists solely to criticise the government and stressed that intimidation of civic actors undermines its work.

During cross-examination, he acknowledged using words such as “unlawful,” “invasion,” “intimidation,” and “harassment” in publications about the DSS visit, admitting that these descriptions were based on information provided by a front-desk officer, Vivian Amadi. He also confirmed that he was not present when the DSS officials arrived on September 9, 2024.

He further admitted that the operatives did not damage property, assault staff, break doors, or brandish weapons, though he maintained that CCTV footage captured their presence at the facility.

The claimants, Sarah John and Ogundele, argue that SERAP’s statements falsely portrayed them as storming and occupying the organisation’s office, causing reputational harm and leading to public criticism of the DSS. They contend that the officers only paid a routine familiarisation visit and left after speaking with a staff member identified as Ruth.

They are seeking:

  • A public apology published on SERAP’s website, X handle, two national newspapers, and two national television stations.
  • ₦5 billion in damages for alleged libel.
  • ₦50 million as costs of the action.
  • 10% annual interest on any awarded sum until fully paid.

Justice Halilu adjourned the case to February 19, 2026, for parties to adopt their final written addresses.

Paystack Fires Co-Founder Ezra Olubi Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

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Paystack Fires Co-Founder Ezra Olubi Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Nigerian fintech company Paystack has terminated the employment of its co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, following allegations of sexual misconduct against him.

Olubi disclosed the development in a post on his personal blog over the weekend, stating that the decision to remove him was taken before the company concluded its internal investigation. He added that his legal team is currently reviewing the process leading to his dismissal.

“On Saturday, 22 November 2025, I was informed that my employment had been terminated. My legal team is now reviewing the process that led to my purported termination, including its consistency with internal policies. They will take the steps they consider appropriate, and I will not be commenting further on this matter at this time,” he wrote.

Paystack had earlier suspended Olubi following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a colleague.

The controversy emerged in mid-November after a social media post accusing Olubi of abusive behaviour went viral, prompting users to resurface explicit tweets from earlier in his career.

Former VP Atiku Officially Joins ADC

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Former VP Atiku Officially Joins ADC

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku announced his move on Monday via a post on X, where he shared photos of himself receiving his ADC membership card and a customised “Waziri 01” jersey. The registration ceremony held in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, attracted a large gathering of supporters, party leaders, and community stakeholders. In the images, he is seen lifting his membership form as supporters captured the moment on their phones.

“It’s official. – AA,” he wrote, confirming long-running speculation about his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he had been a central figure for years.

His defection follows earlier reports that he would formalise his ADC membership during his birthday visit to Adamawa, an event that also featured community outreach activities.

Atiku left the PDP earlier in 2025 and is now expected to play a key role in building a stronger opposition platform ahead of the 2027 polls, positioning himself against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial: Court Sentences IPOB Leader to Life Imprisonment

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Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial: Court Sentences IPOB Leader to Life Imprisonment

Justice James Omotoso of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has sentenced the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment after finding him guilty on all seven counts of terrorism filed against him.

Kanu’s trial, one of Nigeria’s most high-profile legal cases, has spanned several years. He was first arrested in 2015 on charges of treasonable felony and terrorism. In 2017, he fled the country while on bail following a military operation at his residence during “Operation Python Dance” in the South-East. He was rearrested in Kenya in June 2021 under disputed circumstances and returned to Nigeria, after which the charges against him were expanded to 15 counts.

Throughout the trial, Kanu challenged the legitimacy of the proceedings, alleging procedural violations and raising issues relating to his extradition.

Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, represented the Federal Government, while Kanu represented himself.

Court Proceedings and Conviction

At 2:16pm, Justice Omotosho declared Kanu guilty on all seven charges. The court held that his actions, including public broadcasts, sit-at-home directives in the South-East, and threats of violence, amounted to terrorism. The judge also ruled that self-determination, as cited by Kanu, is a political right that must be pursued through constitutional amendment and not through violent agitation.

The court described Kanu as an “international terrorist,” referencing his alleged threats against the British High Commission and directives involving the United States.

Justice Omotosho noted that Kanu refused to enter his defence and failed to call witnesses, adding that he repeatedly behaved in a disorderly manner in court. Due to his conduct, the judgment was delivered in his absence.

Sentencing

At 4:22pm, the court sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment. Before the sentence, the prosecution, led by Awomolo, SAN, argued that terrorism represents a grave threat to society and requested the death penalty, while also urging that Kanu be kept in a secure correctional facility due to the risks posed by his supporters and detractors.

The judge criticised Kanu for showing no remorse, saying he brought harm to his own people and acted without regard for the law. He instructed Kanu’s consultants—including legal associate Alloy Ejimakor and Hon. Obi Aguocha, who represents Kanu’s constituency in the House of Representatives—to convey the sentence to him.

Earlier, the court had adjourned at 2:42pm to reconvene for sentencing at 3:50pm.

The proceedings leading to the sentencing included Kanu interrupting the court, refusing instructions from the judge, disputing the legality of the charges, and insisting on filing additional motions. The judge maintained that the court was bound to continue, noting that issues raised by Kanu had been previously addressed.

With the pronouncement of life imprisonment, the judgment marks the culmination of a long-running and contentious trial.

Terrorism Charges: Court Convicts Nnamdi Kanu Of All Seven Counts

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Terrorism Charges: Court Convicts Nnamdi Kanu Of All Seven Counts

The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on all seven counts of terrorism brought against him by the Federal Government.

Justice James Omotosho, in delivering judgment, held that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

On Count One, the judge noted that Kanu failed to respond to the broadcast in which he allegedly threatened that people would die and that the world would be at a standstill. He said evidence before the court showed that the defendant ordered the sit-at-home directive in the South-East.

Justice Omotosho held that Kanu committed an act of terrorism against Nigeria, stating that the defendant knew the implications of his threats and acted without regard for the safety of his own people.

He added that unchallenged evidence presented by the prosecution demonstrated that Kanu engaged in preparatory acts of terrorism. According to the judge, the defendant had the responsibility to explain himself but failed to do so.

We Have A Fair Idea Of Abducted Schoolgirls’ Location, Says Kebbi Senator Garba Maidoki

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We Have A Fair Idea Of Abducted Schoolgirls’ Location, Says Kebbi Senator Garba Maidoki

Senator Garba Maidoki has stated that authorities have a “fair idea” of the location of the schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State and expressed confidence that they would be rescued soon.

Speaking on Wednesday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Maidoki said the abductors had not moved the girls outside Kebbi South Senatorial District.

“We have a fair idea where the girls are, and we are sure they have not moved outside the Kebbi South senatorial district,” he said. “There is high hope that the girls will return home in one or two days.”

Describing the abduction as the most difficult period he has experienced, Maidoki recalled, “When we heard of the kidnapping of the Chibok girls, we thought it was too far away… today, it is right in the middle of my house.”

Maidoki said he visited Maga to console the families affected by the raid. “These are people that we assured that when we win the election, there will be security. Security was the number one item on the agenda for my election. We will work with the government and other security agents to ensure these children are brought back home. This will not be like the Chibok girls. They will come back home.”

The abduction in Maga adds to the rising number of school kidnappings across Nigeria. In 2014, Boko Haram abducted 276 students from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, of whom more than 90 remain missing.

Gunmen attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, on Monday, killing the vice principal who tried to resist the abductors.

The federal government has directed security agencies to rescue the girls. Vice President Kashim Shettima visited the community on Wednesday on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, underscoring the administration’s priority to ensure the safe return of the children. Following the attack, President Tinubu postponed planned trips to South Africa and Angola.

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