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  • Court Hears Details of Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu as Army Witness Testifies

    An army officer has told the Federal High Court in Abuja how investigators uncovered an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, detailing financial links, meetings, and operational plans tied to the suspects.

    Witness reveals origin of investigation

    The witness, identified as “AAA,” said he was part of the investigative team set up after the Chief of Army Staff received intelligence about a planned coup involving Colonel M. A. Ma’aji and others.

    He explained that the intelligence report was analysed and confirmed credible before directives were issued to launch a full investigation into the alleged plot.

    According to him, the probe led to the arrest of Col. Ma’aji and the recovery of key items, including a Samsung phone and a jotter containing sensitive information.

    Recovered items expose alleged plans

    The witness told the court that the recovered jotter contained operational details, including names of top government officials and security officers allegedly marked for assassination.

    He added that further forensic analysis of the phone revealed deeper links between the suspects and other individuals standing trial.

    “Inside the jotter, we found plans for political and structural changes after the coup, as well as names of officials to be targeted,” he said.

    Financial trails and transactions uncovered

    The court also heard that investigators traced multiple financial transactions allegedly linked to the coup plot through a company identified as Purple Wave.

    According to the witness, several large sums, including ₦100 million and ₦50 million transfers, were moved across different dates in September and October 2025.

    He stated that although the transactions were labelled for unrelated purposes, investigations suggested they were used to fund the alleged plot.

    “We observed financial trails between some of the defendants and Col. Ma’aji. Monies were paid in pursuit of the coup,” he said.

    Meetings and strategy sessions detailed

    The witness further revealed that meetings were held in locations such as Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel in Abuja, where discussions allegedly centred on regime change.

    He said the plotters mapped out key targets, including military barracks and major roads, and shared roles among themselves ahead of the planned operation.

    “The plotters discussed taking over key infrastructure and even shared appointments for after the coup,” he added.

    Court admits evidence amid objections

    During proceedings, the court admitted several documents, including hotel records and extracts from the recovered phone, despite objections from defence lawyers.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik also ruled in favour of the prosecution’s request to shield the identities of certain witnesses, citing the sensitive nature of the case.

    She held that the law permits such measures in cases involving national security and terrorism concerns.

    Charges and next hearing date

    The defendants are facing charges including treason, terrorism, money laundering, and failure to disclose security intelligence.

    They were arraigned on April 22 and pleaded not guilty to the 13-count charge.

    The court has adjourned further hearing in the matter to May 4 and 5 as proceedings continue.

  • Uganda Detains 62 Nigerians Over Alleged Illegal Church Operations, Immigration Violations

    Ugandan authorities have detained 62 Nigerian nationals over alleged illegal church operations and immigration violations, following an enforcement operation in Adjumani.

    Arrest over alleged illegal activities

    The Ugandan National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, stating that the arrests were made after a tip-off.

    “Following a tip-off, our enforcement team has arrested 62 Nigerian nationals operating illegally in Adjumani (without work permits),” the agency said.

    According to the statement, the group was primarily found operating a church alongside other activities without the required legal authorisation.

    Authorities cite immigration violations

    Simon Peter Mundeyi, spokesperson for Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, said the individuals are currently being held at the Namanve facility.

    He noted that they are undergoing legal processes that may lead to deportation, fines, or possible blacklisting.

    “They often pose as gospel preachers while engaging in other irregular activities. Acting on intelligence, we moved in and apprehended them,” he said.

    Conflicting accounts from suspects

    Mundeyi disclosed that preliminary investigations have revealed varying accounts from those detained.

    While some claimed they were lured into Uganda with promises of jobs, others are being investigated over suspected involvement in online fraud and related offences.

    The development has raised concerns around migration, religious activities, and cross-border enforcement as authorities continue their probe.

  • IGP Orders Dismissal, Prosecution of Officers Over Effurun Killing

    The Inspector-General of Police, Rilwan Olutunji Disu, has ordered disciplinary action and recommended prosecution for officers involved in the fatal shooting of Mene Ogidi in Effurun, Delta State.

    IGP condemns shooting as criminal

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, the IGP described the incident as “criminal, unprofessional, and completely unacceptable,” stressing that it contradicts the core values of the Nigeria Police Force.

    He said the officer at the centre of the case, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted in clear violation of established procedures and rules governing the use of firearms.

    Disu stated firmly that the conduct had no place within the police institution.

    Officers face dismissal and prosecution

    The IGP disclosed that all officers linked to the incident were immediately transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for investigation and disciplinary review.

    According to him, proceedings by the Force Disciplinary Committee and the Orderly Room Tribunal confirmed breaches of operational procedures and unlawful conduct.

    Both bodies have now recommended the dismissal of ASP Nuhu Usman and other implicated officers, alongside their prosecution for unlawful homicide.

    Case moves to Police Service Commission

    Disu said the recommendations have been forwarded to the Police Service Commission for final approval, after which the affected officers will be handed over to judicial authorities.

    He emphasised that the actions of the officers were individual violations and should not be seen as reflective of the Nigeria Police Force as an institution.

    The IGP reiterated that the Force operates under the rule of law and does not tolerate misconduct within its ranks.

    Condolence and assurance of justice

    The police chief extended condolences to the family of the deceased, acknowledging the gravity of the loss and the public concern surrounding the incident.

    He assured that justice would be pursued transparently and that the process would be seen to its conclusion.

    Disu also urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.

    Renewed stance against police impunity

    Reaffirming the Force’s position, the IGP stated that accountability remains a priority and that no officer is above the law.

    He added that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening discipline and restoring public confidence in policing across the country.

  • “No Explanation” — Delta Police Spokesman Reacts to Viral Killing, Mentions ‘Spirituality’

    The Delta State Police Command has reacted to the viral video showing a suspect being shot by a police officer in Effurun, with spokesperson Bright Edafe saying the incident remains difficult to explain. He added that “spirituality may not be far from it,” as investigations continue.

    Edafe spoke during a live interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, addressing the growing outrage surrounding the incident.

    Viral Video Shows Handcuffed Suspect Shot

    Footage circulating online shows a man with his hands cuffed behind his back pleading before being shot by an officer. A police bus at the scene was marked “Effurun Area Command,” linking the incident to operatives in Delta State.

    The killing, widely described as extrajudicial, reportedly occurred on April 26 during an operation based on intelligence from members of the public.

    Police Say Officer Violated Operational Rules

    In an earlier statement, the command said the victim, identified as 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, was arrested while attempting to waybill a parcel suspected to contain a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition.

    According to the police, the officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted outside established procedures. The command said he violated Force Order 237 and the Nigeria Police Force’s standard operating guidelines by discharging his firearm.

    Edafe Admits Difficulty Explaining Officer’s Action

    Reacting to the development, Edafe said the command is still trying to understand what led to the shooting. He described the situation as one of the most challenging moments in his role.

    “Having an incident that cannot be explained is very difficult. There is no explanation for this,” he said. He added that while the police cannot formally attribute the act to spirituality, “that may not be far from it.”

    Officer Arrested, Disciplinary Process Underway

    The police confirmed that the officer involved has been arrested and transferred to Abuja to face disciplinary proceedings. Authorities say further investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The case has drawn widespread attention across social media and news platforms, intensifying calls for accountability.

    Incident Revives Concerns Over Police Conduct

    The killing has renewed public concern over the use of force by security operatives, coming nearly six years after the #EndSARS protests against police brutality. The latest development is expected to keep pressure on authorities as demands for transparency and justice continue to grow.

  • Police Arrest ASP Over Killing of Suspect in Delta, Officer Moved to Abuja for Trial

    The Delta State Police Command has arrested an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Nuhu Usman, over the killing of a 28-year-old suspect, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun. The officer has been transferred to Abuja for disciplinary action and possible prosecution.

    The incident, which has raised concerns over police conduct, occurred after operatives responded to intelligence about a suspect allegedly attempting to waybill a firearm.

    Suspect Arrest Turns Fatal During Police Operation

    According to the police, Ogidi was apprehended while trying to send a parcel containing a Beretta pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition. Operatives attached to the Effurun Area Command were deployed to the scene following a tip-off from members of the public.

    During the operation, ASP Nuhu Usman, who led the team, allegedly discharged his firearm, resulting in the death of the suspect.

    Police Cite Violation of Force Rules

    Confirming the development, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the officer acted in breach of established procedures. He stated that the action violated Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedure of the Nigeria Police Force.

    “However, the police officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, in clear violation of Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedure of the Nigeria Police Force, discharged his firearm, leading to the death of the suspect,” the statement read.

    Officer Queried, Moved to Abuja for Disciplinary Process

    Edafe disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in Delta State ordered the immediate arrest of the officer upon receiving the report. He added that Usman has been formally queried and transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

    “The officer responsible has been transferred to Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he will appear before the Force Disciplinary Committee for immediate disciplinary sanction and prosecution,” he said.

    Police Condemn Killing, Promise Justice

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, condemned the incident and extended condolences to the family of the deceased. He assured that the Command is committed to ensuring justice is served in line with the law.

    The Command also reiterated its stance on professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights, urging members of the public to remain calm as investigations and disciplinary proceedings continue.

  • Osun Government Deposes Ipetumodu Monarch Oba Oloyede, Declares Stool Vacant After US Fraud Conviction

    The Osun State Government has officially deposed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, with immediate effect.

    The decision was announced on Monday following approval by the State Executive Council.

    Government Cites Law and Conviction

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the government said the action followed due consultation and legal review.

    It stated that the monarch’s conviction in the United States for COVID-19-related fraud influenced the decision.

    “Oba Oloyede… was removed in line with state laws governing traditional institutions,” the statement read.

    Staff of Office Withdrawn, Stool Declared Vacant

    The state government also announced the withdrawal of the monarch’s staff of office and other instruments of authority.

    This effectively declared the throne of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu vacant.

    It added that security agencies have been directed to maintain peace in the community while stakeholders are urged to remain calm.

    Legal Troubles in the United States

    Oba Oloyede, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, was sentenced in August 2025 to four years in prison for leading a COVID-19 loan fraud scheme.

    U.S. authorities said he exploited emergency loan programmes meant for struggling businesses, leading to millions of dollars in losses.

    He was also ordered to forfeit property and pay over $4.4 million in restitution.

    Succession Tensions in Ipetumodu

    The development has deepened tensions in Ipetumodu, with different ruling houses divided over the future of the stool.

    Some stakeholders had earlier called on the state government to declare the throne vacant and begin the process of selecting a new monarch.

    The government, however, said it will communicate the next steps in line with customary and legal procedures.

  • Aisha Achimugu Denies $13m Found in Home, Speaks on Wealth Amid EFCC Case

    Lagos-based socialite and business executive, Aisha Achimugu, has denied reports that $13 million was discovered in her residence, describing the claim as misleading.

    She spoke amid ongoing scrutiny over her finances and legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    ‘I’m Not a Bank’

    In an interview on Monday, Achimugu said only $50,000 and ₦13 million, which she claimed belonged to her mother, were found during a raid on her home.

    “I don’t know where Nigerians got the impression that I had 13 million dollars in my house. I’m not a bank,” she said.

    She added that her house was searched, but the widely circulated figure is inaccurate.

    Distances Wealth from Political Ties

    Achimugu also dismissed claims linking her wealth to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    According to her, she has been running businesses since 2001 and built her fortune through legitimate ventures.

    She said her company successfully participated in oil block bidding rounds between 2022 and 2024 through a transparent process.

    Explains Foreign Currency Possession

    On the presence of foreign currency, she said it was kept for practical reasons, noting that her children study abroad.

    “It is important to have some foreign currency available for emergencies,” she said.

    She declined to speak extensively on the EFCC case, citing ongoing legal proceedings.

    Addresses Birthday Controversy, EFCC Invitation

    Achimugu also defended her high-profile birthday celebration in Grenada, saying it had been planned for years and was not funded with any disputed funds.

    She explained that her delayed response to EFCC’s invitation was due to her being out of the country, adding that her movements may have been misinterpreted.

    Court Ruling Adds Twist

    In March, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of $13 million linked to Achimugu and her company to the Federal Government.

    The court ruled that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities, while the EFCC maintained they were traced through suspicious transactions tied to oil block deals.

    Achimugu and her firm have, however, continued to deny any wrongdoing.

  • VDM Reconciles with Blord, Turns Focus to Sowore Amid Ongoing Legal Dispute

    Social media activist Verydarkman has reconciled with cryptocurrency entrepreneur Blord, but has now redirected his attention to Omoyele Sowore amid the ongoing legal dispute.

    The development follows Blord’s recent release from custody after meeting bail conditions.

    VDM Declares New Target

    In a video circulating online, Verydarkman made it clear that his focus has moved away from Blord.

    “It’s not about him anymore… It’s about Sowore now, and I will show him,” he said.

    The statement comes as reports indicate that legal practitioners have been making efforts to de-escalate tensions surrounding the matter.

    Blord’s Bail and Release

    Blord was granted bail on April 17, 2026, by Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    However, he regained freedom on April 20 after fulfilling bail conditions, including the submission of his international passport.

    He had been arrested on April 1 over allegations of criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and unauthorised use of Verydarkman’s image.

    Reconciliation Sparks Reactions

    Meanwhile, speculation of a truce between both men gained traction after they were seen exchanging a handshake, suggesting a possible resolution of their differences.

    The development has drawn mixed reactions online, even as attention shifts to the emerging tension between Verydarkman and Sowore.

  • Anti-Nigerian Protest Erupts in Ghana as Tensions Rise Over Jobs, Crime Claims

    A group of Ghanaians under the Concerned Youth Alliance staged a protest in Accra on April 25, 2026, accusing foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, of contributing to insecurity and unemployment in the country.

    The demonstration took place at Obra Spot, where protesters claimed that foreigners were taking jobs meant for Ghanaian citizens.

    Strong Allegations Spark Concern

    During the protest, one female speaker made sweeping allegations against Nigerians, describing them as fraudsters, ritual killers, and organ harvesters.

    “Our women should wise up. Nigerians are using you to destroy Ghana,” she said, urging Ghanaian women to seek alternative means of livelihood.

    Rising Xenophobic Tensions

    The protest adds to growing tensions between citizens and Nigerian residents in Ghana. In July 2025, a similar demonstration saw protesters accuse Nigerians of involvement in prostitution and ritual activities.

    Placards displayed during that protest carried messages such as “Nigeria must go” and “Our children are going missing,” reflecting deepening fears among some locals.

    Diplomatic Efforts to Ease Situation

    Amid the backlash, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, visited Ghana to assess the situation and calm tensions.

    She said the viral reports had created anxiety but noted that there were no widespread signs of unrest or coordinated calls for deportation at the time of her visit.

    The minister added that authorities in both countries were engaging to address the situation and maintain peaceful relations.

    Growing Regional Concerns

    The latest protest underscores ongoing concerns about xenophobia and migration tensions within West Africa, as economic pressures continue to strain relations between host communities and foreign nationals.

  • Trump Reacts Hours After White House Security Breach, Suspect Apprehended

    U.S. President Donald Trump spoke out hours after a security incident near the White House, calling his role “the hardest job” amid what authorities describe as an apparent assassination attempt.

    Trump said an armed man charged a security checkpoint before being subdued by the United States Secret Service. “A man with multiple weapons charged the checkpoint and was taken down,” he said, calling the suspect a “very sick person” and a “thug.”

    Secret Service Officer Survives

    The president confirmed a Secret Service officer was shot but survived thanks to protective gear. “He was saved by his bulletproof vest and is doing great,” Trump added.

    The incident occurred during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, where gunfire near a screening area caused panic and forced the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests.

    Suspect in Custody

    Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Allen, who was arrested and is expected to face charges in court on Monday. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, said Allen faces multiple charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer.

    “This individual was intent on doing as much harm as possible,” Pirro said, adding that no one else was injured due to the checkpoint.

    Trump Urges Peace Amid Threats

    Speaking at a press briefing, Trump urged Americans to commit to peaceful resolution despite political tensions. “This is not the first time our republic has been attacked by a would-be assassin,” he said.

    On whether he was the intended target, Trump responded cautiously: “I guess.” He described the dangers of political leadership, noting that even the best security cannot fully prevent determined threats.

    Trump said the incident would not affect his policy direction, including tensions involving Iran. Investigators continue to determine the suspect’s motive.

    Ongoing Security Concerns

    The Secret Service confirmed the shooting occurred at a screening area and is under active investigation. The scare adds to a series of threats Trump has faced in recent years, including a near-fatal attack during a 2024 campaign rally in Pennsylvania.