Boat Mishap Claims 25 Lives in Yobe, 14 Still Missing
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Sunday said no fewer than 25 persons lost their lives, while 14 others remain missing following a boat mishap in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State. NEMA disclosed that the incident occurred around 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, adding that 13 passengers were rescued alive as search and rescue efforts continued.
Kidnappers Demand N200m Ransom for Two Brothers in Edo
Kidnappers who abducted two brothers, Ibrahim and Tahir Abu, in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, have demanded a ransom of N200 million for their release. The victims’ father, Momoh Tahir, said the abductors contacted the family on Sunday morning to communicate their demand.
London Hosts Funeral Prayers for Anthony Joshua’s Close Friends
Family and friends on Sunday, January 4, 2026, gathered in London for the Janaza (funeral) prayer of Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, close friends of boxing star Anthony Joshua. A wake was held at the Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London, while Ghami was later laid to rest at the Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium.
Over 60 Killed in Deadly Market Attack in Niger State
At least 60 people were killed on Sunday in a terrorist attack at Kasuwan Daji Market in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Sources said gunmen who emerged from the Kainji National Park stormed the market around 4 p.m., killing traders and buyers and abducting several others, mostly women and children.
Tinubu, Kagame Hold Private Talks in Paris
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Sunday held a private meeting in Paris, France. According to sources, the leaders discussed global issues and explored strategies for advancing Africa’s collective interests on the international stage.
NDLEA Detains 22 Indian Crew Members Over Cocaine Seizure
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken into custody 22 Indian crew members of the merchant vessel, MV Aruna Hulya, following the seizure of 31.5 kilograms of cocaine at the GDNL Terminal, Apapa Port, Lagos. NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the seizure was made on Friday, January 2, 2026.
Five Die, 13 Injured in Plateau Road Accident
Five persons have been confirmed dead and 13 others injured in a road accident in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident occurred less than six days after another fatal crash near the Polo Field Club roundabout in Jos, which claimed two lives.
FG Withdraws Defamation Charges Against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, has formally withdrawn the criminal defamation charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. A notice of discontinuance was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, bringing the trial of the Kogi Central lawmaker to an end.
Rivers APC Pledges Loyalty to Wike Ahead of 2027
The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State has declared its readiness to abide by any directive issued by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ahead of the 2027 elections. The party’s chairman, Rejoice Otobo, made the disclosure during Wike’s thank-you visit to the area on Sunday.
PDP Stakeholders Set Conditions for Reconciliation
Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have outlined wide-ranging conditions for reconciliation as consultations intensify to resolve the party’s prolonged internal crisis. Issues under discussion include party structure, the possibility of another national convention, public apologies and other fundamental reforms.
Tinubu Orders Security Agencies to Hunt Niger Attackers
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the military, police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to track down and apprehend those responsible for the deadly Kasuwan Daji attack in Niger State. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President condemned the attack, ordered the rescue of abducted victims and extended condolences to affected families.
FG Formally Drops Criminal Defamation Case Against Natasha
The Federal Government has officially withdrawn the criminal defamation and cyberbullying case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The case, which arose from petitions by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, was discontinued following a notice filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation on December 12, 2025.
Atiku Condemns Niger Terror Attacks, Calls for Action
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, describing them as heinous and unacceptable. In a statement on Sunday, Atiku mourned the victims, urged improved security measures and stressed that protecting lives and property remains the primary duty of government.
APC: Defection Won’t Shield Anyone From EFCC
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned that defecting to the ruling party will not shield politicians from prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The party’s National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustapha Salihu, said President Bola Tinubu has zero tolerance for corruption and will not interfere with anti-graft investigations.
23 Bandits Killed as Troops Strike in Katsina
No fewer than 23 bandits have been killed by troops of the Joint Task Force, supported by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, in Katsina State. The bandits were reportedly neutralised while regrouping to bury their dead after fleeing attacks carried out in parts of Kano State, according to the Nigerian Army.
Obidient Movement Insists Obi Must Run Only for President
The Obidient Movement has reiterated that it will only support Peter Obi for the presidency and not for a vice-presidential slot under any arrangement. The movement’s National Coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, dismissed reports suggesting otherwise, describing them as deliberate misrepresentations.
Portable Evades Arrest Over Alleged Assault Case
Controversial singer Portable has reportedly fled after police attempted to arrest him over allegations of assault involving actress Ashabi Simple. The incident, said to have occurred at the singer’s bar in Ogun State, escalated after Ashabi and her siblings reported the matter to the police.
Ice Prince Recounts Brutality of 2001 Jos Crisis
Nigerian musician Ice Prince has recounted his experience during the 2001 Jos crisis, describing it as a full-blown war. Speaking during an interview, the artist said churches and mosques were involved in sharing weapons, adding that the violence left lasting memories on residents.
AFCON 2025: Mozambique Coach Eyes Upset Against Nigeria
Mozambique head coach Chiquinho Conde has expressed optimism ahead of his team’s AFCON 2025 round of 16 clash against Nigeria. While acknowledging the Super Eagles as favourites, Conde said his players are ready to rise to the challenge and fight for a place in the quarter-finals.
Liverpool Agree Deal for Ifeanyi Ndukwe, Arsenal Recall Players
Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign Nigerian-born Austrian defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Wien, with the move set to take effect in the summer of 2026. Meanwhile, Arsenal have recalled young players Cecily Wellesley-Smith and Naomi Williams from their respective loan spells.