PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 House of Reps orders review, re-gazetting of tax laws The House of Representatives says it is reviewing the tax reform laws following public backlash and alleged alterations of some portions of the laws. Reps spokesman Akin Rotimi said the Green Chamber has already inaugurated a committee to undertake a “review to establish the sequence of events and to identify any factors that may have contributed to the circumstances surrounding the legislative and administrative handling of the Acts.” In a statement on Friday, Rotimi, who represents Ekiti North (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency, said the review “includes a careful examination of any lapses, irregularities, or external interferences, should any be established.” The lawmaker said the National Assembly, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives, has “directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to re-gazette the Acts and issue Certified True Copies of the versions duly passed by both Chambers of the National Assembly.”...

 ‎NAF C-130 FERRY FLIGHT ARRIVES SAFELY IN PORTUGAL FOR SCHEDULED DEPOT MAINTENANCE ‎ ‎The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed  that its C-130 aircraft (NAF 913) arrived safely at the maintainance facility, OGMA in Lisbon, Portugal  26 December 2025.  ‎ ‎The ferry flight was successful completed, transiting Banjul and Casablanca in line with an updated flight plan and established aviation safety procedures.  ‎ ‎A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that the aircraft and crew arrived without incident, marking the final phase of the movement for the scheduled depot maintenance.  ‎ ‎All personnel are safe, and remain in high spirit. The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the cooperation and support of host authorities throughout the transit, while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational accountability.

 SEVERAL INJURED IN BENUE ROAD CRASH NEAR TYEKU  26th December, 2025     Several persons were injured on Thursday following a road traffic accident near Tyeku on the Tse-Kucha–Gboko road in Benue State. Eyewitnesses said the crash occurred in the afternoon when a vehicle reportedly veered off the road and overturned, triggering an immediate response from residents and passers-by who rushed to rescue the victims. Photos shared on social media showed the damaged vehicle lying on its side in a ditch, while community members were seen assisting the injured and administering first aid at the scene. No death was reported as of the time of filing this report, though some of the victims were said to have sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment. The cause of the accident and the exact number of injured persons could not be immediately confirmed, as authorities were yet to issue an official statement. The incident has renewed c...

 BENUE LEADERS PRAISE U.S. AIR STRIKES ON TERRORISTS, URGE EXTENSION TO NORTH-CENTRAL, NORTH-EAST  26th December, 2025   Leaders of various tribal groups in Benue State have commended the United States for recent air strikes against Islamic State militants in north-west Nigeria, describing the action as a decisive step in the fight against terrorism. In a statement cited by Vanguard News, the leaders praised U.S. President Donald Trump for authorising the strikes, which reportedly targeted Islamic State camps in Sokoto State and led to the death of several militants. The air strikes, announced on Christmas Day 2025, were presented by the U.S. president as a response to sustained attacks, particularly against Christian communities. The Benue leaders said the intervention could serve as a strong deterrent to terrorist activities across the country. However, they called on the U.S. and its partners to extend similar operations to the North-East and North-Central zones, ...

 Missing 15-Year-Old Girl Found Dead; Father Sought by Police in Hlanganani  Police in Hlanganani have opened a murder case following the discovery of the lifeless body of a 15-year-old girl at Rotterdam Village.  The deceased has been identified as Xilaveko Suke, who was previously reported missing together with her biological father, Peter Themba Baloyi.  Xilaveko was reported missing on Monday, 22 December 2025, after she allegedly left home with her father, reportedly travelling to Giyani.  A public appeal was issued to the community to assist in locating the missing pair.  On Thursday, 25 December 2025, at about 08:50, police received a report of a body discovered at the father’s residence in Rotterdam Village. Upon arrival, the deceased’s paternal grandmother pointed out the body of a young girl inside a one-room house.  Police confirmed that the body was that of the missing 15-year-old and noted visible injuries consistent with a stabbing. ...

 In a heartwarming holiday moment captured on bodycam, an elderly couple dressed as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus were pulled over for going a bit too fast in Fulton County, Ohio, on December 20. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office shared the fun video on social media, joking that Santa and Mrs. Claus were “flying a little too fast” through the area. When the deputy approached the car, he was surprised and delighted to see the festive pair. Santa let the officer know he had a concealed carry permit, leading to some lighthearted laughs about how “times are rough” even at the North Pole.The couple explained they were on their way to surprise their daughter at work. After a quick check and a friendly chat about road safety, the deputy gave them just a gentle warning—no ticket needed. They shared laughs, took photos together, and even exchanged candy canes and Merry Christmas wishes. The sheriff’s office wrapped it up perfectly: no coal was given, just a kind reminder to slow down, and Chr...

 Paul McCartney has lightheartedly responded to a fun online rumor about his 1979 holiday song "Simply Having a Wonderful Christmastime." In a recent Vevo Footnotes video breaking down the track, the music legend addressed the idea that some lyrics are misinterpreted in a silly way. He joked: "There is a theory online that the song is about something mysterious... Thank goodness they found me out. This is completely true and in actual fact I am the head wizard of a Liverpool group. Either that… or it’s complete nonsense. And you know it's the latter!" McCartney explained the song was simply inspired by joyful Christmas parties from his Liverpool days, meant to capture the happy holiday spirit. He also clarified the lyrics are "the mood is right," not anything else. The video has delighted fans this holiday season!

 Former Vice President Kamala Harris offered thoughtful and lighthearted relationship advice during a December 23, 2025, appearance on the Rich Little Brokegirls podcast, while discussing her new book 107 Days. She encouraged singles to prioritize kindness: "Be kind to yourself and choose to be with someone who is kind." Harris emphasized finding a partner who shares laughter and enjoys simple moments together, like grocery shopping, walks, or special outings. Reflecting on life's different stages, she noted that people's needs in relationships can change over time, advising honesty about where one is in life and embracing those phases positively. Harris, married to Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff since 2014 after a blind date setup, shared that timing plays a key role in relationships, adding that meeting him earlier might not have led to the same outcome.Her warm and relatable comments have resonated in recent media discussions.

 Khloé Kardashian surprised her family with the perfect Christmas gift this year-a adorable black Labrador puppy named Peppermint!.  The reality star shared heartwarming photos on Instagram Stories on December 25, showing the tiny pup wearing a festive red bow and a name tag. Khloé gushed, "I am going to cry... she's the best in the world" and called Peppermint "the sweetest soul ever." This special addition comes after her children, True (7) and Tatum (3), wrote an adorable letter to Santa earlier in December, politely asking for a "real" black Labrador puppy. Their wish came true, making it a magical holiday for the family.Fans are loving the joyful update, with many celebrating the sweet new family member joining Khloé's home alongside their existing pets.

 On Christmas Day, during the NFL game between the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium (streamed on Netflix), Snoop Dogg headlined a festive halftime performance filled with holiday spirit and energetic music. The rapper shared family-friendly versions of his classic songs like “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” while adding seasonal cheer. The show began with Martha Stewart reading a fun, reimagined version of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Highlights included special guest appearances and collaborations across different music styles, featuring country artist Lainey Wilson, the group HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami), and opera singer Andrea Bocelli with his son Matteo performing holiday favorites like “White Christmas.” With more than 100 performers on stage—including dancers, singers, violinists, and an orchestra dressed in bright, festive colors—the production brought together hip-hop, country, pop, and classical music in a j...

 It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Mickey Lee, a beloved contestant from Big Brother Season 27 (US, 2025).  Her family announced her peaceful passing on December 25, 2025.Mickey, an event curator from Jacksonville, Florida, and based in Atlanta, Georgia, was a standout houseguest known for her vibrant personality, bold gameplay, and genuine spirit. She quickly became a fan favorite, winning powers like the HoH Interrogator and serving as Head of Household. She was evicted after 59 days, placing 10th (the last pre-jury position). Her family described her as someone who "captured the hearts of audiences nationwide" and left a lasting impression through her strength and joy. They have asked for privacy during this difficult time and will share details about memorial services when ready. Many from the Big Brother community, including castmates like Rachel Reilly, Jimmy Heagerty, and others, have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering her warmth and ...

 New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns proposed to his longtime girlfriend, model and entrepreneur Jordyn Woods, on Christmas Day 2025. The couple, who transitioned from close friends to a romantic relationship in 2020, shared the joyful news through a joint Instagram post captioned "Marry Christmas" . The stunning photos capture the magical rooftop moment in New York City, with Jordyn in an elegant white satin dress and fur coat, admiring her beautiful diamond ring as Karl-Anthony kneels. The proposal came shortly after Towns contributed to the Knicks' exciting 126-124 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden.After five years together, filled with mutual support and love, the pair is now engaged. Fans and celebrities have flooded social media with heartfelt congratulations for the happy couple.

 Amazon MGM Studios has released the first teaser trailer for the upcoming biopic Madden, giving fans a glimpse of Nicolas Cage as NFL Hall of Famer John Madden.  Directed by David O. Russell, the film follows Madden's path from Super Bowl-winning head coach of the Oakland Raiders to beloved broadcaster and the inspiration behind the iconic Madden NFL video game series. The teaser mixes classic 1970s Raiders footage with new scenes, highlighting Cage's portrayal of Madden's enthusiastic personality. Christian Bale stars as Raiders owner Al Davis, joined by Kathryn Hahn as Virginia Madden, John Mulaney as Electronic Arts founder Trip Hawkins, Sienna Miller as Carol Davis, and Shane Gillis in a supporting role.Inspired by real events, Madden explores the origins of one of gaming's most popular franchises. The movie is set to premiere on Prime Video on Thanksgiving 2026.

 Netflix unveiled the official trailer for Bridgerton Season 4, Part 1 on Christmas Day, shining a spotlight on Benedict Bridgerton's enchanting love story.  Inspired by Julia Quinn's An Offer from a Gentleman, this season brings a fairy-tale romance to life as the artistic second son (Luke Thompson) meets the captivating "Lady in Silver" — Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) — at his mother Violet's grand masquerade ball. The trailer captures their magical connection under glittering masks, with Benedict on a quest to find the mysterious woman who stole his heart. It explores themes of romance, social differences, and hidden identities in the Regency-era world. Fans can also catch glimpses of familiar faces, including Colin and Penelope enjoying married life, Francesca settling into her new chapter, and Violet navigating her own interests. Part 1 (episodes 1-4) arrives January 29, 2026, with Part 2 following on February 26, only on Netflix.

 Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers in Stranger Things, recently shared in an exclusive interview that he was deeply touched while reading a key scene from season 5's Volume 2.  In this emotional moment from the penultimate episode, Will opens up about his feelings and identity to his family and friends in a heartfelt conversation. Schnapp said he "cried reading" the script and praised the Duffer brothers for writing it "so perfectly." He admitted feeling nervous about how the scene would play out, especially the warm group hug from characters like Jonathan, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Eleven that follows. However, he shared that filming made it feel natural and genuine. The actor highlighted how meaningful this storyline is, noting the support from fans and how it could resonate with young people going through similar experiences. He expressed gratitude for the thoughtful way the scene was handled, which ties into Will's personal growth and journey in the fina...

 Anambra tops education funding nationwide with 46.9 per cent of N757bn allocated to education in 2026 budget  As governors across the country present their 2026 appropriation bills to state Houses of Assembly, an analysis by The PUNCH shows wide disparities in funding for the education sector, with Anambra, Enugu, Kano and Jigawa emerging as the leading states, while others trail far below recommended benchmarks. So far, 34 governors have laid their 2026 budget proposals before lawmakers.The analysis reveals that Anambra tops education funding nationwide with 46.9 per cent of N757bn allocated to education. Enugu State follows, allocating N522bn out of its N1.62tn 2026 budget to the sector, representing 32.3 per cent. Enugu has maintained this strong commitment, having consistently earmarked over 30 per cent of its total budget for education in both 2024 and 2025. Akwa Ibom recorded the lowest allocation, earmarking N31.6bn out of a N1.39tn budget, representing 2.27 per cent. ...

 A yet-to-be-identified gunman on Christmas Day shot a Catholic priest at St. Kelvin Catholic Church, Ogbaku, in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. Spokesperson for the Imo State Command, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, although he stated that the church had yet to formally report it. The priest, whose identity was yet to be confirmed, is the assistant parish priest at the church. According to an anonymous source, the gunman shot the priest on the right hand from a hidden and far distance, as nobody saw him. He said that the priest was currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital, where he is recuperating, while prayers were ongoing for his survival. "Yes, the shooting happened on Christmas Day when everyone was in a joyous mood. "The priest was answering greetings from people and walking towards the gate entrance for the morning mass, but we just heard a gunshot sound and the next thing, he was clutching his right shoulder and in pain that he ha...

 The Imo State police command have arrested a 43- year-old Kelechi Nwosu of Umuobi Umukam in Obollo Community, Isiala Mbano, for allegedly defiling his seven-year-old niece. The suspect was arrested by his kinsmen and handed over to the Police at Isiala Mbano Divisional Headquarters from where he was taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, in Owerri. The incident was brought to the public domain through the effort of a human rights organization, 'Stand For Humanity Foundation' who escalated the matter and led to the arrest of the suspect. The group’s Coordinator Chidiebube Okeoma, disclosed that the organization collaborated with the suspect’s kinsmen to effect his arrest, and informed that medical investigations carried out at the Police clinic in Owerri revealed that the child was abused. A statement made by the minor revealed that the suspect defied her on two separate occasions when everyone had left the home for the farm. The organization commended the ...

 Tragedy in Abuma as truck crushes two LG staff Three persons, including two female local government workers in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State were on Tuesday, crushed by a fast-moving truck, resulting in their instant d€ath on the spot. The incident which happened at Abuma, a boundary area of Ugwuakuma, Arochukwu, involved a red Truck which was said to have collided with the motorcycle that was conveying the local government staff to their work place in Arochukwu LGA. The identities of the accident victims were given as Mr Ajah Ogbu Nnanna who was the motorcyclist while the two female victims were given as Mrs Charity Joshua and Mrs Chikaodi  Abel. The victims were said to be indigenes of Ndiokpo and Obichie communities of Ihechiowa, Arochukwu LGA. Confirming the sad development, the interim President-General of Ihechiowa Development Union, Mr Ogbonnaya Okoroafor said the bodies of the victims had been evacuated to the mortuary. There is not yet an official statement about the i...

 Onitsha Catholic Archbishop celebrates Christmas with inmates, urged them to use the opportunity to utilize the skill acquisition centre he established in the correctional centre. As usual in his humanitarian character, especially love for the downtrodden, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, Anambra state, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, celebrated with the inmates of Onitsha Correctional Centre, Anambra state, in the spirit of Christmas. Archbishop Okeke, who presided over the mass that preceded the celebration with the inmates, had in his sermon described Christmas as the day of birth of our saviour, Jesus Christ. He traced the history of the birth of Jesus to when an Angel approached a couple, Joseph and Mary and prophesied that they will have a child and his name shall be called Emmanuel. He reminded the inmates that they should see their detention as a temporary situation for reform as no condition is permanent and urged them to use the opportunity to utilize the skill a...

 Governor Abiodun Promises Peaceful Transition At The End of His Tenure, the first in the 50-year history of Ogun state Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has assured residents of the state that his administration will record a seamless and rancour-free transition at the end of his second term in 2027, pledging to set a historic benchmark in the state’s governance history. The governor gave the assurance on Thursday during the Christmas church service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu-Remo, declaring that his administration is determined to be the first in Ogun State’s history to successfully hand over power without acrimony. "As we approach 2027, not only will we finish well and finish strong, by the grace of God this administration will hand over successfully to a successor. "It will be the first peaceful transition in the 50-year history of Ogun State. By God’s grace, I will sit down as your governor at my send-forth ceremony and also sit at the swearing-in cerem...

 Igbo community in Sokoto visited Nnamdi Kanu yesterday, feeds Sokoto Prison inmates The Igbo community in Sokoto State has undertaken a Christmas visit to Sokoto Prison, where the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, is serving his sentence. A statement by the leadership of the community, signed by Nze A. C. Madu and made available to journalists on Thursday, said “the initiative was inspired by the disposition of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently detained at the facility”. The statement described the gesture as a demonstration of compassion and communal solidarity, noting that members of the Igbo community celebrated Christmas with the IPOB leader and all the inmates during the visit. “Understanding his (Kanu’s) reported preference not to dine alone, especially during the festive season of Christmas, the community made a decisive and inclusive choice. “Rather than limiting their generosity to a single individual, they elected to provide festive meals for...

 Pro-Sudanese army force says it repelled paramilitary RSF attacks in North Darfur An armed group allied with the Sudanese army stated that it repelled attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in several northern areas of North Darfur state in western Sudan. The Joint Force of Armed Movements in Darfur said in a statement that it confronted assaults by the RSF in parts of North Darfur, particularly in and around Abu Qumra, accusing the paramilitary group of escalating attacks against unarmed civilians. The force said the RSF was seeking to impose control “by force through killing, forced displacement and terrorizing civilians and displaced people who fled the city of El-Fasher,” the state capital, the statement added, Anadolu Agency reported. Local sources said the RSF attacked the Abu Qamra and Ambro areas on Wednesday, while the paramilitary group claimed it had taken control of both locations. The joint force said that since the attacks began, the RSF has burned en...

Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro undergoes double hernia surgery   Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro underwent double hernia surgery on Thursday at a hospital in Brasilia, with doctors saying the procedure lasted about three and a half hours and was completed without complications. Medical staff at DF Star Hospital said Bolsonaro will remain under postoperative care, including pain management, physical therapy, and measures to prevent blood clots. He has been hospitalized since Wednesday and was allowed to leave prison temporarily after federal police doctors determined the surgery was medically necessary. Bolsonaro has complained of ongoing pain from the condition and has undergone multiple surgeries in recent years stemming from a 2018 stabbing attack during a campaign rally. Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year prison sentence following his conviction for attempting to overthrow Brazil’s democratic system after his 2022 election defeat. Justice Alexandre de M...

 Sheikh Gumi Tells President Tinubu To Immediately Stop U.S. Military Cooperation After Northwest Airstrikes, Warns It Could Worsen Nigeria’s Security Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called on the Federal Government to immediately end all military cooperation with the United States after reports emerged of U.S. airstrikes conducted in Nigeria. Gumi warned that American military involvement could worsen Nigeria’s security situation and undermine the country’s sovereignty.  He made this appeal in a statement posted on his Facebook page. According to the cleric, while Islam permits the fight against terrorism, such efforts must be carried out by those with what he described as “clean hands.”  He argued that the United States lacks the moral standing to lead counterterrorism operations, citing its history of military interventions across the world. Gumi said Nigeria made a serious mistake by allowing foreign powers to take part in its counterterrorism efforts, insisti...

 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: LASPARK OFFERS FREE ENTRY FOR FESTIVITIES, EXTENDS PARK HOURS TO 8.00 PM The Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) has announced special arrangements to enhance the Yuletide experience for residents and visitors across the State, including free access to all LASPARK-managed parks and an extension of park closing hours during the Christmas period. According to a statement issued by the Agency, all parks under its management will enjoy free entry between 12:00 noon and 8:00 pm every day from Thursday, 25th to Saturday, 27th December 2025, as part of activities lined up to celebrate the Christmas season and promote family bonding, recreation, and healthy living among Lagosians. This is also in line with the Agency’s gesture to extend daily closing time for all parks from 6.00 pm to 8:00 p.m. throughout the free three-day period, allowing residents ample opportunity to relax, enjoy the serene ambience, admire the festive lights and create lasting memori...

“I added my stepson to my will but he later told me I am not his dad” — Deontay Wilder opens up on painful stepfather experience Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has shared a personal story about the emotional and financial commitment he made while playing a father figure to his former partner’s son. Speaking during a podcast appearance, the boxer explained that he did not take the role lightly and saw himself as a “father, not just a daddy.” According to Wilder, his involvement went beyond emotional support and extended to long-term planning. He revealed that during the relationship, he added both his then-girlfriend and her son to his will, even though they were not married and he was not the child’s biological father. Wilder said he discussed the decision with his own children at the time, and they agreed to make room for the additional beneficiaries. The boxer said the move reflected how seriously he viewed the relationship and the family structure he believed he was ...

 POLICE ARREST TWO NOTORIOUS BANDITS/KIDNAPPING KINGPINS IN KWARA STATE, RECOVER ARMS, CASH, MOTORCYCLE The the Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant operational breakthrough with the arrest of two notorious bandits and kidnapping kingpins responsible for violent crimes across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Kwara States. On Friday, 19th December, 2025, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT), attached to Kwara State, in a covert operation carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Kwara State Police Command, intercepted and arrested two members of a dangerous banditry and kidnapping gang along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The suspects arrested are Abubakar Usman, alias Siddi ‘m’ aged 26 and Shehu Mohammadu, alias Gide ‘m’ aged 30. Both suspects were arrested in Komen–Masallaci village, Kaiama LGA of Kwara State at the time of arrest. During the operation, the following items wer...

 Adighije Urges Abia APC Members to Oust Underperforming Leaders Ahead of 2026 Congress Former Senator representing Abia Central, Chris Adighije, has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Umuahia South Local Government Area and across Abia State to vote out non-performing party executives during the upcoming 2026 party congress. Speaking at a stakeholders' meeting in Umuahia South LGA, Adighije emphasized the need to remove officials who foster division and undermine the party's interests, warning that such leaders should not be re-elected. He raised concerns that certain party members are plotting to expel him for "speaking the truth," while stressing that the APC must rectify the shortcomings that led to poor performance in the 2023 elections in Umuahia South and the state at large. Adighije declared his commitment to securing a comprehensive victory for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, stating, "I charge you to vot...

 Enugu State Government replies Kolaboy  In an interview with DreamFm Enugu, the honorable commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barr Ugochi Madueke, expressed her disappointment over the action of Enugu born Rapper, Kolaboy, in calling out the government for fixing a show a day before his own show and at the same venue. During the interview, the commissioner explained that Kolaboy didn't lie about the state government shifting the date of it's state sponsored show known as "Roadblock" just to accommodate the presence of Phyno who is a bigger artist in the music industry,  she admitted that it was a hard decision for the state government but the decision had to stand because there was no other way out  and that it has been the dream of the people of Enugu to see Phyno back on the stage in Enugu after almost 10years. Nevertheless, the commissioner mentioned that she also tried to avoid using Okpara square for Roadblock which was the same venue Kolaboy had already pick...

 ANAMBRA YULETIDE SECURITY: POLICE DOMINATE STRATEGIC AREAS AS AREA COMMANDERS STEP UP SUPERVISION OF PERSONNEL DEPLOYMENT Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have dominated strategic locations across the State, including major roads, markets, worship centres, motor parks, and recreational areas, to ensure the safety of residents and visitors as social activities heighten during this festive period. In line with this, the eight Area Commanders across the State have stepped up supervisory duties to ensure proper coordination and effective deployment of personnel within their respective jurisdictions, including Onitsha, Ihiala, Oraifite, Awka, Aguata, Otuocha, Ogidi, and Nnewi. Tactical teams and joint security forces have also intensified security patrol operations across the State. The Police Command encourages residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, reassuring the public of its continued commitment to maintaining peace, safety, and order throughout t...

 Man Arrested for Allegedly Murdering Brother in Shigamani Village  Police in Malamulele have arrested a 31-year-old man in connection with a murder incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, at about 23:30 in Shigamani Village.  The deceased, aged 35, had reportedly just arrived home from Gauteng Province when a heated argument broke out between him and his younger brother.  Two sisters allegedly tried to intervene and calm the situation. During the argument, the suspect is alleged to have armed himself with an object and stabbed the deceased on the upper body.  The victim collapsed at the scene, while the suspect fled. A neighbour rushed the injured man to a local healthcare centre. Police and Emergency Medical Services were called, and the victim was later certified dead.  Following investigations and information from community members, the suspect was traced and arrested on Thursday, 25 December 2025, at about 07:00 in Mphambo Village. The s...

 Zimbabwean Tavern Owner Arrested After Alleged Assault Incident  A Zimbabwean national, known as Easywell, who is renting and operating Jambo Tavern in Lulekani Township, Phalaborwa, has been arrested following an alleged assault incident.  The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday midnight, 21 December 2025, at or near the tavern.  According to reports, the tavern owner allegedly chased a male victim, believed to be in his early 20s, with a motor vehicle.  The victim reportedly fell during the chase, after which the suspect allegedly drove over the victim’s legs and further assaulted him.  It is further alleged that the victim was taken back to the tavern, where patrons also assaulted him.  The suspect, with the assistance of a friend, allegedly transported the victim to his place of residence. The victim’s family later contacted the police and emergency medical services (EMS) for assistance.  The suspect was arrested and appeared before the Lu...

 BENUE GOES BIG! $15 MILLION CULTURE FUND LAUNCHED AS IDOMA PEOPLE DECLARE ANNUAL CULTURAL DAY Benue State just made history! The government has unveiled a whopping $15 million fund to turbocharge arts, tourism, and culture. The announcement came hot off the press during the 2025 Idoma International Carnival in Otukpo, delivered by Shadrach Ukuma, the state’s top arts and culture boss. And that’s not all. The Paramount ruler of the Idoma people, His Royal Majesty Och’Idoma Agabaidu, Elaigwu Odogbo, has declared December 23 as Idoma Cultural Day, making it an annual celebration of heritage, pride, and identity. “This day will be celebrated at the Och’Idoma Palace every December 23,” Odogbo declared. “By unity, focus, and purpose, we will achieve this dream!” The monarch also revealed plans to upgrade the palace square to international standards—a bold step to make Idoma culture shine globally. Odogbo stressed the importance of food in culture, highlighting the famous Okoho soup as a...