PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 U.S issues apology for deportation error involving Massachusetts college student while defending the decision  The Trump administration apologized in federal court for a “mistake” in deporting 19-year-old Massachusetts college student Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, who was detained while attempting to fly home for Thanksgiving, but argued the error should not change the legality of her removal. Lopez Belloza, a freshman at Babson College, was held at Boston’s airport on Nov. 20 and flown to Honduras two days later, despite an emergency court order issued on Nov. 21 requiring her to remain in the U.S. for at least 72 hours. Lopez Belloza, whose family emigrated from Honduras in 2014, is now staying with her grandparents and attending school remotely, and recently visited an aunt in El Salvador. At a Boston federal court hearing, the government argued the court lacked jurisdiction because her lawyers filed the case hours after she arrived in Texas en route out of the country. Governm...

 Nigerian couple cry for help over their missing daughter  A Nigerian couple has cried out for help in finding their missing four-year-old daughter, Oluwadabira In a video sent to LIB, the distraught father of the missing girl said the abductors came into his apartment to abduct his daughter in Ogijo in Ogun state last Friday, January 9 .  Speaking in Yoruba, the father, Olufemi Adekeja, said on the day of the incident, himself and his wife were about driving out of their compound when their car got stuck in mud. He mentioned that while trying to figure out how to get their car out of the mud, two ladies who were passing by, stopped and assisted them in getting their car out of the mud. He said immediately the car was pushed out of the mud, he told his children who had been watching to go in the house and lock the gate. He said the ladies, who helped them with pushing their stuck car, requested for a lift which he gladly granted.  He said after driving about 2km to 3...

Todd Bridges, the 60-year-old actor best known for his role as Willis Jackson on the classic sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, has announced his separation from his wife Bettijo B. Hirschi after three years of marriage.  The news was confirmed on January 14, 2026. In a statement, Bridges explained that after much prayer and reflection, he and his spouse made the difficult decision to separate, describing it as a choice made with love and gratitude for the life they shared. He expressed that during their time together they shared meaningful moments but have chosen to go their separate ways, asking for privacy and wishing her nothing but love and happiness moving forward. The couple met in January 2022 through a dating app setup by a friend, and their relationship progressed quickly. After just six months of dating, Bridges proposed, and they married in an intimate ceremony in Beverly Hills in September 2022 with about 40 guests. Bridges is a stepfather to Bettijo's four children and has...

 PRESS RELEASE    NAF REINFORCES AIRPOWER CAPABILITIES AS AWDC COMMANDANT VISITS OPERATION HADIN KAI In furtherance of efforts to enhance airpower capabilities and strengthen joint force integration in the North East theatre, the Commandant, Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim  Jibia, has paid an operational assessment  visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri. Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Jibia explained that the engagement was designed to interface with aircrew deployed under Operation HADIN KAI and to pay a courtesy call on the Theatre Commander following his assumption of duty as Commandant AWDC. He noted that the visit aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s philosophy, which prioritises deliberate training and mission-oriented force development as key pillars for strengthening airpower. The AWDC Commandant underscored the importance of airmindedness...

US national skating champions barred from Olympic competition due to passport delay  Alisa Efimova had an American flag on her warmup jacket, but it wasn’t the one that mattered most: her passport. Efimova and her husband and skating partner, Misha Mitrofanov, won the U.S. pairs national championship for the second consecutive year, but they won’t be heading to the Winter Olympics in Milan. Despite their top performance at last weekend’s U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Efimova is not yet an American citizen, making the pair ineligible to compete. “Yes, we didn’t make it, but we don’t see that as a failure,” Mitrofanov said Wednesday at a send-off at the Skating Club of Boston for the rink’s three Olympians: U.S. bronze medalist Max Naumov and the pairs team of Emily Chan and Spencer Howe. “This was an opportunity. It may not have worked out, but so many great things have come from it, and we are very happy moving forward.” Mitrofanov, a U.S. citizen by birth, teamed up with Efim...

Trump warns he may invoke Insurrection Act to stop Minneapolis protests  President Donald Trump on Thursday warned that he could invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy federal troops to Minneapolis in response to ongoing protests over the presence of federal officers enforcing the administration’s immigration policies. The threat follows a recent shooting in which a federal immigration officer wounded a Minneapolis man who allegedly attacked him with a shovel and broom handle. Tensions in the city have been high since Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents fatally shot Renee Good, escalating public anger and protests across the community. Trump said in a social media post that if Minnesota officials fail to control “professional agitators and insurrectionists” targeting ICE agents, he would quickly implement the Insurrection Act, a law historically used by presidents to deploy the military domestically. Federal authorities say they have made over 2,000 arrests in Minnesota...

 DHS implements rule to speed up visas for religious workers serving US congregations abroad   The Department of Homeland Security has announced a rule change designed to reduce visa wait times for religious workers coming to serve U.S. congregations, easing restrictions that previously forced many to leave the country for extended periods. The change affects R-1 visas, which allow foreign pastors, priests, nuns, imams, and rabbis to temporarily work in the United States while their congregations pursue permanent residency petitions. Previously, clergy who reached the five-year maximum for an R-1 visa were required to leave the U.S. for a full year before reapplying, a rule that had been exacerbated by processing changes in 2023. Under the new DHS guidance, religious workers will still depart but can immediately apply to return. The rule has drawn praise from immigration attorneys and faith leaders, who say it will reduce disruptions for U.S. congregations relying on foreign c...

 FBI raids Washington Post reporter’s home in classified documents investigation  FBI agents conducted a search of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson’s Virginia home as part of an investigation involving a government contractor accused of mishandling classified information. During the search, authorities seized Natanson’s phone and Garmin watch. According to an FBI affidavit, the probe centers on a Maryland-based system administrator suspected of taking classified government reports home. The FBI and Justice Department have not provided further comment on the investigation.

17 college basketball players indicted in point-shaving scheme Former college All-American Antonio Blakeney is among 17 basketball players charged in a point-shaving scheme aimed at rigging games in the NCAA and the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), according to an indictment unsealed Thursday in Philadelphia. The alleged scheme, which ran from September 2022 to February 2025, is said to have defrauded sportsbooks and individual bettors by manipulating game outcomes. The indictment names a total of 20 defendants, including players who agreed to underperform in exchange for bribes. So-called fixers then placed large bets on the manipulated games. “In placing these wagers on games they had fixed, the defendants defrauded sportsbooks, as well as individual sports bettors, who were all unaware that the defendants had corruptly manipulated the outcome of these games,” the indictment states. Two of the players, Cedquavious Hunter and Dequavion Short of New Orleans, were previously sancti...

 US plans to build nuclear reactors on the Moon within next four years, Energy Department says  NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy plan to build and deploy nuclear reactors on the Moon within the next four years, officials announced Tuesday, marking a significant step in powering long-term lunar research and future missions to Mars. The agencies signed an agreement reaffirming their collaboration on developing nuclear fission surface power systems for use on the Moon. The reactors would rely on uranium cores roughly the size of a paper towel roll, capable of generating enough electricity to power multiple homes continuously for at least a decade. NASA officials highlighted that such a system is particularly suited for lunar conditions, where nights last roughly 14 Earth days, making solar power unreliable. NASA’s Fission Surface Power Project concluded its initial design phase in 2024, and the goal is now to ready a reactor for launch within the next several years, advanci...

Actor Kiefer Sutherland arrested over alleged altercation with ride-share driver Actor Kiefer Sutherland was arrested early Monday in Los Angeles following an alleged altercation with a ride-hail driver, authorities confirmed. The 59-year-old Emmy winner was taken into custody just after midnight near Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue, south of the Hollywood Hills. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Sutherland reportedly entered the ride-hail vehicle, physically assaulted the driver, and made criminal threats. He was booked on suspicion of felony criminal threats and later released on a $50,000 bond. No injuries requiring medical attention were reported. His first court appearance is set for Feb. 2. Sutherland is best known for his role as Jack Bauer on the TV series 24 and has appeared in films including Melancholia, Tinsel Town, The Lost Boys, and Young Guns. He also starred in Rob Reiner’s Stand by Me and A Few Good Men. He is the son of the late actor Donald Sutherla...

 Fire Outbreak: Borno IDPs record losses in Yobe Community.  One Hospitalised as Fire Outbreak Razes Over 76 IDP Shelters  A fire outbreak has razed over 76 temporary shelters belonging to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Ngamma village, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria. The affected IDPs are mainly migrants from Borno State who have been taking refuge in the community. Following directives from Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni,the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) promptly visited the scene of the incident , where it conducted a comprehensive assessment of the damages. Preliminary findings revealed that one person was hospitalised, while one household was completely burnt.  The fire also destroyed livestock and numerous bags of foodstuffs, further compounding the suffering of the already vulnerable families. Eyewitnesses and victims recounted their losses amid tears, appealing for urgent humanitarian assistance and sup...

 BAUCHI STATE POLICE COMMAND PRESS RELEASE The editors, UNNATURAL OFFENCE: POLICE BURST TWO-MAN HOMOSEXUAL SYNDICATE, RESCUE TWO MINORS IN TILDEN FULANI On 8th January 2026 at about 2130hrs, a concerned father reported at the Divisional Police Headquarters, Tilden Fulani, that his son (name withheld), aged 8yrs, was deceitfully lured with sweets and tiger nuts by one Mohammed Saifullahi, 'm' aged 16, who subsequently had homosexual intercourse with him on multiple occasions. Upon receipt of the report, a team of detectives was quickly dispatched to the scene. The suspect was arrested, and the victim was moved to the hospital for medical examination. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to having been engaged in the act for over three years and named his mentor as one Shaibu Sulaiman, 'm' aged 17. Preliminary investigation discovered that the suspect was introduced into the homosexual activity by Shuaibu Sulaiman, aged 17, who was also arrested. Sulaiman revealed ...

 ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY Today, we join Nigerians everywhere to honour the memory of our fallen heroes and celebrate the courage of the men and women of the Armed Forces who have devoted their lives to the defence of our nation. We reflect with gratitude on their unwavering commitment, selfless service, and the heavy sacrifices made to protect our sovereignty, peace, and shared values. On this solemn occasion, we reaffirm our support for our security institutions and express our deep appreciation to those who continue to serve with honour and patriotism. We also renew our resolve to build a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria that truly reflects the dreams for which our heroes laid down their lives. – Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON Governor, Ogun State

 CAF bans Eto’o for four matches over AFCON conduct Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) President Samuel Eto’o has been handed a four-match ban for alleged misconduct during the team’s 2-0 defeat by hosts Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations last Friday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said in a statement. Eto’o was reportedly seen making an angry gesture over refereeing decisions in the presence of CAF President Patrice Motsepe. Players from both sides also jostled each other, and CAF said on Sunday it had opened investigations into violent confrontations during AFCON matches. CAF’s disciplinary board fined Eto’o $20,000, a decision FECAFOOT said “lacks any explicit justification”, Reuters reported. “The expedited procedure leading to this decision raises serious concerns regarding the fundamental requirements of a fair process,” FECAFOOT said on Thursday, adding it would appeal. “FECAFOOT reaffirms its support for its president and its commitment to respecting the...

 Kenya strikes a preliminary trade deal with China, ministry says Kenya has struck a preliminary trade agreement with China that allows 98.2% of its export goods duty-free market access, its trade ministry said on Thursday, adding the two sides had been holding discussions in search of a full bilateral trade deal. The East African nation has been forging closer ties with China, with President William Ruto making a state visit to Beijing last year, where a number of financing and cooperation agreements were signed. "We have initiated discussion with China to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement," Kenya's trade ministry said in a statement, disclosing the talks for the first time. "These engagements have resulted in a preliminary agreement", Reuters reported. Ruto has defended the rapprochement with China against criticism from some U.S. officials, saying Kenya has to export more goods to the Asian economy to close a trade gap heavily tilted in Beijing's favo...

 AFCON: ‘Heartbreak for Nigeria’ – Four European clubs react as Morocco beat Super Eagles Four European clubs have reacted to the Super Eagles’ AFCON semi-final defeat against Morocco on Wednesday night.  The Atlas Lions defeated Nigeria via penalties after a 0-0 draw. Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemachi missed their penalty kicks for Eric Chelle’s side against the Atlas Lions. Reacting, Sevilla, who have Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke in their squad, wrote, “@Akor and Ejuke’s Nigeria were defeated by Morocco in their AFCON semi-final.” Similarly, Fulham, who have the likes of Samuel Chukwueze, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi in their squad, wrote: “Heartbreak for Nigeria. We’re still so proud of our boys after an incredible tournament.” Also, Birmingham City, who have Bright Osayi-Samuel in their squad, said: “So proud. A monumental shift from @Bright_097 as he played 120 minutes in tonight’s #AFCON semi-final, eventually losing on penalties to Morocco.” On their part, Brentford,...

 Bank customers to pay 7.5% VAT on mobile, USSD transactions Nigerians should brace up for tougher times as a new regime of 7.5 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on selected banking services, including mobile bank transfers and USSD transactions, takes effect from January 19, 2026. According to a notice sent to customers on Wednesday afternoon by Moniepoint, the development is tied to a directive from the Nigerian Revenue Service(NRS), mandating financial institutions to begin VAT collection and remittance on certain electronic banking services The notice reads in part, “We would like to inform you of an upcoming government-endorsed regulatory change regarding Value Added Tax (VAT),” the notice stated. It added, “From Monday, 19 January 2026, we are required to collect a 7.5 per cent VAT, to be remitted to the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) (formerly known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service).” Recall that bank customers had, on January 1, 2026, expressed growing frustration followi...

 Olubadan denies snubbing Alaafin, cites protocol Oba Rashidi Ladoja of Ibadan dismissed claims that he snubbed the Alaafin of Oyo at an inter-faith event, calling the allegations a misunderstanding amplified on social media. He explained his movements were dictated by seating arrangements and timing, not disrespect, and reaffirmed commitment to unity and social development. Watch video below. 

 2027: INEC pledges credible elections in Zamfara The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Zamfara has reaffirmed its commitment to credible, transparent and fair elections ahead of the 2027 general polls. Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr Mahmud Isah gave the assurance at a stakeholders’ meeting on the resumption of the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), urging political parties, security agencies and citizens to support the process. INEC said online CVR remains ongoing, while physical registration at INEC offices began January 5, 2026.

 FG approves 40% pay rise for lecturers, introduces ₦140,000 professorial allowance The Federal Government has approved a 40 per cent salary increase for lecturers and introduced a new professorial cadre allowance, giving professors a monthly top-up of over ₦140,000. Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the measures on Wednesday, following the signing of a new agreement with ASUU that ends a 16-year stalemate over the 2009 FGN–ASUU pact. He said the deal includes nine clearly structured Earned Academic Allowances and assured that funding has been secured for full implementation across federal tertiary institutions.

 PRESIDENT TINUBU HONOURS FALLEN HEROES AT AFCRD 2026 AS COAS, SERVICE CHIEFS PAY SOLEMN TRIBUTE President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Thursday, 15 January 2026, led the nation in solemn remembrance of Nigeria’s fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026 at the National Cenotaph, Eagle Square, Abuja. The deeply reflective ceremony served as a moment of national gratitude for officers and men who laid down their lives in defence of the country’s peace, unity and sovereignty. The President was represented at the occasion by the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON who laid a wreath on behalf of the President in honour of the brave personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM joined the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM other Se...