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November 18, 2025

PDP Turmoil in Akwa Ibom: Security Forces Take Over Secretariat as Leadership War Escalates
News, Politics, Trending

PDP Condemns Abuja Secretariat Clash, Accuses Govt of Democratic Assault

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The newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has condemned Tuesday’s violent confrontation at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, describing the incident as a “brazen assault on democracy.”

In a statement issued by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party praised Nigerians for what it called their “solidarity, courage and resilience” in the face of what it termed tyranny.

According to the party, the widespread support it received during the confrontation reaffirms its position as “the party of choice” ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Leaders Blocked From Secretariat

The PDP said tensions escalated when Turaki arrived at the secretariat for the inaugural meeting of the new NWC, accompanied by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

The party alleged that its leaders were prevented from entering the building by “compromised personnel of the Nigeria Police Force” working alongside thugs allegedly recruited by expelled former National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu and “endorsed” by the also-expelled FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

According to the statement, the individuals barricaded the main entrance and attempted to stop the new leadership from accessing the building.

Tear Gas Fired at Governors and Supporters

The opposition party claimed that without provocation, police officers and hired thugs fired more than 200 tear-gas canisters at governors, NWC members, party leaders and supporters. The incident reportedly caused a stampede, leaving several people injured.

Despite the chaos, the PDP said its supporters remained defiant and insisted that the newly elected leadership must be allowed to carry out its mandate.

“In the end, they prevailed and the NWC members had access to the National Secretariat,” the party emphasized.

PDP: ‘This Is About Nigeria’s Democracy’

The PDP argued that the confrontation went beyond internal party issues, calling it a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic order.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this struggle transcends the PDP. It is about the survival of electoral democracy in Nigeria,” the statement read.

The opposition accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of enabling an attack that undermines multiparty democracy. The party warned that suppressing opposition voices erodes democratic principles and turns elections into “uneventful events with predetermined outcomes.”

It further cautioned about what it described as a rise in “electoral authoritarianism,” citing the alleged weakening of institutions and the “overzealous” posture of the ruling party.

Call for International and Domestic Outrage

The PDP urged “all democracy-loving nations, institutions and individuals” to condemn the alleged attack. It also appealed to security agencies not to allow themselves to become tools in the hands of “oppressors,” insisting that their efforts should be focused on fighting insurgency, banditry and widespread insecurity—not political intimidation.

PDP Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy

Concluding its statement, the party reiterated its commitment to defending Nigeria’s democratic space and restoring stability within the opposition.

Also Read: Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Hit $46.7bn, Inflation Falls to 16.05%

“This NWC reassures Nigerians that the PDP will continue to resist every attempt by anti-democratic agents to derail the party and democracy. Nigeria’s democracy must endure,” it said.

Business, News, Trending

Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Hit $46.7bn, Inflation Falls to 16.05%

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Nigeria’s foreign reserves have climbed above $46 billion — the highest level recorded in seven years — according to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso.

Cardoso, represented by the Deputy Governor for Economic Policy, Dr. Muhammad Abdullahi, disclosed the development on Tuesday during the 20th Anniversary celebration of the Monetary Policy Department in Abuja. He described the milestone, reached on November 14, 2025, as a major endorsement of the Bank’s ongoing policy reforms.

“Our foreign reserves have risen to $46.7 billion, supported by sustained inflows and renewed investor participation across various asset classes,” Cardoso said.

He explained that the current reserve position provides 10.3 months of import cover—significantly above global adequacy thresholds. The CBN attributes the sharp buildup to stronger oil earnings, increased portfolio inflows, and continuing reforms that have brought greater stability to the foreign exchange market.

Cardoso also noted that the naira has continued to appreciate in recent weeks, with the gap between the official and Bureau-de-Change exchange rates narrowing to below two percent, a sign of restored investor and market confidence.

Inflation Falls Sharply After Months of Disinflation

The CBN governor highlighted improvements in price stability, pointing out that headline inflation, which peaked at 34.6% in November 2024, dropped to 16.05% in October 2025 — marking seven consecutive months of disinflation and the lowest rate in three years. Core inflation has also begun to ease.

Global Recognition and Ratings Upgrades

Cardoso said Nigeria’s improved macroeconomic indicators have attracted global recognition. All three major international ratings agencies have upgraded Nigeria’s outlook.

He cited S&P Global Ratings’ shift from “stable” to “positive,” alongside Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List — a critical milestone for rebuilding global financial credibility.

According to him, the combined gains of stronger reserves, a firmer naira, lower inflation, and improved credit ratings have contributed to “a more competitive currency, better trade balances, and a stronger foundation for inclusive growth.”

Monetary Policy Department’s Role Recognised

Reflecting on the department’s achievements over the past 20 years, Cardoso praised its contributions to Nigeria’s monetary policy evolution, including the introduction of the Monetary Policy Rate in 2006, the adoption of the interest-rate corridor, improved policy communication, and a gradual shift toward an inflation-targeting framework.

Risks Remain, CBN Cautions

Despite recent gains, Cardoso warned of persisting risks such as global economic shocks, volatile commodity prices, and domestic structural challenges. He urged the Monetary Policy Department to remain “agile and forward-looking,” emphasizing the need for deeper analytics, improved modelling capacity, and greater use of technology and big data.

Also Read: One Student Escapes Abduction After Kebbi School Attack

He reaffirmed that moving Nigeria toward a full inflation-targeting regime remains one of the CBN’s strategic priorities. “Inflation targeting will enhance transparency, build credibility, and make monetary policy more effective,” he said.

Eurobond Success Highlights Investor Confidence

The surge in reserves comes shortly after the Federal Government returned to the international capital market with a $2.35 billion Eurobond issuance—its first in years. The issuance drew $13 billion in investor orders, the largest orderbook in Nigeria’s history. The Debt Management Office (DMO) described the oversubscription as strong evidence of renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic reforms and long-term fiscal direction.

News, Politics, Trending

CAN Welcomes Global Scrutiny Over Attacks on Christians, Calls for Government Action

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed support for growing international attention on the violent attacks targeting Christian communities across Nigeria, with its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, suggesting that global pressure could push the Federal Government to take decisive action.

Speaking in Jos, Plateau State, at the opening of CAN’s Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, Okoh highlighted the escalating violence against Christians, particularly in the North and Middle Belt regions.

“The world is increasingly alarmed by the scale and brutality of attacks on Christian communities. CAN has consistently spoken out, and we stand firm in declaring that Christian genocide is occurring in Nigeria,” Okoh said.

The CAN President recounted his recent visit to Bokkos, Plateau State, where he met displaced families whose homes and communities had been devastated. He painted a grim picture of entire villages destroyed, homes levelled, and thousands of lives irreversibly altered.

“We declare with one united voice: You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you,” he added.

Okoh lamented that years of killings, kidnappings, and attacks on villages have largely gone unpunished, fostering a climate of impunity. He noted that this sustained violence has now attracted global concern.

“While it is painful that Nigeria is being highlighted internationally for such tragic reasons, if this attention compels the government to protect citizens and restore peace, then the Christian community welcomes it,” he said.

CAN Vows Sustained Advocacy for Justice and Protection

Reaffirming CAN’s commitment, Archbishop Okoh stated that the organization will continue advocacy both locally and internationally until Christian communities receive adequate protection.

“We will continue to demand justice, call for accountability, defend the vulnerable, and advocate for peace and unity in Nigeria,” he stressed.

You May Like: ADC Condemns Violent Takeover of PDP Secretariat, Warns Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy

He also urged the government to prioritize the resettlement of internally displaced persons, warning that prolonged stays in camps could undermine national stability.

“No individual should ever face persecution or be killed because of their faith,” Okoh emphasized.

Appealing to Christian leaders to remain united, he noted that the world is closely observing Nigeria’s response to the ongoing crisis. CAN intends to ensure that the plight of persecuted Christian communities continues to receive attention until meaningful action is taken.

Write Your Name in Gold: ADC Charges New INEC Chair Amupitan to Reset Electoral Trust
News, Politics, Trending

ADC Condemns Violent Takeover of PDP Secretariat, Warns Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed strong condemnation over the violent attack on the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, describing it as a “serious and alarming assault on Nigeria’s democratic foundations.”

In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of using state power to intimidate opposition parties. The ADC warned that such actions pose a direct threat to Nigeria’s multiparty system and could signal an alarming drift toward one-party dominance.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly denounces the brazen invasion and violent occupation of the PDP National Secretariat on Tuesday, November 14, 2025, allegedly carried out by agents connected to the APC-led federal government,” the statement read.

According to the ADC, the attack represents a dangerous escalation in what it perceives as the government’s ongoing efforts to stifle opposition and consolidate power. The party emphasized that this is not just a matter for the PDP, but a warning for all Nigerians about the state of democracy in the country.

“While the Tinubu administration’s anti-democratic tendencies have been evident since assuming office, this latest incident marks a particularly concerning low. It signals that the government may be willing to use intimidation, violence, and coercion to advance partisan political goals,” the statement added.

The ADC further warned that if such tactics are employed against political opponents, no organization—be it labor unions, media institutions, student movements, or peaceful protest groups—would be immune from similar treatment.

Calling on both Nigerians and international partners to pay close attention to the situation, the ADC urged urgent measures to uphold democratic norms, safeguard civil liberties, and prevent a slide into authoritarian governance.

The party also demanded an independent investigation into the role of Nigeria’s security agencies in the incident and called on President Tinubu to take decisive action to curb violent political operatives before the country descends into further chaos.

Also Read: One Student Escapes Abduction After Kebbi School Attack

“This attack is not just a challenge to one party; it is a threat to the future of democracy in Nigeria, particularly as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections. It is imperative that all stakeholders act now to protect our democratic institutions,” Abdullahi concluded.

News, Politics, Trending

One Student Escapes Abduction After Kebbi School Attack

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One of the 25 students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, has managed to escape and return home safely, school officials confirmed Tuesday.

Another student, who was not part of the abducted group, also returned safely.

Principal Musa Rabi Magaji told reporters that the student “broke free within minutes” of the attack. He reassured the public, saying, “One is part of the 25 abducted, and the other returned earlier. They are safe and sound.”

The raid, which took place in the early hours of Sunday, claimed the life of the school’s vice principal, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku. Several other bodies were reportedly discovered on the school premises, leaving the Maga community in mourning and fear.

In response, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, condemned the attack as a “reprehensible assault on innocent students” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerian children.

He emphasized that security and intelligence agencies have been ordered to immediately locate and rescue the abducted students, stating that the perpetrators “must face the full weight of the law.”

Idris further revealed that the federal government is boosting internal security by strengthening military, policing, and intelligence operations. Nigeria is also intensifying regional collaboration with ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Multinational Joint Task Force to dismantle criminal networks operating across West and Central Africa.

Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, who visited Kebbi on Monday, directed troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify round-the-clock search-and-rescue operations. He urged soldiers to sustain continuous efforts until all abducted students are recovered safely.

You May Like: Bala Mohammed Declares PDP Crisis Has Reached Tipping Point, Dismisses Wike Faction’s Legitimacy

The tragic attack has once again highlighted the persistent threat to schoolchildren in parts of northern Nigeria and underscores the urgent need for strengthened security measures in vulnerable communities.

News, Politics, Trending

Bala Mohammed Declares PDP Crisis Has Reached Tipping Point, Dismisses Wike Faction’s Legitimacy

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Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has stated that the leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reached a critical juncture, insisting that the faction loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, “has no legal authority” to operate within the party’s structures.

Speaking on Tuesday from the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, Mohammed said the ongoing internal strife is now tilting in favour of the newly elected leadership, dismissing the Wike-aligned bloc as a “splinter group” with no legitimacy.

The PDP headquarters at Wadata Plaza became the epicentre of tension earlier in the day as rival factions sought to assert control.

On one side, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, along with the newly elected National Secretary Taofeek Arapaja and other leaders from the Oyo State convention, represented the party’s officially recognised leadership.

Opposing them was the Wike-backed faction led by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who maintains that his tenure as National Secretary remains valid until December 8, 2025.

The Wike camp has repeatedly rejected the outcome of the Ibadan convention, describing it as illegitimate.

Tensions escalated when Governor Makinde and Arapaja arrived at the secretariat with party stakeholders, a move seen as a symbolic assertion of the authority of the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC).

Security was heightened as both camps attempted to access the meeting halls, forcing police officers to intervene to prevent a potential clash.

Governor Mohammed argued that the Ibadan convention, which produced the new NWC, had the full backing of the party’s highest decision-making organs, and that the Wike-aligned group lacked any constitutional or legal basis to challenge the outcome.

He said, “We don’t believe there is any Board of Trustees in this matter because that would be illegal. The media should help educate the public about proper political processes so that people understand where they stand. The so-called BoT meeting being attempted by this splinter group is a charade.”

Mohammed further stressed, “The BoT is constituted by the NWC. They don’t have an NWC and they don’t have a constitution. Our constitution is clear: if you are expelled, you are expelled.

This is not the decision of one individual; it is the outcome of a convention involving over 20 states. What you are seeing is a showdown between legitimate authority and illegalism.”

On the status of Anyanwu, Mohammed said, “The convention has already ended his tenure, so he cannot obstruct the NWC in any way.

The new chairman, Tanimu Turaki, is recognised by INEC because this is a legal matter. Claims to the contrary are driven by Wike, who continues to create unnecessary chaos in the political space.”

Mohammed accused the Wike faction of being supported by the police and the media, saying, “They are not a legitimate faction; they are a splinter group trying to destroy the PDP and weaken democracy. They are acting out of arrogance, ignorance, and impunity.”

He also addressed INEC’s role in the convention, noting, “The Constitution does not require INEC to attend party conventions. We notified them properly, and they acknowledged the notice. The convention is legal, and all court challenges have been dismissed.”

Also Read: Ransom Threats Emerge After Hackers Break into Dangote, Otedola Devices

On the potential resolution of the crisis, Mohammed said, “The hooliganism must stop. If they want to continue, they should leave us alone. Their actions are not only illegal but morally questionable, as they appear to be working with opposition forces to undermine the PDP.”

The governor’s remarks underscore the deep divisions within Nigeria’s main opposition party, highlighting a conflict that continues to dominate headlines and threaten party cohesion ahead of future political contests.

News, Politics, Trending

PDP Crisis Deepens as Governors, Wike, Turaki Engage in Tense Showdown

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A dramatic confrontation erupted on Tuesday at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, where two rival factions intensified their battle for supremacy amid the party’s escalating leadership crisis.

The tension peaked when Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, and the newly elected National Chairman Tanimu Turaki arrived at the Wadata Plaza secretariat. The trio, escorted by a security convoy, remained inside Governor Bala’s vehicle for several minutes as security operatives struggled to contain the unrest around the complex.

Inside the premises, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was also confined to his vehicle, unwilling to step out due to the volatile atmosphere.

Earlier in the day, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, a prominent figure in the pro-Wike faction, had stormed the secretariat with a crowd of supporters.

Addressing reporters, he dismissed the leadership produced at the party’s Ibadan convention, insisting his camp still represented the legitimate authority within the PDP.

Anyanwu’s faction was preparing to hold a separate meeting inside the NEC Hall when Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and members of Turaki’s newly inaugurated National Working Committee unexpectedly entered the building.

Despite layers of security barricades, the governors forced their way into the hall and later addressed journalists.

They announced that both the Board of Trustees and the National Executive Committee meetings had been shifted to Wednesday, citing the growing disorder.

Turaki, speaking firmly, declared that Anyanwu and his loyalists were “no longer members of the party,” vowing to defend the mandate handed to the new NWC.

But the situation escalated further when Wike arrived and pushed through armed security personnel to enter the secretariat.

His arrival triggered fresh tension, causing Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and Turaki—who had been preparing to leave—to remain within the premises for their safety.

Security operatives eventually ordered everyone inside the compound, including journalists, to vacate immediately amid fears that the standoff could degenerate into open conflict. However, the PDP governors and other leaders refused to exit unless Wike was also compelled to leave the building.

Also Read: Ransom Threats Emerge After Hackers Break into Dangote, Otedola Devices

The showdown underscored the depth of the party’s internal divisions, with each faction digging in as the leadership crisis threatens to push the PDP into unprecedented turmoil.

Entertainment, Lifestyle, News, Trending

After Viral Confrontation With Mr Jollof, VeryDarkMan Tenders Emotional Apology

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Nigerian social media critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has issued a formal apology following a heated altercation with comedian Freedom Atsepoyi (Mr Jollof) that disrupted a United Nigeria Airlines flight on Monday.

In a video posted on Instagram on Tuesday, Otse acknowledged that the confrontation was unnecessary and should never have occurred on board a commercial aircraft.

Taking full responsibility, he admitted that his actions contributed to the delay experienced by other passengers.

According to him, “What happened yesterday on the United Nigeria Airlines flight was completely avoidable. I take full responsibility for everything that happened.”

Otse expressed regret that the incident may have inconvenienced travellers with urgent commitments. He noted that some passengers could have missed critical appointments, medical engagements, or business opportunities due to the disruption.

“A lot of people had important things to attend to, and because of my little moment of irresponsibility, the flight was delayed,” he said. “Some might have had emergencies or vital meetings. I don’t know what that delay cost them, and I sincerely apologise.”

The online personality extended his apology to every passenger on board—parents, elders, young travellers—as well as the pilot and airline crew who were forced to intervene.

“Looking back now, I’m not proud of how things unfolded. Even though some saw it as entertainment online, I acted irresponsibly,” he added.

While Otse admitted he could not entirely rule out future disagreements, he emphasised that such confrontations would never again happen in settings that could disrupt public movement or put people at inconvenience.

“I can’t promise I’ll never clash with anyone again,” he said. “But I can promise it won’t happen on a plane, on a bus, or in any public space that stops people from getting to their destination. I’m really, really sorry about what happened.”

Also Read: Nigerian Soldier Killed by Mentally Unstable Attacker in Ikorodu, Lagos

The incident has since sparked widespread conversations on social media about conduct in public spaces and the responsibility of public figures to set an example.

PDP Turmoil in Akwa Ibom: Security Forces Take Over Secretariat as Leadership War Escalates
News, Politics, Trending

Makinde, Mohammed Force Entry Into PDP NEC Hall Amid Violent Clash

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A new wave of tension swept through the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday as two opposing factions attempted to seize control of the party secretariat ahead of separate meetings planned by both camps.

The conflict centres on loyalists of former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and the newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC) elected during the party’s convention in Ibadan. Both groups had scheduled meetings inside the Wadata Plaza headquarters, setting the stage for a showdown.

According to earlier reports, the Wike-aligned group, led by its National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, stormed the secretariat early Monday, arriving with supporters determined to assert their authority.

Tension escalated shortly after their arrival when members of the rival camp confronted them, triggering heated arguments that quickly descended into chaos.

Eyewitnesses reported that a scuffle erupted as supporters from both sides jostled for space within the building. The atmosphere grew even more volatile when security operatives struggled to maintain order amid rising tempers.

In the midst of the unrest, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, and the newly elected National Chairman, Taminu Turaki, forcefully made their way into the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) hall.

Backed by members of the Ibadan-produced NWC, the trio pushed through the crowd to ensure their scheduled NEC meeting proceeded as planned.

The leadership tension took another dramatic turn later in the day when fresh violence erupted at the secretariat. Police officers deployed to the scene reportedly fired teargas to disperse supporters after clashes intensified at the entrance, where Anyanwu’s faction attempted to block Makinde, Mohammed, and the Turaki-led executives from accessing the building.

Also Read: “I Was Defending Myself” — Mr Jollof Explains Mid-Air Brawl With VeryDarkMan

Tuesday’s confrontation marks yet another escalation in the ongoing leadership crisis rocking the PDP, deepening concerns over the party’s ability to maintain internal stability ahead of major political activities.

Business, News, Trending

Ransom Threats Emerge After Hackers Break into Dangote, Otedola Devices

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A wave of anxiety has swept through Nigeria’s top business circles following reports that unknown hackers successfully breached the mobile phones of industrial giants Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola, making direct financial demands after gaining access.

Multiple insiders familiar with the situation reports that the two billionaire businessmen fell victim to coordinated cyber intrusions within the past week. Otedola, Chairman of FirstHoldCo Plc, reportedly experienced one major breach, while Dangote — Africa’s richest man — faced two separate compromises in less than 48 hours.

Details surrounding the scope of the attack remain murky, but sources confirm that the perpetrators wasted no time in contacting both men to request money.

“The hackers are asking for money from both men,” one source said, noting that it remains unclear whether any data was stolen or if security agencies have been briefed on the matter.

Both Dangote and Otedola — longtime friends who often publicly refer to each other as “brothers” — have yet to make any official comment. Their close relationship has spanned decades and frequently intersects at high-level business events.

Just recently, Otedola attended an engagement where Dangote announced his intention to boost the capacity of his massive refinery project from 650,000 barrels per day to an ambitious 1.4 million bpd. Praising the expansion plans, Otedola lauded Dangote as “Africa’s pride,” emphasizing that the refinery stands as a multigenerational investment for Nigeria.

“Aliko’s relentless commitment to investing in Nigeria and Africa will outlive him,” Otedola said at the event. “Soon, Nigerians will own part of this refinery — a powerful reminder that his vision goes beyond personal success and speaks to the collective future of the continent.”

Also Read: “I Was Defending Myself” — Mr Jollof Explains Mid-Air Brawl With VeryDarkMan

As tension mounts and questions linger about the sophistication of the cyberattacks, observers await clarity on whether the moguls have regained full control of their devices or engaged law enforcement. For now, the breaches underscore the growing threat of high-profile digital targeting in Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

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