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January 29, 2026

News, Politics, Trending

What We Know About the Coup Plot Against President Tinubu

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A covert counter-intelligence effort involving Nigeria’s Army Headquarters and the State Security Service (SSS) has reportedly disrupted an alleged plan by rogue elements to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and detain or harm top political leaders.

Senior government sources say the plot began to unravel in late September 2025 after a serving military officer, said to have intimate knowledge of the scheme, alerted the then Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Oluyede. The officer reportedly feared that remaining silent could implicate him in treason.

At roughly the same period, the SSS was independently tracking suspicious activities pointing to a coordinated attempt by some serving officers to destabilise the country and subvert democratic rule. An official familiar with the intelligence said the Director-General of the SSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, personally briefed General Oluyede on the findings.

With intelligence streams converging, both security chiefs agreed that urgent action was required. A low-profile joint operation was quietly activated, with arrests planned simultaneously in different parts of the country to prevent the suspects from mobilising.

On September 30, 2025 — the same day President Tinubu travelled to Imo State for an official function, reportedly unaware of the looming threat — security forces moved in. Several military personnel and civilian collaborators were arrested as the operation unfolded.

The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Emmanuel Undiandeye, and the then Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, were briefed on the arrests. According to a military insider, Mr Undiandeye was instructed to hold the suspects at the Defence Intelligence Agency’s underground detention facility.

After the sweep, the Presidency was formally notified of the foiled plot. President Tinubu subsequently called off the planned October 1 Independence Day parade and authorised the creation of a special investigative panel headed by Mr Undiandeye. The panel’s work reportedly led to additional arrests.

Escape, Manhunt, and High-Profile Names

Sources disclosed that one detained officer briefly escaped from custody but was later recaptured by SSS operatives in Bauchi State.

Meanwhile, a retired senior officer identified as General Adamu and a former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, were named by sources as alleged financiers of the plot and were said to be on the run.

In the aftermath, President Tinubu approved the retirement of General Musa alongside the heads of the navy and air force. Major General Oluyede was appointed Chief of Defence Staff and later elevated to the rank of General. Weeks after his removal, General Musa re-emerged in government as Minister of Defence.

On October 4, Defence Headquarters released a statement downplaying the arrests, saying the officers were under investigation for “indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.” It claimed their complaints centred on stalled careers and failed promotion exams.

Despite persistent reports by *Premium Times* and other media organisations, the military repeatedly dismissed suggestions of a coup attempt. In an October 18 statement, Defence Headquarters described the probe involving 16 officers as a routine internal disciplinary process.

That position shifted on January 26, when the military publicly confirmed that some officers had indeed plotted against the government. Authorities announced that those found culpable would face trial before a military judicial panel.

“Personnel with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel in line with the Armed Forces Act and relevant service regulations,” Defence Headquarters said.

Also Read: Monday Sit-at-Home Is Economic Sabotage — Soludo Warns Anambra Traders

Earlier reports cited senior political figures as potential targets of the alleged conspiracy, including President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

According to one source, “Those are the principal targets, though others were also on the list.”

The plotters were also said to have planned the detention of key military leaders — not necessarily to assassinate them, but to neutralise resistance during the operation. Intelligence sources claimed the group intended to strike on a day when all major political figures were present in the country.

One official familiar with the investigation said, “They had informants inside the Presidential Villa tracking movements. The ultimate objective was to install a military government.”

News, Politics, Trending

House Of Reps Approve Tinubu’s ₦58.18 Trillion 2026 Budget For Second Reading

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The House of Representatives has opened deliberations on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2026 Appropriation Bill, giving early backing to a ₦58.18 trillion spending plan aimed at stabilising Nigeria’s economy, strengthening security, and accelerating capital investment.

Tagged “The Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” the proposal was formally laid before the National Assembly on December 19, 2025.

Lawmakers described it as a critical step in the administration’s broader effort to restructure and reposition the nation’s economy after years of fiscal strain.

Leading the debate on the bill’s general principles, House Majority Leader, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, said the Tinubu government assumed office amid weakened institutions and entrenched economic distortions, warning that meaningful reform would inevitably involve difficult choices.

According to Ihonvbere, long-term progress cannot be achieved without sustainability, noting that short-term sacrifices are necessary to lay the foundation for enduring growth.

He urged Nigerians to view ongoing economic adjustments as investments in the country’s future rather than temporary hardships.

To support the House’s endorsement of the budget, the lawmaker pointed to improving macroeconomic indicators, including a projected 3.98 per cent growth rate in 2026 and a significant reduction in inflation to 14.45 per cent from nearly 25 per cent. He also cited rising government revenues, stronger export performance, and increasing foreign direct investment as signs of economic recovery.

Ihonvbere further highlighted improvements in Nigeria’s external position, noting that the naira has strengthened to about ₦1,400 to the dollar, compared to over ₦1,800 previously, while foreign reserves have risen to approximately $47 billion — their highest level in seven years — enough to finance more than ten months of imports.

Emphasising fiscal restraint, he said the current administration has refrained from deficit financing through money printing, a move he credited with helping to stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence.

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Under the proposed budget framework, total government revenue is estimated at ₦34.33 trillion, while projected spending stands at ₦58.18 trillion, leaving a fiscal deficit of ₦23.85 trillion. Non-debt recurrent expenditure is set at ₦15.25 trillion, while capital expenditure is allocated ₦26.08 trillion — a spending pattern lawmakers described as a decisive shift toward development-oriented investments.

Unlike previous budgets where recurrent costs dominated, the 2026 proposal places greater emphasis on capital projects, which Ihonvbere said are essential for driving infrastructure growth, job creation, and long-term productivity.

The budget is based on key assumptions, including an oil price benchmark of $64.85 per barrel and daily crude oil production of 1.84 million barrels. Major sectoral allocations include ₦5.41 trillion for security and defence, ₦3.56 trillion for infrastructure, ₦3.54 trillion for education, and ₦2.48 trillion for health.

Lawmakers also drew attention to the administration’s intensified international engagements, including recent diplomatic and economic missions to countries such as Türkiye, aimed at improving Nigeria’s business climate and attracting foreign investment.

Members of the House stressed that the appropriation bill represents more than fiscal projections, describing it as a policy statement reflecting commitments to revenue expansion through tax reforms, blocking financial leakages, maintaining macroeconomic stability, and strengthening human capital development.

While acknowledging that the government is not without flaws, Ihonvbere said it remains the responsibility of lawmakers, as representatives of Nigeria’s 360 constituencies, to provide guidance and oversight to ensure the right policy choices are made.

Following extensive debate, the Speaker called for a voice vote, which passed overwhelmingly in favour of the bill. The House subsequently approved the budget for second reading and adjourned plenary for a two-week recess to allow for detailed budget defence by ministries and agencies.

Describing the budget as both a commitment and a vision, Ihonvbere said collective effort would be required to translate it into tangible benefits for Nigerians, not only now, but for generations to come.

News, Sports, Trending

Samuel Chukwueze Mourns Mother’s Death as Brother Shares Emotional Tribute

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Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze is reportedly grieving the loss of his mother, Mrs Sarah Chukwueze, following emotional posts shared by his elder brother on social media.

While the AC Milan attacker, who is currently on loan at Fulham, has yet to address the situation publicly, his brother, David Chukwueze, broke the heartbreaking news through a series of Instagram stories that revealed the family’s pain and disbelief.

In one deeply personal post, David wrote, “Can’t even post your picture to say RIP mum,” capturing the shock surrounding her passing. Another message read, “My forever love just left me without saying goodbye,” while a third reflected his sorrow over lost moments, saying, “You didn’t even carry your grandchild.”

As of the time this report was filed, the family has not disclosed any information about the cause of death or whether Mrs Chukwueze had been ill.

The tragic development comes shortly after Samuel Chukwueze’s involvement with the Nigerian national team at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where the Super Eagles finished third. The winger has remained silent on social media since his brother’s posts surfaced.

Recall that this is the second major loss to hit the Super Eagles family in recent days. Just 48 hours earlier, team captain Wilfred Ndidi lost his father, Sunday Ndidi, who reportedly died in a road accident in Delta State.

Also Read: Ndume Accuses Akpabio of Downplaying Flaws in Nigeria’s New Tax Law

The back-to-back tragedies have cast a sombre mood over Nigerian football, with fans and teammates expressing sympathy and support for the affected families.

News, Politics, Trending

Monday Sit-at-Home Is Economic Sabotage — Soludo Warns Anambra Traders

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Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has described the renewed Monday sit-at-home observed by some traders as a calculated move to undermine economic stability in the state.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing at the Light House in Awka, the governor alleged that the development is being driven by political actors intent on disrupting commercial activities in Anambra and the wider South East.

According to Soludo, the consistent shutdown of major markets every Monday is far from accidental. He said the pattern reflects a coordinated strategy by what he termed “enemies of the state and the South East,” stressing that such actions amount to economic sabotage and would not be tolerated under his administration.

The governor confirmed that the one-week closure earlier imposed on the Onitsha Main Market remains in force, warning that the sanction could be extended by an additional two weeks if traders fail to resume operations on Mondays once the current penalty period lapses.

Soludo also brushed aside threats by traders to challenge the closure in court, insisting that the state government is acting within its legal rights. He explained that the Onitsha Main Market is owned by the Anambra State Government, which retains the authority to regulate its operations in the interest of public safety and order.

“If the situation demands it, the government can revoke shop ownership rights, compensate affected parties, and take over the market for overriding public interest,” the governor stated.

Questioning the rationale behind the renewed sit-at-home, Soludo noted that the market functioned without disruption during the Christmas and New Year festivities. He recalled that commercial activities thrived on Mondays—and even Sundays—during that period, with no significant security challenges recorded.

Also Read: Burna Boy Mourns AKA, Admits Unfinished Business Before His Death

The governor’s comments underscore his administration’s resolve to resist actions perceived as harmful to economic growth and public order in the state.

Entertainment, Music, News, Trending

Burna Boy Mourns AKA, Admits Unfinished Business Before His Death

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Nigerian music star Burna Boy has paid an emotional tribute to late South African rapper AKA, revealing that unresolved circumstances left him with lasting regret.

In a heartfelt birthday message, Burna Boy reflected on a fallout between them that stemmed from what he described as “bullsh*t.”

Although the misunderstanding was later resolved privately through Twitter direct messages, the two artistes never got the opportunity to meet in person or collaborate as planned.

According to Burna Boy, the missed chance to properly reconnect is something he will carry with him. He expressed deep sorrow over the fact that they never fully repaired their relationship before AKA’s untimely death, adding that the regret will remain until they meet again “on the other side.”

AKA, fondly known as “Supa Mega,” was fatally shot on February 10, 2023, outside a restaurant in Durban, South Africa. The killing sent shockwaves across the African music industry and sparked widespread calls for justice.

More than a year later, the case remains unresolved, with legal proceedings surrounding the rapper’s murder still ongoing.

Also Read: Insurgents Kill Senior Army Officer, Six Troops in Borno State Attack

The tribute has reignited conversations about lost time, forgiveness, and the fragile nature of life—especially within an industry where public feuds often mask private reconciliations.

News, Politics, Trending

Ndume Accuses Akpabio of Downplaying Flaws in Nigeria’s New Tax Law

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Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has openly disagreed with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over claims that the newly passed tax law contains no irregularities.

Akpabio had insisted during Wednesday’s plenary session that the tax legislation approved by the Senate was intact and had not been altered, contrary to public concerns.

However, Ndume has described that position as misleading, arguing that the law signed by President Bola Tinubu does not fully reflect what lawmakers originally passed.

Speaking on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme, Ndume said there are multiple versions of the tax law’s Gazette, pointing out that he personally observed discrepancies between the bill approved by the National Assembly and the document eventually signed into law.

According to the lawmaker, rather than dismissing the concerns, the Senate President should initiate an internal investigation to clarify the situation.

“We informed the leadership that what we passed is not the same as what the president signed,” Ndume said. “I don’t understand why the Senate President would say there are no discrepancies. The right thing to do is to set up a committee to verify the facts.”

Ndume further noted that even the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reform, Taiwo Oyedele, has acknowledged the existence of at least two versions of the law, reinforcing the need for legislative intervention.

He stressed that his concern goes beyond the technical differences in the documents, warning against a lack of transparency in the lawmaking process.

“This is a government of the people and for the people. There should be nothing hidden from the public,” he said. “Even if it’s something personal, why hide it?”

The senator expressed surprise that Akpabio would dismiss the issue outright instead of allowing a formal review, especially since the House of Representatives has already set up a committee to examine the matter.

“This issue cannot simply be swept under the carpet,” Ndume warned. “You cannot build on disputed ground. If someone challenges this in court, the judiciary will take it seriously. The way this matter is being handled is already riddled with contradictions and controversy.”

Also Read: Phyna Denied Entry at Imisi’s Birthday Party Over Livestreaming Rule

Ndume added that he plans to raise the issue directly with the Senate President, insisting that resolving the controversy is crucial to maintaining public trust in the legislative process.

News, Politics, Trending

APC Begins Nationwide Congresses Ahead of 2027 Elections

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to begin a sweeping round of internal elections next week as it intensifies early preparations for the 2027 general elections. The process will see party officials elected from the ward level up to the national leadership, ending with a national convention slated for late March.

This move comes on the heels of the party’s nationwide digital membership e-registration exercise, which concludes on Thursday, January 30, 2026. The registration drive, launched in December 2025 and overseen by the APC National Working Committee, introduced National Identity Number (NIN) verification and digital data capture to strengthen the party’s membership database, enhance demographic analysis, and boost grassroots mobilisation.

The timeline for the congresses was reaffirmed on Wednesday night in Abuja during a meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF). APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, alongside other members of the National Working Committee, briefed the governors on the progress of the registration exercise and the roadmap for the congresses.

Both the governors and the party leadership agreed to strictly adhere to the timetable earlier approved by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in December. They stressed that the process must be transparent, inclusive, and rooted in internal democracy to safeguard party unity.

Governors Endorse Process

Governors present at the meeting included Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Mohammed Idris (Kebbi), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Umar Bago (Niger), among others.

In a communiqué released after the meeting, the PGF reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic norms within the APC. The governors pledged to deepen internal democracy, reinforce party structures, and pursue reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness across the federation.

They also welcomed the briefing on the digital membership update, noting significant growth recorded during the exercise, particularly increased youth participation and the successful integration of NIN verification. According to the forum, the updated database will support data-driven planning, improve demographic insights, and strengthen engagement at the grassroots level.

Timetable and Financial Discipline Approved

The governors reviewed and endorsed the full timetable and institutional framework for the congresses and the national convention as approved by the NEC. They further stressed the need for transparent and coordinated financial management throughout the process to ensure fairness and accountability, including in states not governed by the APC.

Reiterating the importance of party unity, the forum called for responsible communication and collective discipline among party leaders, noting that internal harmony is critical to sustaining public confidence in the APC’s democratic credentials.

The PGF also announced plans for strategic state visits aimed at reinforcing grassroots structures and party cohesion, beginning with Taraba State before extending to other parts of the country. The forum formally welcomed the governors of Taraba and Plateau states into its fold.

Detailed Congress Schedule

In the official 2025/2026 schedule earlier released by APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, the party outlined a comprehensive timeline for its internal elections, in line with Articles 11 and 17 of the APC Constitution.

Notices for ward and local government congresses will be issued to state and FCT chapters from Monday, February 2, 2026. Sale and submission of forms for these levels will run from February 4 to February 9, followed by the inauguration of screening committees on February 10. Screening of aspirants is scheduled for February 11 to 13.

Ward congresses will hold on February 18, with appeals heard the following day. Local government congresses, which will also elect three delegates—at least one of them female—to the national convention, are fixed for February 20, with appeals slated for February 21.

State, Zonal Congresses and National Convention

Forms for state executive positions will be available from February 23 to February 27, with screening and appeals conducted in late February and early March. State congresses are scheduled for March 7, while appeals will be handled between March 9 and March 11.

At the zonal level, purchase and submission of forms for zonal congresses and the national convention will take place from March 12 to March 17. Screening of aspirants is set for March 19 and 20, ahead of zonal congresses on March 21.

The zonal congresses will be held across the six geopolitical zones, with designated centres in Ibadan (South-West), Enugu (South-East), Rivers/Cross River (South-South), Kaduna (North-West), Gombe/Bauchi (North-East), and Nasarawa (North-Central). Appeals from the zonal exercises will be heard on March 23.

Also Read: Insurgents Kill Senior Army Officer, Six Troops in Borno State Attack

The entire process will culminate in the APC National Convention, scheduled to take place between March 25 and March 28, bringing the party’s internal electoral process to a close ahead of the 2027 general elections.

News, Politics, Trending

Insurgents Kill Senior Army Officer, Six Troops in Borno State Attack

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A newly promoted Lieutenant Colonel and six other Nigerian soldiers have been killed in a deadly ambush by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.

The officer, identified simply as Mohammed, was reportedly leading a military team from Maiduguri to Damasak in Mobbar Local Government Area when the convoy came under heavy attack on Monday, January 26, 2026. The assault was said to have involved the use of improvised explosives and intense gunfire.

Sources within the military disclosed that the fallen officer had only recently been promoted from the rank of Major and was commanding the troops on a surveillance mission following intelligence reports that insurgents were active in the area.

According to the sources, the unit was ambushed en route, resulting in the death of seven soldiers, including the commanding officer. Several others sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment, while an unspecified number of personnel remain unaccounted for.

The bodies of the deceased soldiers have been taken to the 7 Division Hospital in Maiduguri. It was further revealed that the attackers carted away the late commander’s mobile phone. Disturbingly, when senior military officers later attempted to reach him by calling the number, the call was reportedly answered by Boko Haram fighters.

Also Read: Makoko Protesters Flee as Police Fire Tear Gas at Alausa

The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East, where Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have continued to launch deadly assaults on both military targets and civilian communities. The insurgency has claimed thousands of lives and forced millions from their homes over more than a decade of conflict.

Entertainment, News, Trending

Court Remands Nollywood Actress Angela Okorie Over Cyberstalking, Defamation Charges

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The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the remand of Nollywood actress Angela Okorie at the Suleja Correctional Centre in Niger State following her arraignment on charges bordering on cyberstalking and criminal defamation.

Justice Emeka Nwite issued the remand order on Wednesday after Okorie pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge instituted against her by the Nigeria Police Force. The judge ruled on an oral bail request made by her counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Alex Ejesieme, directing that a formal bail application be filed and heard on January 30.

Okorie, who is a single mother, was arraigned in connection with Charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/278/2025. The police allege that she conspired with one Ifeoma Mbonu, who is currently at large, to harass and defame fellow Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson Okojie through posts shared on Instagram and TikTok.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offences occurred in 2024 and contravene provisions of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015. The controversial posts reportedly described Mercy Johnson as a “blood-sucking demon,” a statement the complainant claims was deliberately made to damage her reputation.

Following Okorie’s plea, prosecuting counsel Victor Okoye urged the court to remand the actress in custody and adjourn the matter for the prosecution to commence trial. He argued that Okorie had previously failed to honour police invitations and had violated the terms of an administrative bail earlier granted to her.

“The administrative bail has lapsed upon her arraignment before this court,” Okoye submitted, insisting that the defence must file a proper bail application to enable the prosecution respond with supporting documents.

However, Okorie’s lawyer strongly opposed her remand, accusing the police of denying his client fair treatment. Ejesieme told the court that although the charge was filed months earlier, Okorie only received a copy of it shortly before the proceedings began.

He further stated that the actress was arrested in Lagos and transported to Abuja without prior notice and was not allowed sufficient access to her legal team for consultation. He appealed to the court to either allow Okorie continue on administrative bail or release her into his custody to enable her make arrangements for her child and properly apply for bail.

In his ruling, Justice Nwite faulted the police for preventing the defendant from meeting her lawyers ahead of her arraignment. The judge confirmed that Okorie had been invited by the police earlier in January but noted that her legal rights must be respected.

The court subsequently ordered both parties to file and exchange all documents relevant to the bail application within 24 hours. Justice Nwite also directed that Okorie be remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre and produced in court on January 30 for the bail hearing.

Also Read: Ajit Pawar Killed in Private Jet Crash Near Mumbai, Probe Underway

The case originated from a petition submitted by Mercy Johnson Okojie’s legal representatives, who attached screenshots of the alleged social media posts from Okorie’s Instagram handle, @realangelaokorie. The petition claims the posts were malicious, defamatory, and intended to incite hatred, cause emotional distress, and inflict lasting damage on Johnson’s public image.

The prosecution alleges that Okorie repeatedly used her online platforms to intimidate, harass, and make false accusations against the complainant.

The matter has been adjourned to January 30 for the hearing of Okorie’s bail application.

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