A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday, November 20, 2025, sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life in prison after finding him guilty of seven terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government’s prosecution team.
The judgment was delivered by Justice James Omotosho, who said Kanu’s series of broadcasts encouraged violence, threatened citizens, and fueled unrest across the South-East.
The court explained that its decision was based on evidence showing that Kanu used Radio Biafra to issue threats, promote attacks, and enforce actions that violated people’s rights. Justice Omotosho said the broadcasts and directives created fear in communities and pushed supporters to act violently.
According to the ruling, the judgment was given in Kanu’s absence because he insisted the court would not deliver a verdict on the terrorism charges. This led to a brief disturbance in the courtroom, after which the judge ordered security personnel to remove him for what he described as unruly conduct.
Justice Omotosho stated that Kanu’s sit-at-home directives across the South-East amounted to acts of terrorism because they denied residents their freedom of movement and shut down normal life in entire communities. He added that markets, streets, and public spaces were left empty out of fear.
The judge also said evidence presented in court showed that Kanu used his broadcasts to encourage attacks on police and military officers, which he described as “preparatory terrorism.”
In the final decision, the court held that Kanu committed terrorist acts against the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Despite pleading not guilty, he was convicted on all seven counts and will now serve life imprisonment under Nigerian law.
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday, November 20, 2025, convicted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on 7 terrorism-related charges brought by the Federal Government’s prosecution team.
Justice James Omotosho ruled that Kanu used multiple broadcasts to incite violence, threaten citizens, and promote actions that caused fear and destruction in the South-East region.
The court explained that its decision was based mainly on prosecution evidence, including video recordings and radio interviews, where Kanu issued violent threats, ordered sit-at-home enforcement, and made statements encouraging attacks on Nigeria. The judge said these actions met the legal definition of terrorism.
According to the judgment, Kanu was found guilty on counts one and two, which involved making repeated broadcasts calling for violence and killings while promoting his separatist movement. He was also convicted on counts four and five, which linked him to inciting violence during the #EndSARS protests, where security officers were killed and government buildings were destroyed in Lagos.
Justice Omotosho added that the sit-at-home orders enforced through threats were unconstitutional and caused fear across the South-East. He noted that markets, streets, and even farmlands were left empty because people were scared to disobey Kanu’s directives.
The court further stated that Kanu was given every opportunity to defend himself, dismissing claims that he was denied a fair hearing. It also highlighted one of his broadcasts where he allegedly said the Nigerian Army “will die” and that “everything called Nigeria will perish in Biafra,” describing such statements as dangerous and unlawful.
Justice Omotosho reminded the court that the offences Kanu was convicted of carry a maximum punishment of death, update on his sentencing will be announced soon.
Today, Thursday, November 20, 2025, all eyes are on the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice James Kolawole Omotosho is delivering the long-expected judgment in the terrorism case involving Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Security agencies have tightened their presence across the South-East as the nation anticipates a ruling that could shape the region’s stability. While the court proceedings continue in Abuja, there is already a noticeable shift in daily life in the South-East.
Police patrols have increased, roadblocks have been mounted in key towns, and residents are being urged to conduct their activities cautiously. Authorities say these measures are preventive steps to avoid any unrest once the verdict is announced.
In Lagos, especially on Lagos Island, our correspondent reports that many Igbo traders have closed their shops for the day. Major trading zones known for their strong Igbo presence including Idumota, Balogun Market, and areas around Adeniji Adele remained quieter than usual as shop owners stayed home to follow the court developments.
Traders told our reporter they shut their doors to follow the outcome of Kanu’s trial and also to avoid any possible tension.
Nnamdi Kanu’s legal troubles began in 2015, when he was first arrested on allegations tied to his agitation for an independent Biafran state. After being granted bail in 2017, he left the country under controversial circumstances, leading to a prolonged period of legal and political disputes.
His return to Nigeria in 2021, after being intercepted abroad, revived the longstanding case. Since then, he has remained in custody while attending a series of court sessions that have stretched through changing judges, new charges, and repeated delays.
The current trial centers on accusations of terrorism, incitement, and actions said to have encouraged violent confrontations in the South-East. Kanu and his legal team have consistently argued that the charges are politically motivated and based on outdated legal provisions.
One of their key objections is that some of the laws under which he was charged have been amended or replaced. His lawyers previously requested the court to suspend judgment until these issues are clarified, but the trial continued after several failed attempts to halt proceedings.
As Justice Omotosho reads his decision today, supporters insist that only a fair and transparent verdict can help calm the region. The South-East has experienced sporadic violence in recent years, with many residents blaming both separatist groups and security agencies for the instability.
As the country waits for Justice Omotosho’s final words, the mood remains a mix of anxiety, hope, and caution. Whether the ruling brings closure or sparks new debates, today marks a defining chapter in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched legal battles.
The value of Bitcoin has fallen sharply in recent weeks, briefly dropping below $90,000 after reaching record highs of over $126,000 in early October. The decline has sparked concern among investors worldwide, highlighting the cryptocurrency’s well-known volatility.
For Nigerians, the numbers carry even greater weight. At the current exchange rate of approximately ₦1,447 per US dollar, one Bitcoin is now valued at around ₦130 million, down from over ₦180 million at its October peak. This steep decline demonstrates how global crypto movements can have a direct impact on local markets.
The recent fall in Bitcoin’s price has been linked to global economic uncertainty. Investor concerns over potential trade tensions and questions about U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate decisions have caused a flight toward safer assets, affecting not only Bitcoin but other cryptocurrencies and stocks.
Experts also point to previous sharp fluctuations as a contributing factor to investor caution. Many who bought Bitcoin during its earlier rallies have experienced substantial losses during sudden downturns, making some hesitant to re-enter the market too quickly.
Despite the recent decline, analysts remain cautious but hopeful. Some argue that market corrections are part of Bitcoin’s natural cycle, and renewed investor confidence or favorable economic data could trigger another price rally in the coming months.
The cryptocurrency sector has also seen increasing attention from regulators and institutional investors. In the European Union, the MiCA regulation has provided a clearer framework for crypto operations, while London is expected to announce its own set of rules in 2026. Such developments are viewed as positive steps for long-term adoption.
Bitcoin, created in 2008 following the global financial crisis, was originally designed to challenge traditional monetary systems and central banks. Its founder, known by the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, envisioned a decentralized currency free from government control—a vision that continues to inspire both excitement and debate in financial markets today.
For Nigerians holding Bitcoin, the current drop serves as a stark reminder of the cryptocurrency’s risks and rewards. While one coin is still worth over ₦130 million, the rapid swings highlight the importance of cautious investing and the unpredictable nature of digital currencies.
Not fewer than two people have been killed and one injured by suspected bandits that attacked the town of Eruku in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State on Tuesday.
The assault happened around 6 p.m. on November 18, 2025, and one of the main places targeted was a parish of the Christ Apostolic Church, where worshippers were gathered for a service.
Police said the attackers fired several shots, forcing people to run, and then escaped into the surrounding bushes when security operatives and local vigilantes rushed toward the sound of gunfire. The police confirmed that one worshipper was shot inside the church, while another victim was later found dead in the bush near the community.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, officers responded immediately after gunshots were heard. The statement explained that a man identified as Mr. Aderemi was killed in the church, and another victim, Mr. Tunde Asaba Ajayi, was discovered in the bush. A vigilante member, Segun Alaja, was also hit by a bullet and was taken to ECWA Hospital in Eruku for treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, praised the quick reaction of both the police and the vigilante team. He assured residents that security forces would continue pursuing those behind the attacks. He urged the public to remain calm while operations continue in the border communities.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic when the armed men stormed the church. One eyewitness said, “The gunmen came into the church while people were gathered. They started shooting and three people died immediately. They later rounded up some worshippers, including the pastor, and marched them into the bush.”
After the church attack, the bandits reportedly struck again near the Ilorin–Kabba Road. Travelers were forced to abandon their cars and run into the bushes to avoid being shot or captured. One traveler shared in a voice message, “They came around 6:30pm and started shooting. Two people were killed instantly, and we don’t even know how many were taken; they are still shooting—you can hear it.”
Residents say the community has experienced repeated violence in recent weeks. A local leader, Mr. Benjamin Ayeoribe, expressed deep frustration, saying, “We have begged the local and state governments for help, but nothing concrete has come. We are living in fear every day…We need federal help. These attacks are becoming too much for us to bear. We are pleading with the President to intervene urgently.”
Despite regular patrols and efforts from hunters, vigilantes, and police officers, bandits continue to use the border area to their advantage, slipping in and out after attacks. Many border villages in Kwara State have been struggling with increasing cases of kidnappings, killings, and armed raids in recent months.
President Donald Trump has stopped trying to block the release of the Epstein files in Washington, DC. He changed his position on Sunday evening after realizing he could not slow down the congressional plan to make the documents public and that he risked facing a major political defeat.
Advisers told Trump in recent days that the measure had strong support in Congress, and that fighting it would only make the situation worse. This led him to agree reluctantly that he would sign measure if it reached his desk.
On Monday, Trump confirmed from the Oval Office that he would approve the bill, saying, “Sure, I would.” His team had tried privately to convince some Republicans to pull back their support, but those efforts failed. He also criticized Republicans who supported the measure, calling them “soft and foolish,” and described the renewed focus on Epstein as a distraction.
Trump has long been frustrated that his name keeps getting pulled back into discussions about Epstein. People close to him say he sees the issue as unnecessary drama that interferes with his policy goals. He has also been annoyed that some of his own allies have pushed strongly for the release of the files.
Just two days before changing his stance, Trump publicly attacked Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for supporting the measure, even withdrawing his endorsement and calling her a “traitor.” Despite this, he eventually accepted that the bill was certain to pass the House and that opposing it would only draw more negative attention.
Now, Trump and his allies view his shift as a strategic move. They hope that supporting the quick release of the files will help Republicans move past the controversy and allow the administration to refocus attention on issues Trump believes matter more to voters.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said, “We’ll just get this done and move it on,” adding that he believes there is “nothing to hide.” Johnson also hinted he may support the measure after previously siding with Trump, saying he felt more confident the Senate could adjust parts of the bill he was concerned about.
Trump echoed that approach on Monday, urging Republicans to turn their attention to topics he considers more important for the upcoming midterm elections. “All I want is for people to recognize a great job that I’ve done on pricing, on affordability,” he said.
In the meantime, Trump has also ordered a Justice Department investigation into Epstein’s connections with several political figures. A White House spokeswoman said this move shows Trump wants “transparency related to the Epstein files.”
It remains uncertain whether the Justice Department could use the active investigation as a reason to delay handing over documents once the new measure becomes law. The Senate is not expected to take up the issue until December at the earliest, giving the White House time to shift public focus back to other parts of Trump’s agenda.
Still, some advisers worry the issue could return at any moment, noting that conspiracy theories rarely disappear entirely. Trump himself acknowledged the ongoing pressure, saying on Monday, “No matter what we give, it’s never enough.”
Nigerian comedian Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi, popularly known as Mr Jollof, has addressed the public following a heated altercation with social media personality VeryDarkMan aboard a United Nigeria Airlines flight on Monday.
In a video shared on Instagram Tuesday, Mr Jollof explained that the confrontation escalated unexpectedly and claimed he acted purely in self-defense. He emphasized that he is not a violent person and expressed deep regret over the disruption caused.
“I was only defending myself. You guys saw what happened,” he said. “I am very sorry if I delayed your appointment. Pardon me. I am not that kind of person; it will never happen again.”
Mr Jollof extended a heartfelt apology to the National Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), United Nigeria Airlines, and all passengers affected by the incident. He also offered a personal message to his family, saying, “To my lovely wife, I know you are proud of me. And to my kids, I’m sorry, daddy will never do this again.”
The clash, which reportedly delayed the flight, has drawn significant attention online and it is being speculated that both Mr Jollof and VeryDarkMan may face legal consequences as authorities consider possible criminal charges related to the incident.
As the story develops, many are watching to see how aviation authorities and law enforcement will respond to the high-profile dispute.
Today, Monday, 17 November 2025, Abeokuta buzzed with excitement as friends, family, community leaders, and dignitaries gathered to honor Chief Alhaji Isiak Ajani Adekolu Adekunle, the newly crowned Osi Asiwaju of Egbaland. While he was officially installed on Saturday, today’s event marked the grand celebration that attracted a huge turnout.
The installation was carried out by the respected Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, Okukenu IV. The Alake praised Chief Adekunle for his kind heart, his generosity, and his long history of helping the Egba people and supporting community growth.
Today’s celebration continued that spirit of honour. Not fewer than a thousand people gathered in abeokuta to show love and support for the new Osi Asiwaju.
One of the dignitaries present was the Chairman of Royal Times Newspaper, Chief Akindele Akinfolabi, who congratulated the new Osi Asiwaju and applauded the palace for recognising a man who has been making a real difference in society.
There were also representatives from the Commission of Chieftaincy Affairs and officials from the palace, further showing the importance of the title and what it means to Egbaland.
In his speech, Chief Adekunle expressed deep thanks to the Alake, calling him a peaceful leader whose reign continues to bring progress to the people. He said the honour given to him is a call to do even more for both Egbas and non-Egbas living in the community.
He also promised to continue his philanthropic work, saying he will keep supporting those in need and helping the community grow in unity and development.
Chief Adekunle used the moment to urge Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a capable leader working hard to bring peace across the country. He said Nigeria needs unity, not fighting or division, and encouraged everyone to work together for a better future.
The event was lively and colourful, with music from popular performer Are Shinna Akanni, also known as Scorpion, who entertained the crowd with energetic songs that kept guests dancing and cheering.
It marked not only the honour given to the new Osi Asiwaju but also a renewed hope for unity, progress, and continued service to the people.
A former spokesman of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Umar Sani, says the expulsion of Nyesom Wike and other party members was overdue but necessary to restore order in the party.
Speaking to the press on Monday, he said the disciplinary action taken after the party’s national convention in Ibadan was both lawful and justified.
Sani explained that the PDP had tried several internal reconciliation efforts before the final decision, including the Ambassador Hassan Adamu Committee, which attempted to settle the dispute among party factions.
He said Wike had made difficult demands, including asking the party not to field a presidential candidate in 2027. “We wanted to resolve this as a family… One of his conditions was that we agree not to field a presidential candidate in 2027. We cannot wait for a fight to finish; we have to end the fight,” he said. He added that taking action “was better late than never.”
He also addressed the confusion over the presence of observers at the convention. Sani recalled that the master of ceremonies wrongly announced that INEC officials were in attendance, but Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, quickly clarified that they were only national election observers. “Immediately, I tweeted that the INEC officials are here… Moments later, Bala corrected it… I quickly issued a statement to put out the correct information,” Sani said.
Sani stressed that INEC’s attendance does not make a convention valid or invalid, noting that the law only empowers the commission to monitor but not necessarily certify party conventions. He pointed to an earlier Labour Party convention that INEC did not attend, yet the outcome stood after a court order.
According to him, the PDP followed all legal steps for its Ibadan gathering, including the required 21-day notice and a court directive from Justice A.L. Akintola of the Oyo State High Court. “We held our convention in compliance with statutory court orders,” he noted.
At the convention, the PDP elected Kabiru Turaki as its new National Chairman and Taofeek Arapaja as the new National Secretary. The party also voted to expel several members — including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, former Governor Ayo Fayose, former National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, and others — over alleged anti-party activities.
The motion for their removal was moved by Bode George and seconded by Samaila Buga, with the delegates overwhelmingly backing the decision after Governor Bala Mohammed put it to a voice vote. The move signalled a renewed effort by the PDP to enforce discipline and address long-standing internal conflicts.
The United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to review President Donald Trump’s recent decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom violations.
The move, if approved by the Senate, could allow the US to impose sanctions on Nigerian officials accused of complicity in religious persecution and restrict certain forms of aid.
The hearing, chaired by Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ), will take place at 11:00 a.m. in Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building and will be available via live webcast. It will feature two panels of witnesses, including senior US State Department officials and Nigerian religious leaders, who will discuss the reported attacks on Christian communities and possible US policy responses.
Panelists will include Jonathan Pratt, Senior Bureau Official of the Bureau of African Affairs, and Jacob McGee, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. The second panel will feature Ms Nina Shea, Director of the Centre for Religious Freedom; Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of Makurdi Catholic Diocese; and Ms Oge Onubogu of the Centre for Strategic & International Studies.
President Trump, on October 31, 2025, labeled Nigeria a country of particular concern, citing severe violations of religious freedom, particularly against Christians. He warned that the US might take action, including halting aid or even military intervention, if the Nigerian government failed to protect Christians. “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now-disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” Trump said on November 1, 2025.
President Bola Tinubu rejected Trump’s claims, saying the description did not reflect Nigeria’s reality. “Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty. The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality. Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so,” Tinubu said in a statement on his official X handle.
The US congressional probe comes amid repeated attacks on Christian communities, including killings by Islamist extremists and militant Fulani herdsmen, kidnappings, and church burnings. Bishop Anagbe, who will testify at the hearing, previously told UK parliamentarians how Christians in Benue State had lost their homes, farms, and lives. “They follow orders to conquer, kill, and occupy. They attack even those who have managed to escape into our IDP camps,” he said.
US Congressman Riley Moore (R-WV) said, “We’ve already started that investigation… We’re going to get to the bottom of this. What is going on in the country is horrific – these killings of brothers and sisters in Christ, but we, and as President Trump has said it, we’re going to stop this.” Moore also defended the US role in Nigeria, stating that the CPC designation gives the President options, including sanctions and other measures.
Pope Leo XIV has voiced concern over the violence, citing Nigeria as one of several countries where Christians face persecution. “In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution… God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children,” he said on X.
Meanwhile, US Congressman Bill Huizenga said Trump’s statements did not necessarily mean military action. “I suspect that that is not a high priority of having actual military intervention… But he does want to make sure that, from his view, the genocide that is happening specifically against Christians… needs to stop,” Huizenga said.
In Nigeria, President Tinubu sent Dr Abiodun Essiet, Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement in the North Central Zone, to Plateau State to mediate local conflicts between Christian communities and Fulani herdsmen. The peace mission resulted in the resolution of a local dispute involving the seizure of cattle and included agreements to maintain harmony.
