Author OJ Laboye

Asake Previews New Music and Makes History as First African Artiste at Red Bull Symphonic in Brooklyn

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asake-performing-during-red-bull-symphonic-concert-in-brooklyn

New York (Planet Akinadé) – Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake headlined the U.S. edition of Red Bull Symphonic at Brooklyn’s Kings Theatre on Saturday, November 8, 2025, becoming the first African artiste to perform at the symphonic show.

Asake previewed an unreleased track from his upcoming album M$NEY during the sold-out concert. Although the title of the track has not been disclosed but it features lyrics on faith, perseverance and hard work. GIRAN REPUBLIC recently shared the following lyrics of the track via its official X account:

“Alhamdulilah grace be to God, no matter your condition stay close to God, forget all your loss something must go before something come it is work no be luck seeing is believing, you have to trust yourself and wait for result never feel remorse”

At the Red Bull Symphonic concert in Brooklyn, Asake reimagined hits like ‘Lonely at the Top’ and ‘Terminator’, in a fusion of Afrobeats and classical music, featuring an orchestra, including The Compozers band. Surprise guests which included Wizkid, Gunna, Central Cee, Tiakola, and Fridayy joined the former YBNL artiste for collaborations such as ‘MMS’, ‘Happiness’ and ‘Badman Gangsta’, showcasing Asake’s global ties and contributions to Afrobeats’ rising international stature.

ALSO READ: Omah Lay Teases New Music, Anticipation Builds Among Fans

The Brooklyn concert followed Asake’s visit to Columbia University on November 7, 2025, where he spoke at the university’s AfroDiaspora Colloquium. The colloquium drew students of African descent, as well as fans of Afrobeats.

In the 75-minute session, which was moderated by cultural journalist Ime Ekpo, Asake’s discussed cultural roots and creative inspirations. Giving credit to his family, faith, friends and Lagos life, Asake noted how traditional Yoruba elements and the Black diaspora influence his music and original songwriting.

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US Congressman Riley Moore Introduces Resolution on Christian Persecution in Nigeria

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photo-of-us-rep-riley-moore-in-a-black-suit-against-the-background-of-the-american-flagus-congress-logo

Washington, D.C. (Planet Akinadé) – On November 7, 2025, U.S. Rep. Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) introduced a congressional resolution condemning the systematic persecution of Christians in Nigeria and supporting President Trump’s redesignation of the country as a Country of Particular Concern for religious freedom violations. Rep Moore’s resolution, which is co-sponsored by 20 colleagues, calls for U.S. sanctions, visa restrictions, and aid conditions to urge Nigeria to prosecute attackers and protect minorities, amid reports of over 5,000 Christian deaths in 2024 and rising figures in 2025.

A press release, dated October 6, 2025, by Rep Moore said he sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling on the United States to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act, a status that triggers heightened scrutiny of religious‐freedom violations and may lead to sanctions.

According to the press release, Moore’s letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, mentioned that over 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria so far in 2025, an average of about 35 per day, while about 19,100 churches have reportedly been attacked or destroyed since 2009. The congressman noted that President Trump had previously designated Nigerian as a CPC but that designation was reversed by the Biden-led administration.

ALSO READ: Hegseth Orders Pentagon Staff to Seek Approval Before Communicating with US Congress

In his floor remarks, Moore stated that more Christians are being killed in Nigeria than in any other country combined, and he called Nigeria “the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian”. Moore urged suspension of U.S. arms sales and technical advice to Nigeria unless the Nigerian government takes credible action to protect Christian communities. His remarks also noted that militant groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS‐West Africa (ISWAP) and Fulani‐herder militias are major perpetrators and he alleged some complicity on the part of Nigerian officials.

Nigeria’s government has strongly rejected the allegations. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized Moore’s claims as “false and misleading” and affirmed that the government does not deliberately engage in the targeted persecution of Christians, emphasizing that both Christians and Muslims suffer from violence. Analysts warn that while violence in Nigeria is indeed severe, it is complex, driven by insurgency, communal conflict, land disputes and banditry, not only by religious persecution.

Following Rep Moore’s remarks, plus similar allegations of a “Christian genocide” and the persecution of Christians in Nigeria by Republican Senator Ted Cruz and some American celebrities, Trump declared Nigeria as a CPC.

A report by Punch, on October 31, said the U.S. president announced the redesignation in a post, which was shared on the White House’s official X account saying “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a ‘country of particular concern’.”

Trump stated that he wanted Congressman Riley Moore, together with Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, to immediately look into the matter and report back to him.

Rep. Riley Moore’s resolution – which highlights attacks by Fulani militants and Boko Haram affiliates that have killed tens of thousands since 2009 – has received endorsement from advocacy groups, including global religious freedom organisation ADF International, of which, legal counsel Sean Nelson quoted Rep Moore’s statement in the following tweet on Friday, saying “For far too long, Christians in Nigeria have suffered, with thousands every year losing their lives for simply living out their faith. We applaud and proudly endorse this resolution from Representative Riley Moore as a major step forward in protecting human dignity and religious freedom in Nigeria. Now that the world is watching, there is no better time than now to help our Christian brothers and sisters and put an end to the persecution and horrific violence they have faced.”

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Sources:

Moore, R. (2025). Congressman Moore Urges Secretary of State to Designate Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” Amid Rampant Christian Persecution. https://rileymoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-moore-urges-secretary-state-designate-nigeria-country-particular-concern

Sahara Reporters (2025). US Congressman Riley Moore Insists On Nigeria Re-Designated As ‘Country of Particular Concern’ Over Killings In Christian Communities. https://saharareporters.com/2025/10/11/us-congressman-riley-moore-insists-nigeria-re-designated-country-particular-concern-over-killings-in-christian-communities

Sulaimon, A. (2025). UPDATED: Trump declares Nigeria ‘country of particular concern’ over Christian genocide claims. Punch. https://punchng-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/punchng.com/breaking-trump-declares-nigeria-country-of-particular-concern-over-christian-genocide-claims/

Omah Lay Teases New Music, Anticipation Builds Among Fans

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photo of omah lay, posing with hands raised against the sunset, in what appears to be a rocky desert

Lagos NG, Nov 7 (Planet Akinadé) — Nigerian ‘Afro-fusion’ star Omah Lay has officially sparked excitement among fans by releasing a preview for what appears to be his upcoming music ‘Listen To My Voice’. The 26-second teaser signals the arrival of fresh material and possibly a new chapter in his artistic journey.

On November 7, 2025, the artiste shared a snippet on social media, including X, giving fans a first taste of what’s coming, after a 14-month hiatus since his 2024 track ‘Moving’. The snippet features his distinctive soulful vocals layered over a moody, mellow but crispy beat; the kind of atmospheric production that fans will recognise from his earlier work, but this time suggesting perhaps a more evolved direction.

ALSO READ: Asake Previews New Music and Makes History as First African Artiste at Red Bull Symphonic in Brooklyn

While Omah Lay did not disclose the track’s official release date in his post, the preview has already generated widespread buzz online. According to X’s Grok “The post garnered nearly 100,000 engagements, with endorsements from Olamide and fans, alongside viral memes from a photo with his stylist”. Omah Lay’s previous commentary has suggested he’s working on new music and experimenting with fresh sounds.

Most fans and music industry watchers have praised the seeming sonic direction of the new track while others attempted to decode clues in the visuals and audio. People are definitely looking forward to the official release of the track, as well as the arrival of his new album Clarity of Mind.

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Hegseth Orders Pentagon Staff to Seek Approval Before Communicating with US Congress

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Washington, Oct 22 (Planet Akinadé) — In a move drawing both political scrutiny and institutional concern, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has issued a sweeping directive requiring nearly all Pentagon personnel to seek prior authorization before communicating with members of the U.S. Congress.

The new policy was first reported, on October 21, by global defense digital news platform Breaking Defense. The directive, outlined in an internal memo dated October 15 and co-signed by Deputy Secretary Steve Feinberg, states that all official communications, including briefings, phone calls, emails, or meetings, between Department of Defense (DoD) officials and lawmakers must first be cleared by the Pentagon’s Office of Legislative Affairs.

According to the memo, this change aims to “coordinate and align Department messaging when engaging with Congress to ensure consistency and support for the Department’s priorities to re-establish deterrence, rebuild our military, and revive the warrior ethos.”

ALSO READ: US Congressman Riley Moore Introduces Resolution on Christian Persecution in Nigeria

The new policy applies broadly to military service chiefs, combatant commanders, civilian leaders, and even members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — a group typically afforded wide latitude in engaging with congressional committees that oversee the military.

Critics argue the directive could significantly disrupt the flow of information between Congress and the armed forces, particularly during crises or budget deliberations. Several lawmakers from both parties have expressed alarm, calling the policy a potential threat to legislative oversight — a fundamental pillar of U.S. democratic governance.

“This memo is symptomatic of the paranoia that is emanating from the Defense Department,” said Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee. “We cannot carry out effective oversight if every conversation requires prior approval from a political appointee.”

While defending the move, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell called it a “pragmatic internal process” to ensure accuracy and alignment in communications with Congress. He stressed that the policy does not prevent Congress from obtaining information, but rather ensures that department officials present a “coherent and unified” message.

“This is about clarity and discipline, not secrecy or censorship,” Parnell said at a press briefing. “Congress still has full authority to request information and testimony, and the Department remains committed to transparency.”

Congressional committees are expected to call hearings to examine the implications of the new policy. However, Pentagon insiders report uncertainty about how strictly the rule will be enforced and whether exceptions will be made for sensitive or urgent matters.

Meanwhile, the directive stands as a powerful symbol of the Hegseth-led Pentagon’s desire for control and a flashpoint in the ongoing tug-of-war between military leadership and democratic accountability.

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Sources:

Finley, B. & Toropin, K. (2025). Hegseth changes policy on how Pentagon officials communicate with Congress. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/10/21/defense-department-pentagon-hegseth-congress/90711972-aef4-11f0-ab72-a5fffa9bf3eb_story.html

Insinna, V. & Hitchens, T. (2025). EXCLUSIVE: Pentagon clamps down on military interactions with Congress. Breaking Defense. https://breakingdefense.com/2025/10/pentagon-congress-restrictions-information-legislative-affairs-hegseth-feinberg-memo/

Reuters (2025). Pentagon tightens control on staff communication with US Congress. https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/pentagon-tightens-control-communicating-with-us-congress-2025-10-21/

FIFA World Cup 2026: How do Nigeria qualify for World Cup 2026?

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The Super Eagles have secured their place in the hunt for the 2026 FIFA World Cup aka United 2026. Though the journey won’t be straightforward, the resilience and passion of the team have opened the door to what could be a redemptive moment for Nigeria’s football fans.

Nigeria’s qualification campaign has been filled with ups and downs. After failing to make it to Qatar 2022, expectations were high for redemption in 2026. The Super Eagles found themselves drawn in a competitive Group C, with South Africa, Benin, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe all in the mix. The Super Eagles drew several matches and struggled to find consistency, prompting concerns about whether this generation of players would miss another World Cup.

In January 2025, the Nigeria Football Federation made a bold move by appointing Eric Chelle as head coach in hopes of turning the campaign around. Under his stewardship, the Eagles began to show more fight and direction.

The turning point came in October 2025, when Nigeria faced Benin in Uyo. With everything on the line, the Super Eagles delivered. Victor Osimhen lit up the game with a hat‑trick, and Frank Onyeka sealed the result with a late strike in injury time. Nigeria won 4‑0. That emphatic result gave Nigeria a shot at continuing the journey — not via direct qualification, but through the playoff pathway for the best runners-up.

Meanwhile, South Africa also clinched their direct spot by beating Rwanda 3‑0. The standings in Group C ended with South Africa in first and Nigeria second, tied on points with Benin but ahead on goal difference.

What Comes Next for the Super Eagles After Qualifying for Continental Playoffs?

Securing second place means Nigeria now goes into the CAF playoff stage — facing other top second‑placed teams across Africa in a semifinal‑final knockout format. Winners from that stage will then proceed to intercontinental playoffs for a final shot at the World Cup.

It’s not a guaranteed route, but it is a path. The Super Eagles must maintain impetus, avoid complacency, and bring the same intensity in the knockout rounds. This could mean redemption for a disappointed nation, considering the fact that many fans felt this campaign was a chance to restore pride since Nigeria missed out on Qatar 2022.

However, the victory over Benin showed that when it matters most, Nigeria can rise to the challenge. Osimhen’s brilliance, the work of veterans and newcomers alike, and the tactical shift under Chelle all deserve recognition. Playoff formats leave little room for error — Nigeria’s ability to perform under pressure will define this journey.

Anyway, the Super Eagles have secured an opportunity where many feared there would be none. The journey continues, and the eyes of a nation are watching.

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BBNaija S10: Imisi Ayanwale wins Big Brother Naija Season 10, How Imisi won BBNaija 10/10

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The tenth edition of Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show Big Brother Naija ended last night with the crowning of Imisioluwa Ayanwale as the winner of the show. Imisi left the BBNaija ’10/10′ house with a grand prize of ₦150 million, including ₦80 million cash, a luxury SUV and loads of sponsor gifts.

According to Africa Magic, at 8:57pm on October 05, show host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu announced Imisi as winner “under a dazzling storm of confetti and thunderous applause”. Meanwhile, with her sensational win, the 23-year-old fashion designer—who calls herself “Ijoba 606″—joins the league of female Big Brother Naija winners, including Mercy Eke, Ilebaye and Phyna.

However, moments after the declaration of Imisi’s victory, fans became divided across social media over who actually deserved the crown between Imisi and Dede (who is the runner-up of BBNaija Season 10). Out of all nine final housemates, Imisi had 42.8% of the vote yet some fans believed that they were all “pity votes”.

ALSO READ: BBNaija S10: Faith disqualified from BBNaija 10/10, BBN star Pere shares thoughts

How did Imisi win BBNaija Season 10?

According to Africa Magic, one truth about the Big Brother Naija house is that “the crown doesn’t go to the strongest player, the slickest talker, or the loudest drama maker. It goes to the one who shows up, stays real, and turns every moment into possibility”.

The DStv channel believes that Imisi’s relatable realness, her electric entertainment and moral stand are the three pillars that led her to victory. Of course, one couldn’t forget her knack for being a “wager assassin”, her alliance with Kola and the way she would bounce back from friction such as her confrontation with Rooboy.

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Source:

Finale: From underdog to Queen: How Imisi reigned over the 10/10 house – BBNaija. AM Family – Big Brother Naija. https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/10/news/finale-from-underdog-to-queen-how-imisi-reigned-over-the-10-10-house-bbnaija/news

BBNaija S10: Faith disqualified from BBNaija 10/10, BBN star Pere shares thoughts

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The news of Faith Adewale’s disqualification from Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Season 10 has been buzzing across social media and entertainment blogs. Apparently, Faith had been going through emotional strain in the house, considering his involvement in conflict. Fans of the show would agree that Faith’s emotional toll seemed high and some people may have predicted that he might not last to the end of the show. Meanwhile his previous comments about wanting to quit may have even fed speculation of a voluntary exit on his part or perhaps, his eventual eviction.

Faith, a medical doctor by profession, entered the BBNaija house as one of the contestants expected to bring both intelligence and personality to the mix. However, over the weeks, he’s been involved in several key house drama moments that have made him one of the more talked‑about housemates.

Faith had expressed serious frustration with the show. He even once questioned whether continuing in the show was worth it; in private conversations such as one with Joanna in the garden, he described being tired of the pace, unsure of what staying longer will achieve, and even said he might need therapy. He reportedly referred to the Big Brother Nigeria experience as a “a waste of time.”

Why was Faith disqualified from Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Season 10?

Typically, disqualification means a contestant is forced to leave by Big Brother or house management, often for breaching serious rules—especially involving physical violence, threats, or acts that endanger others. In this case, Faith reportedly clashed with Sultana over a group task. Sultana had accused Faith of being controlling because he insisted on leading the group, then things escalated when Faith forcefully dragged a basket of group materials from Sultana, causing her to fall while she sustained an injury in the process.

ALSO READ: BBNaija Season 10: Top Highlights, Twists, and What’s Making Us Talk about BBNaija ’10/10′

A Day 68 report on DStv.com said “Breaking News! For engaging in physical violence with Sultana over a disagreement, Faith has been disqualified from the competition and is to leave the house immediately”

Meanwhile, Big Brother Naija: Shine Ya Eye and Big Brother Naija: All Stars alum and actor Pere Egbi took to X on the same day to share his thoughts about Faith’s disqualification, saying both Sultana and Faith were wrong; according to him, both housemates “lacked emotional regulation”.

Pere argued that the fight between Faith and Sultana “wasn’t a case of man vs. woman. It was a case of disruption vs. order. One person had already been building. The other showed up late and tried to take the lead.

From a psychological standpoint:

Sultana was wrong first. Faith was wrong next. But not equally.

Sultana lit the match.

Faith threw it into the basket.

Both lacked emotional regulation”, he concluded.

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BBNaija Season 10: Top Highlights, Twists, and What’s Making Us Talk about BBNaija ’10/10′

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The tenth edition of Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show Big Brother Naija — which premiered on July 26/27, 2025 — launched with high expectations; BBNaija Season 10 (tagged ’10/10′) came with new twists, a larger prize, and a diverse cast.

Over 29 housemates reportedly entered the house on Day 1 and Day 2, with Big Brother Nigeria Season 1 alum Ebuka Obi-Uchendu returning as show host. The grand prize has been set at ₦150 million (including cash and sponsor gifts), which is the biggest top prize in BBNaija’s history.

Here are some of the standout developments so far:

Early Tensions & Kitchen Drama

Very early into the game, housemates clashed over food, control in the kitchen, and power. Kitchen fights, people getting upset over onions or who is cooking what, etc. A party night escalated quickly into heated arguments. Emotions ran high. Recently, there was drama surrounding kitchen spoons and cutlery that Imisi went to hide in someone’s travelling box, just because a lot of the housemates sided with Thelma when they had a clash. Meanwhile, Kola knew about it but decided to keep quiet; perhaps to show his loyalty to Imisi. This triggered Faith who proceeded to call their friendship ‘dumb’.

Also Read: BBNaija Season 10: Day 3 & Day 23 — Moments That Define the Game on BBNaija ’10/10′

HoH & Power Moves

The very first Head of House (HoH) competition was won by Jason Jae, who then picked Doris as his companion. This move has sparked interest around possible alliances. Later, Zita snatched the HoH crown from interim HoH Doris and others by Day 23. Her reign has been watched closely.

Romance, ‘Ships’ & Social Dynamics

Almost immediately, we saw a ‘ship’ start to form: Danboskid and Zita were caught sharing intimate moments, even under the duvet, less than 3‐4 days into the show. That sparked a big reaction on social media. Doris once confided in Sultana that Denari wants to meet her mom and has even promised her marriage. The romance between Isabella and Koyin is another brewing ‘ship’ that fans and viewers are watching with keen interest. Meanwhile, there are tensions around friendships, unreciprocated romantic interest, and how different housemates connect (or don’t). For instance, Faith and Joanna were once captured engaging in a flirtatious exchange on Day 40 but Joanna later became close to Jason Jae and, on the night of Live Show 9, when Ebuka questioned her about her relationship with Jason Jae, Thelma said “we’re just friends”.

Tasks, Twist & Evictions

Wager Tasks (weekly tasks) are part of the competition structure. Success or failure here affects weekly budgets and standing in the house. The ‘Tree of Trinkets’ twist came in one week: Zita had the power to save two housemates from eviction under this twist. She could not save her deputy Rooboy.

BBNaija ’10/10′ is currently airing on DStv (Channel 198), GOtv (Channel 49), and streaming on Showmax.

What’s been your favorite ‘ship’ so far? Who’s been the best HoH and who do you think will win HoH next?

Drop a comment or share this post if you’ve got theories or receipts you want to put on blast. Follow @planetakinade on Facebook, X and Instagram.

BBNaija Season 10: Day 3 & Day 23 — Moments That Define the Game on BBNaija ’10/10′

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This season of Big Brother Naija has been delivering — every week, the drama sharpens, the game intensifies, and the moments become more unforgettable. Aptly tagged ’10/10′ and with a record prize pot, fresh twists, and housemates who aren’t holding back, this season is already giving us moments we won’t forget so soon. From shocking nominations to emotional betrayals and juicy romances, there’s enough drama, fun, and suspense to keep us glued.

In this post, we zoom in on two days that stand out: Day 3, where we saw the first cracks in harmony; and Day 23, when power shifted dramatically with Zita’s Head of House win. Check out the clips, relive the moments, and see why these days will be remembered.

Also Read: BBNaija Season 10: Top Highlights, Twists, and What’s Making Us Talk about BBNaija ’10/10′

Day 3 — First Diary Sessions & Early Tensions

On Day 3, the housemates had their first diary room sessions, giving them a chance to vent, connect, and show early shades of strategy.

Some standout moments from Day 3:

  • Mensan gets emotional, calling out KayBobo and describing him as a bully — showing that personalities wouldn’t stay hidden long.
  • A tender but tense moment between Kayikunmi and Isabella. Attraction is confessed, but things get messy when feelings clash or expectations aren’t met.
  • The kitchen chaos and early confrontations among housemates like Ivatar and Sultana — signs that alliances and tensions are forming fast.

Day 23 — Zita’s Rise as Head of House

Fast forward to Day 23 — a turning point. Zita snatched the Head of House crown in a display of strategic moves and popularity.

What These Days Tell Us About the Season So Far

Together, Day 3 and Day 23 map a journey: from raw, emotional openers to calculated strategy and competition. Some themes emerging:

  • Emotion vs Strategy: Early days, many are guided by emotional responses (hurt, connection, betrayal). By Day 23, the strategy starts to rise — who can win, who can lead, who can stay relevant.
  • Reputation matters: Whether it’s being seen as strong, empathetic, or bold, housemates are learning that perception inside and outside the house can be a game changer.
  • Power shifts quickly: HOH wins, nominations, and public perception can all flip the game. A housemate who was under the radar can suddenly be the center of attention.

BBNaija ’10/10′ season is living up to its name because it’s not just giving us the usual. It’s emotional, unpredictable, strategic, messy, and entirely binge‑worthy. Who do you think has the best shot at the grand prize?

Drop a comment or share this post if you’ve got theories — this season isn’t waiting, and neither should your takes. Follow @planetakinade on Facebook, X and Instagram. 

Nigeria’s FG arraigns five suspects involved in St Francis Catholic Church Owo attack

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  • Defendants plead not guilty to terrorism charge.
  • Defence lawyer believes suspects “will be discharged and acquitted“.
  • Court adjourns until August 19 for trial.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, on Mon, August 11, arraigned five suspected terrorists allegedly involved in the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, in Ondo State. The government reportedly accused the suspects of allegedly belonging to a local cell of the Al Shabab terror group and carrying out the attack in furtherance of their religious ideology.

According to recent reports, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, were arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja on their alleged involvement in the terror attack which claimed over 40 lives and left over 100 individuals injured.

The nine-count terrorism charge marked ‘FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025’ reportedly included the following counts:

  1. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar adults, males, with others still at large, sometime in 2021, did join and became members of AL Shabab Terrorist Group, with cell in Kogi State and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 25(1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
  2. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, adults, males, with others still at large, on 30th May, 2022; 37 June, 2022 and 4 June, 2022, at Government Secondary School, Ogamirana, Adavi LGA, Kogi State and behind Omialafa Central Mosque, Ose LGA, Ondo State, respectively, attended and held meetings, where you agreed to and planned for the terrorist attack, which you carried out on 5™ June, 2022, at St. Francs Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 12(a) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
  3. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, adults, males, with others still at large, on 05/06/2022, at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, with intent to further your religious ideology and while armed with IEDs and AK 47 rifles, did attack worshippers, held them hostage and in the process, caused grievous bodily harm to over 100 persons, including Onileke Ayodele, John Blessing, Nselu Esther and Ogungbade Peter and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24 Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 24(2)(a) of the same Act.
  4. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, adults, males, with others still at large, on 05/06/2022, had in your possession IEDs and AK 47 rifles, with which you attacked worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church, held them hostage, killed over 40 persons and caused grievous bodily harm to over 100 persons and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 2(1)(2) and (3)(v) and punishable under Section 24(1) and (2) of TPPA, 2022.
  5. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, adults, males, with others still at large, on 05/06/2022, at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, with intent to cause death, did detonate Improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which led to the death of over 40 persons, including: Ajanaku John; Onuoha Deborah; Onileke Esther and John Bosede and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 42 (a)(ii) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
  6. That you, Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, adults, males, with others still at large, on 05/06/2022, at St. Francis Catholic Church , Owo, Ondo State, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, did detonate Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) which caused grievous bodily harm to over 100 persons, including: Onuchukwu Happiness, Ogungbade Vivan and Nnakwe Paschaline Ugochinyerem and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 42(a)(i) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The defendants reportedly pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them by an official of the court. Defence lawyer Abdullahi Muhammad, prayed the court to order access to their families and lawyers, while prosecuting lawyer Calistus Eze urged the court to order that they be remanded in the custody of the DSS pending trial.

Justice Emeka Nwite, reportedly ordered that the accused be remanded in the custody of the DSS and that the defendants should be granted access to their families and lawyers. The court then adjourned until August 19 for the commencement of trial.

Meanwhile, the defence lawyer — while answering questions from the press at the end of the court session —stated that he believed that the defendants “will be discharged and acquitted”.

Sources:

Channels Television. DSS Arraigns Five Over Bombing Attack On Catholic Church in Owo. YouTube. https://youtube.com/watch?v=8_Ci958Z4XQ&si=MOyRfro5q8Wtcq30

The Conclave. FG arraigns five suspects on June 2022 attack on Owo Catholic Church. https://www.theconclaveng.com/fg-arraigns-five-suspects-on-june-2022-attack-on-owo-catholic-church

SYMFONI. Suspected Mass Shooters in Catholic Church ‘Owo Massacre’ May Be Acquitted — Defence Lawyer Vows. Youtube. https://youtube.com/watch?v=7-XvJjs0JsQ&si=wwsAJ5Qx7Syy9SS0