Her comments sparked widespread speculation about the state of the union, which has been the subject of online discussion since their traditional wedding in 2019.
Senator Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District, issued a statement denying wrongdoing and alleging that the actress was struggling with personal challenges.
“Regina was not always like this. Her current battle with drugs and alcohol abuse is the root of our problem.
“She must continue her rehabilitation programme, or I fear for her life and safety.
“Now she has moved to a place where she will have unrestricted access to drugs.
“I have other wives, and none will ever accuse me of violence.
“Regina is the violent one here, slapping and hitting three staff in the past 48 hours and destroying property, including cars and windows, for no just cause.
“The truth is, I have set a clear condition for her to accept rehab in Asokoro or outside Nigeria, especially Jordan, where she will not have access to drugs.
“A clear-headed regina would have taken Moon to the hospital, but instead she even threatened to kill our resident nurse (for exposing her drug abuse).
“While I took Moon to the hospital, a scene of chaos unfolded at home, orchestrated by Regina’s main drug supplier.
“Another known supplier of drugs to Regina is the tiny evil devil called Ann,” he wrote in a statement posted on his verified social media page.
The development has drawn significant attention on social media, with family members and associates of the couple making conflicting claims about the dispute.
The couple, who have two children together, have often been in the public eye due to the age difference in their marriage.
Regina was 20 when they tied the knot, while Nwoko was 59.
As of the time of filing this report, neither party has provided additional details about the ongoing disagreement.
Daniels’ mother could not be reached for comment as of press time.
When our reporter called her, she hung up and refused to pick up further calls.
She also did not call back as of press time.
Senator Nwoko came under intense criticism for exposing his wife’s personal challenges on social media.
The crisis rocking the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) appeared not to be abating with the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu accusing the party leadership of forgery.
The Nation also gathered that about 14 members of the National Working Committee(NWC) has signed a letter removing the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.
Anyanwu, it was gathered, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) alleging that his signature on the August 25, 2025 letter to INEC on the November 15 and 16 elective national Convention in Ibadan was forged.
The letter to the Commission received on 29th of August was signed by Amb. Umar Damagun as Acting National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary.
The Nation gathered that former Senate President, Bukola Saraki led a delegation that pleaded with Anyanwu to sign the letter after the last National Executive Committee meeting of the party.
But Anyanwu denied signing the letter accusing some officials of the party of forging his signature, an action he described as criminal
His petition to the three agencies of government is dated October 15 alleging that he never signed the August 25 letter to INEC notifying the commission of the party’s upcoming National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025.
The Nation gathered that Anyanwu’s petition titled “Petition Against Forgery and Cloning of My Signature,” described the discovery as “shocking and criminal,” insisting that the signed document was fabricated without his consent
The letter reads in part: “My attention has been drawn to an official letter to INEC, dated August 25, 2025, purportedly signed by me. Regrettably, the quoted letter was never signed, authorised, or known to me. It is shocking to have a forged or cloned version of my signature on such a document”.
The PDP scribe, who is said to be out of the country at the moment, asked the agencies to immediately “commence immediate investigation and prosecute those involved”.
He alleged that some PDP officials were working “in collaboration with elements within INEC,” to carry out the act and that such behaviour, if allowed will undermines the integrity of the electoral process and the party’s internal democracy.
The allegations is coming as concerns mount over whether or not the Ibadan National Convention will go ahead as some members work to truncate the convention while PDP Governors and other members are working round the clock to ensure the smooth conduct of the exercise.
Some Members of the party are in court seeking to halt the convention while accusing the National Working Committee (NWC) of violating the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.
Justice James Omotosho has however asked, parties in the suit not to do anything that will undermine the case before, while adjourning the case to Monday, October 20 for substantive hearing after a heated disagreement between two Senior Advocates; Chief Chris Uche and Kamaldeen Ajibade both claiming to represent the PDP in court.
The Nation also gathered while justice Omotosho has asked the two lawyers to provide documentary evidence of their authorisation and directed all parties to exchange court documents, 14 members of the NWC signed letter authorising Chief Uche as a replacement for Ajibade.
The Nation was informed by those privy to the workings of the party that the decision has further exposed the widening gulf within the top hierarchy.
Ajibade however dismissed his purported removal, maintaining that only a national convention has the power to sack him from office.
“I remain the authentic National Legal Adviser of the PDP,” he said, adding that the move as “an illegal and politically motivated attempt to hijack the party’s legal machinery.”
National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba could not be reached for comment as of the time of filing this report.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, on Sunday dispelled rumours about his health after being sighted in Abuja attending an official meeting.
Amid circulating reports suggesting that the Minister was battling a serious ailment, Edun appeared hale, hearty, and in high spirits at Fraser Suites in the nation’s capital, where he joined the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, for a meeting with a delegation from Qatar.
According to officials present, the meeting, which lasted over an hour, focused on strengthening economic and investment ties between Nigeria and Qatar. Edun actively participated in the discussions, sharing insights and engaging with members of the Qatari delegation.
The Minister was seen leaving the meeting briefly after an hour for a lunch break, further dispelling any notion of frailty or illness.
His public appearance comes as the Federal Government continues to deepen bilateral and investment relations with strategic partners, with the Ministry of Finance playing a central role in implementing key aspects of the nation’s economic agenda.
Those at the meeting described Edun’s disposition as “energetic and cheerful,” contrary to recent speculation about his health condition.
The development effectively puts to rest rumours circulating in some quarters about the Minister’s wellbeing.
He left the meeting in the company of the Minister for Industry Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole after an hour of closed door meeting with the Qataris.
Detained self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a fresh document which seeks to stall his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences.
In the fresh document, filed on October 16 Kanu queried the jurisdiction of the court to continue with his trial and prayed the court to void all proceedings in the case so far.
The document, titled: “Notice of preliminary objection to jurisdiction,” seen by The Nation, did not reflect the name of any lawyer in Kanu’s legal team as the person who prepared and filed the document.
It was however, noted that the document was signed by the defendant himself (Kanu), while the 43-paragraph supporting affidavit was deposed to by one Prince Emmanuel Kanu, who claimed to be the defendant’s sibling.
The Nation noted that Kanu’s new document was filed on the day (October 16) the court, before which he is standing trial for terrorism offences, fixed dates for him (Kanu) to open his defence.
The prosecution has however queried the authenticity of the fresh document filed by Kanu and demanded to know, among others, if it emanated from the defendant’s legal team.
Kanu’s legal team is headed by a former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi (SAN).
In a letter, dated October 16, the lead prosecuting lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) requested Agabi to confirm if the document indeed emanated from the defendant’s legal team, which he (Agabi) leads.
The letter reads: “Our law office received, today, the 16th day of October, 2025, a process titled: “Notice of preliminary Objection to Jurisdiction,” dated and filed 16th October, 2025.
“Grateful, confirm whether this process emanated from the legal team led by you, representing the defendant in this criminal trial.
“Please accept the assurances of our highest professional regards. Yours faithfully.”
At the last hearing in the terrorism case on October 16 Justice James Omotosho announced that, in view of the accelerated hearing earlier granted in the case, he would adjourn for six consecutive days, beginning from October 23, for the defence to open and close its case.
Also on October 16, Justice Omotosho announced that the medical report issued a team empanelled by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the examined Kanu, declared him medically fit to continue his trial having found that the ailments he complained about were not lie threatening.
Justice Omotosho, during October 16 hearing, read the concluding part of the medical report in the open court after Agabi confirmed that he received and read the report of the medical examination of his client by the NMA team.
The report concluded that the ailments that Kanu complained about were not life threatening and that he was fit to continue to stand trial.
When asked by the judge whether he had seen the report, Agabi confirmed receiving a copy, which he said he read and shared with members of his team.
Agabi told the court that the defence team had nothing against the report.
The judge thereafter requested Agabi and Awomolo to agree on the dates convenient for them. Both lawyers suggested October 23 for the commencement of the defendant’s case.
Shortly before he adjourned for the day, Justice Omotosho granted an oral application by Agabi that Kanu’s legal team be granted private consultation opportunity with the defendant, outside the premises of the Department of State Services (DSS), before the commencement of his defence.
Agabi said the defendant’s legal team was afraid that its consultation with him (Kanu) could be secretly tapped or recorded by the DSS.
Justice Omotosho also acceded to Agabi’s request that the private meeting with Kanu be held in the courtroom, during which only the defendant and his lawyers would be present. Agabi chose October 22, a day before the date set for Kanu to open his defence.
Based on Agabi’s request, Justice Omotosho ordered that the private consultation meeting between Kanu and his legal team should hold within the courtroom between 9am and 12 noon on October 22, while the trial will resume on October 23.
However, in his fresh notice of objection, Kanu is praying for the following reliefs:
*A declaration that the continued prosecution of the defendant under the repealed Terrorism (Prevention) Amendment Act 2013, and upon a proscription order obtained ex-parte and without fair hearing, violates sections 1(3), 36(1)-(12) and 42 of
the Constitution and Articles 7 and 26 of the African Charter, and is therefore, null and
void.
*A declaration that the Federal High Court’s ex-parte order proscribing IPOB, obtained without notice or hearing, while Justice Binta Nyako’s subsisting ruling (that IPOB is not a lawful society) remained in force, is unconstitutional, unlawful and cannot ground criminal liability.
*An order striking out or permanently staying counts one to eight, (save count 15) of the amended charge, dated 14th January 2022 for being barred by double jeopardy, having
the same factual ingredients as counts six-14 earlier struck out by the Federal High Court on 8th April 2022.
*An order declaring that the defendant’s extraordinary rendition from Kenya, without
extradition proceedings or due process violated Section 36(1) & (9) of the Constitution, the Extradition Act (Cap E25 LFN 2004), and Articles 12 and 13 of the African Charter, thereby robbing this honourable court of jurisdiction.
*An order nullifying all proceedings conducted in breach of the defendant’s right to adequate facilities for defence, confidential communication with counsel and fair hearing, particularly the eavesdropping, seizure of legal materials, and denial of unmonitored access.
Kanu predicated his notice of objection on five grounds, the first of which is his contention that his continued prosecution “despite the binding Court of Appeal discharge of 13 October 2022 and eight-day post-judgment detention constitutes flagrant contempt of court.”
He further argued in that he could not be prosecuted on the basis of repealed laws and that his alleged extraordinary judicial rendition from Kenya robbed the court of the required jurisdiction to try him.
Kanu also complained of being allegedly denied fair hearing and adequate facilities to prepare for his defence.
A former Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on Domestic Matters and Social Events, Dr. Waripamo-owei Dudafa, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressive Congress (APC).
Dudafa, who was a member of the Bayelsa Assembly, made the announcement in a statement on Sunday.
In the letter of his resignation to the Chairman, PDP, Southern Opokuma/Ayibabiri Ward 8 in Kolokuma Opukuma Local Government Area, he said that his decision to quit the PDP followed a period of deep reflection and consultation with his political associates, supporters, and family members.
“Throughout my time with the party, I have been deeply committed to our shared values and goals, and it has been an honour to work with so many dedicated individuals,” he noted.
He stated that the unresolved disputes, particularly at the national level, had significantly impeded their ability to move forward, rather it had created an environment of conflict that’s no longer conducive to advancing the shared values and objectives of the PDP.
“In this regard, I wish to formally announce my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This decision was not taken lightly but after due consultation with my friends, political associates, and family members who have stood by me over the years,” he stated.
Dudafa, who is a son figure to former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan revealed his switch to the APC and urged his supporters to remain steadfast.
Political observers believe his resignation could signal realignments ahead of future political developments in Bayelsa and at the national level.
• Eiye, Aiye, KKK, others turn regions into killing fields
• How economic interests drive cult activities
For many years, cultism has remained a monster in Rivers State, leading to the killing of many people, including traditional rulers, youth leaders, security operatives and political leaders. Two communities, Iba and Obelle in Emohua Local Government Area, were once sacked by cult-related violence. So also were some communities in Ahoada East and Ahoada West.
“It is a well-organised empire of crime,” said Philip Obed, who runs a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and has been following the activities of cult groups and confraternities in the area. Obed says cultism is so organised in the state that there is a clear difference between the cult groups that operate in the territory institutions and others that exist on streets and communities.
Obed said: “Three months ago in Rivers State University (RSU), precisely at the back gate where they call Azikiwe by Opobo Lane, the Rivers State Police command announced that they arrested three cultists. The command concealed their names for investigative purposes.
“They were arrested with English made revolver pistol, two live ammunition and one expended ammunition. Those arrested were members of the Klu Klus Klans (KKK). So, the ones that operate in the universities are different from the ones that operate on the streets.
“The campus cult groups include Vikings, Black Axe Confraternity, Buccaneer Confraternity, Mafia known as Family Cult, Aiye or Eiye Confraternity; Two Two, Burkina Faso, KKK and Mafait. So, we have nine of them in all the higher institutions in the state.”
But he says three of the cult groups dominate the higher institutions in the state.
Obed said: “In Rivers, there are three dominant cult groups in higher institutions. They are the Vikings, Black Axe and the KKK. Most times in the universities, you see clashes among these three big groups.
“Those ones the police arrested at the university back gate was a clash between the KKK and the Vikings. You will recall that after two, three weeks there was a death at Iwofe. The police confirmed that the boy was a student of Ignatius Ajuru University and that it was suspected to be a cult clash.
“So, if one clash starts in one institution, it spreads to other institutions. If they can’t find a target in one institution, they will look at other institution or areas dominated by students for a target.
“Two or three months ago, five cult members were arrested in Ignatius Ajuru University. What happened? The Number 2 man of Black Axe came to write exams in the school, there was an existing war between the Black Axe and Mafian confraternity.
‘So when the number two man came to write exams, they sent five people to guide him. But the police and the school through intelligence arrested those five people and the number two man.
“Recently, the police released a statement that a policeman was arrested at UNIPORT. Even if they didn’t mention the name, those ones are black axe members. There are symbols that you will use to identify them.”
Besides the campus cult groups, Obed says bigger cult activities take place on streets and communities. He maintains that his years of experience reveal that street cultism is severer than campus cult activities.
He explained that the affiliates are identified as either Houses or Decks.
He said: “On the streets, we have four major cult groups or community cult groups and they have affiliates. These are Island, Greenland, Degbam and the Junior Vikings also known as Dewell.
“They now have affiliates like Degbam Houses. This means different branches of Degbam. The Islands call their braches Deck. Greeland also uses Deck because it came out of Island. Dewell also uses Deck.
Obed recalled that earlier in the year, there was a serious clash between houses of Degbam and a taxi driver was killed. He said although cultism exists in other states, it is more serious in Edo and Rivers. In Rivers, he said, various cult groups control different territories, adding that the quest to take over another territory fuels cult clashes in the state.
Obed said: “The cult groups own territories. They have unit leaders, community leaders, local government leaders and state leaders. If you go to places like the Marine Base and Makoba, those ones are the territories of the Island.
“Places like Amadi Ama, Aboloma are the territories of the Greenland. Places like Mile One Diobu are territories of Degbam. When you come to Mile 3 from Ikoku as if you are going to the UST Back Gate, they belong to the Dewell.
“So, in each LGA, they have territories. What causes the cult clashes is that to gain relevance you must be able to conquer territories so that you will be recognised.
“If in that territory there is a bus stop, the dominant cult group will be collecting the marching ground. For another cult group to collect the marching ground there, you must be able to have fought and dislodge them from the territory.
“Most of the clashes are for economic survival. If in your territory you have a booming drug business, for another cult group to take over the booming drug business, the group must be able to dislodge the one in charge of that territory. The more territories you take over, the more is your survival guaranteed.”
On their sources of incomes, Obed said: “One of their major sources of income is political patronage. If you check the bus stops, those boys that collect money from bus drivers and taxi drivers, it is their sources of income, and they are compensations from politicians they worked for during elections.
“They collect money from the traders in the market as marching ground. It is political settlement.
“Another way is political thuggery, especially during election periods. Another source of making money is kidnapping and armed robbery.”
He further said there is a nexus between other vices and cultism.
“You cannot be a don in illegal oil bunkering without being a cultist. Almost all the drug barons are cult leaders.
“If you reduce cultism to the barest minimum you have succeeded in reducing armed robbery, illegal bunkering, kidnapping and other vices.
“Cultism is a major support to these vices”.
Obed listed institutional involvement, political patronage and sabotage by security agencies as factors hindering the war against cultism.
He said: “Some of the security agencies are involved, and it is a major challenge. If some serving security agencies are members, there will be sabotage on the war against cultism.
“I remember in 2016, a Garrison Commander in the Nigerian Army accused a National Assembly member from Rivers State of siding with the Greenland while a royal highness was siding with the Island.
“So, the involvement of highly placed persons is the major challenge in the war against cultism. Even if they don’t carry guns openly, they aid and abet by their sponsorships and provision of economic survival for them.
“The politicians are the ones giving them markets to collect money.
Obed regrets that many people have died in Rivers street cult clashes. He said the death tolls cannot be determined, because cult wars are not like conventional fights.
“The cult clash that happened in Dioubu about five months ago, we recorded about five deaths before the police clamped down on them.
“A cultist is a potential armed robber, a potential drug baron, kidnapper or rapist. In Rivers State, you cannot be a drug baron, an oil thief, kidnapper and armed robber without first being a cultist.
“In other states, someone can be an armed robber and a kidnapper without being a member of any cult. You cannot perpetrate crimes in areas you don’t own the territory.”
Obed recalled that in the past, some communities were under siege by cultists.
He said: “Like in 2023 after the election, in Ahoada West, cultists killed five men in the community because one General Danger imposed a levy the community should be paying to him. So in the month of June, they failed to pay him and he moved into the community and killed people.
“Before the death of the infamous cult leader 2Baba in Ahoada East, communities were paying levies to him and cultists were installing traditional rulers, youth leaders and CDC leaders.
“But now I can comfortably tell you that no community in the state is under the control of cultists.
“Cult groups exist in the communities but they no longer control them like before. Iba and Obele in Emohua suffered at the hands of cultists before, but now what they do is to come, kill and go. They killed a traditional ruler and a vigilante leader.
“Recently, the chairman of the LGA placed N2 million bounty on one General Cairo and his gang, and all of them are on the run. The army unit is still patrolling between Iba and Obele. They have informants in the communities.
“Obed further raised the alarm that cultism is creeping into the primary and secondary schools in the state. There is also a major challenge: cultism is now creeping into secondary and primary schools.
“Some years ago in Mgbosimiri, a pupil was arrested with a pistol and he said he had issues with the teacher. We also have clashes in secondary schools along Aba Road.”
On what the government and security agencies should do to stop cultism in the state, he said: “The cult groups have launched a campaign of catching them young. They are not only going to universities, they are also going to public primary and secondary schools.
“The government should include in their syllabus dangers and negative consequences of cultism in primary and secondary schools. Churches should also teach the negative consequences of cultism, emphasising the ultimate gain, which is death.
“Our reward system is another problem. Even if you want to grant amnesty to cultists, it should not be from the side of weakness. The person must have shown genuine remorse and repentance.
“But what do you see? The government will say that someone is killing too much and begin to approach the same person to make peace. It is not supposed to be.
“Youth elections, CDC chairmanship poll, traditional rulers also cause these clashes. When cult groups support different candidates, there will surely be a clash.
“The government should conduct such elections in a way that cult groups would not align to support anybody. The security agencies should take intelligence gathering seriously.”
A rights activist and National Coordinator, Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, Prince Wiro, described cultism in Rivers State as severe and widespread.
More worrisome, he said, is the discovery that the menace is spreading to secondary and primary schools. Insisting that the only gain of cultism is death and imprisonment, Wiro called on the students to abstain from cult-related activities.
He also advocated the inclusion of anti-cultism courses in primary and secondary school curricular to teach the students the dangers of cultism.
Worried by the development, the Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with the Police Campaign Against Cultism and other Vices (POCACOV) on Thursday launched a comprehensive anti-cultism and drug abuse campaign to combat the rising trends of illicit drug use and youth involvement in cult activities.
The initiative, held on October 3, 2025, at Community Secondary School, Rumuolumeni, Obio Akpor LGA, Rivers State, underscores the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the citizenry.
The campaign with the theme “Cultism, Drug Abuse and My Academics,” was specifically designed to enlighten students on the severe effects/consequences of joining secret cults and engaging in substance abuse; promote a safe and conducive learning environment; discourage youth involvement in cult activities and illicit drug use and to foster a culture of peace and harmony in the community.
Confirming the campaign, Irringe-Koko said: “The Rivers State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to tackling the menace of social vices, including cultism, drug abuse, and other forms of criminality.
“The command is dedicated to ensuring the safety, security and well-being of all citizens through collaboration with relevant stakeholders to prevent the spread of cultism and drug abuse, provide support and counseling services to victims of cultism and drug abuse amongst others.”
Cultism reigns supreme in Edo
Last month, the ugly trend of cultism reared its head at the signing out of some students of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State. Among the students that wrote his final year examination was the alleged number one man (leader) of Eiye Confraternity in the school. Members of Eiye took to the streets to celebrate their leader’s graduation but it took a tragic turn.
While at the hotel where Eiye members gathered to celebrate, members of the Black Axe Confraternity stormed the place to celebrate and chaos erupted. Both cult groups engaged in a shootout. Four persons were later shot dead in different parts of Auchi following the fracas. Among the deceased was a barber.
In July this year, 12 persons were killed in various parts of the state including Oluku, Ogida, Textile Mill Road, 3rd East Circular Road, Ovbiogie, Ugbowo, Siluko Road and Uzama Street. A staff of the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Benin identified as Iyamu was among the victims.
Cult clashes in Edo State are mostly either between Eiye and Maphites, Eiye and Black Axe, Vikings and Eiye, Vikings and Black Axe or Black Axe and Eiye. A repentant cultist who pleaded anonymity said the supremacy battle between Eiye and Black Axe remained eternal. He said there would be no end to their fight.
In September, suspected cultists killed two persons, Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, at Iyanomo community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area,
At Evboyare community, Uhunmwode Local Government Area, a bloody cult clash led to the killing of one Festus. Several other persons, mostly youths, have been found beheaded in different parts of the state. Cultism and cult-related killings have been a recurrent event across Edo State.
During the administration of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the late Commissioner for Police, Chris Ejike, arrested and paraded suspected cult leaders in the state after weeks of killings and maiming. An aide to Oshiomhole was among those paraded. The arrest of the cult leaders stopped cult killings during that period.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo gave his administration a thumb up for confronting and defeating the twin scourges of cultism and kidnapping in the state. This was because shortly after his inauguration as governor, Edo State was plunged into a cult war in which 20 youths were killed.
In a move to curb cult killings, Governor Okpebholo amended cultist and cultism law tagged the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025. It became operational on January 24, 2025. The amended law had stiffer penalties. The punishment prescribed for being a member is life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years in jail.
The new law criminalised any form of sponsorship or support. Traditional rulers or any persons who aid cult activities will be dethroned and jailed.
Also to be affected are property owners whose premises were used for cult meetings knowingly or unknowingly. The property owners risk a minimum of ten years imprisonment and possible demolition of the property.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Fred Itua, said: “With the passage of this law, the Edo State Government has taken a firm stand: cultism, in any form, will no longer be condoned.
“The law places responsibility on all stakeholders—schools, traditional institutions, hospitality businesses, parents, and security agencies—to uphold the values of peace and safety.
“As Edo moves to rid itself of the scourge of cultism, the success of the new law will depend not only on legislation but also on consistent enforcement and community participation.
“This legal reform is a bold declaration that the lives of Edo youths matter—and that the era of violence, fear, and impunity must come to an end.”
Several buildings in Benin City and Auchi suspected to have been used for cult meetings and cult activities have been demolished.
Governor Okpebholo further set up a Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers” to pursue and chase out kidnappers and cultists.
The Special Security Squad has arrested more than 30 suspected cultists and demolished several buildings belonging to suspected cultists.
No longer at ease in Bayelsa
Forty-five-year-old Alexander, from Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, did not start off as a cult member. He was, however, visited by social vicissitudes which turned him into a monster for many years as a cultist.
Alex, as he is fondly called, who is from an average family, joined the Vikings Confraternity while in the university after allegedly being lured by his friends who painted a picture of Utopian world as a member.
He was with the cult group throughout his university days and after his graduation in 2012, coupled with lack of jobs, he still remained in the group outside the campus and became the Capone (the leader) of the Vikings.
For several years after leading the notorious cult gang, he became a central figure in a violent gang that terrorised his local community in the state through acts of theft, armed clashes, intimidation, and other criminal activities.
Alex and his gang members became willing tools in the hands of some desperate politicians who used them to silence their opponents and sponsor them to engage in rigging during elections. Their actions instilled fear and instability in the community, disrupted local economic activities, and led to multiple injuries and reported fatalities.
Like a man who has seen it all, Alex is lamenting his many years involvement in cult activities, noting that cultism has destroyed his life.
Reflecting on his past life, he regretted that at 45, he has yet to marry and does not have sustainable job to eke out a living. He lamented that most of his colleagues he finished university with are doing well in their chosen vocations.
“There is nothing in this cult thing. It is like I was blindfolded before. I can now see that I have wasted over 25 years of my life.
“My parents warned me about cultism, but because I did not know what I was doing, I rebuffed them. Because of the problems I was always involved in, my father suffered hypertension and died. Today, I am regretting my action.
“All my mates have left me behind in every aspect of life. Initially, I thought I was catching cruise, but I have now discovered that I was fooling myself. I totally regret all my past actions. I pray God will forgive me.”
Alex urged parents and guardians not to give up on their children and wards as well as monitoring the kind of friends their children keep.
He said the most worrisome aspect of cult activities is that they have crept into basic schools, advising the governments not to rest on their oars by ensuring that schools are well monitored and policed.
He equally advised the relevant authorities not to handle issues of cults with kid gloves, stressing that there’s a thin line between cultism and other criminal activities such as rape, stealing, armed robberies and murders.
Also speaking on the menace of cultism, a parent and educationist based in Asaba asserted that people join cults due to a need for belonging and community, especially during vulnerable life stages, as well as due to manipulation by charismatic leaders and a desire to escape personal dissatisfaction.
The educational psychologist, who identified herself simply as Veronica, said factors like a charismatic leader, a strong sense of community, and the rejection of mainstream societal values could make cults appealing, particularly to individuals experiencing significant life transitions, emotional distress, or a feeling of being disconnected.
She said individuals undergoing major life changes such as starting college, experiencing a death, or facing financial hardship are particularly susceptible as well as people who are feeling unhappy, insecure, or disconnected from society often look for a place to belong.
Veronica said some people join cults to fulfill a desire for meaning, purpose, and acceptance that they feel is missing in their current lives.
She offered further insights, noting: “Cults and their leaders often target individuals who are looking for something to believe in and use persuasive techniques to recruit them.
“Cults are typically led by a charismatic and persuasive individual who attracts followers and provides a sense of direction. They offer a strong sense of belonging, acceptance, and community that can be very appealing to those who feel isolated.”
She further said that recruitment often happened through existing members who are friends or acquaintances, making it seem more legitimate, stressing that some groups attract people who feel disillusioned with mainstream society, as they offer an alternative ideology to embrace.
In all of these, she advised strong parental roles and governments’ uncompromising resolve to rout the menace.
She stated that cultism is the brain behind so many atrocities being committed in society today, indicating that it is a lunching pad to thefts, robberies, armed robberies, murders and assassinations.
With the spread of cultism across all states of the country, Veronica advised: “The menace is a cankerworm eaten deep into the moral fabric of society. The situation has become a pandemic and something drastic must be done to eradicate this scourge in our society.”
Believing that the baby cannot be thrown away with the bath water, she offered some suggestions as part of the ways to prevent the menace of cultism in society.
The educationist advocated education and awareness campaigns about the dangers of cults, fostering strong family and community bonds, promoting critical thinking skills, and providing effective counseling and mental health support.
She urged educational institutions to implement stricter laws, better discipline, and more engaging co-curricular and sporting activities to keep students engaged and remove their minds from cults.
Veronica urged the government to integrate education about cults and their tactics into school curricula and organize awareness campaigns.
She also urged the utilisation of of media and community outreach to inform the public about the risks and consequences of cultism as well as making moral and religious education compulsory from primary to tertiary levels to instill good values.
She advised parents to pay close attention to their children’s upbringing, provide emotional and psychological support, and monitor their friends and behaviour.
She advocated the implementation and enforcement of strict laws with significant consequences, including death sentences in some cases, to deter cult activities.
• Respect court order, Police tell protesters; warn against hijack
A Federal High Court in Abuja has barred politician and online publisher, Omoyele Sowore, and others behind the planned protest for the release on Nnamdi Kanu of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) from taking their activities anywhere close to the presidential villa, Aso Rock, Abuja and other important national institutions.
Justice Mohammed Umar, in a ruling on Friday, also asked Sowore and his associates in the protest planned for October 20 to also steer clear of National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way, pending the hearing of the motion on notice filed by the police on behalf of the Federal Government.
In a certified true copy (CTC) of the enrolled order, signed on Saturday, Justice Umar said: “The respondents are hereby restrained in the interim from protesting in the following Areas: Aso Rock Villa or anywhere close to Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and on Shehu Shagari Way pending the hearing of the motion on notice.
“The court hereby abridged time within which the respondents will respond to the application on notice to cause this ex-parte order to be set aside on Monday, the 20th of October, 2025 at 9.00am.
“The order of this court together with the motion on notice be served on the respondents today, Friday, the 17th day of October, 2025.”
Justice Umar adjourned till October 20 for hearing of the motion on notice.
The ruling was on a motion ex-parte filed in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 filed by the police.
Listed as respondents are Sowore, Sahara Reporters Ltd, Sahara Reporters’ Media Foundation, Take It Back Movement (TIB) for the Transformation of Nigeria or any form of organisation or any other person(s) acting, either express or implied instruction or any other organisation or group with the like intention and unknown persons.
Sowore, the presidential candidate of African Action Congress (ACC) in 2019 and 2023 recently announced a planned protest to compel the Federal Government to release Kanu, who is being tried on a terrorism charge.
The prosecution, in the case before a Federal High Court in Abuja, has since closed its case after calling five witnesses and rendering evidence including video and audio recordings of Kanu’s activities as IPOB leader.
On October 16, the presiding judge in Kanu’s terrorism trial, Justice James Omotosho, read the concluding part of the report in the open court after Agabi confirmed that he received and read the report of the medical examination of his client by the NMA team.
The report concluded that the ailments that Kanu complained about were not life threatening and that he was fit to continue to stand trial.
When asked by the judge whether he had seen the report, Agabi confirmed receiving a copy, which he said he read and shared with members of his team.
Agabi told the court that the defence team had nothing against the report.
It was at the point that Justice Omotosho announced that in view of the accelerated hearing earlier granted in the case, he would adjourn for six consecutive days for the defence to open and close its case.
The judge then requested Agabi and Awomolo to agree on the dates convenient for them, following which the two lawyers suggested October 23 for the commencement of the defendant’s case.
Shortly before he adjourned for the day, Justice Omotosho granted an oral application by Agabi that Kanu’s legal team be granted private consultation opportunity with the defendant outside the premises of the Department of State Services (DSS) before the commencement of his defence.
Agabi said the defendant’s legal team was afraid that its consultation with him (Kanu) could be secretly tapped or recorded by the DSS.
Justice Omotosho also acceded to Agabi’s request that the private meeting with Kanu be held in the courtroom, during which only the defendant and his lawyers would be present.
Agabi chose October 22, a day before the date set for Kanu, to open his defence.
Based on Agabi’s request, Justice Omotosho ordered that the private consultation meeting between Kanu and his legal team should hold within the courtroom between 9am and 12noon on October 22, while the trial will resume on October 23.
Respect court order, Police tell protesters
THE Nigeria Police Force yesterday warned groups planning protests in Abuja to comply with a subsisting Federal High Court order restricting demonstrations around key government institutions.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the police said an order issued on October 17 by a Federal High Court judge, M.G. Umar in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 between the Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & four others remained binding and enforceable.
According to the police, the court restrained Sowore and others from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
The police urged all groups involved, whether supporting or opposing the agitation for Kanu’s release to respect the court order, warning that any attempt to defy it would attract punitive measures.
“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life will be dealt with decisively,” the statement read.
The Force reiterated that it recognised citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression but stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the law, especially where public safety and national security were at stake.
The police said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had directed the FCT Commissioner of Police to enforce the order strictly and ensure visible deployments across identified flashpoints in the capital city.
According to the police, offenders would face prosecution under criminal laws relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism. The statement also cautioned those using social media to incite unrest, warning that digital evidence would be used in investigations and court proceedings.
The police assured Abuja residents of adequate security arrangements to protect lives and property and urged people not participating in the protest to go about their lawful activities without fear.
• Shettima to receive Plateau decampees in Jos Oct 30
• Diri’s defection to APC’ll attract devt, progress to Ijaw nation, says ex-Speaker Angaye
There seems to be no end yet in sight to the gale of defections from the opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The National Chairman of APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, hinted yesterday that the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima would be visiting Jos, the Plateau State capital on October 30 to officially receive a new set of decampees to the party.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, yesterday led thousands of party faithful at a grand rally held at the Murtala Square, Kaduna, to welcome a wave of defectors from opposition parties into the APC.
In Kano State, also yesterday, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Farouk Lawan, formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his ward.
Prof. Yilwatda made the disclosure regarding the imminent visit of Vice President to Jos during an APC Strategic Stakeholders meeting which held at the Crest Hotel Conference Hall in the Plateau State capital yesterday..
He further revealed that the Vice President had already given his consent to the reception.
Yilwatda said, “We welcomed Mr President about two weeks ago, and now we are going to welcome the Vice President.
“Yesterday (Friday), I spoke with the governors under the Plateau of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, about the forthcoming event, and a good number of them said they are well prepared to be on the platform.”
He said Hon. Abbas had also agreed to be part of the reception ceremony, “so we’re going to have a full house again, back on the platform”.
“So the same atmosphere we created during the burial of my mother will repeat itself.
“We will test the mic, we will increase the volume, we will increase the dancing steps.
“Consequent upon that, our elder, Architect P.D. Gyang, will chair the central planning committee for receiving all the decampees to APC.
He said there were many activities in the offing to keep party vibrant, keep the decampees in the news and keep them active.
“We just finished the medical outreach. The team from U.S. left today, but we have some local doctors that will sustain it until part of next week,” he said, adding that a new programme would be unveiled by Monday.
He also said the trend of launching new programmes would continue until until the 2027 elections.
“The programme that we plan to do next week is to give N100 million business challenge to the youths, SMEs.
“So we still expect a team to be constituted; people who will be saddled with the responsibility of receiving the submissions of those that l will be selected.
He said with regard to youth empowerment, there will be people that will get one million naira, those who would get N500,000 and others who would get N250,000 to boost their existing businesses.
Sani, Abbas, Yilwatda welcome thousands at Kaduna mega rally
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, yesterday led thousands of party faithful at a grand rally held at the Murtala Square, Kaduna, to welcome a wave of defectors from opposition parties into the ruling party.
The event, described by party leaders as a “renewal of unity and victory,” saw the formal defection of several lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The rally drew a mammoth crowd of supporters, government officials, members of the National and state assemblies, and key political figures from across the state.
The entire Murtala Square was adorned with party colours as supporters chanted victory songs and waved banners celebrating what many described as a “political landslide.”
Among the decampees were members representing Sabon Gari, Igabi, Kaduna South, and Ikara/Kubau Federal Constituencies, as well as several former senators, local government chairmen, and political heavyweights from the PDP and NNPP.
Governor Uba Sani, visibly delighted, said the growing number of decampees was a reflection of public confidence in the APC’s inclusive leadership and people-centered governance model.
He assured new members that the APC in Kaduna operates as a single family without discrimination, stressing that old and new members would enjoy equal opportunities and privileges.
“In APC Kaduna, we are one family. We don’t discriminate. Everyone has the same privilege and the same opportunity,” Sani declared.
“Our focus has always been justice, fairness, and inclusivity. Kaduna is the most diverse state in Nigeria, and we have used our diversity as our strength,” he added.
He added that since his administration came on board, Kaduna has enjoyed relative peace and harmony, noting that the absence of ethno-religious conflict in the past year is a testament to the government’s commitment to equity and inclusiveness.
“Since we came in, there has not been a single ethno-religious crisis in Kaduna State. We are working as one family, and that is the kind of politics that brings development,” he said.
Governor Sani also used the occasion to recognise some prominent figures who recently joined the APC, including former Governor Ramalan Yero, Senator Shehu Sani, Senator Andrew Makarfi Malar, and Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi, among others.
He however assured the new entrants that the APC will continue to deliver on its promises of fairness, equity, and good governance, saying, “our goal is not politics for power, but politics for the people. Kaduna APC is united, stronger, and ready for the future.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, commended the Governor for his leadership style, which he said has repositioned Kaduna as a model of unity and progress in Northern Nigeria.
He said the large turnout at the rally shows that the people of Kaduna are solidly behind the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, also praised Governor Sani’s leadership, describing him as a bridge-builder who has strengthened the party’s structure across all local governments. He noted that the Kaduna rally marked the beginning of strategic political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said the ruling party would continue to welcome all Nigerians who share its vision of inclusive governance and national development.
Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Liman, and other party chieftains also pledged loyalty to the Governor’s leadership, stressing that the unity currently being witnessed in the party would guarantee sweeping victories in the coming polls
Ex-Rep Farouk Lawan defects to APC
A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Farouk Lawan, yesterday formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) at his ward in Kano State.
The occasion saw him receive a new APC membership card from the leadership of the APC at his ward and local government levels.
Presided over by the APC Chairman of Shanono Local Government Area, Iysai Sheme, the occasion was attended by the members of the Shanono APC LGA executive and witnessed by hundreds of APC party members and well-wishers.
Speaking at the occasion, Lawan expressed joy and gratitude to Allah at his movement to the All Progressives Congress (APC) while describing the occasion as a milestone in his political career.
He recalled that but for a brief period during his incarceration when he urged his supporters to vote for the NNPP, he had all along been a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since he joined politics in 1999.
“Today I have received the membership card of the APC and I hope and pray to play my role in helping the APC to succeed at all levels in 2027,” the former representative of Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency said.
Diri’s defection to APC’ll attract devt, progress to Ijaw nation says ex-acting Speaker Angaye
A former acting Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Fini Angaye, has declared that Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri’s planned defection to the APC will be a blessing for the Ijaw nation.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed a report by an online newspaper alleging a foiled coup attempt by some officers to overthrow the current administration.
It said the claims by the online newspaper are “entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
Sahara Reporters broke the news of an attempted foiled coup, on Saturday, citing sources and a recent report by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on disciplinary action against some officers as the basis for its report.
The online newspaper’s report widely circulated on social media platforms sparked widespread tension across the country.
However, the military high command, through a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, stated that the claims by the online newspaper were “entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
The statement read in part: “The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup.
“The report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.
“The decision regarding the cancellation of 65th independence anniversary parade was to allow Mr President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
“Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to reassure Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks.
“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.”
The military high command urged the citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents, assuring that the executive, legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and well being of the nation.
It also urged citizens to disregard the “falsehood” being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation.”
It assured that the military remains “firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,”
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had on October 4 announced that 16 military officers would face a full military disciplinary process over indiscipline and breach of service regulations.
According to the statement through the Director Defence Information, Brig -Gen. Tukur Gusau, the officers have been arrested, while investigation is still ongoing to determine the gravity of their offences.
The statement reads: “Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues.
“Some of the apprehended officers had been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial. Their conduct was deemed incompatible with the standards of military service.
“Upon completion of investigation, indicted officers will face the full military disciplinary process in accordance with established procedures to ensure accountability and preserve professionalism within the Armed Forces.”
While assuring Nigerians that the actions are strictly disciplinary in nature and part of routine efforts to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty within the ranks, the military high command said the “Armed Forces of Nigeria will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of the institution or threatens its constitutional role under democratic authority.”
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will remain professional at all times,” the statement said.
