International News January 23, 2026 Uganda’s defence chief, Museveni’s son, bars Bobi Wine from future elections

 

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a controversial pronouncement barring opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, from participating in any future elections in the country, citing national security reasons.

Kainerugaba, the eldest son of President Yoweri Museveni, made the declaration in a public statement attributed to him, asserting his authority as head of the armed forces.

“Whether Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu is in the country or not I, as CDF, in the interests of national security and for the good of the commonwealth ban him from any further participation in the electoral exercises of Uganda,” he said on Thursday.

The army chief also warned that the directive would apply to those who openly align themselves with Bobi Wine politically.

“From now on ANYONE who declares Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine as his/her political leader must be annulled.”

Kainerugaba further insisted that the order was final and binding, invoking his interpretation of executive power.

“My orders stand with the force of the Commander-in-Chief of the State.”

The remarks have drawn sharp reactions from political analysts, civil society organisations, and opposition supporters, with many raising concerns about their implications for Uganda’s constitutional framework, democratic participation, and the separation between military authority and civilian governance.

Bobi Wine, a former presidential candidate and leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been a long-time critic of President Museveni’s administration and has previously accused security agencies of harassment, arbitrary detention, and repression of opposition activities.

As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official response from Uganda’s Electoral Commission, the presidency, or Bobi Wine regarding the CDF’s declaration.

The latest statement comes amid heightened political tension ahead of future electoral activities, with critics questioning the legal foundation and constitutional limits of military involvement in electoral matters.

Kainerugaba currently serves as Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and remains a central figure in the country’s political and security discourse.

The controversy follows earlier remarks by Kainerugaba in which he stated that 22 members of the opposition National Unity Platform were killed during the conduct of the country’s general elections.

He further suggested that Bobi Wine was the intended next target, referring to him as the “twenty-third” person.

Muhoozi, who is also Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, made the remarks on social media.

“We have killed 22 NUP terrorists since last week. I’m praying the 23rd is Kabobi,” he wrote on his official X handle.

The comments amount to an open acknowledgement of the killing of opposition party members and come amid ongoing controversy surrounding the re-election of President Museveni, who secured a seventh term in office at the age of 81 following disputed polls.

On Tuesday, Bobi Wine alleged that more than 100 of his supporters had been killed in recent days amid escalating political violence, accusing President Museveni’s son and the military of carrying out deadly repression.

In a post on X on Monday, the NUP leader said the killings had intensified over the past week, contradicting official figures he said were being publicly cited.

“Last night as Museveni’s son was making these threats to kill me and gloating over killing 22 of our supporters (in reality, he has killed over 100 since last week), the military who are stationed inside our compound yet again banged my house doors as they sang profanities, ordering the occupants to come out of the house if they’re men,” he posted on Tuesday.

Bobi Wine described the allegation as one of his strongest to date, claiming a sharp rise in fatalities linked to security operations targeting opposition supporters. While he did not provide names or locations of those allegedly killed, he said the violence coincided with increased military activity around his residence.

He further alleged that soldiers stationed at his home engaged in intimidation and disorderly conduct.

“The people at my home say the criminals seemed to be drunk.”

According to Bobi Wine, the situation has left his family and associates trapped and vulnerable, with security operatives allegedly blocking access to food and taking control of his compound by replacing gate padlocks with chains.

“We demand that the military vacate our home immediately. My wife and people are not safe. They’re starving after these criminals blocked food from reaching them. They cut the padlocks of our gates and replaced them with chains. FREE UGANDA NOW.”

(SAHARA REPORTERS)

News January 23, 2026 APC chairman, football icon, Kanu hold talks in Abuja

 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, has hosted legendary Nigerian footballer Nwankwo Kanu at his residence in Abuja, in a meeting that brought together politics, sports and business.

The visit on Thursday, featured engaging discussions on how to harmonize and enhance the interplay between the three key facets of society for greater national benefit.

Professor Yilwatda emphasized the importance of a deep understanding of the sectors, noting that “politics, sports, and business can be very interesting if understood.” He stressed the need for better balance and synergy among them in order to drive meaningful development.

According to post shared by APC on its X handle, said the discussion drew on Kanu’s vast experience as a former Super Eagles captain, UEFA Champions League winner, Premier League star with Arsenal, and his current role as an influential figure in Nigerian sports administration and philanthropy through his Kanu Heart Foundation.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest football exports and affectionately known as “Papilo,” Nwankwo Kanu has long extended his influence beyond the football pitch into business ventures and community development initiatives.

News Politics January 23, 2026 2027: What Tinubu told Gov Makinde during meeting in Abuja – Fayose

 

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has revealed details of what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu allegedly told Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde during their closed-door meeting at the Presidential Villa, on Thursday in Abuja, insisting the encounter was far from cordial.

The meeting was the first one-on-one engagement between the President and Makinde since the Oyo governor’s controversial media chat last month, where he declared he would not support Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 and accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of fuelling the crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as part of a plot to establish a one-party state.

Makinde had also alleged that the President failed to honour an agreement reached during the 2023 elections and accused Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of boasting about how he would “hold down” the PDP to pave the way for Tinubu’s victory in 2027.

However, speaking shortly after the meeting, Fayose claimed President Tinubu firmly addressed Makinde on political consistency and expectations ahead of 2027.

Fayose said: “He was told pointedly that he can’t come to the closet on political matters to eat his words, while saying another thing to the public.

“Furthermore, the President told Governor Makinde that he was not expecting any support from him regarding 2027, and that he should also expect that he (President) will support his party.”

According to Fayose, the President also made it clear that Makinde’s grievances with Wike were personal and not a matter for presidential intervention.

He said: “Here is the true story of what happened in the Villa when Governor Seyi Makinde visited the President today (yesterday).

“First, Governor Seyi Makinde demonstrated that he lacked enough courage to face the President alone. He had to enlist the support of the Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

“The President told him that if it was about official matters regarding Oyo State, he would listen to him.

“Lastly, the President made it clear to Makinde that Wike is someone whose support and consistency he (President) can’t deny or wish away. Therefore, if Makinde has issues with Wike, that is between the two of them, I should be left out of it.

“That’s why Makinde told the media that he’s comfortable in PDP. It’s because of the reality that there’s nothing for him in APC.

“And after this meeting, shouldn’t Makinde tell the people of Oyo State if he has returned the N30billion he admitted to have received from the Federal Government as intervention fund for the January 2023 Ibadan (Bodija) explosion?”

Fayose had earlier disclosed the Federal Government’s N30 billion intervention fund for victims of the Bodija explosion following Makinde’s media chat. The Oyo governor later confirmed that the state received the funds for resettlement of victims.

Despite Fayose’s claims, Makinde, while speaking to reporters after the meeting, described his relationship with the President as cordial and governance-focused.

He said: “The President is the President of Nigeria, not the President of APC, and we’re talking about governance here. So, I came to discuss with the President on some governance issues, basically”.

On whether the visit suggested a political rapprochement with the ruling party, Makinde maintained that political differences had never affected cooperation.

He said: “There’s nothing that I’ve said in the past that says we’re not enjoying a harmonious relationship. Politics is politics. We belong to different political parties, but Nigeria is a project that all Nigerians must be concerned about”.

The governor added that insecurity, poverty alleviation and citizens’ welfare were non-partisan issues requiring collaboration across political lines.

“These are things that have no coloration of a party. As leaders, whether President or governor, those are things we have to work together on, consult with one another, and ensure that we can make life better for our people,” he added.

Makinde also dismissed speculation about defecting to the APC, reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP.
“No. I’m comfortable in the PDP,” he said.

News Security January 23, 2026 Troops neutralise terrorists, destroy makeshift hospital in North West offensive

 

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Joint Task Force North West, have sustained intense pressure on terrorist elements operating in the region, recording significant operational successes during coordinated offensives conducted between 21 and 22 January 2026.

In a statement on Thursday, the Media Information Officer of the operation, Captain David Adewusi, said troops carried out multiple fighting patrols across the Joint Operations Area, leading to the neutralisation of terrorists and the recovery of weapons.

According to the statement, troops of the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force, supported by Department of State Services (DSS) assets, engaged terrorists in Gundumi Village, Isa Local Government Area.

“During the encounter, troops neutralised one of the terrorists, while others fled into the forest with gunshot wounds,” Adewusi said.

He disclosed that the troops recovered six AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles from the scene of the encounter.

In a related development, troops of 1 Brigade, working with the Headquarters JTF OPFY Mobile Strike Team, acted on credible intelligence indicating that wounded terrorists were receiving medical treatment inside Bingi Forest.

“The troops swiftly moved to the location and discovered a makeshift medical facility used by the terrorists,” the statement said.

Captain Adewusi added that the facility was subsequently destroyed, dealing “a significant blow to the terrorists’ support system and logistics.”

He noted that the continued operational gains underscore the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring stability in the region.

“The sustained successes recorded reflect the unwavering determination and responsiveness of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to decisively degrade terrorist networks and restore peace and security across the North West,” he stated.

News January 23, 2026 Tinubu approves oil drilling, seaport project in Ogun

 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The approval was disclosed on Thursday by Governor Dapo Abiodun during a courtesy visit by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and other senior officers at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Abiodun also announced that the President had given the go-ahead for the immediate commencement of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, describing the development as a major breakthrough after years of delay surrounding the multibillion-dollar initiative.

According to the governor, both projects are of particular interest to President Tinubu. He explained that while the Olokola Deep Seaport would help ease congestion at the Lagos ports, oil drilling activities at Tongeji Island would enhance economic inclusion and empowerment for residents of coastal communities.

“Let me share with you that Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, and going forward, you will begin to see a lot of activities there.

“Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is now back on the table. I want to sincerely thank Mr President because this is solely his initiative. In the last two weeks alone, we have held several meetings on Olokola, and Mr President has clearly expressed his desire to see the port become a reality”, the governor said.

Abiodun added that the President had directed that construction work on the seaport should be significantly advanced between now and next year. He noted that the project would provide a strong alternative for decongesting the Lagos ports, especially with the coastal road serving as an additional logistics corridor.

He further revealed that the new seaport would be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, highlighting its coastal positioning and economic prospects.

The governor commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the naval presence would help prevent infiltration from the neighbouring Republic of Benin and deter actions capable of threatening Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He said the state government was also working to provide basic amenities for residents of the island as part of efforts to improve living standards and support emerging economic opportunities.

Abiodun praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in strengthening the state’s security architecture, adding that collaboration among security agencies had contributed to the relative peace currently enjoyed in Ogun State.

Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as an experienced and accomplished officer, the governor expressed confidence in improved security and development outcomes under his leadership.

“We are happy that someone with your antecedents, background, training, and experience is occupying this position at this time. You are a round peg in a round hole,” the governor said.

Earlier, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as strategic to Nigeria’s national security. He disclosed that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded to a Forward Operations Base because of the area’s oil potential.

He explained that the visit was aimed at deepening cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government, adding that part of his mandate was to secure Nigeria’s border with the Republic of Benin and prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in the state.

National News January 23, 2026 NJC submits names of 14 lawyers to Tinubu for appointment as federal high court’s judges (+FULL LIST)

 

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has forwarded the names of 14 lawyers to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as Judges of the Federal High Court.

The recommendation followed the Council’s 110th meeting held in January and presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, during which the successful candidates were considered for appointment.

Mrs Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, Deputy Director of Information of the NJC, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that the names were not immediately transmitted because security reports on the candidates were pending at the time of the meeting.

According to her, the Council waited for the completion of the security screening before taking further action.

“Having received the security report, with no adverse comments on any of the recommended candidates, the Council on Thursday, 22nd day of January 2026, forwarded the names of the candidates to the president.

“The 14 successful candidates recommended to the President comprised the incumbent Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court, Suleiman Amida Hassan.

“Others are Muhammad Barau Saidu, Igboko Chinelo Conchita, Onuegbu Chioma Angela, Galumje Edingah, Ibrahim Vera Eneabo, Abubakar Musa Usman and Salihu Aisha Yunusa.

The rest are Ikpeme Joy Bassey, Shehu Umaru Adamu, Mohammed Ibrahim Buba, Eigege-Binjin Nendelmum Judith, Usoro Kuyik Uduak and Nwoye Osinachi Donatus.

Crime News January 23, 2026 Kudirat Abiola’s murder : Al-Mustapha ‘wins’ at Supreme Court

 

The Supreme Court has dismissed the trial of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (rtd), former Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the late Military Head of State, General Sani Abacha, over the murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.

Kudirat Abiola was the wife of the late businessman and politician, Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election annulled by former President Ibrahim Babangida.

She was killed in Lagos during the nationwide unrest that followed the annulment, at a time when she was actively campaigning for the restoration of the mandate.

A five-member panel of the apex court, presided over by Justice Uwani Aba-Aji, on Thursday dismissed the charges brought against Al-Mustapha by the Lagos State Government.

At the hearing, the state government failed to reopen the trial and neither appeared in court nor filed any process in the matter since initiating the action in 2014.

When the case was mentioned, counsel to Al-Mustapha, Paul Daudu (SAN), told the panel that Lagos State had taken no steps to act on the order granted in 2014 permitting it to reopen the trial.

He noted that the state did not file a notice of appeal as the appellant, adding that this showed a lack of seriousness in pursuing the case.

Daudu explained that when the Supreme Court granted Lagos State permission in 2014 to reopen the matter, the state was given 30 days to file its notice of appeal.

According to him, several years later, the state had still failed to comply with the directive.

He argued that the appellant had abandoned the prosecution and urged the court to dismiss the case in its entirety.
Justice Aba-Aji asked whether Lagos State had been served with a hearing notice, to which the court registrar responded in the affirmative.

In its ruling, the panel unanimously agreed that the state government had lost interest in the matter and effectively abandoned it.

Justice Aba-Aji held that nine years was sufficient time for the appellant to file both a notice of appeal and a brief of argument.

The court also expressed displeasure that the Lagos State Government neither appeared in court nor provided any explanation, despite being served with hearing notices since 2020.

Consequently, the case marked SC/CR/45/2014 was dismissed.

Another appeal filed by the Lagos State governor in the same matter, marked SC/CR/6/2014, was also dismissed on similar grounds.

The Supreme Court had earlier, in 2014, granted Lagos State permission to reopen the case out of time to challenge the July 12, 2013 judgment of the Court of Appeal, which discharged and acquitted Al-Mustapha of the murder charge.

(DAILY TRUST)