society
Nigeria in Flames: How the Kidnapping of a Kwara Monarch Exposes the Government’s Failure to Tackle Insecurity
Nigeria in Flames: How the Kidnapping of a Kwara Monarch Exposes the Government’s Failure to Tackle Insecurity.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | saharaweeklyng.com
“A Nation Held Hostage by Criminal Networks While Leadership Watches.”
On the evening of December 31, 2025, a chilling reminder of Nigeria’s descent into ungovernable chaos played out in Kwara State. Armed men (suspected terrorists and bandits) stormed the royal palace in Aafin, Ile-Ere, Ifelodun Local Government Area, shooting sporadically and seizing control with ruthless precision. In what should have been a festive New Year’s Eve, gunfire replaced celebration as Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, the traditional ruler of Aafin and one of his sons, Olaolu, a serving NYSC member, were abducted by hoodlums. The queen, Felicia Olaonipekun, was shot in the arm but survived the brutal onslaught.
This audacious palace invasion is not a distant headline, but it is a searing indictment of the Nigerian state’s paralysis in the face of a mounting insecurity crisis that stretches from the North-East insurgency to apparently peaceful Yoruba heartlands. The fact that both royal leadership and families are now targets signifies a decay in the social contract between the government and the people.
A Nation Under Siege: The Facts on the Ground. According to eyewitness accounts, about eight armed men arrived around 8:00 p.m., firing shots and breaking down palace doors. They demanded to see the traditional ruler and his wife, demonstrating a predetermined and chilling intent. With only two local vigilantes on duty, the palace was defenseless, resulting in the horrifying kidnap of both monarch and son.
The attackers spoke fluent English, a detail that suggests a level of organisation and sophistication beyond ordinary criminals. In a nation where even elite institutions like palaces are vulnerable, it is painfully clear that whatever security architecture exists has collapsed at the grassroots.
Government Inaction: The Root of a National Catastrophe. Nigeria’s security crisis isn’t an isolated event, it is a systemic failure repeated in community after community. Critics have long warned that criminals, bandits and terrorist networks exploit weak governance, corruption and fractured intelligence systems to operate with virtual impunity.
One security analyst noted, “When you cannot protect a village, you cannot protect a capital.” This is no longer rhetorical; it is a stark reality. The abduction of a traditional ruler (a symbol of community stability and heritage) is not just criminality. It is a testament to a government that has surrendered terrain to terror and lawlessness.
Since the start of the Tinubu administration in 2023, insecurity across Nigeria has expanded, with kidnappings, raids and shootings reported from the Northeast to the Northwest, Central Belt, and now Kwara South. Scholars point out that 3,964 abductions were recorded during this period, a number so staggering that it defies rational governance.
The Kwara attack echoes earlier incidents where monarchs were targeted with lethal brutality and also including a February 2024 attack where a Kwara monarch was killed and his wife abducted.
Why the Government Must Be Held Accountable?
1. Security Architecture Has Collapsed
Nigeria’s security architecture, once conceived to safeguard communities, is now fragmented and ineffectual. Local vigilantes, constitutionally limited and under-equipped, are overpowered by heavily armed gangs. Police response is slow and often reactionary, not preventive. The result: citizens are left isolated, unprotected and afraid.
Prominent Nigerian sociologist Dr. Akin Oyebode has argued, “A government that cannot safeguard its people forfeits its primary obligation.” In this case, the Kwara palace attack makes Oyebode’s point not abstract but devastatingly real.
2. Poor Intelligence and Corruption Are Enablers.
A recurring theme in Nigeria’s security failure is the absence of reliable intelligence and rampant corruption within security institutions. When intelligence is commodified or manipulated, criminal networks gain early warning and manoeuvrability, making police and military forces perpetually reactive, never proactive.
A senior retired general once said, “You can have the best army in the world, but if you don’t know where the enemy sleeps, you’ll fight perpetually with one eye closed.” Nigeria’s intelligence blind spots have become battlefields where terrorists win ground every day.
3. Lack of Political Will and Clear Strategy.
Instead of a coherent national security strategy, successive administrations have offered rhetoric rather than results. There are isolated successes (yes) but no sustained, nationwide plan to tackle the root causes of insecurity: unemployment, poverty and marginalisation.
Political will is not shown in press releases; it is shown in boots on the ground, empowered community protection systems and accountable security institutions. In Kwara, ordinary citizens have had to pay ransoms for kidnapped traditional rulers without meaningful government intervention which is a humiliation of the state that must shake every Nigerian to the core.
The High Price of Insecurity. The human cost of this crisis is incalculable: families shattered, communities in fear and cultural institutions desecrated. Economically, insecurity chokes investment, cripples agriculture, discourages tourism and diverts precious resources from development to survival.
Every market stall that closes early, every farmer too afraid to tend his land at dawn and every youth who chooses flight over fight is a nation unravelling.
Renowned African security expert Professor Funmi Adewale once said, “Security is more than the absence of war; it is the presence of justice, opportunity and protection.” By this measure, Nigeria is failing catastrophically.
What Must Be Done To stem this tide, Nigeria needs urgent, bold and radical reforms:
Reform and empower community security with oversight; equip vigilantes with training, arms and proper integration with formal forces.
Rebuild intelligence networks and also invest in technology, human intelligence and anti-corruption within security agencies.
Address root causes; launch national employment and education programs targeting youth susceptible to recruitment by criminal networks.
Restore public trust; transparent investigations, accountability for failures, and justice for victims must become non-negotiable.
The Way Forward: A Call to Action. The abduction of Oba Simeon Olaonipekun and his son is not simply another headline. It is a symbol of Nigeria’s unraveling and a wake-up call demanding courage, honesty and decisive leadership.
If a king’s palace can be invaded under the nose of law enforcement, what hope does the common citizen have? The government must know that inaction is complicity and that Nigeria’s future depends on the ability of its leaders to protect the vulnerable, secure the peace, and restore the confidence of the people.
The time for empty words has long passed. Nigeria must act (boldly, honestly, and swiftly) before the fire of insecurity consumes the very soul of the nation.
society
Forging a New Strategic Nexus: Nigeria and Türkiye Redefine Partnership for Shared Prosperity
Forging a New Strategic Nexus: Nigeria and Türkiye Redefine Partnership for Shared Prosperity.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“A Landmark Suite of Strategic Agreements Signals Economic Growth, Security Collaboration, Educational Exchange and Institutional Cooperation Between Two Emerging Powerhouses.”
In a moment of far‑sighted diplomacy and strategic alignment, Nigeria and Türkiye have taken a decisive leap forward in bilateral cooperation, signing a comprehensive suite of nine agreements that collectively articulate a bold vision for their partnership in the twenty‑first century. The signing ceremony, held in Ankara with Nigerian Head of State Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presiding, was more than a ceremonial exchange of documents and though it was a moment that signals shared ambition, mutual respect and a sincere commitment to cooperative development across multiple sectors.
These agreements are neither symbolic nor superficial. They represent tangible frameworks that will govern cooperation in areas vital to national growth: diaspora engagement, media development, higher education, quality standards and halal certification, economic and trade cooperation, military collaboration, diplomatic training, social development and women’s empowerment. Together, they define not only the broad contours of a reinvigorated relationship between Nigeria and Türkiye, but also a blueprint for cooperation that other nations may soon emulate.
For Nigeria (Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies) this moment is especially consequential. For Türkiye, a pivotal Eurasian player with an expansive foreign policy footprint, deepening collaboration with Nigeria reinforces its influence across Africa and strengthens its ties with an important economic partner. Importantly, these agreements reflect a nuanced relationship grounded in mutual interests, not mere diplomacy for diplomacy’s sake.
From Diaspora to Diplomacy: Agreements That Matter.
The nine signed agreements provide a roadmap for collaboration that is practical, multidimensional and forward‑leaning. Their strategic value lies in both the sum of the parts and the breadth of sectors they encompass.
Diaspora Policy Cooperation:
A memorandum of understanding on diaspora policy was signed between the Turkish Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities and Nigeria’s Commission for Nigerians in the Diaspora. This pact recognizes the centrality of diaspora communities as bridges for cultural exchange, investment flows, and transnational innovation. Scholars like Dr. Amina El‑Bushra, an expert in transnational studies, have long argued that diaspora engagement is “a strategic asset for national development when harnessed through institutional cooperation rather than ad hoc efforts.” This agreement, therefore, positions both nations to tap into human capital networks that stretch across continents.
Media and Communication Collaboration:
In an era where narrative shapes reality, cooperation on media and communication provides a mechanism for shared learning, exchange of expertise and professional development in journalism and broadcasting. The memorandum envisages joint seminars, training programs, exchange visits and information sharing. Media scholar Prof. Umer Farooq has observed, “In an interconnected world, media policies that encourage cross‑cultural engagement are vital to strengthening democratic discourse and countering misinformation.” The agreement lays a foundation for media ecosystems in both countries to evolve through shared standards and cross‑border perspectives.
Higher Education and Academic Exchange:
The memorandum on higher education cooperation speaks to the future of intellectual exchange and capacity building. Nigerian and Turkish universities will now have an institutional platform to expand collaborative research, student exchange and staff development programs. Education expert Dr. Kelechi A. Okonkwo emphasizes that “expanded academic cooperation enables the transfer of knowledge and skills necessary for national development, fostering innovation that transcends borders.” This pact is likely to enhance academic pathways, research collaborations and cultural understanding.
Halal Quality Infrastructure:
A memorandum between Türkiye’s Halal Accreditation Agency and Nigeria’s National Accreditation System will strengthen halal certification infrastructure. Halal markets are expansive and growing globally, reflecting significant economic and cultural values. Experts in global trade such as Dr. Sanjay Jain describe halal certification not merely as a market niche, but as “a strategic sector that links production, trade and cultural identity.” This agreement is poised to unlock export potential and facilitate Nigeria’s deeper integration into global halal value chains.
Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO):
Perhaps the most consequential pact is the joint declaration establishing the Joint Economic and Trade Committee. This institutional mechanism creates a sustained platform for economic dialogue, private sector engagement, and policy coordination, intended to stimulate bilateral trade and investment. According to official statements, Nigeria has become Türkiye’s largest trading partner in Sub‑Saharan Africa which is a milestone that underscores the economic significance of this relationship. The bilateral trade volume in the first eleven months of the previous year was near historic highs, even before the full implementation of these agreements.
Military Cooperation and Security Architecture:
The protocol on military cooperation underscores a deepening security partnership between the two nations. Nigerian defense forces have previously engaged with Turkish defense technology, including the acquisition of military helicopters that enhance operational capacity. This cooperation reflects shared interests in ensuring stability, combating insecurity and building indigenous capabilities in defense sectors. Security analyst Dr. Amara Eze notes that “strategic defense cooperation grounded in shared values strengthens both national and regional security architectures.”
Education, Diplomatic Training, and Social Development:
Additional agreements on general education cooperation, diplomatic academy exchange and women’s empowerment initiatives capture the holistic nature of this bilateral framework. They extend cooperation to institutional strengthening, professional training in foreign service and social policies that promote inclusion and gender equity. Such agreements resonate with global development norms and respond to calls from civil society leaders who champion capacity building and inclusive governance.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations.
The sweeping scope of these nine agreements signals far more than transactional diplomacy. They reveal a shared commitment to institutional cooperation, economic integration, cultural exchange and security collaboration. What emerges is a holistic relationship built on mutual respect, shared interests and a long‑term vision.
President Tinubu’s words during the joint press conference in Ankara encapsulated this sentiment when he pledged deepened cooperation on security, trade and inclusive development, affirming that Nigeria stands with partners who share commitments to democracy, freedom and prosperity. Likewise, President Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye’s readiness to support Nigeria’s security and economic aspirations.
International affairs scholar Dr. Harriet Mensah succinctly contextualizes this moment: “Partnerships grounded in strategic alignment and mutual benefit are the bedrock of twenty‑first century diplomacy. When nations invest in holistic cooperation (from academia to defense to trade) they build relationships that endure beyond political cycles.”
Summative Insight: A Blueprint for Shared Success.
The nine agreements signed between Nigeria and Türkiye define a new chapter in their bilateral relationship with one that transcends rhetoric to establish pragmatic cooperation across multiple domains of national significance. They anchor economic aspirations, strengthen institutional ties, nurture educational and cultural exchange and fortify security collaboration.
As the global order becomes increasingly interconnected and competitive, the Nigeria‑Türkiye partnership stands out as a bold example of how nations with shared ambitions can craft a comprehensive framework for mutual growth. This suite of agreements is not merely a diplomatic milestone; it is a strategic foundation upon which both nations can build sustainable futures characterized by economic resilience, security cooperation and meaningful engagement on the world stage.
In the words of a renowned development expert, “Partnership is not merely signing agreements, but embedding collaboration into the very structures that shape national progress.” With these nine agreements, Nigeria and Türkiye have done just that.
Epe Premier Club Meets Obasa Ahead of Baba Bamu’s Immortalisation
The leadership of the prestigious Epe Premier Club on Wednesday, January 28, paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, as part of preparations for the Club’s inaugural immortalisation ceremony in honour of their founding fathers.
Led by Hon. Abiodun Mustainu Tobun, the delegation briefed Speaker Obasa on the Club’s resolve to inaugurate a new era of recognising and immortalising iconic figures who contributed significantly to the socio-political and cultural development of Epe Division while they are still alive. He explained that the Club had unanimously selected Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu—a respected member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and political leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Epe Division—as the first honouree.
Hon. Tobun emphasised that Baba Bamu embodies leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the growth of Epe, describing him as a mentor and pillar whose contributions have shaped the region’s political trajectory.
Responding, Speaker Obasa commended the Epe Premier Club for its foresight in institutionalising a programme to honour the legacies of distinguished individuals. He applauded the choice of Alhaji Seriki Bamu, noting that his impact, political maturity, and statesmanship continue to resonate across Lagos State.
Obasa expressed gratitude for the invitation and assured the delegation of his support and presence at the celebration, stressing the importance of recognising leaders who have given immensely to community and state development.
The courtesy visit also provided a platform for broader conversations on civic engagement, community empowerment, and collaborations aimed at further advancing Epe Division.
The immortalisation ceremony for Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu will take place in the coming weeks and is expected to draw dignitaries, community stakeholders, and residents in large numbers.
society
Africa Gospel Film Project Launched to Train a New Generation of Christian Filmmakers Across Africa
Africa Gospel Film Project Launched to Train a New Generation of Christian Filmmakers Across Africa
Abuja, Nigeria – January 2026 — Gospel Cinema International has officially announced the launch of the Africa Gospel Film Project (AGFP), a bold, multi-year capacity-building and film production initiative designed to equip African Christian filmmakers with professional skills, spiritual depth, and global distribution pathways.
Africa is home to over 600 million Christians, yet African faith-based films remain significantly underrepresented in global catalogues. AGFP was created to address this gap by training filmmakers, producing premium-quality faith-based content, and strategically connecting Africa’s Christian film ecosystem to the global market.
The project will launch its first phase with a 6-Day Immersive Filmmaking & Spiritual Formation Program, scheduled to hold April 13–18, 2026, in Nigeria, followed by the production of an 8-episode faith-based series later in the year.
“Film is one of the most powerful tools shaping culture and belief today,” said Bright Wonder Obasi, president of Gospel Cinema International. “Africa Gospel Film Project is not just about making films—it is about shaping storytellers who understand both excellence and spiritual responsibility.”
AGFP will focus on:
Professional training in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, producing, and acting
Deep spiritual formation and mentorship
Collaborative production and international distribution pathways.
Gospel Cinema International is a faith-driven film development organization committed to training, producing, and distributing impactful Christian films that shape culture and inspire faith globally.
Applications and partnership discussions are now open.
For applications and information:
visit www.gospelcinemaint.com
Email [email protected]
Follow @gosplecinemtrybe across social media for updates.
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