Politics
CUPP Condemns Gwoza Bombings, Laments Absent Proactive Action
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the suicide attacks in Gwoza, Borno State, describing it as the “evil works of formidable enemies who take advantage of government’s lack of proactive actions to wreak havoc on innocent Nigerians”.
In a statement signed by CUPP’s National Spokesperson, Comrade Mark Adebayo, the coalition said, ” It is with a deep sense of grief that we received the news of the suicide bombings in Gwoza, Borno state, that led to multiple fatalities. This is the horrendous and evil works of formidable enemies of humanity who take advantage of government’s lack of proactive actions and ineffective intelligence to wreck consistent havocs on innocent citizens.
“Over the years, it has become clear that the war against terror has been compromised by all those involved in dealing with the menace with the government having no answers to the challenges posed by the terrorists that have been ravaging many parts of the country. The corruption enterprise surrounding the war efforts and absence of creative ideas on the part of government and the consistent failure of intelligence have contributed significantly to strengthening of the various terrorist groups terrorizing the country for about two decades now.
“We commiserate with the people of Borno State, particularly our dear people of Gwoza, over this terrible tragedy and pray that God grant them a quick healing process. Once again, the Federal Government has come out with empty assurances for the people boasting that it would fish out and punish perpetrators of the crimes. As always, nothing will come out of these vague assurances and promises as the cycle of violence continues unabated.
“This government lacks any real strategic security plans to protect the citizens and save the country from these terrorists who have grown to disdain our security forces overtime. The government needs to be serious in its war against terrorism by developing ingenious tactical stratagem to tackle the menace head-on.”
Politics
Alleged Coup: Protests Rock N’Assembly As Detained Officers’ Children, Wives Demand Justice
Scores of children and wives of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot yesterday staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, demanding a speedy trial and the release of the accused officials.
The protesters who gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, moved in a slow procession while clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Don’t Kill Our Daddies,” “Detention Without Trial is Injustice,” and “Six Months of Torture: Enough Is Enough.”
Amid tears and trembling voices, the children appealed for justice and access to their detained fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months.
The appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja attended by no fewer than 20 wives and several children of the detained officers, including a two-month-old baby.
The families were accompanied by human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore.
At the briefing, the families lamented that the officers had been held for over 160 days without trial or contact with their relatives, describing the situation as a violation of their fundamental rights.
Speaking on behalf of the families, Memuna Bashiru said the prolonged detention had thrown their households into uncertainty and emotional distress, noting that while allegations had been widely publicised, families remained in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.
The arrest of the indicted officers was first announced on October 4, 2025, by the then Director of Defense Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who disclosed that 16 officers were taken into custody for alleged breaches of military regulations and acts of indiscipline.
However, an interim investigation later suggested the existence of a clandestine network of officers, allegedly coordinated by a senior Army officer, which had begun preliminary planning for a coup.
According to the report, the alleged plot involved surveillance of key national assets, including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and major international airports, with October 25, 2025, cited as the planned date for the operation.
Those reportedly in custody include Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A. A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, Maj M. A. Usman, Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A. A. Yusuf, Lt S. S. Felix, Lt Cdr D. B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S. B. Adamu and Maj I. Dauda.
The alleged plot, according to findings, targeted senior government officials, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement issued yesterday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka, said the exercise would take place in all wards and designated centres nationwide.
He called on existing members to update their records, while encouraging new entrants to join the party through the digital platform.
“As the electronic membership registration exercise resumes in all wards and designated locations nationwide, we urge existing members to validate their membership while new members are encouraged to register and join the progressive family,” Mr Morka said.
According to him, eligibility for registration is limited to individuals aged 18 and above who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
The party said the initiative is part of efforts to modernise its operations by transitioning to a digital database that would enhance record accuracy and accessibility.
Mr Morka noted that the e-registration would “digitise the party’s membership register, ensure the integrity of records, and enhance efficient access to membership data for planning and management decisions.”
He added that the move is also aimed at promoting internal democracy within the party and strengthening its commitment to democratic innovation.
The APC had previously introduced electronic registration as part of broader reforms to streamline its membership system and improve organisational efficiency.