Venezuelans across the world have taken to the streets to celebrate the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, who was flown out of the country and indicted in the United States on drug and weapons charges.
The development has sparked scenes of jubilation among Venezuelans at home and in the diaspora, many of whom say they were forced to flee the country due to years of violence, hyperinflation, gang activity, and shortages of food and medicine. More than eight million people have left Venezuela since 2014, leaving the nation with one of the largest displacement crises in the world, according to the United Nations.
Venezuela is also home to the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, a resource wealth that contrasts sharply with years of economic collapse, mass migration, and political crisis under Maduro’s rule.
Following news of Maduro’s capture, crowds gathered in cities across Latin America, the United States, and Europe, singing, dancing, and waving Venezuelan and US flags.
Many said the moment symbolised the collapse of what they described as a dictatorship.
One celebrant in Chile said, “I’ve come to celebrate because the dictatorship has fallen, Maduro’s drug trafficking has fallen. We are free and happy that the dictatorship has fallen and that we will have a free country.”
Another Venezuelan in Doral, Florida, said, “Today, justice is being served for all the Venezuelans who were forced to leave our country. We are fighters, entrepreneurs, and good people, and we want to return home to rebuild Venezuela.
“Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were seized during a US military operation carried out in the early hours of Saturday in Caracas. Explosions, low flying aircraft, and columns of smoke were reported across the capital as the operation unfolded.
Speaking shortly after announcing the raid, US President Donald Trump described it as a “brilliant operation,” crediting extensive planning and elite troops. Asked whether Congress had been consulted before authorising the strike, Trump said the issue would be discussed later.
Court documents show the office of the Attorney General of the Federation on the 12th of December 2025, filed a notice of discontinuance notifying the Federal High Court of its decision to terminate the criminal matter against Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan initiated by the dual petitions of Senator Godswill Akpabio and Ex Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state.
It would be recalled that she was charged amongst others for accusing Senator Godswill Akpabio and Yahaya Bello on Seun Okinbaloye’s Politics Today show on their plans to eliminate her.
While Senator Natasha’s petition to the Inspector General of Police on threat to life was ignored, she was criminally arraigned on charges of criminal defamation and cyber bullying for speaking out on the threat to her life.
Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri and Sandra Duru stood as witnesses for Godswill Akpabio and Yahaya Bello.
we celebrate the dawn of 2026—a year of renewed hope, collective action, and purposeful commitment.
As a Cooperative, we have made a clear promise: to build a sustainable food ecosystem across Igboland as a practical response to the growing challenge of food insecurity. No society can thrive without food security, and no economy can develop without an inclusive financial system. Sadly, Nigeria’s financial architecture continues to favor the wealthy, while the poor and the working class are trapped in a vicious cycle of exclusion and economic dependency.
In 2026, GGM Cooperative will deepen its mission of economic inclusion by creating a structured platform where the surplus sector of the economy productively interfaces with the deficit sector. This deliberate linkage will unlock access to capital, stimulate productivity, create decent jobs, and expand shared prosperity within our communities.
Building a modern and prosperous society is not rocket science. What it truly requires is visionary leadership, discipline, integrity, and collective sacrifice. With the right leadership and an organized people, even the most daunting economic challenges can be overcome.
GGM Cooperative has risen to this historic responsibility.
We are not driven by rhetoric, but by action. We are not motivated by short-term gains, but by long-term group wealth creation and generational impact.
As we step into 2026, we will consolidate on our gains, strengthen our institutions, and scale our group wealth-building initiatives for the benefit of all members.
On behalf of the Management and leadership of Good Governance Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd., I wish you and your families a Happy, Prosperous, and Impact-Driven New Year.
Welcome to 2026 — the year of consolidation, productivity, and shared prosperity.
Democracy, in its classical and modern understanding, goes beyond the mere existence of elected civilians in government.
It encompasses popular sovereignty, rule of law, separation of powers, accountability, free and fair elections, protection of civil liberties, and meaningful citizen participation in governance. When assessed against these benchmarks, a fundamental question arises: Is Nigeria truly practicing democracy, or merely operating under civil rule?
Civil rule simply means governance by civilians rather than military officers. Democracy, however, is a deeper and more demanding system—one in which power genuinely resides with the people and leaders govern with their consent under clearly defined constitutional limits.
Nigeria returned to civilian governance in 1999 after years of military dictatorship. While this transition ended overt military rule, it did not automatically institutionalize democratic culture. What Nigeria has largely practiced since then is electoral civilianism, not consolidated democracy.
Elections are the heartbeat of democracy. In Nigeria, elections are routinely conducted, yet they are persistently marred by irregularities—vote buying, intimidation, violence, logistical failures, judicial manipulation, and elite capture of electoral institutions.
The credibility of elections has suffered greatly, leading many citizens to believe that leaders emerge more from elite consensus and judicial affirmation than from the genuine will of the electorate. When citizens lose confidence in elections, democracy becomes hollow, reduced to ritual without substance.
A true democracy is governed by laws, not by men. In Nigeria, however, the rule of law is often applied selectively. Powerful political actors like Governors frequently evade accountability, while ordinary citizens bear the full weight of the law.
Court orders are sometimes disobeyed by state institutions, prolonged pre-trial detentions persist, and anti-corruption efforts appear politicized. Where laws do not bind the powerful, democracy is fundamentally compromised.
Nigeria operates a highly centralized federal system that contradicts the principles of democratic federalism. Power and resources are concentrated at the center, leaving states and local governments financially dependent and politically constrained.
This overcentralization weakens institutions, encourages rent-seeking, and undermines grassroots participation. Local governments, which should be the closest democratic units to the people, are largely controlled by state governors, reducing democracy at the base to an illusion.
Another indicator of democratic health is citizen engagement. In Nigeria, voter apathy is rising, particularly among young people. Many citizens no longer believe their votes count or that government represents their interests.
Peaceful protests are often met with excessive force or legal restrictions, shrinking civic space and reinforcing public cynicism. A democracy that fears its citizens’ voices is already in distress.
Although Nigeria enjoys a relatively vibrant media landscape, journalists and media organizations face intimidation, harassment, and regulatory pressures. Whistleblowers and critics of government policies are often labeled as enemies of the state.
When the press is constrained, accountability weakens, and democracy slides toward authoritarian civilian rule.
Nigeria today operates under civil rule with democratic features, but not a fully functioning democracy. The presence of elections, a constitution, and civilian leaders creates the appearance of democracy, yet the substance—popular sovereignty, accountability, rule of law, and institutional independence—remains fragile.
Democracy is not defined by the absence of military uniforms in government houses, but by the presence of justice, transparency, and genuine consent of the governed.
For Nigeria to transition from civil rule to true democracy, several reforms are imperative:
1. Electoral reform to guarantee credible, transparent, and verifiable elections.
2. Judicial independence and strict adherence to the rule of law.
3. Political restructuring and decentralization to strengthen federalism and local governance.
4. Protection of civil
liberties, including the right to protest and free expression.
5. Institutional accountability, ensuring no individual or office is above the law.
Nigeria’s democratic journey remains unfinished. What exists is a civilian-controlled state with democratic aspirations, not yet a democracy in the true sense. Until power genuinely belongs to the people and institutions serve public interest rather than elite privilege, Nigeria will continue to practice civil rule wearing the garments of democracy.
True democracy is not declared; it is built—patiently, courageously, and collectively.
Anaenugwu Ndubuisi is an economist and Ambassador General of GGM
Everything is stacked against production in Nigeria. Thousands of factories have shut down in the last few years due to an unfriendly operational environment. For real and sustainable production to thrive, affordable electricity, access to cheap funds, and a tax-friendly regime must be guaranteed.
Sadly, Nigeria favours a consumption-driven economy over a production-driven one—no thanks to mismanaged globalization. Even within globalization, every normal country strategically moderates its international trade to achieve favourable balance of payments. Alas, Nigeria’s political leadership appears abnormal in this regard. The country encourages importation while discouraging exportation—an economic contradiction that defies logic.
No nation survives when the bulk of its wealth creation is limited to mercantilism—mere buying and selling. This structural failure explains why millions of young graduates remain unemployed, with many resorting to internet fraud as a means of survival.
GGM Cooperative has stepped in to organize ordinary people—exactly what government ought to be doing—to optimize the factors of production and keep the circular flow of income active and inclusive.
At GGM Cooperative, we plant dreams and harvest success. We are building a sustainable food ecosystem to confront humanity’s most fundamental challenge: food insecurity.
On 15th December, 2025, members of Good Governance Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd (GGM Cooperative) embarked on a humanitarian outreach to the vulnerable, the less privileged, and the physically challenged within our immediate environment. This charitable visitation formed part of the Cooperative’s commitment to service, compassion, and inclusive development.
The visitation commenced at motherless babies’ homes, where members of the Cooperative spent time with the children, showering them with love, care, and essential support items. The warmth and joy shared during this interaction reaffirmed our belief that humanity thrives where compassion is practiced.
From there, the team proceeded to the Correctional Service Centre, where we engaged inmates in an interactive and motivational session. The Cooperative was graciously granted a platform to address hundreds of inmates, during which we shared the vision, values, and opportunities offered by GGM Cooperative. We encouraged the inmates to embrace hope, discipline, and self-reliance, and we offered potential employment opportunities within the GGM Agricultural Estate upon their reintegration into society.
In a symbolic demonstration of self-sufficiency and productive engagement, we informed the inmates that the two bags of rice donated were produced from our own farmlands. This message of food security through collective effort resonated strongly with the inmates, inspiring them to believe that with commitment and cooperation, communities can sustainably feed themselves. The session ended with prayers and words of encouragement from the inmates, who expressed deep appreciation and prayed for the continued success of GGM’s service to humanity.
The outreach team then traveled to Nkpor to visit one of our members who has been bedridden for several years due to a ghastly motor accident that left her physically challenged. Members of the Cooperative expressed solidarity through prayers, emotional support, and financial assistance. While her immediate need remains specialized medical attention to aid her recovery and mobility, the visit brought her immense joy and reassurance that she is not forgotten. The encounter was deeply emotional and reinforcing of our shared responsibility toward one another.
The final stop was Amaku Teaching Hospital,Awka, where we visited patients receiving medical care. Acting on the professional advice of medical officers, cash support was extended to three critically ill patients. The beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude, visibly encouraged by the knowledge that GGM Cooperative could reach out to them in their moment of need.
The Cooperative extends profound appreciation to all members and friends who contributed financially, materially, and through personal sacrifice to make this charity outreach a success. May God reward every donor abundantly, grant you divine provision, and open doors of opportunities for you now and in the year 2026. To those who volunteered their time despite tight schedules and short notice, your commitment will not go unrewarded. May divine protection surround you, and may help meet you at your point of need.
GGM Cooperative remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, economic empowerment, and service to humanity.
Opening Speech by the President
Good Governance Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd
Annual General Meeting – Sunday, 7th December 2025
Distinguished members, stakeholders, and friends of Good Governance Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd., it is with great joy that I formally welcome you to our 2025 Annual General Meeting.
This year has been one of remarkable growth and steady progress for our Cooperative. For three consecutive years, we have sustained growth across all key performance indicators. We promised to uphold the highest level of integrity with zero tolerance for excuses — and we have kept that promise. We pledged to lay a solid foundation, driven by passion and sacrifice, for a prosperous homeland — and we have faithfully done so.
A journey of a million miles begins with a single step. We have taken not just one, but three strong steps forward. We may not be at our final destination yet, but surely, the light at the end of the tunnel grows brighter. With our determination and professionalism, our road to the promised land is firmly guaranteed.
Our message of Good Governance continues to spread like wildfire, and GGM Cooperative is winning new hearts. In the 2025 financial year, 51 new members joined this winning economic team, committed to building a Cooperative of our choice and of our future.
Significantly, our Isusu contributions grew by 185%, capital investments increased by 54%, and our deposit earnings rose by an impressive 167%. These achievements reflect not only the confidence our members have in us, but also our collective commitment to building a financially empowered community.
Our success this year is rooted in prudent management of members’ resources, disciplined financial stewardship, and unwavering professionalism. We maintained very low recurrent and capital expenditures, ensuring that every contribution was maximized for growth, especially as our Cooperative continues to expand.
A major milestone in our journey was the successful acquisition of agricultural farmland in Ayamelum Local Government Area. During the planting season, we cultivated 60 plots of rice — a strategic step toward establishing firm ownership and advancing our agricultural vision. With this substantial land asset now secured, our mission to develop a modern, viable, and sustainable agricultural estate has truly begun.
This year also came with challenges. The Federal Government’s zero-importation policy on foreign rice, without adequate consideration for local investors, posed a serious setback to agricultural investments. Lessons have been learned, though at great cost. Nevertheless, the future remains bright. Anambra State Government can partner with Cooperative Society like GGM Cooperative to ensure that there is food security and quality jobs in the State and Igbo Nation at large.
I am proud to emphasize that the management team of GGM Cooperative is made up of men and women of proven integrity — individuals dedicated to transparency, accountability, and the long-term prosperity of our members.
As we gather today, let us celebrate how far we have come and renew our collective commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Cooperative for all.
Thank you, and once again, you are warmly welcome.
Ndubuisi Anaenugwu
President, GGM Cooperative Society
Angry youths in Zamfara State, Nigeria, have stoned and beaten up a member of the House of Representatives over alleged poor performance. The incident occurred in Dansadau, Maru Local Government Area, during a visit by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal.
The lawmaker, whose identity hasn’t been officially confirmed, was accused of failing to deliver meaningful representation and neglecting the community’s needs, including insecurity, unemployment, and poor infrastructure.
Videos circulating on social media show the lawmaker being slapped, dragged, and pelted with stones by the mob, while security personnel struggled to rescue him. The crowd chanted “bamayi” (a Hausa term expressing rejection or anger) as they confronted the lawmaker
The attack reflects growing frustration among Zamfara youths, who feel their elected representatives have abandoned them. Community leaders are calling for calm and urging peaceful dialogue to address grievances.
On why he defected to the ruling APC, Governor Fubara said the PDP’s failure to protect him during the recent political crisis in the state, while the APC offered the support and protection he needed necessitated his defection.
“I went to see Mr. President not just for a personal visit, but for a consultation on state matters,” Fubara said. “The most important outcome of that meeting is that we now have full support to leave where we were because we didn’t get the protection we needed. The struggles we faced were due to the crisis in the state.
If President Tinubu had not intervened, there wouldn’t be a Siminalayi Fubara today. We have the people and supporters with us. Our decision is to move to the APC and fully support the President’s second-term bid.” he said.
ABUJA – Tens of thousands of Middle Belt indigenes took to the streets of the Federal Capital Territory today in a massive but peaceful protest, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to formally recognize the Middle Belt as a distinct geo-political and administrative region separate from the North.
Carrying bold banners and placards, protesters gathered from early morning along Ahmadu Bello Way, Eagle Square, and the Three Arms Zone, chanting in unison: “Middle Belt is not North!”
“President Tinubu, recognize Middle Belt Region!”
“We are Middle Beltans, not Northerners!”The protesters, a colorful mix of Tiv, Idoma, Berom, Eggon, Jukun, Igede, Igala, Ebira, and dozens of other ethnic nationalities, wore traditional attires and waved Nigerian flags alongside green-white-green Middle Belt flags.
Key messages on the placards included:
* PRESIDENT TINUBU, RECOGNIZE MIDDLE BELT REGION
* MIDDLE BELT IS NOT NORTH!
* MIDDLE BELT DESERVES RECOGNITION
* WE ARE MIDDLE BELTANS, NOT NORTHERNERS
* NO MORE FORCED ASSIMILATION INTO THE NORTH
Speaking to journalists at the Unity Fountain, coordinator of the Middle Belt Consciousness Movement, Dr. Paul Itodo, said: “For too long, the Middle Belt has been lumped together with the far North for political convenience. We are culturally, historically, and religiously different. We have suffered marginalization because decisions meant for the core North are imposed on us.
Today we say enough is enough. We demand that the Middle Belt – comprising Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, southern Kaduna, Southern Borno, Niger, Southern Yobe, southern Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory – be recognized as a separate region with its own development commission and equitable representation.”
A female protester, Mrs. Mercy David from Plateau State, added in tears:
“We are tired of being called ‘Northerners’ when our people are killed and our voices silenced in the name of ‘one North.’ Middle Belt is not North!”The protest remained peaceful throughout, with only light police presence observed. Motorists and passers-by honked in solidarity as the march passed major government buildings.
As at 4:30 pm, a delegation of Middle Belt leaders was granted audience at the Presidential Villa to present their formal demand letter to President Tinubu.Today’s protest is the largest public demonstration of Middle Belt identity assertion since the 2023 general elections.
#MiddleBeltIsNotNorth
