Guinea-Bissau’s military authorities say they have foiled an alleged coup attempt aimed at subverting the country’s constitutional order ahead of next month’s general elections.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that several senior army officers were arrested for allegedly plotting to derail the electoral process.

The arrests were made on Oct. 30, just hours before the official commencement of campaigns for the legislative and presidential elections scheduled for Nov. 23, 2025.

Among those detained was Brig.-Gen. Daba Nawalna, also known as Dahaba Na Walna, the Director of the Cuméré Military Training Centre and a former President of the Military High Court.

Officials said he was apprehended at his residence in Bissau.

The development has heightened political tensions in the small West African nation, which has experienced several coups and attempted takeovers since independence in 1973.

The sources said that investigations were ongoing to identify other possible conspirators and ensure the safety and stability of the country ahead of the elections.

The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has a new Zonal Director. He is Commander of the EFCC, CE Anselem Ozioko, who formally assumed duty on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, following a brief handover ceremony held at the Commission’s Conference Room, GRA, Ilorin.

Ozioko takes over from Daniel Isei, who has been redeployed to the Enugu Zonal Directorate as Zonal Director.

In his remarks during the handover, Isei expressed gratitude to God and the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, for the opportunity to serve in Ilorin. He appreciated the staff of the Directorate for their dedication and cooperation throughout his tenure, urging them to extend the same level of commitment and loyalty to his successor.

“My experience in Ilorin has been fulfilling and enriching. I thank the staff for their support and the synergy we shared in advancing the mandate of the Commission. I have no doubt that the new Zonal Director will build on the progress we’ve made,” he said.

Responding, Ozioko commended his predecessor for his leadership and contributions to the growth of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate. He pledged to sustain the tempo of excellence, professionalism, and teamwork that the EFCC is known for.

“I appreciate the management of the Commission for the confidence reposed in me. I look forward to working closely with all members of staff to achieve our collective goal of combating economic and financial crimes. Together, we shall take the Ilorin Zone to greater heights,” he said.

Ozioko, a lawyer by profession with over three decades of experience, has attended several professional courses and conferences both locally and internationally, including United States, Paris, Botswana, and Ghana.

Before his posting to Ilorin, he served as the Zonal Director of the EFCC, Makurdi Office, and had previously worked in the Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Ilorin Zonal Directorates of the Commission as Head of Legal and Prosecution Department.

By: Fabian Apechihin

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Thursday hosted a public lecture and award ceremony to recognise distinguished Nigerians for their exceptional service to God, the Church, and humanity.

Among the recipients were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd); the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche; Dame Barrister Comfort Chigbue, National Director of Legal and Public Affairs, CAN; and Mr Oronsaye Osagiede. Several lawmakers and Christian leaders were also honoured.

Themed “The Response of the Church to the Menace of Insecurity in the Country,” the event also featured the unveiling of plans for a proposed CAN FCT Secretariat, envisioned as a hub for unity, leadership development, and policy engagement within the Christian community.

In his keynote address, Rev. Timothy Amakom, FCT CAN Chairman, described the event as both a celebration of selfless service and a call to nation-building.

“Today is no ordinary day. We are here not only to celebrate men and women whose lights have shone brightly in service to God and humanity, but also to take a bold step of faith to lay the foundation for a lasting legacy — our Secretariat, a home for vision, coordination, and impact for the Body of Christ,” he said.

He noted that the proposed Secretariat would provide a centre for leadership training, advocacy, and inter-denominational collaboration, while also serving as a platform for shaping national policies through research, dialogue, and prayer.

“Imagine a place where Christian leaders can gather to plan national interventions, where young believers are mentored in faith and leadership, and where research, advocacy, and prayer merge to influence policies and culture. That is the Secretariat we envision — a lighthouse for truth, unity, and transformation,” Rev. Amakom added.

He urged Christians to support the project financially, likening the effort to Nehemiah’s rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Dr Paul Enenche delivered an inspiring message focused on living purposefully and making eternal impact. He outlined five key principles for believers: maintaining a strong relationship with God, fulfilling divine purpose, maximizing potential, influencing generations, and living with eternity in view.

“It doesn’t matter what we do with our lives; if our relationship with God is not in order, life is a waste. Making a difference is superior to making a living; making an impact is superior to making income,” he said.

Dr Enenche also cautioned that earthly recognition must never replace divine approval, stressing that true success lies in aligning with God’s purpose.

“As we are being appreciated on this earth, may we also receive the same appreciation before our Maker,” he concluded.

The ceremony drew attendance from senior government officials, religious leaders, captains of industry, and representatives from across the Christian community in the FCT.