“I Am Ready for War, But Let Us Choose Peace First” – Pastor Paul Adefarasin Urges Unity and Strategic Action Amid Escalating Insecurity in Nigeria

 In a stirring message delivered during the Sunday service at The Rock Cathedral in Lekki, Lagos, Senior Pastor of House On The Rock, Paul Adefarasin, has called on Nigerians to confront the nation's deepening crisis of insecurity with resolute determination, intellectual collaboration, and unwavering faith. Addressing a congregation of over 15,000 worshippers in person and millions more via global livestream, Pastor Adefarasin declared his personal readiness to defend the country if war becomes inevitable, while passionately advocating for proactive measures to avert such a catastrophe.

“I certainly hope that Nigeria doesn’t have to go to war, but I’m ready for it,” Pastor Adefarasin stated emphatically, his voice echoing through the auditorium as he reflected on the recent surge in terror attacks targeting churches, schools, and communities across the North and Middle Belt regions. “This is not a time for fear or flight; it is a time for the intelligentsia—our sophisticated minds from every nationality, ethnicity, and faith—to rise, strategize, and act decisively. If we fail to unite now, the shadows of conflict will engulf us all. But with God on our side, we can turn the tide toward lasting peace.”

Pastor Adefarasin's remarks come against a backdrop of heightened national tension, including a spate of bombings and raids that have claimed hundreds of lives in the past month alone, according to reports from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The pastor contextualized the crisis within a broader global narrative, describing Nigeria as a frontline in a clash of civilizations exacerbated by the proliferation of advanced weaponry from destabilized regions like post-Gaddafi Libya. “Where do you think the terror went after the fall of regimes in the North? It flooded Africa—from the Maghreb Sahel to our own Northern borders—bringing not just AK-47s and M4s, but rocket launchers and grenades. We cannot ignore this; silence now is complicity.”

Drawing parallels to historical precedents, Pastor Adefarasin warned that without immediate, collective intervention, Nigeria risks descending into full-scale conflict. He emphasized the role of ongoing international dialogues in combating terrorism but stressed that true resolution lies in domestic resolve. “There is still dialogue happening on the global stage—two civilizations in tension, with Nigeria as one of the fronts. I pray these talks expunge terrorism from our land forever. But we must not wait; our leaders, scholars, and citizens must convene to understand, plan, and execute a strategy that protects the vulnerable and restores order.”

The message also touched on recent international scrutiny, including U.S. concerns over religious freedom and potential interventions, which Pastor Adefarasin urged Nigerians to approach with discernment. “Let us interrogate the motives behind such interests—whether it's genuine concern for our people or eyes on our 21st-century minerals vital for nuclear power and electric vehicles. Our sovereignty is not for sale; it is for stewardship under God.”

Pastor Adefarasin, a globally recognized voice in Christian leadership and convener of The Experience gospel concert, has long been a proponent of faith-driven social action. His previous exhortations, such as his 2021 call for contingency planning amid rising banditry, underscore his commitment to equipping believers for resilience. Today’s address builds on that foundation, blending spiritual encouragement with practical imperatives. “In the face of evil, we do not cower; we covenant with the Almighty for victory. Train your minds, fortify your homes, and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your neighbors—regardless of tribe or tongue.”

The sermon has already ignited widespread discourse on social media, with #ReadyForPeace trending nationwide as faith leaders, civil society groups, and policymakers echo the call for unity. Prominent figures, including human rights advocate Dr. Obianuju Ekeocha and former Governor of Kaduna State Nasir El-Rufai, have praised the pastor's balanced approach, hailing it as a “clarion call for Nigeria's survival.”

House On The Rock, under Pastor Adefarasin's 30-year stewardship, continues to expand its outreach through The Rock Foundation, which has pledged an additional N500 million toward emergency relief and community security initiatives in affected regions. A special prayer vigil and strategy forum, titled “Frontlines of Faith: Securing Nigeria's Tomorrow,” is scheduled for December 7, 2025, at the Lekki campus, inviting interfaith leaders, security experts, and youth representatives to collaborate.

As Nigeria navigates these turbulent times, Pastor Adefarasin's words serve as both a sobering warning and a beacon of hope: “War is not our destiny; peace through purposeful action is. Let us choose the path of wisdom today, so our children inherit a nation unbroken.”

About Pastor Paul Adefarasin and House On The Rock

Paul Adeolu Adefarasin, born January 25, 1963, is the founder and Metropolitan Senior Pastor of House On The Rock, a dynamic Pentecostal ministry with over 120 branches worldwide, headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. A graduate of the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Architecture, Pastor Adefarasin returned to Nigeria in 1990 to pursue his divine calling, growing the church from a modest fellowship to a global force for spiritual and social transformation. Renowned for his teachings on leadership, destiny, and societal impact, he hosts the annual The Experience concert, drawing millions in pursuit of revival.

Nollywood Mourns the Sudden Passing of Beloved Actor and Content Creator Odira Nwobu in South Africa

 The Nigerian film industry and a legion of fans worldwide are reeling from the heartbreaking news of the untimely death of Odira Nwobu, a vibrant Nollywood actor, comedian, and digital content creator whose infectious energy and comedic genius lit up screens big and small. Nwobu, aged 43, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Monday, November 24, 2025, in South Africa, succumbing to complications from high blood pressure following a night out over the weekend.

Born on May 24, 1982, in Enugu State, Nigeria, Odira Nwobu rose to prominence in the early 2010s through his uproarious comedy skits, where he embodied the memorable persona of "Joseph The Dreamer." His quick wit, relatable storytelling, and unfiltered humor quickly garnered a massive following on social media platforms, turning him into a household name among younger audiences. Transitioning seamlessly into Nollywood, Nwobu featured in over 60 films, showcasing his versatility in both comedy and action genres. Standout roles in movies such as Family Saga, Goat Lover, Home Alone, Village Rats, and Wayward Father cemented his status as a go-to talent for heartfelt, laugh-out-loud performances that captured the essence of everyday Nigerian life.

Just five months prior, in June 2025, Nwobu had miraculously survived a devastating car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway—a tragedy that claimed multiple lives and left him as the sole survivor from his vehicle. Viral footage from the scene captured the bloodied yet conscious actor being aided by bystanders, sparking widespread prayers and conversations about road safety and the fragility of life in the entertainment industry. Defying the odds, Nwobu returned to sets and screens with renewed vigor, often sharing messages of gratitude and resilience that inspired his followers. "Life na wetin you make am," he quipped in a recent skit, a sentiment that now resonates even more poignantly in the wake of his passing.

The circumstances surrounding Nwobu's death were first revealed in emotional social media posts by close industry peers. Blogger and content creator Awuzie Frankline broke the news on Facebook, sharing a distressing video of the actor lying unresponsive and pouring out his grief in a series of posts: "God, why! ODIRA, why leave us… Death is rude. I am heartbroken." Fellow actor and producer Stanley Ontop corroborated the reports on Instagram, recounting a late-night call that delivered the devastating update. "Omo, it’s well. Someone who was in the club last night. OMG, my heart is broken. Rest well, Odira. Black Monday in Nollywood," Ontop wrote, noting that Nwobu had been out enjoying a night at a South African nightclub mere hours before the incident. Veteran filmmaker Arthur Scoot also confirmed the details to media outlets, attributing the tragedy to Nwobu's longstanding battle with high blood pressure, a condition exacerbated by the stresses of his high-octane lifestyle.

Tributes have flooded in from across the entertainment spectrum, painting a portrait of a man whose joy was as boundless as his talent. Actress Evan Okoro, a frequent collaborator, expressed her disbelief on Facebook: "How? No! I can’t believe this, nooooo." Emeka Rollas, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), confirmed the news to BBC Igbo, vowing that the guild would support Nwobu's family during this trying time. "Odira was more than an actor; he was a beacon of laughter in dark times. His spirit will live on in every chuckle we share," Rollas stated.

Fans, too, have been vocal in their sorrow, with social media timelines awash in memories of Nwobu's antics. One user lamented, "As death no fit kpai him for Naija, e go wait for him for South Africa nawaooh. R.I.P Odira. We all live to die one day," while another reflected, "When he had a fatal accident, he didn't even die, now spirits and dry gin don go kpai am for SA." The outpouring has reignited broader discussions on health awareness in Nollywood, with many calling for better support systems to address issues like hypertension amid the industry's demanding schedules.

In his personal life, Nwobu was a devoted family man, having married his longtime partner, Giftee, in 2021 in a joyous ceremony attended by scores of well-wishers. The couple's union was a testament to his grounded nature off-screen, often featured in his lighthearted family-oriented content.

As details remain unconfirmed pending an official statement from Nwobu's family and management, the AGN has extended condolences and is coordinating arrangements for the repatriation of his remains. A candlelight vigil is planned for Friday, November 28, 2025, at the National Theatre in Lagos, where fans and colleagues will gather to celebrate the life of a true entertainer.

Odira Nwobu leaves behind his wife, Giftee, their young children, parents, siblings, and a legacy of laughter that will echo through generations. In the words of one admirer: "Odira no just dey act; him dey live the comedy we all needed."

“Olamide Will Regret Not Signing Me” – Portable Declares in Explosive New Interview

 Controversial street-pop sensation Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable or Dr Zeh, has once again set the Nigerian music industry ablaze with bold claims about his relationship with rap icon Olamide Adedeji.

In a viral interview that has already sparked heated debates across social media, the “Zazuu” crooner stated unequivocally that Olamide, the founder of YBNL Nation, will live to regret not signing him to the label when he had the chance.

“ Olamide go regret say him no sign me that year,” Portable declared. “If Baddo sign me when I blow, by now YBNL for dey shake pass wetin e dey shake now. I be the real street president. Nobody fit control my energy – not even Baddo himself.”

The self-proclaimed “Wahala Musician” went on to recount how he reached out to Olamide during his breakout period in late 2021 following the massive success of his hit single “Zazuu Zeh,” only to be overlooked. Portable claims the YBNL boss showed initial interest but ultimately decided against bringing him into the fold, a decision he now describes as “the biggest mistake of Olamide’s career.”

“Dem tell me say I too stubborn, say I no dey hear word. But that stubbornness na wetin make me who I am today,” Portable continued. “Asake blow, Fireboy blow, all of them fine boys wey dey hear word. But the street still need person wey go represent us raw – no filter. That person na me.”

The singer, who has built a cult-like following through his unapologetic personality and back-to-back hit records including “Tony Montana,” “Clear,” and the recent chart-topper “Spider-Man,” insisted that his independent grind has proven he never needed a major label structure to dominate.

“I build my own empire – Zeh Nation. No manager, no label, just me and my guys. Yet I dey sell out shows, I dey trend every week. Imagine if Olamide add my madness to YBNL sauce – the whole Africa go bow.”

While Portable stopped short of declaring outright beef with the YBNL camp, he left little doubt about his feelings: “I respect Baddo, he open door for many people. But this one pain me. Him go still call me one day, but by then the price don change.”

The interview has already generated thousands of reactions on social media, with fans divided between those who believe Portable’s raw energy would have been too volatile for YBNL’s structure and others who agree that the label missed out on signing one of the most organically successful artists of the past four years.

As at press time, neither Olamide nor any official representative of YBNL Nation has responded to Portable’s claims.

Falz Ignites National Call for Accountability: Demands Public Hearing on Government Transparency Amid Kidnapping Rescues and Security Failures

 In a impassioned video message that has galvanized social media and sparked widespread civic mobilization, Nigerian rapper, actor, and activist Folarin "Falz" Falana has launched a scathing critique of the federal government's opacity in handling the nation's escalating security crisis. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday evening, Falz questioned the lack of details surrounding President Bola Tinubu's announcement of the rescue of 38 kidnapped churchgoers in Kwara State and 50 schoolchildren in Niger State, urging citizens to move beyond online outrage and demand a live-broadcast public hearing on terrorism strategies, military equipping, and public safety.

Falz, 34, known for his unfiltered advocacy on issues from police brutality to electoral reform, didn't mince words in his two-minute video, which has amassed over 1.2 million views in less than 24 hours. "President Tinubu announced yesterday that all 38 people kidnapped in Kwara State have been rescued... Also that 50 out of the over 300 people kidnapped in Niger have also returned home," he began, his tone laced with frustration. "There was no mention of any arrests being made, no mention of whether any ransom was paid, no mention of anyone being apprehended and brought to book. This does not cut it. It is just not enough."

The activist, son of renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana, went further, lambasting the routine nature of these announcements amid persistent violence. He highlighted the murder of a serving army general captured on video without consequences, ambushes on military convoys, and rumors of an ill-equipped armed forces despite billions allocated annually to defense. "I'm tired of Nigerians always complaining online... one tweet here, one hashtag there, one post there," Falz declared, rejecting superficial activism. Instead, he proposed a unified action plan: Every citizen should bombard their representatives and senators with emails, calls, and WhatsApp messages using a template he provided. "Dear Hon/Sen, as your constituent, I am urging you to call for a PUBLIC hearing to address the strategy to defeat terrorism, rumours of an ill-equipped military and how Nigerians will be kept safe. Please act urgently."

Falz's intervention comes on the heels of a string of high-profile abductions that have exposed the fragility of Nigeria's security apparatus. On November 21, over 100 students were seized from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State, prompting Falz to demand President Tinubu's resignation just days earlier, accusing the administration of "woeful failure" in protecting citizens. The Kwara incident involved 38 members of the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, who were freed without fanfare or follow-up on perpetrators. In Niger, local authorities confirmed 51 students had fled or been released, but details remained murky, fueling suspicions of ransoms or negotiated releases.

The video's release has ignited a firestorm of support and replication across platforms. The #PublicHearingNow hashtag trended nationwide within hours, with over 45,000 posts by Monday morning. Comedian Nasboi, who recently collaborated with Falz on unity anthems, amplified the call: "Falz is right—time to stop the noise and start the action. Our reps work for us, not the other way around." Media personality Daniel Regha echoed, "Transparency isn't optional; it's the foundation of trust. Why celebrate rescues without justice for the criminals?" Even international observers, including Amnesty International's Nigeria chapter, praised the push: "Falz's template is a blueprint for civic engagement. Nigerians deserve answers, not alibis."

This isn't Falz's first rodeo in holding power to account. The Grammy-nominated artist, whose 2018 track "This Is Nigeria" dissected societal ills, co-founded the #EndSARS movement in 2020, leading peaceful protests against police extortion that drew global attention. His father, Femi Falana, a SAN and Wikiquote staple for quips like "Nigerians need to ask questions," has long instilled this ethos. In June 2025, Falz slammed the administration's two-year mark as a "backwards" slide, and in May, he joined voices decrying unconstitutional bills on compulsory voting.Falz's latest salvo underscores a broader crisis: Nigeria's insecurity has claimed over 2,000 lives in 2025 alone, per reports from the Council on Foreign Relations, with banditry and kidnappings surging 40% year-over-year. Defense allocations topped ₦3.2 trillion in the 2025 budget, yet allegations of procurement scandals persist, including a 2024 audit revealing ₦1.5 billion in unaccounted arms funds.

"President Tinubu announced yesterday that all 38 people kidnal@pped in Kwara State have been rescued, but the story is not adding up. There has been no mention of any arrests, and no information about whether a rånsom was paid. I'm tired of Nigerians always complaining online,… pic.twitter.com/jUrYB7iuPh

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) November 24, 2025

Reggae Pioneer Jimmy Cliff, Architect of Global Rhythm and Resilience, Dies at 81

 Jimmy Cliff, the soulful voice of Jamaican defiance and joy whose reggae anthems like "The Harder They Come" and "Many Rivers to Cross" carried the spirit of a nation to the world stage, has died. He was 81. Cliff passed away peacefully at his home in Jamaica on Monday morning due to a seizure followed by pneumonia, his wife Latifa Chambers announced on his official Instagram account, leaving a void in the hearts of fans, fellow artists, and cultural stewards worldwide.

Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, in the rural parish of St. James, Jamaica, as the second-to-last of nine children, Cliff's early life was steeped in the sounds of mento, calypso, and the emerging ska rhythms that would shape his destiny. A choirboy with a rebel's fire, he moved to Kingston at 14, adopting the stage name Jimmy Cliff and honing his craft amid the island's vibrant music scene. His breakthrough came in the late 1960s with hits like "Hurricane Hattie" and "King of Kings," but it was the 1972 film The Harder They Come—where Cliff starred as the outlaw Ivanhoe Martin and contributed its seminal soundtrack—that catapulted reggae from Jamaica's back alleys to international acclaim.

The film's raw portrayal of Kingston's underbelly, scored by Cliff's impassioned pleas for justice and survival, became a cultural touchstone, influencing generations from punk rebels to hip-hop innovators. "Jimmy Cliff didn't just sing reggae; he embodied its essence—struggle, hope, and unyielding rhythm," said Perry Henzell, the film's late director, in a 2006 archival interview. The soundtrack, featuring tracks like the titular "The Harder They Come" and "You Can Get It If You Really Want," remains one of the best-selling reggae albums of all time, bridging divides and amplifying voices long silenced by colonialism and poverty.

Cliff's seven-decade career was a tapestry of reinvention and collaboration. He infused reggae with soul, rocksteady, and global influences, earning a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame that same year—the only other Jamaican to receive the honor besides Bob Marley. During his induction, Fugees' Wyclef Jean reflected: "As I looked at Jimmy Cliff, I saw my face... he represents not just the ghetto, but all the kids from rural areas. Thank you, Jimmy Cliff, for being an inspiration to all our lives." His catalog of over 20 albums includes timeless works like Wonderful World, Beautiful People (1969), which preached unity amid turmoil, and I Can See Clearly Now (1972), later immortalized by Johnny Nash's cover.

A fierce advocate for social justice, Cliff's lyrics dissected war ("Vietnam"), migration ("Many Rivers to Cross"), and resilience ("Sitting in Limbo"). His music served as an anthem for movements, from Nicaragua's Sandinista campaign—where "You Can Get It If You Really Want" rallied voters in 1990—to global calls for peace. Collaborations with icons like the Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, and Tracy Chapman underscored his boundary-pushing ethos, while covers by Bruce Springsteen and Joe Cocker affirmed his enduring appeal.

On screen, Cliff's charisma shone in sparse but impactful roles, including Club Paradise (1986) alongside Robin Williams and Marked for Death (1990) with Steven Seagal, where he performed "John Crow." Jamaica honored his legacy with the Order of Merit—its highest cultural award—and in 2019, renamed Montego Bay's bustling "Hip Strip" Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, a testament to his role in elevating the island's global prestige.

Cliff's family shared their grief in a poignant Instagram post: "It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes." The statement, signed by Latifa and their children Lilty and Aken, evoked Cliff's own spiritual philosophy: "We don’t say they ‘pass away,’ we say ‘cross over’—they just go to the other side of existence... and then they vibrate for however many days before they go to a higher height."

Tributes poured in swiftly from around the globe. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared: "Jimmy Cliff was a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world... He told our story with honesty and soul." Bob Marley's son Ziggy added: "Dad always said Jimmy was the elder statesman of reggae—his light guided us all. Rest in power, uncle." On social media, #ThankYouJimmyCliff trended worldwide, with fans sharing stories of how "Many Rivers to Cross" sustained them through personal storms. "Jimmy's music was my bridge over troubled waters," one user posted, echoing the sentiment of millions.

Even in his final years, Cliff remained prolific, releasing Rebirth in 2013—a Grammy-nominated return to roots—and performing at events like the 2022 Reggae Sumfest, where his voice, undimmed by time, rallied crowds with calls for unity. "The essence of my music is struggle," he told reggae archivist Roger Steffens in 1986, a creed that defined his life.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in the coming days, with a public memorial planned in Kingston to celebrate his indelible contributions. As Cliff once sang, "You can get it if you really want... but you must try, try and try." His legacy endures, a rhythmic reminder that joy and justice can conquer any hardship.

For archival footage, photos, and statements from collaborators, visit jimmycliff.com. High-resolution images available upon request.

About Jimmy Cliff

Jimmy Cliff (1944–2025) was a Jamaican reggae legend, actor, and activist whose career spanned ska, rocksteady, and soulful anthems. A two-time Grammy winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, he starred in The Harder They Come and penned timeless hits that championed resilience and social change. Through his music and philanthropy, Cliff uplifted communities worldwide, earning Jamaica's Order of Merit and eternal gratitude as a pioneer of global reggae.