By Bonaventure Melah

The New Nigeria Integrity Movement (NMIM), Middle Belt Zone, has called on former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to consider returning to national leadership in the 2027 general election, citing the urgent need for experienced and stabilising leadership amidst worsening national challenges.

The call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of a strategic meeting of the group, during which members reviewed the current state of the nation and expressed deep concern over rising insecurity, economic hardship, and the deteriorating living conditions of millions of Nigerians.

According to a media release jointly signed by Hon. Pastor Peter Hassan, National Leader, and Dr. Blessing Eliagu, Secretary, “Nigeria is currently facing a critical moment marked by widespread poverty, hunger, and persistent insecurity across several communities, particularly in the Middle Belt region.”

The statement continued, “Across the nation, millions of Nigerians are experiencing unprecedented economic hardship. Poverty has deepened, hunger has become widespread, and many families now struggle daily to secure basic meals.”

The group acknowledged that while infrastructure development remains important for long-term national growth, it does not immediately address the urgent crisis of hunger and livelihood confronting many Nigerians.

They therefore urged Dr. Jonathan to offer his leadership and experience once again in service to the nation.

“We believe that former President Jonathan represents calm, experienced, and credible leadership capable of restoring hope, rebuilding trust in governance, and initiating policies that directly address the economic suffering of citizens,” the communiqué stated.

The organisation also appealed to democratic leaders and partners around the world to support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic governance and stability in Nigeria.

The group described Jonathan as one of Nigeria’s most experienced statesmen, noting that his tenure demonstrated respect for democratic principles, tolerance, and commitment to national unity.

“His leadership style reflected humility, respect for the rule of law, and dedication to democratic values,” the statement added.

It further argued that his return could help reinforce the principle of power rotation, which it described as an important mechanism for maintaining national balance and political stability in Nigeria.

The movement stressed that its appeal is driven not by partisan considerations but by concern for the wellbeing and survival of Nigerians.

“Nigeria requires a national reset – one that focuses on human welfare, economic recovery, and national cohesion. Silence in the face of the current suffering is not an option,” the group said.

The organisation also called on Nigerians to continue advocating peacefully for responsible leadership and policies that prioritise the welfare of citizens.

“Nigeria deserves better. The time to act is now,” the communiqué further stated.

The world football governing body, FIFA, has sanctioned Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association following disciplinary incidents recorded during a 2026 World Cup qualifying fixture between the two countries.

According to FIFA’s latest disciplinary overview for World Cup qualifying matches, the two football bodies were found guilty of separate infractions during the encounter played on 16 November 2025.

FIFA stated that Nigeria was penalised for a breach relating to order and security at matches, specifically involving the throwing of objects by spectators during the game.

The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, for which the NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss Francs.

The Congolese federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match.

The act contravenes Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading FIFA to impose a fine of 5,000 Swiss Francs on the DR Congo Football Association.

FIFA emphasised that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the circumstances of each case and may still be subject to appeal.

The governing body also noted that the summary of sanctions released publicly is mainly intended to inform the media, while the official legal decisions are communicated directly to the concerned federations.

Israeli authorities have described news of possible death of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as false.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister dismissed a viral social media claims suggesting the Prime Minister had been assassinated following the escalating conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran.

“These are fake news; the Prime Minister is fine,” the Prime Minister’s office said

The rumours gained traction after a video shared by Netanyahu on his X account on Friday showed him addressing a press conference on the ongoing Israel-US-Iran conflict.

Some social media users, immediate after the video was posted, claimed they had spotted what appeared to be six fingers on Netanyahu’s right hand when he briefly raised it during the speech.

The speculation spread further after US conservative commentator, Candace Owens raised questions on X.