Global Security Alert: Mexican Cartel Kingpin ‘El Mencho’ Killed in Military Raid

By

-

February 23, 2026

Reporting by Channels TV indicates that a major international security development has occurred with the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The 59-year-old drug lord was killed during a high-stakes operation by the Mexican army in the town of Tapalpa. The mission, which sparked a wave of retaliatory violence across Jalisco state, ended when Oseguera succumbed to injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City.

The death of “El Mencho,” who had a $15 million bounty on his head from the United States, is expected to cause significant shifts in global narcotics trafficking routes. In response to the raid, cartel members set buses on fire and blocked major avenues in an attempt to thwart military movements. While the event occurred in Mexico, the implications are being felt globally due to the cartel’s extensive reach into West Africa and Europe.

Vanguard validated the international significance of the story, noting that “security agencies in Nigeria are on high alert for any disruptions in the illicit drug supply chains often linked to Mexican cartels.” Daily Post also reported on the eruption of violence, quoting a Mexican military spokesperson who said, “this operation is a decisive blow against organized crime that has plagued our borders.” Both sources highlighted the potential for a bloody power vacuum within the CJNG.

Echotitbits take:

While distant, the fall of a cartel leader like El Mencho affects Nigeria because the CJNG has been increasingly linked to the “cocaine bridge” through West Africa. A leadership vacuum in Mexico often leads to more aggressive and unpredictable behavior from local franchises. Watch for increased surveillance by the NDLEA at Nigerian ports and borders as international drug routes readjust.

Source: Edition – https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/mexico-el-mencho-killed-travel-chaos-02-23-26-intl-hnk, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: Edition

Inline1

Elumelu-Backed Entry Triggers N2 Trillion Rally for Seplat Energy

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

According to Tribune reporting, a major shift in the ownership structure of Seplat Energy Plc has sparked a massive rally on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). The acquisition of a significant stake by Heirs Energies Limited, backed by billionaire investor Tony Elumelu, led to a 57 percent surge in the company’s share price. This move added nearly N2 trillion to Seplat’s market capitalization, making it one of the most valuable energy firms listed in the country.

The exit of Maurel & Prom, which had been Seplat’s largest shareholder since 2010, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the indigenous oil and gas giant. Investors are betting that Elumelu’s track record in the power and banking sectors will unlock fresh value in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape. The market sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with Seplat now positioned as a dominant player in the nation’s push for energy self-sufficiency.

Reporting from ThisDay validated the market reaction, noting that “the ‘Elumelu effect’ has once again proven to be a catalyst for investor confidence.” BusinessDay also covered the rally, quoting a market analyst who observed, “the entry of Heirs Energies signals a major consolidation of local content in the upstream sector.” Both outlets highlighted that this acquisition aligns with the broader trend of international oil companies divesting from onshore assets in favor of indigenous players.

Echotitbits take:

Tony Elumelu is consolidating his “Africapitalism” vision by becoming a kingpin in the oil and gas sector. This move isn’t just about Seplat; it’s about the entire energy value chain from extraction to power generation. Watch for Seplat to announce major new investments in gas-to-power projects as they leverage this new capital and leadership.

Source: Nigerian Tribune – https://tribuneonlineng.com/elumelu-backed-acquisition-sparks-n2trn-rally-in-seplat-lifts-market-sentiment/, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: Nigerian Tribune

Inline1

Nigerian Military Neutralizes 29 Terrorists in Borno and Yobe Operations

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

In an update published by The Guardian, Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) successfully repelled coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP militants in the northeast. Between Saturday and Sunday, 29 terrorists were killed during fierce encounters in Lamusheri, Gujba, and the Forward Operating Base in Limankara. The military also reported the destruction of logistics structures and the seizure of a significant cache of weapons and ammunition.

Lt-Col Sanni Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, confirmed that the operations demonstrated the military’s sustained pressure on insurgent enclaves. While 15 terrorists were neutralized on the ground in Gujba, another 10 were eliminated via precision aerial strikes as they attempted to flee on motorcycles. The military reported zero casualties on the side of the Nigerian forces, despite the intensity of the firefights.

Channels TV validated the success of the operation, noting that “the air component of the mission was instrumental in tracking the fleeing insurgents.” Leadership Newspaper also reported on the development, quoting a security source who said, “the synergy between ground troops and aerial surveillance is proving to be a game-changer in the Borno theatre.” Both sources emphasized that the situation in the affected local government areas remains firmly under the control of the Nigerian Army.

Echotitbits take:

These victories are vital for morale as the insurgency in the Northeast enters a more fragmented but still dangerous phase. The use of precision strikes on motorcycle-borne militants shows an improvement in real-time intelligence gathering. Watch for potential retaliatory “soft-target” attacks in neighboring communities as the insurgents are pushed out of their forest strongholds.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/soldiers-foil-bharam-attacks-kill-29-in-borno-yobe/, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

Inline1

Mass Expulsion Hits University of Abuja Over Forgery and Drug Offences

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

In an update published by Daily Post, the University of Abuja—now officially renamed Yakubu Gowon University—has announced the expulsion of 28 students following a disciplinary review. The institution’s Senate approved the move during its 191st regular meeting after a committee report found the individuals guilty of serious misconduct. The offenses cited include the forgery of ‘O’ level results, burglary, theft, and the possession of illicit substances.

The university administration emphasized that the expulsions were necessary to maintain the academic integrity and security of the campus. Among the students penalized, several were found to have falsified documents uploaded to the university’s admission portal. The statement from the university spokesperson, Habib Yakoob, made it clear that the institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy for criminal activities that undermine the efforts of honest students.

The Guardian Nigeria validated the report, adding that “security on campus has been beefed up to prevent any retaliatory actions from the affected students.” Premium Times also covered the story, quoting a senior administrative official who stated, “we cannot allow the future of our youth to be tainted by a culture of forgery and drug abuse.” Both sources noted that this is one of the largest single-batch expulsions in the university’s recent history.

Echotitbits take:

This move signals a hardening stance by Nigerian tertiary institutions against the growing “yahoo-plus” and drug culture on campuses. The renaming of the university to Yakubu Gowon University is also a significant brand shift that the administration is eager to protect. Watch for other federal universities to follow suit with similar “clean-up” exercises.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/uniabuja-expels-28-students-for-cultism-drug-offences/, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

Inline1

Catholic Bishops Criticize National Assembly Over Selective Technology Adoption

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

Reporting by The Punch indicates that the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the National Assembly’s handling of the 2026 Electoral Act Amendment. During the opening of their first plenary meeting in Abuja, the bishops drew a sharp contrast between the government’s zeal for digital tax collection and its reluctance to mandate electronic transmission of election results. The clergy argued that if the state can enforce digital compliance for revenue, it must do the same for democratic transparency.

The bishops specifically referenced the 2025 Tax Act, which mandates digital record-keeping for all citizens to ensure fiscal compliance starting this year. They labeled the National Assembly’s refusal to include similar mandatory digital safeguards for the “people’s mandate” as a display of inconsistent and contradictory positions. This critique comes just days after President Bola Tinubu signed the amended bill into law, an action that has already sparked widespread protests and agitations across the country.

This development was also covered by ThisDay, which noted that “the bishops’ stance adds significant moral weight to the opposition’s call for electoral reform.” Vanguard further validated the story, quoting Archbishop Lucius Ugorji who said, “the government must not embrace technology only when it serves to collect money, but reject it when it serves to protect the vote.” Both outlets highlighted the growing tension between the religious leadership and the legislative arm of government.

Echotitbits take:

The CBCN is stepping back into its role as a vocal moral critic of the state. By linking taxation to representation, they are hitting a sensitive chord with a public already burdened by high taxes. Expect this “Tax vs. Tech” narrative to be a major talking point for civil society groups as the 2027 election cycle begins to take shape.

Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/nigeria-dont-use-tech-to-rig-2023-polls-catholic-bishops-warn-inec/, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: Arise

Inline1

Nigeria Secures Major Financial Win in $6.2 Million Tech Contract Dispute

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

According to Premium Times reporting in its latest update, the Nigerian government has emerged victorious in an international arbitration case against a European technology contractor. The legal triumph, confirmed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, centers on a dispute involving the National Electronic Government Procurement (eGP) project. The tribunal’s decision effectively shields Nigeria from a potential financial liability of approximately $6.2 million (N9.3 billion) in damages and unpaid claims.

The arbitration proceedings highlighted significant deficiencies in the vendor’s delivery, which the tribunal ruled were the sole responsibility of the contractor to rectify without further payment from the state. This victory is being hailed as a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to protect public funds from predatory international litigation. It follows a pattern of more aggressive legal defenses adopted by Nigeria in the wake of previous high-stakes arbitral awards.

Further validation of this development was provided by The Cable, which noted that “this ruling reinforces the government’s commitment to transparency in digital procurement.” Similarly, a report from BusinessDay highlighted the fiscal relief this provides, quoting a legal analyst who stated that “the award sets a vital precedent for future state-contractor agreements in the technology sector.” Both outlets emphasized that the victory prevents a substantial drain on the nation’s foreign reserves.
Echotitbits take:

This victory is a crucial face-saver for Nigeria’s legal team and a boost for the Ministry of Justice. Coming after the infamous P&ID saga, it shows a growing sophistication in how Nigeria handles international contract disputes. Watch for more rigorous vetting of tech contractors as the government pushes for full digitalization of its procurement processes to curb corruption.

Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/858972-nigeria-wins-6-2-million-arbitration-case-against-european-tech-contractor.html?tztc=1, February 23, 2026

Photo credit: Premium Times

Inline1

NBA Legal Storm: Chauncey Billups and Rozier Indicted in Poker Scandal

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

According to Front Office Sports, the NBA is facing one of its most significant legal crises as federal prosecutors have indicted Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Heat’s Terry Rozier for their alleged involvement in an illegal poker ring. The indictment claims the high-profile figures acted as “face cards” to lure victims into rigged games.

The scandal has rocked the league’s front offices, leading to new, stricter policies on gambling and injury reporting. While both Billups and Rozier have pleaded not guilty, the federal investigation has already implicated over 30 individuals, including organized crime families.

* Last Word On Basketball: “Federal investigators indicted players and coaches for allegations of illegal sports betting and gambling.”

* ESPN (Digital): “The NBA has eliminated prop bets for certain players in response to the growing betting scandals.”

Echotitbits take:

This is the “Black Sox” moment for modern basketball. The involvement of a head coach like Billups makes this far more serious than a few players placing bets. If these allegations hold up in court, we could see a massive restructuring of how the NBA manages its relationship with the gambling industry, which has become a primary revenue driver.

Source: BBC — https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpv1rkxjyyno February 22, 2026

Photo Credit: BBC

Inline1

Kendrick Lamar Dominates 2025 Grammys with ‘Not Like Us’ Sweep

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

In a report by Wikipedia, Kendrick Lamar has solidified his legendary status by sweeping the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. The rapper took home Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Rap Song for his cultural phenomenon “Not Like Us,” which dominated the airwaves following his high-profile feud with Drake.

The awards ceremony also honored Doechii for Best Rap Album, while Kendrick’s Super Bowl halftime performance earlier this month was cited as the most-watched in history. The sweep marks a definitive moment for Hip-Hop, where a “diss track” evolved into a Grammy-winning anthem for the genre.

* Billboard: “Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ wins Song of the Year, proving its status as a cultural landmark.”

* Grammy.com: “Kendrick Lamar secures multiple wins, including Best Rap Performance and Best Music Video.”

Echotitbits take:

Kendrick’s dominance isn’t just about the music; it’s about the victory of “lyrical” Hip-Hop on the world’s biggest stage. This sweep effectively ends the debate over who “won” the 2024-2025 rap wars. Expect the “Kendrick Effect” to influence the sound of rap for the next two years as the industry pivots back toward high-concept lyricism.

Source: PitchFork — https://pitchfork.com/news/kendrick-lamar-wins-song-of-the-year-for-not-like-us-at-2025-grammys/ February 22, 2026

Photo Credit: PitchFork

Inline1

Future Admits Regret Over Past Relationships in Rare Moment of Vulnerability

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

According to Daily Post Nigeria, American rap superstar Future has publicly confessed that his “biggest regret” is not treating the women in his life better. The rapper, often synonymous with “toxic” relationship culture in Hip-Hop, surprised fans with this introspective admission, marking a departure from his usual persona.

The statement has set social media ablaze, with fans and critics debating whether the rapper is genuinely turning a new leaf or simply rebranding. Given his history of high-profile relationships and public breakups, the comments have resonated deeply within the R&B and Hip-Hop community.

* NewsNow (Entertainment): “Famous rapper Future reveals he regrets not loving and treating women better.”

* Official Social Media Clips: “My biggest regret is not treating women better and not being there the way I should have.”

Echotitbits take:

Future’s “Toxic King” brand is worth millions, so this pivot toward accountability is fascinating. It could signal a more soulful, reflective direction for his upcoming music, or perhaps a personal growth spurt as he matures within the industry. Either way, it’s a win for Hip-Hop culture to see a figurehead acknowledge the impact of his personal choices.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/22/my-biggest-regret-is-not-treating-women-better-rapper-future/ February 22, 2026

Photo Credit: Daily Post Nigeria

Inline1

Influencer Papaya Ex Accuses Lagos Police of Violent Assault During Stop-and-Search

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 23, 2026

0

In a post shared by @papaya_ex on Instagram, the popular lifestyle influencer detailed a harrowing encounter with officers of the Lagos State Police Command. She alleged that she was physically assaulted, claiming officers hit her face and breasts with a gun after she reportedly questioned the nature of their search.

The police have since countered these claims, stating that the influencer “bluntly refused” a standard search and was boastful during the encounter. However, the graphic videos of her crying and showing her bruised face have sparked a massive outcry on social media regarding police-citizen interactions in Nigeria.

* Daily Post Nigeria: “Papaya Ex alleges assault by Lagos Police; he hit my face and breasts with a gun.”

* The Punch: “Police counter Papaya Ex’s allegations, claiming she evaded officers and boasted of her status.”

Echotitbits take:

This is a classic “he-said, she-said” situation, but the optics are damaging for the police. While the authorities claim she was uncooperative, the allegation of physical violence against a woman will likely trigger a deeper internal investigation. Expect this to become a focal point for renewed conversations on police reform and the treatment of influencers.

Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/video-influencer-papaya-ex-alleges-assault-by-police-officer-in-lagos/?amp February 22, 2026

Photo Credit: Vanguard

Inline1