Trump Order Releases of Police Officers Who Were Imprisoned for Kill..i..ng a Black Man in Washington.

US President Donald Trump granted pardons on Wednesday to two police officers in Washington who had been convicted in the 2020 murder of Karon Hylton-Brown, a 20-year-old Black man, as reported by the White House. In September 2024, Terence Sutton Jr. received a sentence of 66 months in prison, while Andrew Zabavsky was sentenced to 48 months for their roles in an unauthorized police chase that resulted in a fatal accident on October 23, 2020, in Northwest Washington, D.C. The Justice Department indicated that the officers remained at liberty while appealing their convictions. The Metropolitan Police Department disclosed that Sutton, in his early 40s, and Zabavsky, in his mid-50s, were on “indefinite suspension without pay, pending our administrative process.” Sutton was convicted in late 2022 by a unanimous federal jury after a nine-week trial, facing charges of second-degree murder, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and obstruction of justice. Zabavsky was convicted of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice. The jury concluded that Sutton’s reckless driving during the police pursuit directly led to Hylton-Brown’s death, demonstrating a “conscious disregard” for the potential danger. Furthermore, Sutton and Zabavsky were found to have conspired to conceal the circumstances of the crash from authorities. The DC Police Union had advocated for pardons for both officers. Sutton’s attorney, Kellen Dwyer, expressed optimism that the D.C. Circuit would have overturned the conviction, but he welcomed Trump’s decision to resolve the case. Zabavsky’s attorney, Christopher Zampogna, also expressed gratitude to the president. Karen Hylton, the mother of Hylton-Brown, conveyed her shock and grief upon learning of the possible pardons. The incident took place several months after the death of George Floyd, an event that ignited worldwide demonstrations against police violence and racial inequality. Trump's decision to pardon Sutton and Zabavsky comes on the heels of a contentious action earlier this week, in which he granted clemency to approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, including some who had assaulted law enforcement officers. The Fraternal Order of Police, the largest police union in the United States and a supporter of Trump in the upcoming 2024 election, along with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, released a joint statement conveying their profound disappointment regarding the pardons.

"End this Pointless Conflict or Else...?" Trump Makes Strong Statement Against Russia

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he would impose additional tariffs as part of his sanctions strategy against Russia if the nation fails to reach an agreement to conclude its conflict in Ukraine. He indicated that these tariffs could also extend to "other participating countries." In a statement on Truth Social, Trump clarified his remarks from Tuesday, in which he suggested that sanctions against Russia would likely be enacted if President Vladimir Putin did not engage in negotiations to resolve the nearly three-year-long war. “If we do not reach a ‘deal’ soon, I will have no alternative but to impose significant Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on all goods sold by Russia to the United States and various other participating nations,” Trump stated. His post did not specify which countries he considered to be participants in the conflict or how he defined their involvement. The administration of former President Joe Biden has imposed extensive sanctions on thousands of entities across various sectors in Russia, including banking, defense, manufacturing, energy, and technology, following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s deputy U.N. Ambassador, remarked that Moscow would need to understand what Trump envisions as a “deal” to end the war in Ukraine. “It is not simply a matter of ending the war,” Polyanskiy told Reuters. “The primary concern is addressing the underlying causes of the Ukrainian crisis.” In the lead-up to his election victory on November 5, Trump repeatedly asserted that he would secure a deal between Ukraine and Russia on his first day in office, if not sooner. However, his advisors have acknowledged that achieving such a deal could take months or even longer. Earlier this month, the U.S. Treasury implemented its most stringent sanctions yet on Russia’s energy sector, targeting oil and gas companies Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, along with 183 vessels associated with the so-called dark fleet of tankers designed to circumvent other Western trade restrictions. SANCTION AND TARIFF THREATS Trump has attempted to leverage the potential imposition of tariffs to pursue objectives beyond trade, specifically by threatening Mexico, Canada, and China with duties in an effort to compel them to address illegal immigration and the influx of the dangerous opioid fentanyl into the United States. These three nations represent the largest trading partners of the U.S., collectively accounting for over $2.1 trillion in annual bilateral trade. In contrast, Russia ranks much lower on this list, with U.S. imports from Russia plummeting to $2.9 billion during the first eleven months of 2024, a significant decrease from $29.6 billion in 2021. The U.S. imported $13.5 billion in Russian petroleum products in 2014; however, this figure has dropped to zero due to sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine. Other major import categories from a decade ago, such as semi-finished steel and pig iron, have also seen their imports cease entirely. Nevertheless, the U.S. continues to import considerable quantities of Russian fertilizers for agricultural use, amounting to approximately $1.4 billion in 2023, along with over $1 billion each in uranium for nuclear energy and palladium and rhodium for automotive catalytic converters. Tim Brightbill, a trade attorney at the Wiley Rein law firm in Washington, suggested that one effective strategy to impact Russia significantly would be to impose sanctions and halt the use of Russian timber in finished wood products imported from countries like China and Vietnam. Regarding other international actors, the Biden administration has enacted sanctions against entities in North Korea and Iran for supplying weapons to Russia, as well as against Chinese firms providing components and other materials that support Russia's military efforts. Trump remarked that he intended to do Russia, whose economy is struggling, and President Putin a significant favor by urging them to settle and end what he termed a "ridiculous war." The negotiating stances of the conflicting parties remain markedly divergent, and some Ukrainians express concern that they may be compelled to make substantial concessions following three years of intense warfare. The conflict has evolved into a war of attrition, primarily concentrated along the front lines in eastern Ukraine, resulting in substantial casualties on both sides.

Nigerian Persecution is Fueled by Three Elements

Nigeria (MNN) — The escalating oppression in Nigeria has led to its designation as the most perilous country for Christians in the Global Christian Relief Red List this year. What are the underlying causes of this violence? Greg Kelley from Unknown Nations identifies three key factors. Firstly, Kelley notes, “The Nigerian government remains silent and fails to hold individuals accountable.” This governmental indifference also affects international relations. Between 2022 and 2024, nearly 10,000 Christians lost their lives in Nigeria, yet the U.S. State Department did not classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern in its most recent assessment. Kelley remarks, “Being included on such lists carries a stigma.” “This can deter foreign investment, and in a struggling economy like Nigeria’s, that can be nearly catastrophic.” The absence of consequences contributes to a second aspect of persecution: its escalating severity. “Individuals are beheaded, slaughtered; homes are set ablaze. The violence is extraordinarily brutal,” Kelley states. Finally, he highlights, “A significant challenge is the indifference of the church in southern Nigeria as they witness the devastation occurring in the north.” Pray for relief as Gospel workers from northern Nigeria convene at a retreat center this week. “Leaders will come together to find renewal and strength for their personal growth in Christ,” Kelley explains. Additionally, pray that these leaders acquire the necessary resources to advance the Gospel. Collaborate with Unknown Nations to assist in delivering God’s Word to the areas that require it most. “They (Nigerians) are in dire need of the Word of God. That’s why we distribute our solar-powered audio Bible,” Kelley emphasizes.

EFCC Recounts How a "Yahoo Boy" Killed Our Operative During the Anambra Raid.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) mourns the tragic loss of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent ASE II Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who was brutally killed while performing his official duties on January 17, 2025, by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu. Furthermore, the Commission is deeply troubled by the irresponsible, heartless, and inhumane narratives circulating on social media regarding the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. It is reprehensible to trivialize the death of a dedicated officer engaged in patriotic service by reducing it to sensationalism on social media. It is particularly concerning that some anonymous commentators are siding with an alleged criminal who has inflicted harm on EFCC officers while they were executing their duties. There is no rationale that can justify such a heinous act. Basic human decency requires that the grieving family, the Commission, and the nation be spared from the unfounded rumors and speculations surrounding the death of the fallen officer. On the morning of January 17, Salisu and other EFCC investigators were at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, to apprehend several suspected internet fraudsters. This operation was properly documented at both the Anambra State Command Headquarters and the Area Command of the Nigeria Police, in accordance with established operational protocols. Initially, the operation proceeded without incident, resulting in the arrest of 37 suspected internet fraudsters at a two-storey building where Ikechukwu and other individuals resided. However, upon noticing the investigators through a CCTV camera installed at his door, Ikechukwu, who acknowledged seeing them, refused to open his door despite their polite requests for entry. In defiance of their presence and identification, he opened fire on the officers, resulting in the death of Salisu and injuring another officer who was tasked with searching his apartment.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that Ikechukwu was engaged in the coding and distribution of online medical supplies of questionable legitimacy. Authorities recovered two laptops, iPads, and several recording devices from his residence, confirming his involvement in internet fraud. Currently in police custody due to the violent nature of his case, the Commission is preparing to bring him to trial. The EFCC wishes to inform the public that the activities of internet fraudsters pose a significant threat to public safety and security. Intelligence reports indicate that these criminals are armed and involved in serious offenses such as kidnapping, banditry, ritual killings, and other violent crimes. The public should remain vigilant and not be misled into thinking these individuals are merely "Yahoo boys and girls." The EFCC asserts that any future attacks on its officers will be met with stringent legal action. The Commission is committed to ensuring that no officer is subjected to violence without consequence. As a respected law enforcement agency, the EFCC is determined to eradicate internet fraud and other forms of corruption from the nation. In mourning the loss of its officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country, the Commission expresses its gratitude for the invaluable support, condolences, and swift responses from sister agencies and concerned individuals who stand in solidarity during this challenging period. Dele Oyewale Head, Media & Publicity January 19, 2025

The Catholic Church Punishes the Priest for the Covert Wedding.

Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has been suspended by the Catholic Diocese of Warri, located in Delta State, due to allegations of conducting a secret wedding in the United States. This information was disclosed in a statement titled ‘Decree of Suspension’, dated Thursday, January 16, 2025. The statement, co-signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, asserted that “Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into marriage with Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA.” The Diocese indicated that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had submitted a request on November 30, 2024, to be released from all canonical obligations related to Holy Orders. However, the Diocese noted that they had contacted him, “requesting the necessary documents to initiate the process, but the priest proceeded to marry without fulfilling the required procedures. “Consequently, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with Canon 1394 S1, and I, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri, hereby officially declare that he is suspended from the exercise of sacred ministry.” “As a result, he is forbidden from presenting himself as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri in any capacity. All canonical consequences associated with this suspension will take effect immediately (cf. Can. 1333),” the statement partially read.

Trump Intends to Issue 100 Executive Orders in the First Few Hours After Taking Office.

Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated for a momentous second term as President of the United States on Monday, pledging to usher in a new "golden age" for the nation while the world anticipates the return of his unpredictable governance. Due to frigid temperatures, the 78-year-old's inauguration will take place indoors at the U.S. Capitol, yet the initial moments of this remarkable political resurgence will be filled with vigorous activity. The Republican leader has committed to swiftly issuing a series of executive orders aimed at dismantling Joe Biden's legacy upon his re-entry into the White House, alongside initiating immediate deportations of undocumented immigrants. While Trump depicted a grim scenario of "American carnage" during his first inauguration in 2017, he now presents a more optimistic vision of a "brand new day" for the United States. "I will act with unprecedented speed and strength to address every crisis confronting our nation," Trump declared at a large rally the night before the inauguration, where he also engaged in a dance with the Village People band. However, the billionaire populist has also revisited some of the darker themes that contributed to his electoral success over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in November. The incoming 47th President of the United States has vowed to "halt the invasion of our borders" and to overturn "woke" policies, including what he terms "transgender insanity" in American schools. In making history, Trump will become the oldest individual to be sworn in as president, and he is only the second president in U.S. history to reclaim the office after being ousted, following Grover Cleveland in 1893. Prior to the inauguration, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will extend an invitation to Trump and his wife Melania for "tea and coffee" at the White House, after which they will all proceed together to the Capitol. This gesture of civility will stand in stark contrast to the events of 2021, when Trump—who incited a crowd that stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn his electoral defeat—declined to attend Biden's inauguration. Trump's buoyant demeanor remains undeterred by the necessity to relocate the swearing-in ceremony from the steps of the Capitol, a decision prompted by forecasts predicting the coldest Inauguration Day in four decades. Rather than taking the oath before a large audience on the National Mall, Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will instead do so within the Capitol's domed Rotunda, reminiscent of Ronald Reagan's inauguration in 1985. “As soon as President Trump places his hand on the Bible and swears the Oath to the United States Constitution, the Golden Age of America will begin,” stated spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt on X. However, numerous Americans remain apprehensive about Trump's more ominous pledges, particularly his promises of retribution against political adversaries and journalists. Trump's return to the Oval Office marks a moment of unprecedented power, culminating a journey that included surviving two assassination attempts and a criminal conviction to secure the election. Once regarded as a political outsider, Trump has now become emblematic of the new standard in U.S. politics. Three of the wealthiest individuals globally—tech magnates Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos—will join Trump for the inauguration. Musk, who oversees Tesla, SpaceX, and X, has committed to spearheading a cost-reduction initiative in the new administration and assured attendees at a recent rally that he would work to make America strong “for centuries.” Expressing his satisfaction, Trump—who remarked during the campaign that he would assume a dictatorial role on “day one”—has pledged to enact approximately 100 executive orders shortly after taking office. These orders will include declaring a national emergency concerning the southern U.S. border with Mexico and reversing the Biden administration's policies on diversity and oil drilling. Trump also indicated that his supporters would be “very happy” with a decision to pardon those involved in the January 6 riots. For the international community, Trump's resurgence signals a period of unpredictability. With promises of extensive tariffs, territorial threats toward Greenland and Panama, and questioning U.S. aid to Ukraine, Trump appears poised to once again disrupt the global order. His triumph has also strengthened the resolve of right-wing politicians globally. Italy's far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is poised to participate in the inauguration, despite the usual absence of foreign leaders at such events.

Sister Explains the Reason Behind Her Catholic Priest Brother's Marriage.

Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, previously affiliated with the Catholic Church of the Warri Diocese, has abandoned his vows of celibacy and renounced his priestly vocation to marry in Dallas, Texas, as reported on Sunday evening. The priest wed Dora Chichah at the Stream of Joy Church in Dallas on December 29, 2024, without awaiting the formal release from his canonical duties by the Church. As a result, ecclesiastical authorities have suspended him from his priestly functions, declaring, “By this action, Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension in accordance with the provisions of Canon 1394 S1.” This suspension was detailed in a statement titled ‘Decree of Suspension,’ dated January 16, 2025, and co-signed by the Bishop of Warri, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ewherido, and the Chancellor/Notary, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo. The statement alleged that “Fr. Oghenerukevwe entered into marriage with Ms. Dora Chichah on December 29, 2024, at the Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA.” Further information surfaced on Sunday evening regarding the reasons behind the suspended priest's decision to abandon his celibacy vows and marry his partner in Dallas. Mary Okanatotor, who identified herself as the biological sister of the suspended priest, asserted that “it was the best decision” for her brother. In a social media comment addressing the reports of her brother (Fr. Oghenerukevwe) marrying his partner in secrecy in America, Mary attributed his choice to feelings of “loneliness.” She revealed that Oghenerukevwe had been grappling with mental health challenges for an extended period and found it difficult to cope with the “loneliness” associated with his priestly life. Mary further noted that the family was not physically present to provide support during the priest's challenging times. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “I appreciate all the comments. The priest in question is my brother, and this decision was the best for him, as he has struggled with mental health issues for an extended period and has been unable to cope with feelings of isolation. “As his family, we are unable to provide him with physical support. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. “This is a challenging time for our family, but it is said that he who finds a wife finds a good thing. “Furthermore, he did not enter into a secret marriage; he communicated his decision to the diocese. “Once again, thank you. To the sponsor of this post, may God bless you and reward you accordingly.” It has been reported that Oghenerukevwe, originally from one of the communities in Ewu Kingdom, Delta State, was ordained as a Catholic priest on June 21, 2008, within the Catholic Diocese of Warri.