The Masses Advocate

​ The quiet suburbs of Port St. Lucie, Florida, were forever changed following the discovery of a crime so calculated and cold-blooded that it left veteran investigators shaken. Tyler Hadley, a 17-year-old at the time of the incident, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the brutal double murder of his parents, Blake and Mary-Jo Hadley. The sentencing brings a grim conclusion to a case that gained international notoriety not just for the violence itself, but for the disturbing celebration that followed immediately after the bloodshed. ​The tragedy began on July 16, 2011, when Hadley set into motion a premeditated plan to eliminate his parents. In an effort to ensure he would not be interrupted, he first disabled the family's landline, confiscated their cell phones, and locked the family dog in a closet. Armed with a hammer, he first attacked his mother, Mary-Jo, a beloved elementary school teacher, while she sat at the family comp...

-​By Ruben Mario Brodrick  BENIN CITY – The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) is preparing for a significant change in its clinical directorate as Dr. Osaigbovo Emmanuel Osaro has been appointed as the substantive Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC). ​The appointment, approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, was officially announced in a circular dated December 29, 2025, signed by the Hospital’s Acting Director of Administration, Mrs. J. J. Oyakhilome . Dr. Osaigbovo is scheduled to formally assume his new responsibilities on January 1, 2026 . ​A Specialized Background in Surgery ​Dr. Osaigbovo brings a wealth of clinical and academic expertise to the role. An Honorary Consultant and Urologist within the Department of Surgery, he is well-regarded for his contributions to advanced surgical practices, including laparoscopic surgery and urologic oncology. His transition from the operating theater to the hospital's "...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​The Obaseki Family Worldwide has broken its silence to voice a blistering condemnation of the mob violence and public humiliation recently meted out to their son, Dr. Don Pedro Agbonifo Obaseki.  Describing the incident as a savage violation of fundamental human rights and a grave threat to the rule of law, the family expressed profound shock at the "commando-style" operation that unfolded in broad daylight on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Dr. Obaseki, a highly respected journalist and former Managing Director of DAAR Communications, was reportedly accosted by armed individuals at the Uwa Primary School football field in Benin City.  According to harrowing eyewitness accounts, the assailants—who the family clarified were neither palace functionaries nor agents of the state—subjected the media executive to a brutal physical assault and intimidation before forcefully marching him toward the Palace of the Oba of Benin. ​In a joint statem...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  BENIN CITY – The atmosphere at St. Valentine Catholic Church, Evbuotubu, was electric with faith and gratitude as the community celebrated the 10th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of their Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Collins Ewedafe Osagie . The event, which took place over the weekend, was more than a personal milestone; it was a vibrant display of the growth of the Church in Edo State. ​The Sacredness of the "Unworthy Hands" ​The anniversary Mass, presided over by Fr. Osagie, featured a powerful homily by Rev. Fr. Barr. Mac Anthony Nwako of the Lagos Archdiocese. Fr. Nwako, a longtime friend and legal mind, spoke passionately about the endurance required for "10 years of unbroken priesthood." ​He reminded the congregation that the priesthood is not a career path for the ambitious, but a sacrificial life for the devoted. Referring to Fr. Osagie as a "shepherd who smells like his sheep," he highlighted th...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​In a scene that has sent shockwaves through the heart of Benin City and across Nigeria, a dramatic and highly controversial public enforcement of cultural reverence took place today, December 28, 2025 . Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki—a towering figure in the Nigerian media landscape, Nollywood pioneer, and cousin to former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki—found himself at the center of a harrowing ordeal as a group of local youths forcibly marched him, shirtless and visibly distressed, to the historic gates of the Oba’s Palace. ​The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight, was captured in multiple explosive videos that have since flooded social media, showing Dr. Obaseki being surrounded by a surging crowd. Witnesses report that the veteran filmmaker was intercepted while at Uwa Primary School for a football session. The youths, claiming to act as defenders of the Benin throne, reportedly stripped him of his clothes and forced him to walk on his...

​ By Ruben Mario Brodrick  BENIN CITY  – In a vibrant display of communal joy and spiritual reflection, the Archbishop’s Court played host to the  2025 Archbishop’s Appreciation Christmas and End-of-the-Year Party  on Friday, December 26th. ​In a remarkable gesture of "sharing the joy," the Archbishop also announced that he would be sharing the gifts he received during the Yuletide season with those in attendance, further emphasizing the spirit of Christian charity. ​The event, which coincided with Boxing Day and the Feast of St. Stephen, brought together lay leaders from across the Archdiocese of Benin City for an afternoon of celebration, reflection, and fellowship. ​A Message of Unity and Forgiveness ​In his keynote address, the Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze , Archbishop of Benin City, expressed deep-seated gratitude to the Laity for their tireless dedication to their various parishes throughout ...

​ ​ -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ACCRA, GHANA — In a bizarre twist that has left social media in stitches, Ebo Noah—the Ghanaian prophet who recently made headlines for predicting a world-ending global flood—was spotted swapping his pulpit for the front row at a high-octane Sarkodie concert. ​The cleric, who previously warned that a biblical-style catastrophe was imminent, seems to be enjoying the "extra time" he claims to have negotiated with the heavens. ​ The Prophecy That Dried Up ​Just days ago, Prophet Noah sent shockwaves through religious circles by claiming God intended to wipe out the world with water, echoing the ancient story of his namesake. However, as the deadline passed without a drop of rain, the prophet returned with a convenient update: The Apocalypse has been postponed. ​Noah told his followers that God "changed His mind" after intense intercession. The reason for the delay? The prophet claimed he needed more time to "build ar...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick ​ ABUJA/WASHINGTON — In a dramatic escalation of U.S. military involvement in West Africa, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that American forces conducted "powerful and deadly" airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS) militants in Northwestern Nigeria. The operation, carried out on Christmas Day, marks a fulfillment of the President’s recent warnings to intervene if the slaughter of Christian communities in the region did not cease. ​ The Operation: 'Hell to Pay' ​Using his Truth Social platform, President Trump described the mission as a series of "numerous perfect strikes" executed by the Department of War (a term he has frequently used for the Pentagon). The President framed the intervention as a direct defense of religious freedom, stating the targets were "ISIS Terrorist Scum" responsible for killing innocent Christians at levels "not seen for many years." ​"I have previously...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ BENIN CITY – In a powerful Christmas Day homily that blended spiritual consolation with a sharp prophetic critique of Nigerian society, the Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, visited the Sapele Road Correctional Centre to assure inmates that "God enters the prison of human suffering." ​Speaking on December 25, 2025, the Archbishop delivered a message centered on the theme "Christ Is Born for You," reminding those behind bars that the Savior was born in a manger—a place of rejection—specifically to identify with the marginalized and the forgotten. ​ A Gospel for the "Forgotten" ​Archbishop Akubeze began by personalizing the Christmas miracle for the inmates. He emphasized that the "good news of great joy" mentioned in the Gospel of Luke was intended for all people, explicitly including those restricted by prison walls. ​"Christ identifies Himself with those be...

​ -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  In a soul-stirring celebration of the Nativity of the Lord, the Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Benin City was a profound display of faith and community.  The Mass was chief celebrated by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Solomon Uju, OSA, who was joined at the altar by a concelebration of other priests of the Augustinian Community, creating a powerful scene of clerical unity and spiritual leadership.  Delivering a moving Homily, the Bursar of the Community, Rev. Fr. Azubuike Ihejirika, OSA, reflected on the unique joy that defines the season, observing that while the world often glares toward the celebration with immense expectation, the true essence lies in the heart of the preparation. He noted that despite the natural anxiety and the hustle of acquiring what is needed for the festivities, the spirit of Christmas remains untainted by malice; no one prepares for this holy day with the intention to scatter or sp...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​A wave of terror has gripped the Borno State capital following a devastating improvised explosive device (IED) blast at a mosque in the Gamboru Ward, located near the busy Customs area.  The explosion occurred at approximately 6:10 p.m. on Wednesday, just as worshippers gathered for the Maghrib sunset prayer.  The timing of the attack is particularly chilling, occurring less than 12 hours before the start of Christmas Day, a period when the city is usually on high alert. ​While official casualty figures remain unconfirmed, the scene has been described by local residents as one of utter devastation.  Eyewitnesses reached by telephone reported that many worshippers were either killed instantly or sustained severe injuries as the blast ripped through the Juma’at Mosque.  The Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, stated that while he could not yet confirm the exact scale of the tragedy, he was on his wa...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  In a move that blends celebration with a deep sense of professional duty, Otunba Mike Aladenika, the former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, has officially unveiled the Nigerian Media Support Initiative (NMSI). The announcement came during a vibrant reception held in Benin City to commemorate his 60th birthday, marking a significant milestone in a career that has spanned over 25 years. Currently serving as the Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information, Protocol, and Public Relations at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Aladenika is leveraging his extensive experience to address the systemic vulnerabilities that have long hindered the Nigerian press. ​The Nigerian Media Support Initiative (NMSI) is established as a non-governmental organization dedicated to the dual goals of professional empowerment and legal protection. Aladenika described the initiative as a proactive response to the "precari...

​ -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  KONTAGORA, NIGERIA — In a season defined by hope, the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has received the ultimate gift. On December 21, the remaining 130 students and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri were finally released, ensuring every child will be home in time for Christmas. ​The release marks the end of a harrowing month-long ordeal that began on November 21, when gunmen stormed the school and seized over 300 pupils. The institution, run by the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, became the center of a national crisis that gripped Nigeria’s Niger State. ​The Timeline of a Rescue ​The path to freedom for the St. Mary’s students happened in stages: ​ Late November: Approximately 50 children managed a daring escape shortly after the initial abduction. ​ December 14: The first major breakthrough occurred when 100 victims —including nursery, primary, and secondary students—were released. ​ December 21: The final ...

-​By Ruben Mario Brodrick  LAGOS — The Nigerian digital space is buzzing once again as popular social media influencer Abike Halima Raheem, better known as Papaya Ex , has weighed in on the enduring controversy surrounding Idris Okuneye, famously known as Bobrisky . ​Appearing as a guest on Yanga 89.9 FM , the lifestyle influencer didn't hold back, offering a perspective that challenges the rigid public perception of the self-proclaimed "Mummy of Lagos." ​ The "Temporary Phase" Theory ​During the sit-down, Papaya Ex addressed the frequent backlash Bobrisky receives from conservative quarters of Nigerian society. Rather than viewing Bobrisky’s transition as a permanent or structural shift, Papaya suggested it is an expression of personal freedom and entertainment. ​"If you’re mad at Bobrisky, you need to check yourself," Papaya told the radio hosts. "I feel like he’s just having fun. Later in the future, Bobrisky will go back to ...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  BENIN CITY – In a poignant Christmas message addressed to the clergy, consecrated persons, and the lay faithful, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze , has challenged Nigerians and their leaders to find hope in the birth of Christ despite the "literal and figurative darkness" currently facing the nation. ​The message, titled “Christ the Light in Our Darkness: Hope, Justice, and Compassion for Nigeria,” serves as both a spiritual reflection and a social manifesto, urging a shift from mere festivity to active solidarity with the suffering. ​ The Light in Nigeria’s Darkness ​Archbishop Akubeze did not shy away from the harsh realities of the current Nigerian landscape. He identified a nation grappling with a multitude of "shadows," including: ​Persistent insecurity and violence. ​The crisis of youth unemployment. ​Decaying infrastructure and systemic poor governance. ​...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​Celebrating nearly half a century of unwavering service to God and humanity, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah—the visionary founder of The Kukah Centre and a pillar of the National Peace Committee—marked his 49th priestly ordination anniversary this Friday, December 19, 2025, with a transformative gift to his Sokoto diocese.  Rather than a ceremony centered on his own milestones, the Bishop turned the spotlight onto the youth of the region with the official unveiling of Tabitha Stitches , a premier Youth Sewing Institute designed to bridge the gap between faith and economic empowerment.  This initiative represents a profound shift from traditional charity toward sustainable dignity, offering young people the tools to master a craft that provides not just a livelihood, but a sense of pride in a challenging world. ​The Institute is deeply rooted in the legacy of its namesake, Tabitha—also known as Dorcas—a devoted disciple in the Acts of ...

By Ruben Mario Brodrick  IDOKPA, BENIN CITY — In a rare and beautiful display of ecclesial unity, the communities of St. Lucy Catholic Church and St. John Neumann Parish recently converged at Idokpa to celebrate the tenth ordination anniversary of their beloved pastors, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ameh and Rev. Fr. Everest Nwankwo . The milestone event served as a powerful testament to the bond between the clergy and the laity, bringing together diverse groups from across the Archdiocese to honor two priests who have become pillars of spiritual leadership in their respective capacities. ​The spiritual high point of the celebration was the homily delivered by the Dean of Iguobazuwa Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Benjamin Brodricks , titled "The Cup Before the Seat." Stepping in at short notice, Fr. Brodricks delivered a profound reflection on the human ambition of the sons of Zebedee versus the reality of the Cross.  He reminded the congregation that w...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​In a landmark presentation to the National Assembly, President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a ₦58.1 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year, a plan he describes as the "Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience, and Shared Prosperity." This ambitious fiscal roadmap signals a massive shift toward long-term growth, with a staggering ₦26.08 trillion—nearly half of the total expenditure—dedicated to capital projects aimed at transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure. The President’s strategy is built upon a realistic economic foundation, pegging the crude oil price at $64.85 per barrel with a production target of 1.84 million barrels per day, and an exchange rate benchmarked at ₦1,400 to the US Dollar. ​At the heart of this proposal is an uncompromising focus on national stability, as defense and security took the lion’s share of the sectoral allocation with ₦5.41 trillion. Addressing a joint session of lawmakers amidst a b...

​ -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  BOBO-DIOULASSO — Following a week of high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, the crew of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 Hercules has successfully departed Burkina Faso. The aircraft and its 11-person team have resumed their original flight path to Portugal to complete a critical maintenance mission. ​ The Incident: A Precautionary Descent ​The situation began on December 8, 2025 , when the heavy-lift transport plane encountered technical difficulties while traversing West African airspace. Prioritizing safety, the crew executed a precautionary emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The aircraft was transit-bound for Portugal, where it was scheduled for routine professional upkeep and systems upgrades. ​ From Technical Fault to Diplomatic Tension ​What began as a mechanical issue quickly evolved into a sensitive diplomatic standoff. Upon landing, the 11 Nigerian personnel were detained by Burkinabé authorities. The...

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong disapproval and deep concern over the title of a new film, A Very Dirty Christmas , describing it as a direct affront to the sanctity of the Christian faith. In a strongly worded statement released on December 17, 2025, the association’s President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, argued that the title is not only insensitive but also a crude attempt to sensationalize a season held sacred by billions of people worldwide. CAN emphasized that Christmas is a period defined by the birth of Jesus Christ, representing the highest ideals of purity, peace, and redemption—values that are fundamentally contradicted by the word “dirty.” ​The association raised serious questions regarding the professional and regulatory oversight of the Nigerian film industry, specifically calling on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how such a title was cleared for public exhi...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​After days of agonizing uncertainty and widespread concern, the Ugandan defense authorities have finally broken their silence, confirming that Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira is currently being held in military custody. The Catholic priest, a prominent figure in the Masaka Diocese who serves as the assistant Parish Priest at Bumangi Parish and Director of Uplift Primary School, had vanished earlier this month, sparking a wave of prayers and frantic searches led by his Bishop. In a formal statement released by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi , the military clarified that Fr. Ssekabira was arrested in connection with what they describe as "violent subversive activities against the state" and threats to national security. ​The official military position maintains that Fr. Ssekabira is being held legally to assist with further investigations and will eventually be produced in a court of law to face formal cha...

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has launched a formal protest with FIFA, alleging that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) fielded ineligible players during their recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier play-off victory, a move that could dramatically revive Nigeria's bid for a spot in the tournament. ​ The Initial Setback ​Nigeria's Super Eagles were seemingly knocked out of the race in November after a painful 4–3 penalty shoot-out defeat to DR Congo in Morocco. This result had initially condemned Nigeria to missing their second consecutive World Cup, following their absence from the 2022 edition in Qatar. ​DR Congo subsequently advanced to the final of the Intercontinental Play-off tournament, where they await the winner between New Caledonia and Jamaica. However, their position is now under intense scrutiny. ​The Core of the NFF's Allegation ​The NFF's probe centres on six to nine DR Congo players who reporte...