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Gunmen on Thursday night launched an attack on Mbwelle village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing no fewer than eight people.


Findings revealed that the majority of the victims belonged to the same family.


The deceased have been identified as Elder Iliya Mangut Dakus, Mr Luck Titus Dakus, Mr Habila Istifanu Dakus, Mr Hassan Istifanus Dakus, Mrs Hassan Moses Dakus, Biggie Lucky Dakus, Sunday Gideon Dakus and Mr Innocent Barnabas Makwin.


Confirming the incident in Jos on Friday, the Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos LGA, Kefas Mallai, said the attackers struck at about 11pm, shooting indiscriminately at residents.


According to him, aside from those killed, about three people sustained injuries, while several others were yet to be accounted for.


Mallai said: “There was an attack last night at Mbwelle village. The village is very close to Bokkos town. So far eight persons have been confirmed dead this morning.


“The people are saying they want to protest because the security men have not protected them and the attack lasted for hours and yet, no presence of security to repel the assailants until those people finished and left. No trace.”


He added: “The attack lasted for several hours with no visible security presence to repel the attackers.”


Mallai further alleged that despite the closeness of security formations, there was no response, claiming that operatives were instead deployed to guard a community suspected by Bokkos natives to be linked to the attackers.


Also speaking, the Youth Leader of Bokkos, Christopher Luka, described the incident as tragic and devastating.


“The gunmen came around 11pm and started shooting sporadically. They targeted one family mostly. We have eight confirmed dead, some seriously injured, and others still unaccounted for,” Luka said.


As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the spokesman of the Plateau State Police Command, DSP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful.


Similarly, the Media Officer of the Joint Military Taskforce, Chinonso Oteh, could not immediately provide details on the development.


“I will get back to you,” he said.


Bokkos and neighbouring local government areas in Plateau State have continued to grapple with persistent security challenges in recent years.


Tensions escalated last week when the Berom Youth Moulders Association raised concerns over recurring attacks and killings in Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Jos South LGAs, despite the presence of security personnel.


In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the association, under the leadership of National President Dalyop Mwantiri, alleged that the violence was part of a deliberate campaign aimed at taking over ancestral lands.


The group disclosed that on Wednesday, gunmen ambushed travellers returning from mining activities near the Great Commission area along Bokkos Road en route to Nding in Fan District of Barkin Ladi LGA at about 4:15pm.


During the attack, Mr Ayuba Pam of Nding Sesut was killed, while Mr Alfred Dung and Mr Nathaniel Bitrus sustained serious injuries and were hospitalised.


Later that same day, at about 6:30pm, another attack occurred along the Gwolhoss–Byei road in Riyom LGA, where Mr Christopher Joshua, a father of three from Byei community, was shot dead while returning home.


The association condemned the incidents, describing them as part of sustained attacks on Berom communities, and expressed concern that such violence persisted along major rural routes frequently used by farmers, miners and commuters.


It called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and patrols across key routes, including the Great Commission–Bokkos road, Great Commission–Gashish axis, Rahoss–Rim road, Kwi–Farin Lamba road, Gwolhoss–Jol–Sho road and Rim–Bachi road.


 


(PUNCH)

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Residents of Omugo community in Oro Ago District, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have raised concern over the continued detention of eight worshippers abducted during a church service, revealing that their captors are demanding ₦150 million for their release.


The community appealed to government and security agencies for immediate intervention, citing growing fears over the victims’ safety.


The alarm was raised on Thursday during a press briefing addressed by the community’s spokesperson, Olaitan Tajudeen Jimoh, who lamented the deteriorating security situation in the area.


The victims were reportedly kidnapped on March 22, 2026, during a service at the Evangelical Church Winning All in Omugo. The incident marks the third attack recorded in the community within a six-month period.


Jimoh said the latest abduction has heightened fear among residents, forcing many to flee their homes.


“This is not merely a security breach; it is a brutal assault on our faith, our dignity, and our very right to exist. Many people had and continue to flee their home even as we speak,” he said.


He noted that most of the abductees are elderly and remain in captivity under harsh conditions, describing the development as a humanitarian crisis.


According to him, “initial contact with the abductors indicated a ransom demand of ₦1 billion, which was later reduced to ₦150 million”.


He stressed that the amount is beyond what the affected families can afford.


The community also warned of “persistent security gaps”, cautioning that failure to act promptly could embolden attackers and extend violence to neighbouring communities.


Among their demands is an immediate, intelligence-driven rescue operation involving both federal and state authorities alongside security agencies.


They further called for the deployment of personnel to a police station reportedly built by the community but yet to be operational, noting that the absence of security presence has exposed the area to attacks.


In addition, the residents advocated for the establishment of a Joint Task Force base made up of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to ensure swift response and sustained security coverage.


They also urged the formal inclusion of local vigilante groups and hunters in the security framework, citing their familiarity with the terrain as vital in combating armed groups.


While acknowledging previous efforts by the state government in 2025, the community insisted that the current situation demands urgent and sustained action.


Speaking separately, Revd Sunday Omole, who officiated during the incident, said “several communities have remained deserted”.


He added that residents have continued to live in fear since the attack, noting that the “trauma of those in captivity for 18 days now has been deeply distressing for families and the entire community”.


(DAILY TRUST)

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A 42-year-old woman who was earlier declared missing in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, has reportedly been located in a hotel in Ugbe-Akoko, sparking concern and varied reactions over the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.


The woman was said to have left her matrimonial home in Ilara-Mokin without informing her family, prompting fears that she might have been abducted.


Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that her husband raised the alarm after she could not be found, leading to anxiety among relatives and residents of the community.


According to a source, the sudden disappearance triggered concern within the neighbourhood as family members and locals feared that something unpleasant might have happened to her.


Investigations later traced the woman to a hotel in Ugbe-Akoko, located in Akoko North-East Local Government Area, about 124 kilometres from Ilara-Mokin in Ifedore Local Government Area.


The journey between the two locations typically takes between two hours and 40 minutes and two hours and 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions.


She was reportedly discovered in the company of a 55-year-old man.


Sources indicated that preliminary findings suggest the woman was not abducted as initially feared but had left home voluntarily without notifying her family.


The development has since generated mixed reactions among residents, with many expressing surprise over the circumstances surrounding the incident.


(NEWS DIRECT)


 

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A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced a Boko Haram member, Auwalu Samaila, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of terrorism-related offences.


The trial judge, James Omotosho, delivered the verdict following Samaila’s guilty plea to a six-count charge brought against him by the federal government.


While delivering judgment on Thursday, the judge noted that the defendant showed no sign of remorse despite the seriousness of his crimes.


“It is when somebody is remorseful and seek forgiveness with God that he can have mercy from him,” the judge said.


“The convict before me is not remorseful despite a lot of atrocities and lives that had gone from his hand.


“May God have mercy on his soul.”


Samaila, a native of Gulak in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, was linked to a series of attacks carried out between 2012 and 2017.


The charges against him included belonging to a banned terrorist organisation, undergoing training in terrorism and weapons handling, and participating in violent attacks across communities in Borno and Adamawa states.


The court heard that he was involved in assaults in Damboa, Borno, as well as Gombi and Hong in Adamawa, where both civilians and military personnel lost their lives.


These offences are punishable under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.


During the trial, the prosecution, led by Jemila Ade, deputy director of public prosecutions, presented the defendant’s confessional statement, which was admitted as evidence.


In the statement, Samaila said he transported female suicide bombers to target locations.


“I took her to Muna Garage in Maiduguri,” he said, referring to one of the bombers.


He also admitted participating in attacks in Mubi, Chibok, Damaturu, Michika, and Gulak.


According to him, he lost his left leg during a confrontation with the military in Konduga.


In sentencing, Omotosho ordered that Samaila be executed by hanging on counts four, five and six.


The court further sentenced him to 25 years’ imprisonment on counts one and two, and 30 years on count three.


In separate rulings, two other Boko Haram members — Shura Abdullahi and Abdulrahman Ari — were sentenced to life imprisonment after pleading guilty to terrorism charges.


Additionally, three others — Aisami Kadi, Umaru Usman, and Abdulrahman Hassan — received prison terms ranging from 20 to 21 years.


Earlier in the week, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed that 500 suspects are currently being prosecuted in phase nine of the ongoing mass trial of alleged terrorists in Abuja.


The cases are being heard before judges of the Federal High Court.


(The CABLE)


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A former Iranian foreign minister, Kamal Kharazi, has died from injuries sustained during US-Israel strikes carried out on April 1, Iranian media reported on Thursday.


Kharazi, who was 81, was serving as the head of the Strategic Council for International Relations, a body under the foreign ministry, at the time of his death.


According to the Mehr and Isna news agencies, “who was injured in a terrorist attack carried out by the American-Zionist enemy a few days ago, died a martyr tonight,” as reported on their Telegram channels.


Reports also indicated that his wife was killed when their residence in Tehran was hit during the strike.


Kharazi previously represented Iran as its envoy to the United Nations in New York before serving as foreign minister from 1997 to 2005 under reformist president Mohammad Khatami.


His death comes amid ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, where spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior military and political figures have been killed in strikes since the conflict escalated following US-Israeli attacks on February 28.


AFP


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Pope Leo XIV will on Monday begin his first major international journey since ascending to the papacy, embarking on an 11-day tour across Africa that will take him to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea.


The US-born pontiff is expected to address a wide range of global and regional concerns, including interfaith dialogue with Islam, peacebuilding efforts, inequality and human rights, during the trip which will cover more than 18,000 kilometres (11,000 miles).


Since assuming leadership of the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion faithful in May, Leo will, during the tour, deliver 11 speeches, celebrate seven masses and visit about a dozen locations before returning on April 23.


At 70, the pope’s engagements are likely to draw significant global attention, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical tensions triggered by the Middle East war and its accompanying energy crisis.


This will mark Leo’s third trip outside Italy, following earlier visits to Turkey and Lebanon last year, as well as Monaco in March.


READ ALSO:Pope warns of regional spillover from Israel-Iran war


Algeria (April 13–15)

The visit to Algeria will be historic, as Leo becomes the first pope to travel to the North African nation where Islam is the state religion.


During his stay, he is scheduled to visit the Great Mosque of Algiers and hold talks with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. He will also meet members of the Augustinian order in Annaba, a city closely associated with Saint Augustine.


The pope is “a brother who comes to visit his brothers”, Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, the archbishop of Algiers, told AFP ahead of the visit.


He is also expected to pray privately at a chapel dedicated to 19 priests and nuns killed during Algeria’s 1992–2002 civil war.


Ahead of the trip, three international NGOs urged the pontiff to raise issues relating to the treatment of religious minorities with Algerian authorities.


Cameroon (April 15–18): Focus on peace

In Cameroon, where Christians form the majority, the pope’s message is anticipated to centre on peace and reconciliation, particularly in the conflict-ridden English-speaking northwest region.


The highlight of his visit will be a mass and address in Bamenda, regarded as the epicentre of the crisis, with tight security expected.


Leo will also tour Catholic-run hospitals, schools and charities in the country, where about 37 per cent of the population is Catholic.


He is also expected to meet President Paul Biya, 93, one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, who has faced periodic criticism from senior Catholic figures over his continued rule.


Angola (April 18–21)

The pope’s stop in Angola is expected to highlight social and economic concerns.


Despite its wealth in oil and minerals, the country continues to grapple with widespread poverty and the legacy of a civil war that ended in 2002.


Leo is likely to stress the importance of fair distribution of natural resource wealth and the need to combat corruption.


While many Angolan Catholics—who make up about 44 per cent of the population—are enthusiastic about the visit, some citizens have expressed reservations.


“At the societal level, it represents nothing, because millions of dollars will be taken from the state treasury to prepare, without bringing any benefits to our country,” teacher Rosa Kanga, 42, told AFP.


The pope will visit Luanda, where stark contrasts exist between affluent districts and sprawling slums, and will also travel to Muxima, home to a historic church along a former slave-trading route and one of the region’s most revered religious sites.


Equatorial Guinea (April 21–23): A delicate mission

Leo’s final stop will be Equatorial Guinea, where President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has ruled since 1979.


With around 80 per cent of the population identifying as Catholic, the visit carries both religious and political significance. Pope John Paul II remains the only pontiff to have previously visited the country, nearly 50 years ago.


Observers believe Leo will need to carefully balance support for local Catholics with the risk of appearing to legitimise the government, while also addressing issues of human rights and social justice.


In Malabo, recently stripped of its capital status by presidential decree, large images of the pope have been displayed ahead of his arrival, with state media continuously airing promotional material about the visit.

AFP

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Hip-hop pioneer, Afrika Bambaataa,  has died at the age of 68, the Hip Hop Alliance has confirmed.


In a statement, the organisation said Bambaataa helped shape a “global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and having fun”, paying tribute to his role in the emergence of hip-hop as both a musical genre and a cultural force.


Born Lance Taylor in the Bronx, Bambaataa came of age during the black liberation movement. In 1973, he co-founded the Universal Zulu Nation, an international collective promoting hip-hop culture.


In later years, his reputation was overshadowed by allegations of child sexual abuse and trafficking, which he denied.


According to TMZ, which first reported the news, the artist died in Pennsylvania on Thursday due to complications from cancer.


Bambaataa was born to parents who had immigrated from Jamaica and Barbados.


As a teenager, he joined the Black Spades gang, later using his leadership experience to establish the Universal Zulu Nation, which aimed to steer young people away from violence and toward creative expression.


His 1982 track Planet Rock brought him international recognition and is widely credited with influencing the sound and direction of hip-hop in the 1980s.


His vision for the genre helped turn the Bronx into “the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world”, said Reverend Dr Kurtis Blow Walker, the executive director of Hip Hop Alliance.


Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Bambaataa collaborated with a wide range of artists, including James Brown and John Lydon. He also contributed to politically conscious efforts such as the 1985 anti-apartheid song Sun City.


Bambaataa led the Universal Zulu Nation until 2016, when he stepped down following allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s and 1990s.


He denied the accusations in a statement, saying they “are baseless and are a cowardly attempt to tarnish my reputation and legacy in hip-hop at this time”.


In 2025, he lost a civil case in which he was accused of child sexual abuse and trafficking after failing to appear in court, according to The Guardian.


Hip Hop Alliance acknowledged that the allegations complicated his musical legacy, which “has been the subject of serious conversations within our community”.


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The Naira recorded further appreciation on Thursday at the official foreign exchange market, closing at N1,359.31 to the US dollar.


Data published on the official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the local currency improved by N12.50.


This reflects a 0.9 per cent increase compared to Wednesday’s rate of N1,371.82 per dollar.


The Naira has remained relatively stable, supported by ongoing reforms implemented by the CBN.


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Tension has gripped Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, after 12-year-old JSS 2 student, Ufokobong Edwin Godwin died following alleged bullying by a senior student over his refusal to share provisions.


Vanguard gathered that the incident, which began before the Easter break, led to the deceased being hospitalised on Easter Sunday for a neck sprain sustained during the alleged torture.


Narrating the incident in Uyo, yesterday, a student who lived in the same hostel with the deceased, said the senior student approached him for provisions during terminal examinations, but the deceased refused, insisting he didn’t have enough to share.


“A fellow student (a senior student in SS3) asked the boy for provisions, but he refused.The student reportedly hit him on the neck, after which he went into a coma.


“He later regained consciousness in the hospital   and was taken back to school. When the holiday came, the parents picked him up without being informed of any incident involving their son. (Perhaps the school did not think the injury was that serious.”


The student, who pleaded not to be mentioned, said the senior descended on the deceased hitting his neck until he fainted three times before other students raised the alarm for his rescue.


He continued:  “At home, the boy developed severe pains on his neck and was shouting my neck, my neck. The parents bought pain relief drugs unknown to them that  the incident was more than ordinary pains.


“When the pains was more severe, the father rushed the deceased to hospital where he died on Easter Sunday


“Earlier at home, the parents said the boy started complaining of throat pain on Wednesday, and they got medication for him.


“On Saturday night, the father called some of his friends (one of whom shared this story), asking them to pray for his son, who had been taken to the hospital.


“By Sunday morning, the boy passed on. The hospital later confirmed that he died from complications associated with blood clots around his throat (neck area).”


Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, promised to confirm the incident but had yet to respond at press time.


However, the principal of the school, Mr. Jude Ezeogu, who confirmed the incident described it as unfortunate.


He said:  “It’s an unfortunate incident, the entire school is in a mourning mood. He is our child, he is a Nigerian child. So, we are deeply touched by his demise. The school management committee will meet to discuss the matter and the circumstances of his death will be communicated.”


Meanwhile, the family of the deceased student have called on the Federal Government to investigate the circumstances leading to death of their son.


The father of the deceased who spoke to our correspondent said:  “I cannot talk now. I am calling on the Federal Government to intervene for justice. I will talk at the appropriate time.”


(Vangaurd)

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Dino Melaye, a former Kogi West Senator and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, has slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), claiming that it is now a department of the All Progressives Congress (APC).


Melaye accused the INEC of bias and misinterpreting a court judgement.


In a video shared on his X page, the ADC chieftain stated that the electoral body’s actions had destroyed public trust.


According to Melaye, those responsible should either be removed or made to step down.


“We expect that the president will either sack or these people will sack themselves because INEC has misinterpreted the order of the court, they have shown partiality.


“They have shown that they are a department of APC, and we have lost confidence in them,” he said.


This comes as chieftains of the ADC led by factional Interim National Chairman, David Mark, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and others held a protest at INEC headquarters over the delisting of the party.


(TheSun)


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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected reports suggesting it is in talks with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to form an alliance, describing the claims as false and misleading.


The position was made known by a faction of the party aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and backed by a recent Court of Appeal judgment.


In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party insisted it did not hold any meeting—formal or informal—with the ADC or its representatives.


It clarified that any individuals alleged to have participated in such engagements did so in their personal capacities and do not represent the PDP.


The party urged its members, supporters, and the public to disregard the reports, stressing that they do not reflect its official stance.


It further disclosed that preparations for its party primaries are at an advanced stage, with timelines and guidelines to be announced soon.


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The Independent National Electoral Commission has recorded over 3.4 million new voters in the ongoing second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise nationwide.


According to the commission’s week 13 update released on Wednesday in Abuja, a total of 3,441,121 registrations have been completed as of April 3, covering both online pre-registrations and physical walk-ins.


INEC disclosed that 2,068,384 citizens completed their registration online, while 1,372,737 others registered physically at designated centres across the country.


State-by-state data showed that Jigawa recorded the highest number of registrants with 201,047, representing 5.84 per cent of the total.


Lagos followed with 181,095, while Kano ranked third with 177,681 registrations.


Youth participation remained dominant, with citizens aged between 18 and 34 accounting for 2,354,768 registrants, representing 68.43 per cent of the total figure.


Gender distribution indicated a higher turnout among women, with females accounting for 1,922,143 registrations (55.86 per cent), compared to 1,518,978 males (44.14 per cent).


On occupational breakdown, students formed the largest group of new voters at 1,235,931, representing 35.92 per cent.


This was followed by those in business at 701,912 (20.40 per cent) and individuals in farming and fishing at 615,967 (18.28 per cent).


INEC also reported that 48,330 Persons with Disabilities registered during the period.


The commission noted that the figure remains provisional, explaining that it is “a preliminary figure pending data clean-up during the period for citizens’ claims and objections, followed by the deployment of the Automated Biometric Identification System.”


It further stated that voter registration remains suspended in the Federal Capital Territory in line with Section 9(6) of the Electoral Act 2022, following the Area Council Election held on February 21.


INEC urged eligible Nigerians who have yet to register to visit its official portals to complete their registration before the deadline.


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The Federal Government has rejected claims that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse, saying the country is making steady progress in tackling its security and economic challenges.


This comes after a coalition of 52 Nigerian Civil Society Organisations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, CISLAC, CITAD, MRA, Centre for Democracy and Development, Transparency International, and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, warned that the country is on the verge of collapse due to escalating insecurity, poverty, and moral decay.


The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, on Wednesday in Abuja, dismissed the warnings as “pessimistic narratives” insisting that Nigeria is demonstrating resilience in the face of difficulties.


He cited ongoing security operations, including coordinated military offensives and improved intelligence-sharing, as evidence of progress, saying these efforts have led to the neutralisation of bandits and disruption of attacks, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria.


“We are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively.


“Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased,” he said, adding that enhanced rapid-response mechanisms are being deployed nationwide to safeguard lives and property,” he said.


Idris, in a statement signed by his media aide Rabiu Ibrahim, also pointed to signs of economic recovery, including improvements in foreign reserves and expanding revenue sources across oil and non-oil sectors, attributing these gains to reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and fiscal discipline.


The minister also referenced Nigeria’s recent reclassification as a Frontier Market by FTSE Russell, saying it reflects improvements in foreign exchange liquidity, market transparency, and ease of capital repatriation.


He urged broadcasters to uphold professionalism and avoid promoting narratives that could deepen divisions, especially as the country approaches another election cycle.


“The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must inform, educate, and unite our people while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy,” he said.


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Stakeholders in women's growth, rights and empowerment have called for continued resilience to surmount systemic barriers that have stopped women from achieving their full potentials, praising their ability, creativity and courage to make a difference in the society 

Speaking at a gathering, Rise With Elegance in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, HRM (Amb)

Lois Andrew Ihwo called on women to embrace resilience and pursue financial independence with purpose, declaring that “women must hustle not out of desperation, but out of vision.”

While lauding the evolving roles of women in nation-building, she tasked them on resilience, strategy, and innovation. 

According to her, resilience goes beyond merely enduring hardship. She said, “It is about rising through challenges with strength and dignity.” 

Amb. Ihwo noted that women have historically borne the weight of families, businesses, and communities, often with minimal recognition. 

She urged participants to approach their ambitions with clarity and integrity, stressing that financial independence is both a tool for empowerment and a form of preparation for the future. 

“When a woman is resilient, she becomes unstoppable. She becomes a builder of legacies, a pillar in her home, and a force in her industry,” Ihwo added.

Also speaking, the convener of Rise With Elegance, Jennifer Ibrahim, reflected on her personal experiences growing up around hardworking women, noting that her upbringing shaped her belief in the balance between ambition and family life.

She said, “I grew up watching strength in motion,” Ibrahim said. “My grandmother worked. My mother worked. I saw women who nurtured their homes without abandoning their dreams.”

She maintained that motherhood and career ambitions are not mutually exclusive, but can coexist harmoniously when approached with intention. 

According to her, children raised by purpose-driven mothers often grow up imbibing resilience, courage, and vision.

Ibrahim further highlighted the importance of community among women, noting that many are increasingly refusing to choose between building a career and raising a family.

“My message to you all is clear: chase your career, build your vision, and nurture your home. Do it with elegance and intention, knowing you are not alone,” she said.

Others who spoke include, Chinyere Jimifuna, Amb. Ruby Ross Maribao, Fina Onu, Stella Onwochei, Joan Ulaeto and others.


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Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has paid N32 billion out of N48 billion gratuity backlogs of retirees inherited in 2023.


Yusuf disclosed this on Wednesday in Kano while inaugurating the sixth tranche of payments to retirees in the state.


The governor said the payments also covered the death benefits inherited in 2023.


The governor explained that  N27 billion was paid in five tranches, while N5 billion was disbursed in the sixth tranche, making total payments to N32 billion.


“As  at May 2023, this administration inherited N48 billion  gratuity backlogs.


“However, N27 billion in five tranches and the new  N5 billion for the sixth tranche have been released.


” As we speak, my administration has released N32 billion to clear some backlogs, with N16 billion pending,” he said.


The governor promised to clear the outstanding gratuity backlogs as part of efforts to address long-standing liabilities and reposition the state for responsible governance.


According to him, the payments were effected to reduce the hardship faced by retirees and families of deceased workers, restore confidence in the government and promote social justice.


He commended the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners ( NUP) for exercising patience and cooperation.


Malam Abubakar Hussein, a pensioner, who spoke on behalf of other pensioners, expressed appreciation to the governor for his kind gesture and canvassed continuous support for the Yusuf-led administration. (NAN)


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The Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN) has expressed shock and deep sadness over the recent violent attacks on Christians in parts of the country, describing the incidents as a grim reflection of worsening insecurity.


In a statement issued by its National President, Steve Adehi, SAN, on Wednesday, the association decried the killings that occurred on Palm Sunday in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, Plateau State, as well as the Easter Sunday attacks on two churches in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and St. Ignatius Catholic Church Ayar Gwer in Benue State.


“The Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria is shocked and deeply saddened by the recent violent attacks on Christians on Palm Sunday in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, Plateau State, and also condemned the Easter Sunday attack on two churches in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State and St. Ignatius Catholic Church Ayar Gwer in Benue State describing the incidents as a tragic reminder of the worsening insecurity in the country,” the statement read.


The association strongly condemned the attacks and extended condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities.


“We strongly condemn these acts of violence and offer our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the affected communities. We pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for those who lost loved ones,” it stated.


APKMN called on relevant authorities to act swiftly in addressing the situation, urging security agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.


“We urge the authorities to take immediate and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure peace is restored to the region. We also call on all Nigerians to reject violence and work towards promoting unity, understanding, and peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.


The group further expressed solidarity with communities affected by the attacks across the country.


“As people of faith, we stand in solidarity with the people of Plateau, Kaduna and Benue States and all other states currently experiencing violent and senseless attacks and killings,” it said.


The association also urged the government to go beyond mere rhetoric in addressing insecurity.


“We urge Government to move beyond rhetorics and bring the perpetrators of this dastardly act to Justice,” the statement emphasized.


APKMN alsocalled for divine intervention and peace in the country.


“We pray for an end to such atrocities and for God to bless Nigeria with peace,” the Catholic group added.


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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on Wednesday visited former Kano State Governor,  Senator Ibrahim Shekarau at his residence in Kano, urging him to join the ruling party.


Speaking during the visit, Nentawe said the APC currently needs a figure like Shekarau to consolidate its political gains in Kano State and strengthen its position at the national level.


He noted that the visit was part of ongoing efforts by the party to engage key stakeholders, foster unity, and promote national development.


“The APC recognizes the value and experience of Shekarau. His presence in the party will further enhance our strength both in Kano and across the country,” he said.


The APC chairman explained that the meeting was aimed at formally inviting the elder statesman to join the party, as part of broader reconciliation and expansion moves ahead of future political engagements.


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In his response, Shekarau warmly welcomed the delegation and acknowledged their visit.


He, however, stated that consultations regarding his political future are still ongoing under a Shura committee, which will ultimately decide the next step.


Shekarau also expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noting that it has become increasingly difficult to remain in the party due to persistent internal crises.


“We can no longer continue staying in the PDP because of the crises,” he said, adding that the final decision on his political direction would be taken after due consultation.


The APC national chairman was accompanied on the visit by members of the party’s National Working Committee, as well as the Kano State APC chairman and other state executives.


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Fire has razed a section of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) House located in Marina, Lagos.


The fire incident occurred on Monday night, with multiple videos on social media showing a section of the 20-storey building in flames as passers-by raised an alarm for rescue operation.


Some minutes later, firefighters arrived at the scene to put out the fire.


Confirming the incident, Shakiru Amodu, head of public education of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, told TheCable that the inferno was quickly curtailed.


“Nothing serious, more like a fire scare as it was curtailed in good time. Just the inverter battery section,” Amodu said.


In September 2025, fire engulfed Afriland Towers on Broad Street in Lagos Island, a multiple storey building that houses offices of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and United Capital Plc (UCAP), a branch of UBA, and other financial institutions.


Four staff members of FIRS and six employees of United Capital died during the fire incident.


The fire was said to have started in the inverter room located in the basement of the storey building.


(TheCable)


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The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, will resume work at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday following the suspension of the nationwide strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).


ARD UCH President Dr Uthman Adedeji disclosed this on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan, confirming compliance with the national directive.


NAN reports that NARD had earlier directed its members nationwide to embark on an indefinite strike over the federal government’s failure to address its demands.


The demands include immediate reversal of the revised Professional Allowance, payment of outstanding promotion and salary arrears, and prompt disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), among others.


Adedeji said the strike was suspended after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting, during which NARD directed members nationwide, including those at UCH, to resume duties at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday.


He explained that the decision followed the federal government’s reversal of its stance on the revised professional allowance and a commitment to address other outstanding issues raised by the association.


He said that no new patients would be admitted at UCH until Wednesday morning, as doctors would use the period to properly hand over patients currently on admission to consultants.


According to him, patients who are stable will be discharged, while no new cases, including emergencies, will be accepted until full services resume at the scheduled time.


Adedeji added that some doctors might be granted additional time to manage critically ill patients beyond the handover window, subject to approval from the association’s leadership.


He reiterated the association’s commitment to patient care and urged the federal government to urgently address the demands of NARD to prevent further disruption in the health sector. (NAN)


 


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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has said that relationship influencer Blessing Okoro, known as “Blessing CEO,” deceived the public by circulating a forged breast cancer diagnosis that originally belonged to another patient, Mbara Deborah, in order to solicit donations.


The Delta State chapter of NMA said in a statement that it conducted an investigation and discovered that the histology report Okoro presented as her own was issued on May 9, 2025 by Xinus Medical Diagnostics in Asaba, Delta State and not Enugu, as Okoro claimed, for a patient referred by a private hospital doctor.


The NMA said the report was never issued to Okoro at any point.


The proprietor of Xinus Medical Diagnostics and a member of the NMA Delta State chapter, Dr. O. A. Odigwe, approached the association to clarify the matter and confirmed that the original result which belongs to Mbara Deborah was the same document being circulated online by law firm Allen Juris Law, and that Okoro had no connection to it.


When confronted with this information, Okoro acknowledged receiving donations from the public but refused to apologise, claiming she had  genuine personal health fears.


‎In its official statement, signed by chairman Dr. Israel  Adaigho and secretary Dr. Usamah Hannah, the NMA said the integrity of the association and its members “is very paramount and should not be taken for granted.”


The association urged authorities to act to protect the public from further exploitation.


The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to an online histology report purportedly issued to one Blessing Okoro, AKA Blessing CEO, by XINUS MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS allegedly located in Enugu State. The said histology report was also alleged to have been signed by Dr O. A. Odigwe, a consultant pathologist.


‎”The proprietor of Xinus Medical Diagnostics, Dr O.A. Odigwe who is also a member of the Nigeria Medical Association, Delta State Chapter has reached us and has offered the following information to clear the air on the true position of the result as follows: That Xinus Medical Diagnostics is located in Asaba, Delta State and did not at anytime issue any report to BLESSING OKORO.


‎”That Xinus Medical Diagnostics was actually contacted in May 2025 by a doctor from a private hospital in Asaba to do a confirmatory test on a possible case of breast cancer for his patient, Mbara Deborah. That the test was done and the result issued to the referring doctor as a case of Breast Cancer on the 9th of May, 2025.


“That a copy of that result is the one being circulated online by the Law firm- Allen Juris Law, with the name Mbara Deborah as the patient. That the result online from the law firm is the original version issued to the patient through her hospital.


‎”This clarification is deemed necessary in view of what the altered report being paraded by Blessing Okoro is now being used for. The members of the public should therefore be guided accordingly.


‎”The integrity of our association and its members is very paramount and should not therefore be taken for granted. We call on the authorities responsible for maintaining law and order to do the needful and save the unsuspecting members of the public from being taken undue advantage of.”


(TheSun)


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