The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic loss of 22 young athletes from Kano State. These athletes tragically lost their lives in a devastating auto crash while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. In an official statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje conveyed his heartfelt grief over the incident, calling it a national tragedy that has significantly affected not just the bereaved families and the people of Kano, but the entire country. Ganduje referred to the deceased as highly committed and talented youths who represented the bright future of Nigerian athletics and the pride of Kano State. “This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. These athletes embarked on this journey with courage and determination, embodying the values of unity, patriotism, and sporting excellence. Their sudden and untimely death is a painful blow to our national aspirations,” Ganduje stated. The APC leader extended his deepest condolences to the grieving families, the Government of Kano State, and Nigeria’s sports community as a whole. While praying for the eternal rest of the departed souls, Ganduje also prayed for strength and solace for the families and loved ones left behind in this moment of sorrow. Currently in Saudi Arabia performing Hajj, Ganduje urged concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. He emphasized the need to enforce stricter safety guidelines to ensure the security of Nigerian athletes during official assignments. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) strengthen the affected families to bear this immense tragedy and grant eternal peace to the souls of the deceased,” he concluded.
Four days after the catastrophic flood that devastated Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, families continue to search desperately for the bodies of their loved ones to ensure they receive proper burials. Official reports indicate that at least 151 people have died, with over 100 still missing. The flood, triggered by prolonged heavy rainfall and exacerbated by the collapse of a nearby dam, led to the destruction of 50 houses and displaced approximately 3,018 individuals. Many of the displaced are currently taking refuge at Mokwa Central Primary School, which has been converted into a temporary shelter. WikipediaWikipedia The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that the disaster affected 265 houses across three communities, destroyed two roads and two bridges, and injured 11 people. The suddenness and magnitude of the flood caught the community off guard, leading to significant loss of life and property. Eyewitnesses recount harrowing experiences, with some families losing multiple members. Alhaji Belle Ibrahim, a resident who lost his entire family, expressed his anguish, stating that he is still searching for their remains to provide them with proper burials. Others, like Musa Adamu and Hauwa Kudu, continue to comb through debris and floodwaters in hopes of finding missing relatives. The floodwaters, which began rushing in around 6 am on Thursday, quickly overwhelmed Unguwan Hausawa while most residents were still asleep. The disaster also blocked the Tatabu Bridge in the Mokea area, a critical link between the North and South-West, causing significant traffic disruptions. Local authorities, including the leader of the Hausa community, Mal Tanko Bala, report that over 100 bodies have been buried, with more than 100 individuals still unaccounted for. Entire families have been wiped out, and the community is calling on the government for immediate assistance. In response, the Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, confirmed ongoing search and rescue operations and the provision of relief materials to victims. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is coordinating response efforts, and President Bola Tinubu has directed that all available federal resources be deployed to address the situation. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, conveyed the President’s deep concern over the loss of lives and emphasized the need for public sensitization campaigns to prevent future disasters. The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatdo, pledged to assess the needs of internally displaced persons and provide necessary support. The state government has approved the distribution of 6,000 bags of rice and other essential materials to cushion the effects of the disaster on victims. Efforts are also being intensified to construct stem water drainage systems in Mokwa and Mashegu council areas to mitigate future flooding risks. As the community grapples with the aftermath, many corpses remain trapped under collapsed buildings, and a significant number of almajiri (Quranic school pupils) are still unaccounted for. The government and emergency responders continue to work tirelessly to provide relief and prevent further loss of life.
In a significant political development, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has presented brand new SUVs to 17 acting local government chairmen who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This gesture comes three months after their transition to the ruling party. The acting chairmen, previously legislative leaders in their respective councils, assumed their roles following the suspension and subsequent impeachment of the elected chairmen and their deputies. The Edo State House of Assembly had suspended all 18 local government chairmen and their deputies on December 17, 2024, citing insubordination and gross misconduct due to their refusal to submit financial records for scrutiny, as detailed in a petition by Governor Okpebholo dated November 16, 2024 . Before the suspension period concluded, the legislative arms of the various councils impeached the chairmen and deputies, appointing the legislative leaders as acting chairmen. These acting chairmen officially joined the APC on March 17, 2025 . Governor Okpebholo stated that the provision of new SUVs is aimed at enhancing effective service delivery at the grassroots level. He remarked: “I want to thank God for making today possible as chairmen now have the privilege to drive brand new vehicles in the state. New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I know how much you are receiving in the councils, and we will measure your success rate if it is commensurate with what you are receiving. My administration has not interfered with your funds and resources.” Commissioner for Local Government, Community, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lucky Eseigbe, noted that this is the first time in the state’s history that brand new SUVs have been purchased for local government chairmen. He emphasized that the vehicles are intended to facilitate the chairmen’s responsibilities. Notably, Tom Obaseki, the elected chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, and his deputy were not impeached by the legislative arm. However, the council’s affairs are currently managed by the Head of Local Government Administration, Dr. Igbinigie Osaheni.
Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asserting that the President has dismantled the nation’s economic foundations within his two-year tenure. In a recent interview on Arise News, Ameh expressed concern over the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies, labeling the decision as insensitive and lacking foresight. He emphasized that such a significant policy shift should have been accompanied by a comprehensive plan to mitigate its impact on the populace. “The removal of the fuel subsidy without a clear policy direction has led to unprecedented hardship,” Ameh stated. He highlighted the surge in fuel prices from N197 to approximately N1,000 per liter, attributing this spike to the government’s hasty actions. Ameh also questioned the ruling party’s awareness of the citizens’ struggles, suggesting that they might be disconnected from the realities on the ground. He pointed out that the liberal economic policies adopted have disproportionately affected the underprivileged, leading to increased transportation costs and inflation. Furthermore, Ameh criticized the administration’s failure to implement its promises, such as cultivating 500,000 hectares of land to boost agriculture. He argued that the lack of a structured approach to policy implementation has exacerbated the nation’s economic woes. In conclusion, Ameh called for a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to governance, urging the administration to consider the plight of ordinary Nigerians in its policy decisions.
At a public lecture commemorating his 60th birthday in Abuja, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, openly declared his refusal to support or collaborate with President Bola Tinubu, citing concerns over Tinubu’s capacity to govern Nigeria effectively. Amaechi recounted a conversation with Tinubu in Yola, stating, “I told Tinubu in Yola, I will not support you; I will not work for you. I did not work for him; I did not vote for him. It was the issue of capacity.” He criticized the prevalent practice of voting based on ethnic and religious affiliations, emphasizing that such tendencies have led to the current state of the nation. He remarked, “Some of us who are here are also those who vote on an ethnic or religious basis. Innocent, uneducated people are manipulated to vote based on ethnicity and religion—that’s why we are here.” Highlighting the government’s approach to poverty, Amaechi accused the administration of weaponizing poverty by misappropriating funds meant for essential services. He stated, “They are weaponising poverty by stealing the money they should have used to build hospitals and schools. The benefit of the fuel subsidy removal is in their pockets.” Expressing his disillusionment with the current leadership, Amaechi called for collective action to address the nation’s challenges. He asserted, “For us in opposition, if you want us to remove this man, we can remove this man from power. We want to submit to the opposition if the opposition will take us out of this problem.”
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to combat maritime crime by commissioning a new fleet of advanced ships and helicopters. This move, announced by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, underscores the government’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and promoting economic activities along the nation’s coast. During the induction ceremony in Lagos, Matawalle emphasized that the federal government is serious about enhancing the Navy’s capability to monitor, deter, and respond to threats at sea. He highlighted that the new platforms demonstrate President Bola Tinubu’s determination to protect national interests and boost economic prosperity under the Renewed Hope agenda. The newly commissioned vessels and aircraft are equipped with advanced surveillance technologies and rapid response capabilities. These enhancements will enable the Navy to maintain continuous surveillance over Nigeria’s territorial waters, thereby limiting criminal activities. Notably, the fleet includes long-range helicopters capable of extended surveillance missions, complementing existing platforms for effective monitoring. Matawalle described the fleet renewal and operational capability enhancement as a significant milestone, coinciding with the Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary celebrations. He also announced that additional naval platforms from international partners are expected to arrive later this year, further strengthening the Navy’s capacity to patrol offshore waters and safeguard critical national assets. Beyond hardware acquisition, the Ministry of Defence is prioritizing human capital development. Plans are underway to enhance technical training, ensuring personnel can effectively operate and maintain new capabilities. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve morale and welfare activities to keep personnel motivated and mission-ready. In conclusion, Matawalle issued a stern warning to thieves, pirates, and other maritime criminals operating within Nigerian waters, stating that the country’s naval forces are now more capable than ever of enforcing maritime law to protect Nigeria’s economic resources.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerian state governors serving their second term to exercise caution in choosing their successors. While speaking during the inauguration of the first 30 kilometers of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in the Lekki axis of Lagos, Akpabio warned that selecting a successor based solely on submissive behavior may lead to regret and betrayal in the future. He emphasized that true leadership requires foresight and readiness, not mere flattery or superficial loyalty. Leadership Requires Vision, Not Flattery – Akpabio Akpabio stated that many leaders often misjudge loyalty by giving power to individuals who display exaggerated respect, like kneeling or having their spouses roll on the floor. According to him, such actions do not equate to preparedness for leadership or good governance. “We have a President who possesses both sight and vision. I must advise our second-term governors, especially those under the All Progressives Congress (APC), not to hand over power to someone who is unprepared or uninterested in leadership,” Akpabio said. He continued, “Do not assume that someone who consistently kneels before you, or whose spouse behaves with extreme reverence, deserves to be entrusted with governance. These gestures don’t reflect readiness or capability. Choosing successors based on such shallow reasons is often the root of betrayal.” Akpabio reiterated that proper governance and sustained development stem from electing capable, visionary leaders—not those chosen out of blind loyalty or personal favoritism. Akpabio Commends Progressive Leadership Commending the APC leadership, Akpabio noted that Nigeria’s progress is driven by a visionary President who exemplifies leadership with purpose. He advised governors to emulate this example by endorsing individuals with strategic focus and competence. According to him, “The progressive governors are performing well because they are guided by a leader who not only sees the present but also envisions the future.” Key Attendees at the Event The commissioning event was attended by notable dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Works David Umahi, and several second-term governors such as Governor Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos).
The Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed deep concern over the growing economic hardship in Nigeria, stating that many elites remain disconnected from the day-to-day realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. Sanusi made this declaration on Saturday during a public lecture in Abuja, commemorating the 60th birthday of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi. In his remarks, the former Central Bank Governor recounted his personal experience after ascending the throne as Emir. He explained that he only came to truly understand the severity of poverty when he became deeply involved with the rural populace. “I encountered true hardship when I became Emir. The statistics I saw as an economist could not fully explain the lived experiences of the masses,” Sanusi shared. He observed how millions of Nigerians struggle daily, particularly in remote communities where basic amenities like clean water and healthcare remain out of reach. “You see the water people drink in villages, the broken-down houses they live in, and classrooms with no roofs. It is heartbreaking,” he added. Sanusi criticized how infrastructure projects in cities, such as overhead bridges and underpasses, are prioritized, while rural areas remain deprived of basic healthcare access. “Do we genuinely care for the people, or are we only interested in ruling them? What truly are our priorities?” He urged leaders to embrace empathy and compassion, emphasizing that the nation’s current economic crisis demands leaders who are grounded and sensitive to the suffering of the people. “We are in a crisis. Our concern should be how to get out of it, not further entrench divisions or selfish governance,” Sanusi concluded.
A prominent Islamic organization in Zamfara State has expressed strong disapproval of the events that marked Governor Dauda Lawal’s second anniversary in office. The Zamfara Ulama Defence Forum (ZUDF) issued a statement in Gusau, criticizing the celebration for reintroducing behaviors contrary to the state’s Islamic values. The group highlighted that the event featured musical performances with scantily clad female dancers and the public consumption of alcohol, actions deemed unacceptable under Islamic law and cultural norms in Zamfara. Sheikh Bashir Mu’azu Marafa, the forum’s president, described the scenes as unimaginable in a state known for pioneering Sharia law in Nigeria. He stated, “It is both unfortunate and shameful that on the second-term anniversary of a sitting governor in a core Islamic state like Zamfara, alcohol was served, and women of questionable character were paraded on public stages in revealing clothes.” He further emphasized that such displays are a clear departure from the values cherished by the people of Zamfara, who have long upheld Islamic governance. The presence of entertainers with female dancers in revealing attire was seen as a disgrace, especially in a society where modesty is a fundamental value. The forum warned that this incident could signify a dangerous shift, undermining the efforts of Islamic clerics and moral reformers dedicated to preserving the state’s values. They questioned the message being sent to the younger generation when leaders appear to encourage moral decay in the name of celebration. ZUDF called on Islamic clerics across the state to speak out against what they described as the creeping secularization of Zamfara under Governor Lawal’s administration. They urged the governor to issue a public apology and commit to restoring the moral sanctity of public events. The forum also appealed to the state house of assembly, traditional institutions, and community-based organizations to hold the governor accountable for the coordination and content of the celebration. They stressed that leadership should be guided by wisdom and humility, noting that the event’s optics have caused dismay among the Muslim community in Zamfara and beyond. Finally, the group expressed appreciation to members of the public who raised concerns on social media, particularly the youth, who they believe are more conscious of right and wrong than some officials. ZUDF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the moral integrity of the community and holding those in authority accountable.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26 NKJV). Life is full of decisions—some simple, others life-changing. At times, you may find yourself at a crossroads, unsure of what to do. There’s an opportunity open to you, and you’re wondering, should I take it? What’s the best step forward? The good news is this: the Holy Spirit knows the details! Consult with Him and He’ll give you the perfect guidance you need. Ponder again Paul’s beautiful and inspired words in Romans 8:26 as quoted in the theme verse. The Holy Spirit, knowing all things, knowing the will of God and the mind of the Father, makes intercession for us—not from outside but from within. He prays in you and through you, helping you when you don’t know what to pray for or how to pray. There’s so much you don’t know about situations, people, and even about your own future. But the Holy Spirit knows and understands the fine details; things about your life, the things beyond human perception, and He intercedes for you accordingly. Imagine having someone who knows exactly what you need and praying in your behalf with divine accuracy. That’s the ministry of the Holy Spirit! But here’s the key: if you don’t pray in the Spirit, you won’t experience this divine help. You can’t just sit around, sighing and waiting for life to happen, crossing your legs, shifting in your seat, or even shedding tears; that won’t change anything! Someone might even pray, “Dear Father, my case is dire, please pity me.” The Lord has already pitied you—that’s why He sent Jesus and gave you the Holy Spirit. Look at what the Bible says: “Once you were not a people [at all], but now you are God’s people; once you were unpitied, but now you are pitied and have received mercy” (1 Peter 2:10 AMPC). Did you see that? He’s done everything necessary for your success. The question is, will you take advantage of it now that you have the Intercessor within you? When you pray in the Spirit, you align yourself with God’s perfect plan. Instead of confusion, you receive clarity. Instead of struggling in uncertainty, you walk in divine precision. Even now, take some time to pray in the Spirit; speak in tongues and stir up the Spirit within you. Glory to God! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the intercessory ministry of the Holy Spirit, who enables me to pray effectively and accurately. I am never helpless or confused because the Holy Spirit guides me in all things. I function with divine wisdom and supernatural ability, effecting changes in my life and circumstances. I walk in the fullness of your provision and live triumphantly every day, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Corinthians 14:2For he that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth [him]; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. Jude 1:20But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Zechariah 4:6Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 15:18-16:1-16 & 1 Chronicles 5-6 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:22-31 & Numbers 34 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am loaded with good things. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. I am making progress, rising like an edifice higher and higher irrespective of daunting challenges, persecutions, hardships, and troubles around the nations of the world. Grace empowers me to overcome every obstacle and overlook all lying vanities the adversary tries to put in my path. No weapon of evil, disease, sickness, or death fashioned against me can prosper because I am favoured and graced. I know what to do. I have wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, it makes no difference what is required of me, or where I am I always know what to do and I always win. I have an understanding and discerning heart. The extraordinary strategist lives in me, therefore I cannot fail. The Spirit of God makes me a success. I am successful, always. I recognize the divine ability, efficiency, and might that are at work in me today. By virtue of the divine life of Christ in me, every cell of my blood, every bone of my body, and every organ in me is invigorated; no infirmity can fasten itself to my body, and all things are possible unto me. I am eternally victorious in Christ. I have power over crises; I am prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I live above, and far beyond the distracting elements of this world. My life is built on the Word of God. It keeps me in health, strength, and victory, making me experience unprecedented progress, peace, and prosperity in my life. I am a new creation, born with the life and nature of God. I am not subject to sickness, disease, failure, or death. I am an associate of the God-kind, in vital, inseparable oneness and union with divinity. I’m superior to Satan, and I am above the forces of darkness. I experience a quantum leap in grace. I walk in exponential grace, and I take advantage of the grace of God in Jesus’
The Federal Government is poised to inaugurate a completed portion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Saturday, May 31, 2025. This milestone encompasses Phase I, Section I, covering 30 kilometers of the planned 750-kilometer stretch. The commissioning ceremony is scheduled at Kilometer 8 of the project, situated in the Jakande Estate area of Lagos State. Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will virtually commission additional completed projects under the Renewed Hope initiative across Southern Nigeria. These projects include: The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a vision conceived by President Tinubu 27 years ago, aims to enhance transportation networks, improve accessibility along coastal communities across nine Nigerian states, foster regional integration, and stimulate inclusive, sustainable development. This project stands as one of the four Renewed Hope Legacy Projects initiated by President Tinubu. Minister Umahi expressed, “Today, as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a dream conceived has become a dream actualized.”
As President Bola Tinubu’s administration marks its second anniversary, a significant portion of Nigerians express deep dissatisfaction, citing increased poverty, hunger, and insecurity since his inauguration on May 29, 2023. Mounting Economic Struggles The removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates were among the administration’s bold economic reforms. However, these measures have led to a sharp increase in the cost of living, with many Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities. Inflation has soared, and the naira’s depreciation has further eroded purchasing power. Voices from the Nation Government’s Perspective Despite widespread criticism, the presidency maintains that the reforms are yielding positive results. President Tinubu has highlighted improvements in government revenue and a reduced fiscal deficit. He asserts that these measures are necessary sacrifices for long-term gain. It’s Too Early to Judge, But Reforms Come at a Social Cost — Ogunsuyi Public analyst and former Ekiti State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Lanre Ogunsuyi, opined that assessing President Bola Tinubu’s administration after just two years may be premature. According to him, Tinubu’s government has enacted significant economic reforms, notably the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates. These efforts, he argued, are geared towards economic stabilization. However, Ogunsuyi noted that while some macroeconomic indicators may show promise, the cost of these reforms has deeply affected ordinary Nigerians. Rising inflation—peaking at 34.71% in April 2025—has significantly eroded purchasing power. The naira’s sharp devaluation, from ₦460.70 to ₦1,579.40 per dollar, has further compounded hardship. He lamented that critical issues like insurgency and insecurity remain unresolved. Moreover, institutions like the National Assembly, he said, have failed to impact communities meaningfully, despite budgetary allocations for constituency projects. Ogunsuyi urged the government to urgently address issues such as the high cost of living, insecurity, and institutional inefficiencies. Focus Next Two Years on the Poor — Sunday Akere Sunday Akere, former Osun State Commissioner for Information, noted that while President Tinubu’s policies are laying a foundation for economic recovery, they have disproportionately burdened the poor. He acknowledged the return of investor confidence but insisted the government must now pivot to social welfare. Akere emphasized the need to lower food prices and tackle insecurity, particularly to encourage farmers to return to their lands safely. He also stressed the importance of improving power generation and distribution to boost the economy and reduce reliance on fuel. Governance Must Take Priority Over Politics — Moruf Balogun Moruf Balogun, former Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, criticized the administration for prioritizing politics over governance. He expressed disappointment over the federal government’s failure to implement the 2024 Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments. On health and security, Balogun painted a grim picture: hospitals have become death traps, healthcare professionals have lost faith in the system, and citizens face daily threats from criminal violence. He warned that persistent hunger and hardship are fueling social unrest. He urged the President to “stop chasing shadows” and focus on governance, stressing that the administration must deliver meaningful change before 2027. Job Creation Is Essential — Comrade Wasiu Ashaye Wasiu, Chairman of United Action for Democracy (UAD) in Ogun State, believes democracy in Nigeria remains fragile even after decades. He criticized the Tinubu administration for running what he described as an unpopular government that neglects the poor and small-scale traders. Wasiu urged the President to focus on job creation and expand economic opportunities. He highlighted the importance of tackling insecurity and improving access to essential services like healthcare and education, which he said are currently in dire condition. Voices from the Streets: Citizens Share Their Experiences Adeola Adedoja (32, Teacher):“Life has become harder. The cost of living has surged, and salaries can’t keep up. The government needs to stabilize prices and create employment.” Chike Ogbogu (45, Business Owner):“Infrastructure has improved slightly, but more needs to be done. Small businesses need better access to funding and friendlier policies.” Fatima Adedeji (28, Student):“Education is still underfunded. Many students are struggling to pay tuition. We need more youth-focused investments.” Emeka Oneforume (60, Retiree):“While two years is short, I hope to see more efforts in social services. Healthcare and pension reforms are urgently needed.” Nneka Philip (37, Nurse):“There’s room for improvement, but funding and resources in hospitals must increase for any real change.” Jide Ojolowo (50, Civil Servant):“The security crisis is worsening. People live in fear. Community policing and intelligence must be prioritized.” Not Beyond Redemption — Anthony Sani Former ACF Secretary General Anthony Sani likened Nigeria’s situation to animals hibernating for survival. He urged Nigerians to be patient, suggesting that the pain of reform might be temporary. Sani advocated for using savings from fuel subsidy removal to improve human capital through investments in health and education, arguing that ignorance and poverty are major contributors to insecurity. Power Sector Must Be a Priority — Hajiya Indo Aliyu Kaduna-based trader, Hajiya Indo Aliyu, expressed frustration over the collapse of the national power grid and rising tariffs. She urged the federal government to fix the power sector, stating that a reliable electricity supply could significantly ease daily life, especially in northern Nigeria. Prices of Goods Should Be Addressed — Ali Muhammad Local farmer Ali Muhammad from Birnin Gwari in Kaduna noted a return to peace in his region due to a local pact with bandits. However, he called on the federal government to urgently intervene in reducing the cost of goods, which remain unaffordable for most people. My Business Collapsed Due to Reforms — James Aba James Aba, a former business owner in Akure, recounted how the fuel subsidy removal and electricity tariff hike forced him to close his shop. Unable to keep up with rent and salaries, he relocated to Benue to start afresh. He appealed for a reversal of electricity tariffs and a reduction in petrol prices. Earning More, Affording Less — Nyiakula Ager Entrepreneur Nyiakula Ager said although his income rose from ₦200,000 to just over ₦300,000, he can now afford less than
Several travelers have reportedly been kidnapped following an ambush by unknown armed men suspected to be herdsmen along the Oweto-Apa-Adoka-Otukpo expressway in Benue State. The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening between the Asaba and Olojo axis. Multiple truck drivers and other road users traveling from Otukpo to Oweto, and vice versa, were allegedly abducted during the attack. According to reports, some victims were fatally shot while others were forcefully taken away. An eyewitness at the scene described a horrifying moment where a commercial motorcycle rider (Okada), who was en route to Agatu transporting a casket, was murdered. His motorcycle, alongside the coffin and several trucks, was left deserted on the road, painting a grim picture of the incident. Speaking on the situation, John Ikwulono, the former chairman of Apa Local Government Area, verified the tragic occurrence in a conversation with LMSINT MEDIA. He noted that the total number of affected individuals remains unclear at this stage. “Except for the young man who was shot near the highway, we can’t determine the full extent of the casualties yet. The gunshots were continuous. I suspect they were fired to deter escape attempts by travelers,” Ikwulono explained. At the time this report was published, attempts to contact the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful as she did not respond to calls.

