Mr. Biodun Otunola, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Planet Project Ltd, has confirmed that both the Kugbo and Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminals have been purposefully constructed to process over 10,000 passengers each day. Otunola made this known in Abuja on Thursday, while speaking during the commissioning of the Kugbo Bus and Taxi Terminal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which formed part of the celebrations marking the president’s second year in office. He explained that each of these terminals has been designed to handle daily movements of more than 120 buses and taxis, servicing both intra-city and inter-city routes. According to him, the terminal currently under construction at the Central Business District has a distinct structural plan because it will cater exclusively to intra-city transit services. “We can easily accommodate 120 buses within this facility, and it has been structured to conveniently process as many as 10,000 passengers on a daily basis,” Otunola explained. He further clarified that the same model is being implemented at the Mabushi terminal, noting that the concept is identical, except for the terminal at the Central Business District (CBD), which has been designed differently. Otunola emphasized that the facilities, once fully operational, would significantly improve employment opportunities in the area. He highlighted that each terminal would engage no fewer than 100 people across diverse operational areas, including the security department, ticketing department, facility management, electrical and mechanical teams, maintenance staff, the control room, and bus coordination. “It is really a huge venture, comparable to operating a mini airport,” Otunola remarked. He described the newly completed infrastructure as a “transport hub for the general public,” built to meet international standards. Otunola proudly pointed out that the terminals are equipped with state-of-the-art features, including a fully functioning air-conditioning system, loading bays, an eatery, a cinema, and standard public conveniences. “In addition, we have escalators, lifts, and a modern ticketing area. Therefore, the stressful travel experience is now a thing of the past,” he assured. He added that with these improvements, people can travel with more confidence, free from anxiety, and within a safe, secure, and comfortable environment. Otunola commended President Tinubu and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, for granting Planet Project Ltd, a local Nigerian contractor, the platform to demonstrate its ability to deliver world-class bus terminal projects for FCT residents. “This is certainly not the first project we have executed, but being the pioneers of this concept within the FCT is a major milestone for us. “We sincerely thank President Tinubu for giving us this opportunity, and also Minister Wike. If they did not have confidence in our capacity, they would not have tried us and these results would not have been possible,” he stated. Otunola also praised the FCT Minister for transferring the management of the terminals to the private sector. He observed that, following a thorough needs assessment, Abuja would require at least 12 modern bus and taxi terminals to effectively cover the major districts and suburbs. “We will need one each in Gwagwalada, Kuje, Gwarinpa, Lugbe, and strategic zones within the city such as Area 1, Area 3 in Garki, Wuse, and other important hubs,” he mentioned. During the same event, President Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, emphasized that these terminals would also encourage trade, improve commuter safety and comfort, and bring more orderliness to Abuja’s transportation network. In a related statement, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike praised the president for his unwavering support of the FCT’s infrastructural renewal drive, including the transformation of public transportation through projects like these bus and taxi terminals. He said the new system will protect commuters from falling prey to criminals running the so-called “one chance” operations, because they will no longer be forced to wait by the roadside to board vehicles.
Aliyu Audu, who served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Bola Tinubu, has expressed strong disappointment over his inability to gain audience with the President throughout his time in office. The former SSA on Public Affairs, Aliyu Audu, revealed that despite serving for nearly two years in the administration as one of the president’s spokesmen, he was never granted a personal meeting with Tinubu. Recently, Audu stepped down from his role, officially resigning a few weeks ago. He criticized President Tinubu for choosing to meet with popular Nigerian musician David Adeleke, professionally known as Davido, and Lagos politician Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, commonly called Jandor, while continuously denying him access. During a Thursday night interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, Audu pledged to actively oppose Tinubu’s reelection efforts. He stated, “I worked for the President for almost two years. I never got the chance to have a face-to-face with him. I was one of his spokespersons, yet he sat down with Davido, who had even insulted him some weeks before, and then also met Jandor, who did not even come second in the Lagos gubernatorial election. It simply does not add up.” Just days before Audu officially left his position, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State — who is also Davido’s uncle — had paid a courtesy visit to President Tinubu in Lagos. It is worth remembering that in March, Jandor, who was the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate in the 2023 Lagos State governorship contest, had also visited the president shortly after leaving the PDP. Audu’s comments have sparked conversation about how presidential aides are treated, and why celebrity and political connections sometimes seem to take priority over those serving within the inner government circle. Audu’s remarks have highlighted a growing rift between presidential appointees who feel sidelined and the presidency’s preference for high-profile guests and political realignments.
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In a decisive move to curb reckless driving and reduce drug-related incidents, the Kwara State Government has instituted a new policy mandating drug tests for motorists caught over-speeding. This development is part of a broader campaign to combat the influence of illicit substances on road safety and societal wellbeing. The policy was unveiled during a public awareness walk commemorating the 2025 United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The initiative reflects the state’s growing concern about the connection between substance abuse and road violations. According to the state’s announcement, any driver apprehended for speeding will not only be penalized with a traffic ticket but will also be required to undergo a compulsory drug screening. The aim is to determine whether such dangerous behavior is influenced by narcotic substances or psychotropic drugs. Speaking on behalf of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the Commissioner for Social Development, Mariam Iman, emphasized that the new policy is a critical step in expanding the state’s drug control strategy beyond workplaces and into the broader community. “We began by sensitizing school environments,” she stated. “Teachers are now subject to drug testing before they’re recruited, and we’ve extended this to students about to sit for major examinations. The goal is to ensure mental fitness before engaging in academic assessments.” She noted that the drug testing initiative initially targeted individuals applying for teaching positions in state-run institutions. The process led to the rejection of seven applicants who failed the mandatory drug screening. Iman elaborated on how the government is scaling these efforts beyond educational institutions to tackle substance misuse at the societal level. She stated: “We are broadening our approach. If you are found over-speeding on the road, you’ll be issued a traffic ticket and sent for a drug abuse test. We want to ensure such risky behavior isn’t a result of drug influence.” In addition, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, Haliru Olalekan Mikail, underscored the importance of community collaboration in the fight against drug abuse. He warned that the epidemic poses a grave danger to both societal order and development. “This is not the time to shift blame. The issue has escalated, and it’s now our collective responsibility to fight it head-on. If we don’t act together, drug abuse can severely hinder the progress of our communities and the entire state.” Other stakeholders present at the event also expressed support for the government’s proactive stance. The Kwara State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Hajia Fatima Popoola, and the Deputy Chief Whip of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Marriam Aladi, both commended the state’s commitment to awareness and enforcement as key steps toward mitigating drug-related risks in the state. This initiative adds to a growing list of preventive drug policies championed by the Kwara State Government, reinforcing its zero-tolerance approach to behaviors that endanger public safety and development.
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The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), a prominent human rights advocacy organization, has publicly criticized the Anambra State Government for what it describes as widespread and indiscriminate arrests of residents across the state. The group strongly urged the administration of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to uphold the fundamental human rights of citizens and adhere strictly to constitutional provisions in matters relating to arrests and detention. Intersociety emphasized that any individual apprehended for criminal activity — whether felonies, misdemeanors, or lesser offenses — must be charged to court promptly or granted administrative bail within the legally stipulated time frame under Nigerian law. Formal Petition and Concerned Leadership This position was clearly stated in an official statement issued to journalists on Thursday. The release was endorsed by key officials from Intersociety, including Emeka Umeagbalasi, Lead Researcher and Head of the organization; Chinwe Umeche, Human Rights Lawyer and Head of Democracy and Good Governance; Chief Anayo Leonard Okoli, Board Member; Comrade Chibueze Nwajiaku, Deputy Head of Policing and Law Enforcement; and Comrade Samuel Kamanyaoku, Head of Field Data Collection and Documentation. The organization implored the Anambra State Government to desist from making arbitrary arrests based on hearsay, false accusations, or unsubstantiated petitions, which have reportedly led to the detention of thousands of innocent residents across the state. They warned against the use of unfounded labels that result in citizens being detained without fair investigation or trial. The group stressed that all arrest-related procedures should align with the principles of fairness, investigation, and due process, and not be driven by rumors or political motives. Accusations Against Anambra Security Agents Intersociety claimed it had received substantial reports suggesting that agents acting under the directive of the Soludo-led administration have persistently violated the constitutional rights of residents. These complaints, brought forward by both victims and their families, point to arbitrary detentions, sometimes lasting between three to five months or even longer, without any formal charges or access to bail. The state security team, locally known as Agunaechemba/Udo Gachi, was particularly highlighted as one of the leading culprits. According to the report, many residents were arrested under vague or fabricated allegations such as ritualism, kidnapping, armed robbery, or internet fraud. Others were accused of being herbalists offering spiritual protection to criminals — all without credible investigations or evidence. The organization also noted the unjust treatment of traditional religious figures, including chief priests of ancient deities and market shrine custodians, who were allegedly framed, arrested, or even threatened under similar circumstances. Reference to Udo Orie Market Deity Incident In its advocacy report, Intersociety cited the Udo Orie Market Deity and its chief priest as a prime example of cultural stigmatization. It argued that a lack of knowledge and respect for traditional practices has led to misguided generalizations, falsely equating indigenous spiritual institutions with criminal activity. These concerns were outlined in a 12-page petition submitted to the Anambra State Executive Council via Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, Secretary to the State Government. Concerns About Homeland Security Law Implementation Intersociety further criticized the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, describing it as being enforced without credible research or proper investigative frameworks. The group maintained that nearly 99% of indigenous deities and cultural institutions in Igbo land are nonviolent and pose no threat to their host communities. They clarified that any misuse of spiritual practices for harmful purposes was more likely linked to private, rogue shrines, fake seers, or fraudulent spiritualists, and not traditional custodians of cultural heritage. Call for Justice in the Case of Chief Udoka Ejimu A major highlight of the statement was the case of Chief Udoka Ejimu, also known as AG Udoka. Intersociety revealed that the businessman — a well-known Onitsha-based multimillionaire and CEO of Udoka Golden Point and Suites Hotel in Oba, Idemmili South — has been in police detention for over 150 days without trial. The group contends that under the law, continued detention beyond two months without bail or court proceedings is unconstitutional and mandates unconditional release and full acquittal. The organization also condemned the demolition of Chief Ejimu’s hotel, which occurred around January 27, 2025, claiming that the decision was based on flawed investigations. The state government had initially accused the hotel of being a site for ritual killings, claiming that over 30 human graves were discovered on the property. However, Intersociety’s investigation revealed that the alleged graves were actually concrete partitions intended for a fishpond and barbecue area by the previous property owner. Legislative Recommendations for Safeguarding Cultural Rights Intersociety concluded its statement with a call for immediate legislative action. The group urged the Anambra State Executive Council to forward two essential Executive Bills to the House of Assembly: According to the organization, these bills are critical to protecting traditional practices and ensuring that communal spiritual institutions are not misrepresented or criminalized by modern security laws.
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Saidu Musa Abdullahi, a member of the House of Representatives, has appealed to the Nigerian Federal Government to formally declare the first day of Muharram—recognized as the beginning of the Islamic calendar year—a national public holiday. Representing the Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency in Niger State, Abdullahi, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, made this call in a statement released on Thursday. He emphasized that various state governments, including those of Niger, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun, Oyo, and Sokoto, already observe 1st Muharram as a public holiday. Abdullahi therefore urged the Federal Government to adopt the same practice in recognition of the importance of the Islamic New Year. “In a multi-religious nation such as Nigeria, recognizing key religious observances from all faiths fosters national unity and inclusive governance,” the lawmaker stated. He described the Islamic New Year not just as a date of religious relevance but as a time for self-reflection, renewal of spiritual dedication, and communal harmony. Abdullahi also pointed out that the significance of Hijrah—the Islamic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina—extends beyond religious teachings, highlighting universal values such as endurance, sacrifice, and transformation. He further encouraged citizens to mark the occasion by offering prayers for national peace, showing empathy toward others, and staying committed to building a stronger, united Nigeria.
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In a groundbreaking development for Nigeria’s green energy transition, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially commissioned locally assembled electric vehicles, including cars, tricycles, and motorcycles, in Nasarawa State on Wednesday. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s shift toward sustainable mobility and clean energy solutions. The high-profile event signified the launch of a functional electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in the state, aligning directly with President Tinubu’s national policy agenda for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient transportation infrastructure. As part of the event’s highlights, several major infrastructure projects were also unveiled. These efforts reflect Governor Abdullahi Sule’s commitment to leveraging innovation to address climate change and modernize transportation in Nasarawa. Nasarawa Plans to Distribute Electric Vehicles to Residents Governor Sule used the occasion to announce plans to distribute eco-friendly vehicles to citizens across the state. The strategy is aimed at reducing transport hardships, lowering dependence on imported fossil fuels, and improving urban and rural mobility through renewable-powered solutions. EMVC CEO Applauds Tinubu and Sule for Embracing EV Innovation Speaking at the occasion, Prince Mustapha Audu, the CEO of Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and Governor Sule for promoting homegrown innovation in the automotive industry and pushing the adoption of electric-powered mobility. Audu noted that EMVC ranks among Nigeria’s top electric vehicle manufacturers, with operational presence in multiple Nigerian states. He also credited the Nasarawa State Government for spearheading this transformative shift in mobility and infrastructure. He referenced global trends pointing to a shift away from compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, which many nations aim to completely phase out by 2030, urging Nigeria to stay ahead in the energy transition. Nigeria’s Locally Made EVs Boast Powerful Features “We’ve introduced SUVs with an impressive 1,200 km driving range per charge, and sedan cars optimized for ride-hailing services that offer up to 400 km per charge,” Audu revealed. He also introduced Nigerian-built electric tricycles and motorcycles, popularly known as “Igwe”, engineered for local terrain and designed to be both affordable and durable. Solar-Powered EV Charging Stations Deployed Highlighting EMVC’s innovative approach, Audu announced that their vehicles would be supported by solar-powered EV charging stations. “Our charging hubs can power three cars simultaneously without tapping into the national electricity grid or using petrol or diesel generators,” he explained. “We’re scaling this to five stations soon.” He added that a full vehicle charge would cost as little as ₦5,000, depending on the car’s battery capacity, making the EVs cost-effective in the long run. Clean Energy Batteries and Local Maintenance Hubs The vehicles run on lithium-ion battery packs—known for their energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint. To support broader adoption, EMVC is setting up battery assembly lines, EV repair workshops, and mechanical training centers across Nasarawa. “Each of our vehicles comes with a two-year minimum warranty,” Audu assured. He emphasized that electric vehicles have fewer than 300 components, compared to over 25,000 in conventional cars, resulting in lower maintenance costs and simpler upkeep. Most repair issues, he said, would be electrical faults, not mechanical breakdowns. EMVC has already deployed trained auto-electricians and is preparing to train more as demand for EVs rises. Locally Designed to Withstand Nigerian Conditions While acknowledging existing challenges like poor road infrastructure and harsh climate conditions, Audu confirmed that EMVC’s vehicles were custom-designed for Nigerian terrain and weather. He concluded by expressing confidence in the resilience and adaptability of the locally assembled electric cars, tricycles, and motorcycles, calling on Nigerians to embrace these cleaner and more affordable mobility options.
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Former Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, who once represented Zamfara Central Senatorial District, has expressed profound grief over the recent spate of violent attacks carried out by armed bandits in Zauma community located in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, as well as parts of Shinkafi Local Government Area in Zamfara State. These deadly incidents have tragically resulted in the deaths of several members of the local vigilante groups and security operatives deployed to these affected communities. In a public statement delivered via his media aide, Mansur M. Haruna, the former lawmaker conveyed his deepest condolences to the grieving families who have lost loved ones during these brutal assaults. He described the event as another heartbreaking testament to the escalating insecurity and lawlessness plaguing Zamfara State. Marafa noted that the consistent and unchecked violence occurring across the state underscores an urgent and undeniable need for cooperation among the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government. He warned that without strong collaboration between these three tiers of leadership, genuine security and developmental progress in the region will remain impossible. He emphasized, “This inability to unite and respond decisively to insecurity is leading to unnecessary bloodshed and the loss of innocent lives. Regrettably, some leaders are still treating this humanitarian tragedy as a political contest, rather than a crisis that demands immediate and unbiased attention.” Marafa went on to recall his previous attempts to draw attention to the growing menace of armed banditry and community attacks in Zamfara, highlighting that many of his warnings in the past were brushed aside or ignored by political opponents. He implied that had more attention been given to early warning signs, some of the tragic losses being witnessed today might have been prevented. He appealed to all residents, local communities, and key stakeholders in the state to continue remaining alert and committed to peacebuilding efforts. Marafa cautioned that political disagreements and partisan rivalry must not stand in the way of collective actions aimed at safeguarding lives and restoring lasting peace in Zamfara.
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In a significant development in the ongoing fight against armed criminal gangs in northwestern Nigeria, the Zamfara State Government has announced a decisive win against notorious bandits following a well-coordinated security operation conducted earlier this week. The statement was made public by Alhaji Ahmad Manga, Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Dauda Lawal, during an interview with the BBC Hausa service on Thursday. Manga revealed that the high-risk operation carried out on Monday targeted one of the most dangerous and elusive criminal leaders in the region. “We give thanks to God. He was finally discovered in his stronghold — a remote and previously unreachable location. For the first time, he realized he’s not invincible,” Manga disclosed. According to him, the operation marked a turning point in Zamfara’s security campaign, with heavily armed security personnel launching an intense assault that inflicted severe casualties on the bandit group. “Many of his loyal fighters were eliminated. The losses were so heavy even the bandit leader couldn’t count how many men he lost,” Manga emphasized. “Most of the bodies recovered from the operation site belonged to his foot soldiers.” Among the major incidents during the confrontation was the fatal crash involving Bashari Maniya, a once-dreaded bandit who had since renounced criminality and had been assisting security forces with intelligence. Maniya died after the vehicle he was traveling in crashed into a deep ditch while trying to escape through the forest during the operation. To dispel rumors, Manga clarified that Maniya’s death wasn’t due to enemy bullets. “It was a newly acquired vehicle, and the driver was unfamiliar with the forest terrain. As they sped through, the vehicle suddenly plunged into a ditch resembling a deep well. It somersaulted uncontrollably. It was the accident — not gunfire — that led to his demise,” he explained. Despite being equipped with bulletproof capabilities, the vehicle could not protect its occupants from the impact of the crash. Security backup teams later discovered the passengers unconscious inside the wrecked vehicle. Ahmad Manga reiterated that Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration remains fully committed to capturing Bello Turji, the infamous bandit kingpin, who has long terrorized communities in Zamfara, especially in the Shinkafi axis. “We are determined, by God’s grace, to continue pursuing him until he is captured. People from Shinkafi and surrounding areas remember the atrocities Turji committed over the past 14 years. But this time, the difference is clear — even Turji knows it. This was the closest any security team has ever come to him — right inside his residence,” Manga revealed. He added that the Zamfara State Government will intensify the pressure by deploying additional military forces to maintain the momentum of the current crackdown and ensure that Turji and his collaborators face justice. Independent reports from local and national sources confirmed that during the intense confrontation, Turji managed to escape capture by fleeing into hiding. However, the outcome of the operation is widely seen as the strongest indication yet that the security dragnet is tightening around him.
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Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has formally presented a comprehensive performance review of his administration’s achievements over the last 18 months of his second term to the Imo State House of Assembly. The governor used this platform to reaffirm his commitment to building a progressive and economically viable state. While addressing the legislators on the floor of the State Assembly, Governor Uzodinma reflected on his leadership journey, describing his administration’s effort as a transformation that Imo citizens can proudly associate with. He emphasized that within a year and a half into his renewed mandate, his government has repositioned Imo on what he termed “an irreversible path of sustainable growth and development.” He pointed out that the foundational values of his administration rest on transparency, accountability, and people-first governance, which have guided all key policies and developmental strides. Governor Uzodinma explained that he chose to personally deliver this performance report to keep lawmakers and the general public informed about the state’s progress, especially as it relates to his second-term agenda. In a lengthy and detail-rich address that lasted several hours, the governor itemized his administration’s strides across multiple sectors including education, health, road infrastructure, and the digital economy. He stressed that these milestones were not mere coincidences but the outcomes of well-thought-out strategic planning. He recounted inheriting a system marred by institutional decay and neglected infrastructure, but noted that his immediate resolve was to reset the governance framework to prioritize the needs of the people through efficient service delivery. One of the administration’s core priorities, he explained, has been the welfare of workers. This includes the regular payment of salaries and pensions, as well as the clearing of longstanding pension arrears, aimed at creating a more economically viable and people-centric state environment. Governor Uzodinma also highlighted the success of the ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects, as well as improvements in health and educational infrastructure. He noted the positive impact of investments in digital technology and the broader digital economy, which he said are already reflecting in the lives of ordinary citizens. Among the flagship projects mentioned was the Light Up Imo initiative, which he described as a game-changer for economic development. According to him, “When a state has stable electricity, functional roads, skilled youth, and business-friendly policies, it naturally becomes a magnet for investors.” The governor further emphasized the strategic economic importance of the Oguta Lake to Atlantic Ocean dredging project, expressing confidence that once completed, the project would unlock new economic potentials and bolster the state’s position as a future hub of commerce in the Southeast. He recounted that his leadership over the past 28 months has been a journey marked by key milestones. Notable among them are the Assumpta Flyover, the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, upgraded access roads, and modernization of the Imo Airport, which recently began handling international flights. Governor Uzodinma also revealed remarkable fiscal improvements under his tenure. The state’s debt profile dropped from ₦259 billion in 2020 to ₦99 billion in 2025, while internally generated revenue (IGR) rose from ₦400 million to nearly ₦4 billion during the same period. He attributed this to responsible and prudent fiscal management by his administration. Grateful to the people of Imo for their ongoing support, Uzodinma reiterated his administration’s unshakable commitment to delivering good governance. He also thanked the members of the State Assembly for their collaboration and swift passage of executive bills, which he noted has significantly contributed to the administration’s ability to meet its objectives. In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, expressed appreciation to the governor for engaging directly with the legislature. He assured that while the Assembly remains independent, it would continue to work in synergy with the Executive to deliver effective governance in line with its constitutional responsibilities. The Speaker affirmed that the legislature is fully committed to ensuring that governance in the state remains impactful, transparent, and geared toward the collective interest of the citizens.
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The Niger State Government has officially ordered the immediate shutdown of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, in response to intensifying security concerns in and around the institution. This directive was made public on Wednesday in Minna, the state capital, by Abubakar Usman, who serves as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG). The closure follows the tragic killing of a student near the university’s campus, which has stirred unrest and led to widespread demonstrations by students calling for better security and swift justice. According to Usman, the government’s decision stems from multiple security breaches, including the murder of a 300-level student, which occurred just outside the campus. The incident triggered serious protests from fellow students, who are now demanding that the authorities urgently address the worsening safety situation. “The safety and protection of every citizen, especially students, remains the utmost priority for this administration,” Abubakar Usman stated. He also appealed to the university community to stay calm and cooperate with security agencies as investigations continue. He confirmed that a thorough investigation is currently underway to uncover the individuals responsible for the attack and ensure that those involved in the criminal act are arrested and prosecuted in line with the law. The government reassured the public that it is taking deliberate and proactive security measures to restore peace and safeguard the lives of students and residents in the affected area. The goal, according to Usman, is to establish a peaceful environment conducive to academic activities and community coexistence. As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the closure of IBBU Lapai was enforced just 48 hours after the murder of a student named Abdulkareem, a 300-level undergraduate, who was brutally attacked and killed in his off-campus apartment by individuals suspected to be phone snatchers. The devastating incident sent shockwaves through the student body and drew immediate attention to the deteriorating security condition in the region. Calls have since intensified for the government and school authorities to implement comprehensive security strategies, including improved campus patrols, better off-campus surveillance, and quick-response mechanisms for students in distress. This developing story highlights the broader issue of youth vulnerability and campus safety in Nigeria, a matter that continues to demand urgent policy attention and long-term solutions.
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The Nigerian Army has officially confirmed the tragic loss of 17 soldiers in a brutal terrorist ambush on a military base situated in Bangi, within the Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State. This confirmation follows a wave of online reports that surfaced a day earlier, highlighting a surprise terrorist attack that claimed the lives of at least 20 military personnel and left several others seriously injured. In a statement made public on Wednesday, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that the troops were attacked by a heavily armed terrorist faction, believed to be approximately 300 in number, operating out of the notorious Kwanar Dutse Forest. “Utilizing actionable intelligence, our troops engaged these terrorists in an intense three-hour-long firefight,” the Army spokesperson stated. “They successfully disrupted the terrorists’ attempt to infiltrate Kwatankoro Forest, where they were either regrouping for future attacks or seeking a safe haven from the ongoing military operations in Zamfara State.” To bolster ground operations, the Nigerian Air Force launched targeted precision airstrikes against the terrorists’ escape routes. These aerial offensives reportedly inflicted significant casualties on the fleeing militants. Although an exact enemy body count wasn’t disclosed, Anele confirmed that multiple blood trails were discovered along the withdrawal paths, suggesting substantial losses on the terrorists’ side. “Unfortunately, during this heroic resistance, seventeen valiant Nigerian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice,” Anele continued. “An additional ten personnel sustained varying levels of injury during the encounter.” She added that all injured personnel have been promptly evacuated to military medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition. In a heartfelt tribute, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, expressed his deep condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen heroes. He acknowledged their courage and commitment to national defense, stating that their sacrifice would never be forgotten. He further ordered that the best available medical attention be provided to the wounded troops to ensure a speedy and complete recovery.
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Lafia, the administrative hub of Nasarawa State, experienced a complete shutdown on Wednesday following the high-profile visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President arrived to officially inaugurate major infrastructure developments undertaken by Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration. Despite the absence of any formally declared public holiday, schools across the city, both public and private, were closed, compelling thousands of students to remain at home. Business owners and civil servants equally suspended operations, creating an unusual calm over the city as shops, offices, and street activities ground to a halt. In anticipation of President Tinubu’s arrival, massive gatherings of residents, schoolchildren, and political loyalists lined the main roads, holding placards and cheering enthusiastically in support of both the President and Governor Sule. The city center and several adjoining routes were packed with waving supporters dressed in branded attire and national colors. As of the time this report was filed, the President had yet to touch down in Lafia, but final touches were being made to the venues selected for the inauguration ceremonies. Interestingly, the weather remained cool and cloud-covered throughout the day, a pleasant contrast to the typical heat, giving comfort to the large crowd of onlookers who waited patiently under heavy security surveillance. To maintain security and order, vehicular access within Lafia was strictly regulated. Security operatives blocked major roads, enforcing traffic diversions. Commercial motorcyclists who attempted to navigate restricted areas were reportedly confronted and in some cases forcefully removed by armed personnel. The President’s visit is being viewed as a political milestone for Nasarawa State, marking the formal commissioning of various government-funded infrastructure initiatives. These developments reflect enhanced synergy between federal and state leadership in driving regional development. Additionally, the visit underscores the growing commitment to North Central Nigeria’s growth agenda, further highlighted by the recent establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) headquarters in Lafia—a move that aligns with long-term infrastructural planning in the zone. Joining President Tinubu on this landmark working visit are key political figures including the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, as well as prominent past leaders such as former Governor Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and former APC National Chairman, Adamu Abdullahi. They are expected to join Governor Sule in welcoming the President and overseeing the commissioning ceremonies of the newly completed projects.
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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has made a passionate appeal to media professionals across Nigeria—particularly those operating within Abia State—not to spread misleading reports or fabricated stories that could incite fear or disrupt societal peace. The Governor’s message was conveyed during his address at the 2025 Media Vision Africa training event held in Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State. Representing Governor Otti at the program was the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, who emphasized the crucial responsibility that media professionals bear in ensuring accurate and truthful reporting. According to the Governor, journalists must shift focus toward publishing reports that foster public trust and promote a sense of security, rather than narratives that incite anxiety and alarm. He cautioned against the habitual use of fear-mongering tactics or propaganda in news dissemination, stressing that such practices only damage the credibility of the press and mislead the public. While reiterating the Otti-led administration’s commitment to maintaining a strong working relationship with the media sector to advance development within both Abia State and Nigeria at large, the Governor urged the trainees and upcoming journalists at the event to always anchor their stories on verifiable facts and truth. Governor Otti was clear in his directive: media practitioners must avoid manipulating facts or distorting the truth for the sake of sensationalism. He advised that comprehensive journalism should present a balanced picture—highlighting not only the challenges facing the state but also showcasing the positive strides being made. “In today’s Abia, where the government is focused on improving security and reviving the economy, it is vital that we promote narratives that reinforce public confidence rather than fear,” he stated. “I urge all media practitioners in Abia and across the nation to uphold the image of the profession with integrity and avoid being purveyors of fake news.” In a related development, Bishop Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, the President of Vision Africa and a leading Methodist Bishop, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted the objective of the training event as part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping Nigeria’s young media professionals with the tools needed for future leadership roles in journalism. Bishop Onuoha encouraged the Nigerian youth to abandon the outdated mindset of depending solely on government appointments or political favor for career advancement. Instead, he called on them to become innovative content creators, job providers, and transformational leaders who can help redefine the culture and tone of public communication in the country.
