Jimin Geoffrey, who formerly served as Senior Special Assistant on Media to ex-Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, has voiced deep frustration over the persistent and unprovoked assaults targeting the people of Benue State by heavily armed Fulani herdsmen. Speaking to LMSINT MEDIA, Jimin emphasized that even with President Bola Tinubu’s recent courtesy visit to Benue in the aftermath of the violent bloodbath at Yelwata, located in Guma Local Government Area, the attacks have shown no sign of abating. According to Jimin, who himself hails from Guma, on Saturday, the 21st of June, 2025, four individuals tragically lost their lives at several different spots across Makurdi and Guma. These included Tse Ati, Uda Yagba, and Tse-Kator within Guma LGA. He continued by recounting another harrowing incident on Sunday, the 19th of June, 2025, when four officers from the Mobile Police Force were savagely murdered by the so-called harvesters at Udei, also within Guma Local Government Area. In a similar vein, on the 2nd of July, 2025, these bloodthirsty elements launched another brutal offensive on Kwaghgba village, where at least three innocent residents were reportedly slaughtered in cold blood. Tragically, on Thursday, the 3rd of July, 2025, militia herders carried out yet another violent assault in Ukohol village, again situated in Guma, where no fewer than three villagers were killed. The string of violence continued, according to Jimin, when the horror shifted to Tse-Anundu in Udei on Friday, the 4th of July, 2025. During that attack, Mr. Nomsoor Anundu was killed, while two other individuals suffered gunshot wounds and are currently undergoing medical treatment. LMSINT MEDIA recalled that President Tinubu, during his visit on June 18, 2025, had directed both the Chief of Defense Staff and the Inspector General of Police to ensure those responsible for the violence are flushed out. Additionally, Tinubu ordered the Directors General of the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the State Security Service (SSS) to restructure their intelligence-gathering systems to obtain credible information to prevent similar tragedies in the future. However, our correspondent found that despite these high-level directives, the overall security environment in Guma and surrounding areas remains dangerously unchanged. Jimin decried that these terrorist elements have occupied deserted farms and abandoned homes, from which they continue to launch deadly raids against anyone venturing into their own backyard to engage in farming. “The ease with which these terrorists carry out their operations and retreat unchallenged is frightening,” he lamented. “I fear there may be another bloodbath looming for Benue State.” Jimin further emphasized, “I wish to state it without any doubt that the Renewed Hope slogan promised to Nigerians by Mr. President during his election campaigns, for the people of Benue, has only translated into RECURRING DEATHS. “We die daily, anywhere and anytime, at the pleasure of these so-called harvesters who seem to have planted us in this part of the country. Even the security operatives assigned to protect us have not been spared from their killing spree. “Countless victims, among them children who barely survived previous attacks, are still battling for their lives in different hospitals. Meanwhile, these gun-wielding terrorists are persistently plotting new attacks on more Benue communities without facing any resistance,” he concluded.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them…(Luke 9:56). In praying to effect changes, especially in your town, city or nation, a clear understanding of the Word and insight into the mind of God is important. For example, consider a scenario where a group of Christians in a city or nation are praying in agreement that they don’t want a particular government official. Meanwhile, there’re other Christians who work with that same leader who may be praying every day for the leader to succeed and remain in office. While those declaring a change may be justified, God also considers the prayers of His children who are standing in faith for that leader. It reveals something about the nature of God—His fatherly nature. You may expect Him to act in a certain way and He doesn’t. It’s because He thinks differently. His actions are governed by His love, mercy, and purpose. Consider the case of James and John in Luke 9:54-56. They were offended by those who did not plan adequately to receive the Lord Jesus and asked, “…Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?” (Luke 9:54). But Jesus rebuked them, saying, “…Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them…” (Luke 9:55-56). The Master demonstrated the Father’s heart of love and mercy throughout His ministry. He understood His purpose and remained committed to fulfilling it according to the will of the Father. God’s nature is consistent. He is merciful and loving. He operates as wisdom, always seeking to save and to bring His children into alignment with His divine purpose. Understanding this helps us appreciate why God may not always act the way we expect Him to, even when we think our desires are justified. As you give yourself to the Word and the guidance of His Spirit, you will increasingly know and walk in His perfect will and plan in every situation and be able to pray effectively with direction and precision. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for your love, mercy and wisdom. I recognize your fatherly heart, and I yield myself to your will and purpose, and declare that your love and grace prevail in my life and in the lives of those around me as I walk in alignment with your Word and fulfil your purpose, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYJohn 3:16-17For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 2 Peter 3:9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Ezekiel 18:23Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live? DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 17:16-34 & Job 6-8 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 6:39-49 & Deuteronomy 33 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live an endless, incorruptible, and indestructible life. I have gained ascendancy over the lying vanities of this world, including sickness and disease. The Lord has given His angels charge over me to keep me. Nothing can hurt me by any means. I am surrounded on every side by the goodness of God. All around me, there are treasures, everywhere! All things are working for my good. I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus and I take possession of my inheritance in Christ. My health, strength, and wealth are assured. Christ is mingled with my spirit. So, I refuse to be sick any day, anytime. I am invigorated with strength always. My life is the expression and manifestation of the glory and righteousness of Christ. Therefore, I am superhuman! I have the life of Christ at work in my spirit, soul, and body. No darkness, misery, infirmity, or pain is associated with me because Christ is my life. I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus and I take possession of my inheritance in Christ. I am immune to every form of toxin, poison, or venom. I walk in the reality of who I am in Christ, a new creation with God’s indestructible and “uninfectable” life. The God-life in me makes me supernatural and impregnable to sickness and disease. Jesus bore my infirmities on His body, thus securing my health forever. I am complete in Christ, who is the head of all principality and power. How beautiful it is to know that when God looks at me, He sees me complete, lacking nothing necessary for life and godliness. I refuse to live with a lack mentality as though there are certain things I don’t have. I am totally inundated with the consciousness of my completeness. Divine health flourishes in me. Goodness and mercy follow me everywhere I go, and I have the supernatural grace to excel in all endeavors today. Christ purchased a life of glory for me through His death and resurrection, and sickness has no place in that life. Divine life and unfailing health and strength are at work in me today and forever in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Former Watford captain and Premier League stalwart Troy Deeney has expressed his strong belief that Chelsea’s latest summer recruit, Joao Pedro, will inject a significant level of intensity into the Blues’ squad. Joao Pedro, who is 23 years old, was recently acquired by Chelsea from fellow Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion for a transfer fee of £60 million. The Brazilian forward delivered a solid performance for Brighton in the previous English Premier League season, where he found the back of the net on 10 occasions. Sharing his thoughts about Joao Pedro, Deeney spoke to talkSPORT and remarked: “He’ll bring intensity to the Chelsea squad. That’s exactly what Joao Pedro is going to deliver. He is clearly an outstanding footballer, no question about that.” Deeney also commented on footage from Chelsea’s training ground, which had circulated across social media, adding: “We were just discussing those training videos Chelsea have posted online, and he’s already making his presence felt, throwing his weight around.” Additionally, Joao Pedro recently appeared for Chelsea during their 2-1 victory against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup. The match took place in the early hours of Saturday, showcasing Pedro’s early involvement with his new club.
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The quest for the establishment of Adada State once again took center stage on Friday during the National Assembly’s public hearing on proposed amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. At the forefront of this passionate demand was Chief Nnia Nwodo, the former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Speaking before lawmakers, he argued decisively that the planned Adada State, to be carved out of present-day Enugu State, stands as the most credible and prepared among all the southeastern state proposals. Nwodo explained to the National Assembly that Adada had already satisfied every constitutional criterion needed for state creation. These include the essential parliamentary approval and subsequent presentation for a referendum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in line with section 8 of the constitution. Additionally, Chief James Ugwu, who chairs the Adada State Movement, highlighted that this push for Adada State did not begin recently. Rather, he traced its roots to 1970, when a formal request was submitted to then-Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, just after the Nigerian civil war. Senator Okey Ezea, who represents Enugu North Senatorial District, reiterated that the proposal for Adada State fully aligns with the 1999 constitutional requirements and deserves the National Assembly’s immediate approval. These stakeholders made their firm positions known during the South East Zonal public hearing for constitutional review in Enugu on Friday. Nwodo cited Section 8(1) of the constitution, which stipulates that a new state may be created via an Act of the National Assembly, provided two-thirds of all legislators from the concerned area — including members of the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate — sign on in support. Submitting an amendment to facilitate Adada’s creation, Nwodo showed clear evidence that his people had satisfied all these constitutional demands. Legislators across Enugu State — councilors, state lawmakers, and National Assembly representatives — had endorsed the proposal, he said. Nwodo also recalled that Adada State had already been recommended for creation during the 2014 National Conference led by Justice Idris Kutige, which endorsed it as the sole state deserving of creation. He stressed that Adada remains a highly viable candidate thanks to its abundant human talent and natural resources. Furthermore, he emphasized that Adada is the most persistently agitated region in Nigeria yet to receive state status, despite other former provinces being granted states. Nsukka province, in particular, has not benefited from this arrangement. According to Nwodo, the old Nsukka zone — historically known as Adada — is the only colonial-era district in northern Igbo land that was never made a state capital. Meanwhile, the southern parts of Igbo land have already secured three states, leaving the northern segment with just two. He argued that fairness demands prioritizing Adada’s statehood, especially given its long struggle dating back to 1983 in the Senate, before any other southeastern state proposal. “There are compelling reasons to create Adada State,” he declared. “First, in the last round of state creations, the northern Igbo area — covering Enugu and Ebonyi — only gained two states, while the southern Igbo secured three. Disparities like this breed frustration and resentment.” He added, “Secondly, Igbos are a significant population within Nigeria, yet their true numbers are consistently undercounted. Over half of our people live outside Igboland, and virtually every part of Nigeria has a considerable Igbo community that contributes to its prosperity.” Highlighting the demographic imbalance, Nwodo argued that Adada State comprises seven of Enugu’s 17 local government areas, with six based firmly in Adada territory and one in Enugu East senatorial district. Despite representing 54% of Enugu State’s population, the area has just six local governments, while other senatorial zones enjoy disproportionate representation. He called this unfair: “Out of 17 LGAs, we only control six but account for 54% of the people. The other two senators represent only 22% each, while our senator serves 52% of the population. One local government was even shifted out to balance a senatorial district, further diluting our voice.” Nwodo recalled that the Adada movement had sought National Assembly backing during the leadership of David Mark and Ahmed Lawan. Although they received hearings, state creation was not a government priority at the time. He expressed hope that the current National Assembly, with its emphasis on inclusiveness, would deliver justice. “In 2014, Justice Idris Kutige’s constitutional conference explicitly endorsed Adada as the only state recommended,” he reminded lawmakers. He also recounted how, when Achike Udenwa governed Imo State, the entire Igbo community gathered there to choose a priority state, unanimously resolving that Adada should be created. That resolution still stands today. Describing Adada as a “neglected and wounded” part of the southeast, Nwodo cited the unfair federal executive representation. At the time the local government boundaries were drawn, only Silas Ilo and Jim Nwobodo represented their interests, resulting in a mere six LGAs for Adada’s majority population. Nwodo appealed to the committee: “Daniel has come to judgment today. Let justice come through this National Assembly.” He underscored Adada’s economic promise, mentioning oil and gas reserves in Uzo-Uwani that are being horizontally drilled by Anambra State. The area also holds immense agricultural potential, a navigable waterway linking to the Niger and Benue rivers, and a highly educated workforce thanks to institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. “We have one of the best universities, producing professors who can manage the state efficiently,” he said. “I trust I have appealed to your conscience.” Chief James Ugwu, Chairman of the Adada State Movement, reiterated that he still holds the 1970 petition that was sent to General Gowon for Adada’s creation. He argued that forming Adada would correct long-standing inequities within Igbo land by giving the northern Igbo (Wawa people) three states, matching the southern Igbo’s three, and ensuring the southeast joins other geopolitical zones with six states each. “Since we have fulfilled section 8(1) of the 1999 constitution, our next step should be a referendum supervised by INEC,” he insisted. Senator Okey Ezea supported these sentiments, describing Adada as the only province
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Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has officially named Abdulwahab Mohammed as the Senior Special Assistant on Communication. The appointment was made known in an announcement released on Friday through Mukhtar Gidado, who serves as the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. Within the statement, it was highlighted that Abdulwahab Mohammed is a seasoned journalist who previously served with the Voice of America (VOA) Hausa Service. “This appointment demonstrates Governor Bala Mohammed’s dedication to reinforcing the state’s communication strategy and enhancing interaction between the government and the people,” the statement explained. Additionally, Gidado noted that Abdulwahab would be responsible for promoting the government’s policies and initiatives, expanding public awareness, and supporting the advancement of good governance across the state. According to the statement, the appointment is to take effect immediately.
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The government of Kano State has officially sanctioned the selection of 19 new Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) covering a broad range of portfolios. This development was confirmed on Friday through a press release shared by the spokesperson of the Governor, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. As indicated in the statement, these fresh appointments aim to strengthen governance by aligning it more closely with the needs of the people. It is also intended to speed up progress in vital sectors, which include public health, education, women’s empowerment initiatives, transportation, sanitation programs, and grassroots public mobilization. Among those who have secured appointments is Hon. Sunusi Kata Madobi, who has been named SSA on Radio I, succeeding the late Abdullahi Tanka. Also appointed is Mika’ilu Shu’aibu (Ghari), taking on the role of SSA on Hisbah, alongside Muhktar Abdullahi Shuwaki (Ghari), who has been given responsibility as SSA on Land. Further on the list is Engr. Sagir Lawan Waziri (Ghari), who will oversee matters concerning Corporate Social Responsibility (Works). Najeef Abdulsalam was appointed as SSA for Yan Akwati (Men), while Huwaila Iguda has been selected to take on SSA responsibilities for Yan Akwati (Women). Other newly confirmed appointees include Naziru Hamidu Bako, designated to serve with KAROTA; Usman Abbas Sunusi, assigned to Protocol II; and Engr. Usman Kofar Naisa, who will handle affairs connected to the Mahaha Sports Complex. Additionally, Danladi Alhassan Mai-Bulala has been made SSA on Public Mobilization II. Abdulkhadir Umar Kwankwaso will oversee education-related assignments in Abuja. Balarabe Aminu Yusuf, who previously served as Personal Assistant (Domestic), has now been promoted to SSA on Domestic III (Guest Government House). Shukurana Garba Langel has been appointed SSA on Public Mobilization (Kano North), while Mustapha Ma’aruf Diso will handle Primary Healthcare duties. Key roles have also been assigned to Garba Yahaya Labour, who is named SSA on Transportation I; Humaira Sharif, who takes up the role of SSA on Women Enlightenment; and Muttaka Sani Gaya, appointed as SSA on Support Groups III. Moreover, the list features Gausu Nuhu Wali, who has been assigned as SSA on Indigenous Artists, while Hadiza Sale (popularly known as Baby) will serve in the capacity of SSA on Sanitation. The Kano State Government conveyed its trust and optimism that these individuals will contribute a sense of energy, relevant experience, and unwavering commitment to their newly designated roles, thereby advancing the administration’s objective of building a more inclusive and citizen-oriented style of governance.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reiterated that the ongoing review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly will serve as a solid foundation for a more equitable, cohesive, and progressive federation. Speaking during the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the 1999 Constitution Review in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio emphasized the vital importance of the constitutional exercise, which is simultaneously taking place in five geopolitical zones of Nigeria. According to a statement issued by Anietie Ekong, the Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Senate President, Akpabio maintained that the public hearing transcends mere legislative routine. Describing the event as a true “democratic rite,” Akpabio highlighted that it marks a solemn opportunity for the Nigerian people — not just political leaders — to make their voices heard and shape the nation’s collective destiny. He stressed that in a true democracy, every citizen’s voice is indispensable. He explained that revisiting the Constitution should not be seen as a sign of weakness or dissatisfaction with past frameworks, but rather as a demonstration of resilience and proactive adaptation. According to him, the amendments are intended not to abandon the Constitution, but to realign and harmonize its principles with the evolving dreams, expectations, and realities of the Nigerian people. Akpabio, who is also a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, declared that every Nigerian has a stake in strengthening and sustaining democracy. He said the ongoing public hearing confirms the Senate’s deep commitment to the notion that truth flourishes through open dialogue and the collective exchange of sincere opinions, not through silence or monologues. Similarly, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State echoed the significance of the Constitution’s review as an indispensable part of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He underscored that the ongoing South-South Zonal Public Hearing is far more than a routine legislative event. Governor Eno described it as a vital milestone in Nigeria’s democratic advancement, which should lay the groundwork for the broader restructuring of the nation, ensuring that it meets the aspirations of all Nigerians. LMSINT MEDIA confirms that this constitutional review exercise will continue to take place across the other geopolitical zones, further reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive governance and the rule of law.
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Pharmacists operating under the umbrella of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) have sounded an urgent alarm to the Nigerian public, warning that as much as half of the drugs available in circulation are counterfeit or fall below acceptable quality standards. The National Chairman of the ACPN, Pharmacist Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, shared this disturbing revelation in a press release ahead of the association’s 44th annual national conference. The statement, which was made accessible to LMSINT MEDIA on Friday evening, emphasized the seriousness of the issue. Ezeh highlighted that the continuous flood of substandard and falsified medicines, along with unwholesome foods and beverages, has grown into a deeply concerning challenge for the nation in recent times. He observed with regret that at present, well over 50% of the pharmaceutical products circulating throughout Nigeria are either fake or below the required standard. He went on to point out the devastating consequences of counterfeit medicines on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Beyond the well-known risks associated with consuming fake pharmaceutical products, Ezeh drew attention to the escalating problem of counterfeit drinks, which he described as being driven by ruthless profiteers whom he referred to as “modern-day merchants of death.” According to the ACPN chairman, this trend is not only dangerous but requires immediate intervention. He therefore urged the National Assembly to quickly amend the existing legislation on counterfeit drugs and the regulation of unwholesome food items. Ezeh stressed that such a legislative adjustment is critical if Nigeria hopes to curb this persistent public health threat. “Our consistent and research-driven findings demonstrate that we have returned to a time when over half of drugs circulating in the country are fake or substandard, a reality far worse than the official figures that place it between 13% and 15%,” Ezeh remarked, underscoring the alarming gap between research data and officially quoted statistics. His comments reinforce the pressing need for stronger regulation and monitoring of the pharmaceutical and food industries. With the health of countless Nigerians at stake, Ezeh’s appeal to lawmakers carries an urgent message that can no longer be ignored. It is a call for decisive policy action to shield the nation from the deadly consequences of counterfeit and substandard products.
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Nigerian music star Reekado Banks has recently admitted that he is no longer fully convinced about proceeding with marriage plans involving his fiancée, who is also the mother of his child. This revelation marks a significant shift from his earlier confidence about settling down with her. Just two months ago, Reekado Banks had announced during an interview that he was getting ready to wed his fiancée, who is popularly known as his babymama. However, in a fresh conversation on TVC’s program Interview with Esther Oye, the singer explained that he is currently uncertain about the relationship. During the interview, Reekado Banks reflected on what could have caused this change of heart. He acknowledged that his wavering position is tied to his own emotional growth and decision-making process. According to him, “At my last interview, I was very sure of my stance. But now I am in a different headspace. It has only been two months since I said those things, and for that reason, I can’t really say anything definite right now. Back then, I was certain, but at this point I can’t be so sure. My change of mind comes from experience. I wouldn’t attribute it to the pressures of the music industry, but rather to myself and my emotional intelligence, which I am still trying to develop.” It will be recalled that Reekado Banks and his partner celebrated the birth of their baby boy in November 2024, a joyful event that was widely shared on social media. Following the birth, in December, Reekado made a public appearance with his fiancée for the first time, introducing her to fans and the media. The current situation reflects a turning point for the singer, who has openly recognized the importance of building stronger emotional intelligence before making long-term commitments. Fans will likely keep a close eye on whether the couple eventually moves forward with marriage or takes more time to work on their relationship.
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An Israeli air assault struck the Al-Baqa Cafeteria, a popular seafront cafe in Gaza City, killing a Hamas fighter while simultaneously taking the lives of dozens of innocent civilians — including artists, students, and children. Before the attack, the cafe was a hub of normal life, bustling with visitors enjoying their tea, scrolling through social media on their phones, or celebrating birthdays with family and friends. According to sources speaking to journalists, a Hamas militant in civilian clothing had quietly arrived and taken a seat in a corner of the cafe moments before the tragedy unfolded. Soon after his arrival, an Israeli aerial strike hit the cafe, blasting through the walls and creating a massive crater while unleashing horrific destruction. Eyewitnesses described horrifying scenes in the aftermath, with survivors desperately searching for missing loved ones amid the chaos. One witness shared with reporters, “The scene was horrific, there were bodies, blood, screaming everywhere.” Another described the damage in raw terms: “It was total destruction. A true massacre at Al-Baqa Cafeteria — a massacre that tears the heart apart.” Among the deceased were women, young teenagers, and skilled professionals, including a female boxer, a footballer, and several staff members of the establishment. The youngest victims were students and children. Gaza’s Shifa Hospital, where most of the wounded and deceased were transported, confirmed at least 40 fatalities as of Thursday, with several more dying later from their injuries. A hospital official described heartbreaking scenes of dismembered and severely burned victims arriving for emergency care. The facility admitted 72 injured people, many of whom required urgent surgical intervention. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the strike and explained that its target was “terrorists” located at the cafe. They claimed measures had been implemented to “reduce the risk of civilian harm using aerial surveillance,” and noted that the incident was currently under review. However, they did not directly address the high civilian death toll or confirm the identity of the targeted individual. The Al-Baqa Cafeteria itself, overlooking the Mediterranean coastline, had separate seating for families and men and had remained a busy meeting point despite the ongoing war, partly because of its stable internet connection. Employees told journalists the cafe maintained a strict admission policy to prevent known militants from accessing the premises. On the day of the attack, the Gaza City port district, where the cafe is located, had not been placed under any Israeli evacuation notice. Families of those killed expressed that they believed the cafe to be a relatively safe haven. According to defense analysts speaking to reporters, the munitions used appeared to be a bomb delivered by a warplane, rather than a smaller missile fired from a drone — a detail that suggests a deliberate decision to ensure the target was hit. One of those killed was 27-year-old Hisham Ayman Mansour, identified by Hamas sources as the probable intended target. A former member of Hamas’s military branch, he had been described by certain informants as a field commander, though his current role was not fully clear. Conflicting reports suggested his reasons for being there ranged from handling financial arrangements to simply stopping by for coffee. Images shared on social media appeared to show Hisham at the cafe a day before the bombing, and again on the day of the attack, wearing the same clothing. Two of his relatives, including a child, also perished in the explosion. The IDF did not confirm whether Hisham was the primary objective or if other Hamas figures were present. A former senior Israeli security source said that multiple Hamas members were struck in the attack, though only Hisham’s name was officially released by Hamas sources. The greatest share of casualties were civilians. Among them was 17-year-old Sama Mohammad Abu Namous, who had gone to the cafe with her brother to study, relying on the venue’s internet connection. Sama died instantly, while her brother survived but suffered serious injuries. Several cafe staff were also killed. A manager explained that they had gathered in a shaded outdoor area when the strike happened. A regular customer, Saeed Ahel, reported that six staff members had been killed. A mother’s heart-wrenching cries echoed as her two sons, both cafe employees, were carried lifeless from the wreckage. Other victims included Malak Musleh, a young female boxer admired for her efforts to promote gender equality in sports. Her coach, Osama Ayoub, described her passion and perseverance: “She had a fire in her eyes and her words.” Artist Amina Omar Al-Salmi, also known as Frans, was among the dead. Her paintings — including one depicting a blood-covered woman — have circulated widely after her death, drawing chilling comparisons with postmortem images of her. Her sister, speaking from Sweden, recalled Amina’s last words: “She was happy and told me, ‘We’ll meet soon. You’ll see me at your place.’” Because Gaza remains sealed off to international journalists, independent confirmation of details has been challenging. However, fragments of lives lost litter the cafe’s ruins — blood-soaked playing cards, a child’s shoe, and a ripped teddy bear lying among charred beams and shattered chairs, silently testifying to a human tragedy that unfolded in seconds.
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In a significant move to strengthen governance and improve service delivery, the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has on Friday approved the appointment of seven prominent officials into critical roles across key state agencies. The announcement was made public through an official statement released by Sunusi Bature, who serves as the Director-General for Media and Publicity at the Kano Government House. According to Bature’s statement, these appointments are designed to energize the state’s public sector management and ensure smooth execution of the government’s development goals. Among the officials newly appointed is Dr. Bashir Muzakkar, who has now been named the Director-General of the Kano State Information and Communication Technologies Development Agency. Previously, Dr. Muzakkar served as the Special Adviser to the Governor, handling matters related to the Digital and Creative Economy, demonstrating a strong background in advancing technological innovation within the state. Another appointee is Kabiru Dakata, who has been assigned the position of Director-General at the State Advert and Signage Agency. This agency plays a vital role in regulating public advertising and signage in Kano, ensuring compliance and maintaining urban aesthetics. Furthermore, Dr. Fatima Abubakar has been appointed as the Director-General for the State Social Protection Agency. Before taking on this new role, she was the Special Adviser focusing on Enlightenment and Social Mobilisation, which has positioned her to drive impactful social support programs for vulnerable communities across Kano State. In addition to these appointments, Isyaku Umar-Kwa has been designated as the Deputy Managing Director of the State Housing Corporation. Umar-Kwa’s experience is expected to bolster affordable housing policies and infrastructural delivery in the state. Hamisu Danzaki will now take charge as the Executive Secretary of the State Scholarship Board, a key institution that supports educational advancement and scholarship opportunities for deserving students across Kano. Similarly, Isma’il Nasarawa has been named Provost of the Anti-Corruption Institute, reflecting the administration’s priority to reinforce anti-corruption training, ethical practices, and accountability within Kano’s public service. The list also includes Mohammed Gabasawa, who has been appointed as the Commandant of the Corporate Security Institute. His leadership will enhance the capacity building and professional training of corporate security personnel in the state. Governor Abba Yusuf, while confirming these appointments, expressed strong confidence in the professionalism, capacity, and dedication of the newly selected officials. He highlighted their expected contributions in advancing his administration’s transformation agenda and implementing reforms across the key sectors that are vital to Kano’s sustainable development. By entrusting these capable individuals with strategic responsibilities, Governor Yusuf continues to demonstrate a commitment to strengthening public institutions, improving governance standards, and delivering impactful services to the people of Kano State.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday threw down a challenge to David Mark, Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and opposition coalition stalwart Rotimi Amaechi, accusing them of misleading Nigerians with their rhetoric. Wike, speaking firmly, asserted that the coalition spearheaded by David Mark, Amaechi, and their allies had no realistic path to regaining political power come 2027. He made these remarks while addressing attendees during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Aguma Palace–Radio Nigeria–New Market Road project in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. The project, officially commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, formed part of initiatives planned to commemorate Tinubu’s second term in office. Using the event as a platform, Wike directly challenged David Mark, Amaechi, and the coalition’s leadership to present their performance records to Nigerians. Wike stated, “They claimed the coalition was formed 18 months ago, while Tinubu had only been in office for six months. You started forming your coalition while he was just six months into the presidency, yet you’ve been telling Nigerians that they are unhappy after such a short time in power.” He further highlighted the past opportunities these leaders had to make a difference while in public office. Wike pointed out that David Mark held the office of Senate President for eight years, while Amaechi was Speaker of a State Assembly for four years and later served as Minister of Transportation for another eight years. Despite these opportunities, Wike argued, neither leader had made tangible improvements to satisfy Nigerians. “They never made angry Nigerians happy,” Wike emphasized, “but after staying in office for just six months, you begin to complain about how Nigerians are angry.” Wike continued, “I have consistently challenged everyone to show their performance records. As Senate President, show the people of Benue State and Otukpo what you accomplished — was it just about flying in a helicopter to Otukpo? We are here, within just 16 days, showing our own scorecards with results on the ground.” He declared the moment as “Operation Show Your Scorecard,” challenging opposition figures to reveal their impact while in office. Wike maintained that God granted them the privilege to lead and serve Nigerians, but they failed to deliver happiness and progress. “Because you have left office, you are now claiming Nigerians are angry — just because you want to return to power,” Wike said, concluding with a strong statement: “You will not return to power.”
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President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, acknowledging that Rufai permanently etched his name in gold within Nigeria’s sports history and across the African continent. In an official statement issued on Thursday through Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu paid a heartfelt tribute to the renowned football star, popularly nicknamed “Dodomayana” by fans who adored him. According to a report from LMSINT MEDIA, the celebrated football legend sadly died on Thursday at the age of 61, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. President Tinubu reflected warmly on Peter Rufai’s remarkable and heroic role during the Super Eagles’ victorious campaign at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, where Rufai served as the first-choice goalkeeper. The President further praised Rufai’s contribution to Nigeria’s landmark debut in the FIFA World Cup, held in the United States in 1994 and famously referred to as USA ’94, highlighting how Rufai played an instrumental part in that historic achievement. Emphasizing Rufai’s far-reaching legacy, President Tinubu stated that the late football legend’s name would continue to resonate in the hearts of Nigerians and football enthusiasts around the globe for generations to come. President Tinubu also underlined Rufai’s subsequent involvement in the 1998 FIFA World Cup tournament in France, in addition to commending his groundbreaking role in advancing professionalism in Nigerian football. Tinubu noted that Rufai built a distinguished career abroad, featuring in top-tier leagues across Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, a journey which brought immense honour to the nation while simultaneously opening doors for many young Nigerian footballers to pursue their dreams abroad. Tracing his roots back to the beginning of his football journey, Tinubu pointed out that Rufai started with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980. He became one of the earliest Nigerian players to fully embrace a professional path, taking his skills to European clubs, thus shining a positive light on the country and paving the way for a new wave of opportunities for aspiring talents within the Nigerian football scene. Apart from his exceptional achievements on the pitch, Rufai, who hailed from a royal family in Idimu, Lagos, was also widely celebrated for his commitment to nurturing future generations through his Staruf Football Academy. President Tinubu praised this devotion, highlighting how Rufai continued to inspire, mentor, and uplift countless young footballers, ensuring that his passion for the beautiful game would live on through those he helped to develop.
