In a disturbing turn of events in Benue State, suspected armed herdsmen reportedly hijacked two commercial buses and kidnapped at least 19 passengers in the early hours of Thursday. The incident occurred in the Jor community, along the Adoka-Naka highway, located within Gwer West Local Government Area. According to eyewitnesses and local authorities, the attackers struck at two different intervals but in the same area—roughly three kilometers from Naka, the administrative headquarters of Gwer West LGA. One of the commercial vehicles was en route from Ankpa, Kogi State to Makurdi, while the other was traveling from Makurdi to Lokoja. Both fell into the ambush, leaving travelers at the mercy of the assailants. Local Authorities Confirm the Incident The Ter Tyoshin and Chairman of the Gwer West Traditional Council, His Royal Highness Daniel Abomtse, verified the reports. He disclosed that each bus carried around a dozen passengers at the time of the abduction. Fortunately, an elderly woman, a nursing mother and her two children, and one of the drivers were spared. “The survivors immediately reported the incident to officers at the Naka Police Station,” Abomtse added. Transportation Union Reacts The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) also responded to the development. Yakubu Onu, the Secretary of the NURTW High Level Unit in Makurdi, confirmed that the spared passengers informed the police and were later allowed to continue their journey safely. “We are still waiting to hear from other transporters and the families of the kidnapped individuals,” Onu said. Security operatives have since launched a manhunt to locate and rescue the victims. This tragic event underscores the growing concerns about insecurity on Nigerian highways, especially in Benue State, where similar incidents have been reported in recent months. For further reference on road safety and rising insecurity across Nigerian highways, visit BBC Africa. Related Articles BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
In a devastating assault on Kogon Dutse village in the Old Muri district of Taraba State, a 30-year-old herdsman identified as Muazu Anaruwa was murdered by suspected armed bandits, who also made away with 40 cattle belonging to the victim’s family. According to verified information obtained by Zagazola Makama, the tragic event unfolded on April 22, 2025, when Muazu left home to graze his family’s livestock and never returned. Concerned by his absence, his father, Alhaji Audu Anaruwa, reported him missing. A few hours later, Muazu’s lifeless body was found by police officers and local residents in the grazing area, with clear evidence of a gunshot wound. It was also confirmed that the family’s entire herd of 40 cows had been rustled. The body of the slain herder was transported to the Primary Healthcare Centre in Andami, where medical personnel confirmed his death. His remains have since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites. This gruesome act has left the local community in shock, with residents describing it as another brazen case of cattle rustling and rural banditry—a disturbing trend that has become all too common in parts of northern Nigeria. Security forces, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante operatives, have launched an aggressive manhunt to capture the culprits and retrieve the stolen livestock. Authorities have vowed to intensify patrols and strengthen rural security networks across the region to prevent similar incidents in the future. Community Voices Growing Concerns Over Bandit Attacks The resurgence of cattle rustling in northern Nigeria is causing widespread fear among pastoral communities, with calls growing louder for a more coordinated and effective response from both state and federal authorities. For context, the ongoing security challenges in Taraba State and neighboring regions have been extensively reported by outlets like Premium Times Nigeria and HumAngle, which monitor security trends and provide data-driven reporting on violence and displacement in the region. ? Related Internal Links (Grouped for Easy Navigation) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Veteran Nigerian musician and social commentator, Daddy Showkey, has openly condemned the recent directive by Governor Umar Bago of Niger State instructing security personnel to apprehend individuals wearing dreadlocks. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the controversial order was issued by the governor during a high-level security meeting in Minna, the state capital, earlier this week. Governor Bago explained that the directive was part of an aggressive security strategy aimed at combating increasing criminal activities in the region. Reacting to this order via an Instagram post on Thursday, Daddy Showkey—known for proudly wearing dreadlocks as part of his identity—expressed strong disapproval. He challenged the effectiveness and logic behind associating dreadlocks with criminal behavior. The Afro-reggae legend sarcastically questioned whether dreadlocks were indeed the root cause of rising insecurity in Niger State. In a passionate outburst, Showkey declared that he had decided to cancel his planned visit to Minna in response to the directive. In his own words, he said:“Mohammed Umar, is dreadlock your main problem? I was planning to visit Minna, but with your new rule about cutting dreadlocks, I’ll skip it. However, start by trimming your beard first before targeting others’ hair.” This statement has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians criticizing the perceived stereotyping and violation of personal freedom. Showkey’s bold stance has also drawn attention to the infringement on cultural and personal identity in the name of security. Related Articles on LMSINT Read more about Nigeria’s stance on human rights and personal freedoms BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted hundreds of Junior Airmen and Junior Airwomen from the Air Force Military School and the Air Force Girls Military School in Jos, transporting them to various locations across Nigeria. This airlift operation was part of a special mission focused on supporting NAF personnel and their families. In a post shared on the NAF’s official X handle on Thursday, the Force revealed that the students were flown using the NAF’s iconic C-130 and ATR-42 aircraft. These aircraft were not being deployed for combat, but rather for a mission of care, ensuring the safe and swift transport of the students across the country. The airlift mission was not just a routine operation; it served as a beacon of hope, unity, and support. For many, seeing their children safely return home not only brought immense relief but also boosted morale and solidified the trust the public has in the Nigerian Air Force—a Force dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s skies. Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a significant policy shift, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the disbursement of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash for Nigerian pilgrims attending the 2025 Hajj. This move follows Vice President Kashim Shettima’s intervention. A statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, the vice president’s spokesperson, confirmed that the CBN’s decision overturns an earlier mandate requiring pilgrims to use debit cards exclusively for Hajj-related expenses. This policy change comes after considerable concern from pilgrims and tour operators, who highlighted challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and limited financial literacy. Following a meeting with the vice president, Aliu Abdulrazaq, Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management & Finance at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), confirmed the approval of cash transactions. Abdulrazaq explained that the meeting, which focused on the government’s policy regarding BTA for the 2025 Hajj, resulted in a positive outcome for pilgrims. “The Vice President’s intervention was crucial. He invited the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank and made a plea for a more practical solution,” Abdulrazaq said. “Thanks to the Vice President’s efforts, the CBN agreed to allow pilgrims to carry cash instead of relying on a debit card. This is a significant achievement for NAHCON.” He further explained that cashless transactions presented logistical challenges for many pilgrims. In Saudi Arabia, where the majority of pilgrims go to perform their religious duties, there is often only one ATM at pilgrimage sites, and it tends to be crowded, making it difficult for pilgrims to withdraw money or make purchases. Additionally, most Nigerian pilgrims are peasant farmers with limited experience with electronic payments. Many also struggle to identify foreign currencies, making cash a more practical option for them. “With the cash now available, we are more confident that Hajj operations will proceed smoothly. The major concern was the BTA, but that issue has now been resolved,” Abdulrazaq added. NAHCON’s Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali, emphasized that this decision should not be misunderstood as a subsidy or government concession. “It’s not a subsidy or a federal government intervention. The Vice President’s intervention was made because many pilgrims prefer to make purchases on the streets of Mecca and Medina, and they do not need a debit card to do so,” he explained. “The CBN will provide the cash at the market rate.” Abba Muhammad Aliyu, Director of Human Resources at the CBN and a board member at NAHCON, elaborated on the decision’s background. “The decision was made with the pilgrims’ welfare in mind, especially considering their limited financial literacy. Many pilgrims struggle to use ATMs, so offering cash is a more suitable solution for them,” he said. This decision marks a pivotal change in Hajj operations, ensuring smoother financial transactions for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has expressed grave concern over the alarming statistics of over 80,000 Nigerian women who lose their lives annually due to toxic smoke inhalation from traditional cooking practices, such as using firewood and kerosene stoves. During a recent stakeholders’ engagement on women’s access to clean energy in Abuja, the minister highlighted the severe social and economic challenges posed by energy poverty, particularly for rural women. She described energy poverty as more than just a technical issue but a form of social injustice. “Energy poverty isn’t just a technical issue; it represents a social injustice,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated. “It keeps women trapped in cycles of unpaid labor, economic dependence, and health risks. In numerous rural areas, women spend up to eight hours weekly collecting firewood.” The minister called for an urgent partnership among stakeholders in the energy sector to provide cleaner, safer alternatives for women, especially those in underserved communities. As part of this effort, a new initiative was launched, focusing on offering solar-powered solutions for both domestic and agricultural purposes. “Through this initiative, we will ensure energy access through solar home systems, clean cooking technologies, solar-powered water pumps, e-mobility tools, and other productive-use appliances to every part of the country,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. The meeting also featured significant contributions from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), showcasing their ongoing efforts to bridge the energy access gap. Abba Abubakar-Aliyu, Managing Director of REA, shared that the $550 million Nigerian Electrification Project has already impacted approximately eight million Nigerians and 35,000 businesses, including 12,000 women-led enterprises. He further revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved an additional $750 million off-grid power project, with a large portion of the funds dedicated to mini-grids and solar home systems. “This presents a great opportunity for us to replicate and scale this intervention across the nation,” Abubakar-Aliyu stated. Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI—represented by Dr. Olayode Olasupo—also addressed the disproportionate effects of energy poverty on rural women. He explained that inadequate access to clean cooking energy, along with limited access to electricity for lighting and other essential services, restricts women’s access to vital services, reduces economic opportunities, and threatens their health and safety. Stakeholders at the event emphasized the importance of gender-sensitive energy policies and sustainable financing models to guarantee equitable access to clean energy for women in remote and rural areas. The Guardian: Energy Poverty and Its Impact on Women BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has officially inaugurated the new leadership of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF), urging them to ensure that the state receives adequate compensation for its significant contributions to the creation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Governor Bago emphasized the importance of advocating for Nigerlites working in federal institutions within the FCT, calling for better representation and placement for them. Speaking shortly after the inauguration at the state liaison office in Abuja, Bago praised the establishment of the Forum, acknowledging it as an excellent initiative. He offered his full support, especially to its secretariat, to ensure efficient service delivery that will propel the development of the state. In his address, Bago also shared details of his administration’s long-term, mid-term, and short-term development plans. These include projects focused on bridging the infrastructural gaps and addressing key sectors in the state. The Governor revealed that these plans would span 50 years, 30 years, and 10 years, respectively. Mohammed Idris Malagi, the newly appointed Chairman of the Niger State Development Forum, reaffirmed his commitment to leading the Forum and steering it towards growth. He highlighted the Forum’s non-political nature and its commitment to the state’s progress, irrespective of political differences. Malagi outlined the Forum’s priorities, which include expanding membership, enhancing policy advisory capacity, and fostering collaborations for the development of Niger State. He also acknowledged the former leadership’s dedication and selflessness, urging the new leadership and members to stay committed to achieving meaningful progress. In his remarks, Co-Chairman Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, commended the Forum’s promising future and expressed his determination to contribute to its success, especially in line with the “New Niger” vision. Ambassador Zubairu Dada, the outgoing Chairman, expressed confidence in the new leadership, recognizing Mohammed Idris Malagi as a founding member who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Forum. He voiced trust that the Forum’s new leadership would continue to support the administration led by Governor Bago and steer the state towards greater achievements. Niger State Government Official Website Governor Bago’s Administration and Development Plans BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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More than 100,000 residents in Istanbul were forced to spend the night outdoors, fearing potential aftershocks, following a powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the city. The tremor, which occurred on Wednesday morning, originated in the Marmara Sea, just off the coast of Istanbul. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya addressed the press on Thursday, revealing that approximately 101,000 individuals had been relocated to temporary shelters, including mosques, schools, and dormitories across the city. To aid those affected, mobile catering units and tents were set up to provide food and basic necessities. By Thursday morning, authorities had recorded 266 aftershocks since the initial quake. Despite the intensity of the earthquake, Environment, Urbanisation, and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum assured the public that no residential buildings had collapsed, apart from a derelict structure in the Fatih district. Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu reported that 60 individuals were receiving medical attention in hospitals, primarily due to injuries caused by panic or by jumping from buildings during the quake. Memişoğlu confirmed that there had been 236 reported injuries, but fortunately, no fatalities. This earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic vulnerability of Istanbul, a city located near major fault lines. As residents continue to cope with the aftershocks, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population. For more information about earthquake preparedness in Istanbul, check the U.S. Geological Survey’s official site. Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently met with protesting workers from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) in Abuja. The workers have been protesting due to inadequate working conditions. The key purpose of the meeting was to discuss the workers’ grievances, including the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage, the exclusion of certain staff from past allowances, and the neglect of crucial training programs, among other concerns. The meeting was attended by the Director General of NiMET, officials from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), representatives from the National Union of Transport Employees (NUTE), and other essential stakeholders. The meeting began with a brief opening session before moving into a closed-door discussion. Various unions, including the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals, and the National Union of Air Transport Employees, were present at the meeting. This ongoing strike by NiMET workers has caused significant disruptions to flight operations at local airports. The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, announced the cancellation of all flights nationwide due to the strike, which began two days ago. In a viral video, Onyema expressed his concerns, emphasizing the safety of passengers, crew, and equipment: “If NiMET has not called off the strike, cancel every Air Peace flight now with immediate effect. People’s lives and the safety of our equipment and our crew are foremost. I don’t care if other airlines are flying. Suspend every Air Peace flight nationwide. Look at the thunderstorm everywhere. Look at the kind of weather we are going into, and NiMET, which is supposed to provide these things, is on strike, and we are flying. Suspend all flights with immediate effect, until further notice, until that strike is over, safety first.” Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Senator AbdulRahman Kawu Sumaila has stated that his commitment to the people of Southern Kano was the primary reason for his decision to leave the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). In an exclusive interview with BBC Hausa, Senator Sumaila clarified that his departure stemmed from his desire to secure more opportunities for growth and solutions for his constituency—goals he believes were unachievable within the structure of NNPP. While he acknowledged leaving the ruling party in Kano, Sumaila emphasized that his relationship with the state government would remain unaffected by this decision. His primary focus, he explained, would continue to be advancing the development of his constituency, a mission he feels would be better accomplished outside the confines of NNPP. Sumaila further elaborated that the decision was driven by various factors, with the most significant being his responsibility to improve the living conditions of the people he serves. “One of the core reasons for leaving was to explore how we can truly provide something beneficial for our people. Politics involves negotiation, collaboration, and striving for the best outcomes for the community,” he said. Despite parting ways with the NNPP, Sumaila acknowledged the party’s contributions to the recent elections, noting, “NNPP played an important role in the elections, and I too contributed in my own way.” Sumaila assured his supporters that his decision would not halt ongoing development projects in Kano. He expressed confidence that this political move would create better economic opportunities for his constituents, reaffirming that he held no regrets. “I have no regrets about leaving NNPP. Everyone is focused on finding the best solutions for their people, and that is what matters most,” he concluded. Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a deeply troubling incident, seven operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and two civilians have been arrested following the alleged fatal shooting of a police officer identified as Michael Isuwa in Ibusa, located in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. Tragic Incident Unfolds in Delta The incident reportedly occurred on April 23, 2025, at the residence of Chief Abuah Lucky, a prominent figure in the area. The altercation drew the attention of local law enforcement, who arrived at the scene following reports of a violent confrontation. Details Emerge from Intelligence Reports According to Zagazola Makama, a noted counter-insurgency analyst specializing in the Lake Chad region, the tragic event happened around 11:30 a.m. He shared the development on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, citing information from credible intelligence channels. Makama reported that Inspector Michael Isuwa, a police officer attached to 48 PMF Ahoada, Rivers State, was serving at Henric Empire Garden, a facility linked to Chief Lucky. His lifeless body was discovered at the entrance of the premises, drenched in blood—evidence of a gunshot wound allegedly inflicted by DSS personnel. Arrests and Ongoing Investigation In the immediate aftermath, seven DSS officers and two civilians suspected of involvement were apprehended by authorities. The deceased officer’s body was conveyed to Ibusa General Hospital Mortuary, where an autopsy has been scheduled to ascertain the precise cause of death. Security forces in Delta State have since taken control of the situation, and a full-scale investigation is currently underway to uncover the motive and events that led to the confrontation. Related Articles (LMSINT News Blog) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a major security breakthrough, the Adamawa State Police Command has apprehended at least 148 individuals linked to serious criminal activities across the state. The arrests were part of intensified operations targeting organized crime rings responsible for theft, kidnapping, and other violent offenses. According to SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the Police Public Relations Officer, the suspects were detained over a range of offenses including illegal possession of AK-47 rifles, armed robbery, culpable homicide, kidnapping, rape, and vehicle theft. These efforts were carried out under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, as part of a broader national strategy to combat crime. Among the recovered items were three stolen vehicles, now returned to their rightful owners, and a significant cache of weapons including eleven AK-47 rifles, twenty locally-made firearms, 110 rounds of live ammunition, and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), allegedly planted by Boko Haram insurgents in parts of Hong Local Government Area. The Police also succeeded in rescuing six kidnapped individuals, thanks to coordinated actions with other security operatives. CP Dankombo Morris, the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa, applauded the resilience and bravery of his officers and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across the state. These sweeping operations highlight the renewed determination of security agencies in Nigeria to suppress crime and restore public confidence in law enforcement. Related Articles BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a developing legal case, a Magistrates’ Court sitting in Kaduna has ordered the remand of two sales representatives, Timothy James, aged 27, and Daniel Williams, aged 32, over allegations of embezzling ₦7.6 million from their employer. The accused individuals, both of whom reside in Barnawa, Kaduna State, were arraigned on charges of criminal conspiracy and theft. They denied the charges during their court appearance. Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel, presiding over the case, directed that the defendants be held in a correctional facility. The matter was postponed until May 26 for a formal decision on their bail applications. Details of the Alleged Offence According to court documents and statements presented by Inspector Chidi Leo, the lead prosecutor, the case originated from a complaint made by Michael Aaron, the owner of AA Aluminium and Steels, situated along Ahmadu Bello Way in Kaduna. Inspector Leo explained that on March 14, the defendants, alongside unidentified accomplices who are still at large, allegedly colluded to misappropriate a total of ₦7.6 million. The amount reportedly represents proceeds from sales made on behalf of the company, which the accused converted for personal use. Legal Implications The offences, which fall under Sections 58 and 217 of the Kaduna State Penal Code (2017), carry significant penalties. Section 58 stipulates a two-year prison sentence for conspiracy, while Section 217 mandates a five-year imprisonment for theft, upon conviction. RelatedArticles For a better understanding of Nigerian criminal law and penal procedures, refer to this comprehensive guide by International Centre for Nigerian Law. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
