Continued Detention Of El-Rufai Is Abuse Of State Power: Group Berates FG

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March 8, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

An advocacy group, the Coalition of Political Action Committee COPAC, has condemned the continued detention without trial of former Governor of Kaduna state Malam Nasir El-Rufai by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.

This is as the group urged the Federal Government and its agencies to either file charges against El-Rufai or set him free if they don’t have anything against him.

The Source reports that El-Rufai, a prominent figure within the opposition Coalition platform, the African Democratic Congress, ADC has been in custody since February 16, 2026 when he voluntarily honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.

He has been in the custody of the ICPC since Wednesday February 18, when he was granted bail by the EFCC.

The former Kaduna State Governor is being investigated by multiple agencies including the Department of State Service, DSS, over alleged corruption practices, including money laundering and diversion of public funds ,as well as security related issues.

However, his continued detention by the ICPC after the expiry of a 14-day remand order from Gwari Abuja Magistrate court on Friday, March 6, 2026 has continued to elicit widespread indignation and condemnation from across the country.

In a statement on Sunday, March 8, 2026, by its Convener, Aminu Datti Ahmed, the COPAC warned that keeping El-Rufai in detention beyond the expired remand order is tantamount to a gross violation of his fundamental human rights ,as well as a direct affront to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to the civil society group, the court order was only granted to allow the anti-corruption Commission the chance to conclude its investigations, within a clearly stipulated time frame.

“Now that the window has closed, the authorities must either take the matter to court or release the detainee.

“This is not about El-Rufai. This is about the law being a level playing field. The rule of law must never become a selective weapon used against those who fall out of favour with those who hold power.

“The 14-day remand order obtained by investigators in the case involving El-Rufai has expired. That order was granted for a specific and limited purpose: to allow investigators complete their work within a defined constitutional window.

” It was not granted as a license for indefinite detention, procedural manipulation, or political theatre”, COPAC warned.

This is as the group called on prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar ,Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal and others to speak out against what it described as emerging pattern of official intimidation and harassment of dissenting voices by the Federal Government and its agencies.

It urged the Federal Government to be mindful of the rights of the citizens as guaranteed by the Constitution.

” The Federal Government must understand, therefore, that it must now do one of two things in the case of involving El-Rufai: file formal charges before a court, or release the detainee immediately.

“Anything outside these clearly defined legal options would amount to acting illegally and unconstitutionally,,and would render the continued detention an abuse of state power and a violation of the constitutional rights guaranteed to every Nigerian citizen”, the group added.

Aiyedatiwa Lied On Deep Sea Port, Bitumen, Licences Were Secured By Akeredolu – Late Gov’s Aide

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Ayodele Oni

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March 8, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

An Aide of late former Ondo state Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has faulted claims by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ascribing some notable projects such as deep sea Port and bitumen to his administration.

A statement Sunday signed by Richard Olatunde, Chief Press Secretary to the late Governor, insisted that the Akeredolu’s administration pursued and secured a licence for bitumen exploration in the state.

“It would amount to sheer injustice to dismiss the gallantry and ceaseless efforts of the late Governor in respect of the Deep Sea Port. Aketi had laid a strong foundation for the actualisation of the port.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa during a media chat in Akure said that three former governors of the state did little about deep sea Port and bitumen project.

“The Deep Sea Port that we are pursuing has been in the pipeline for many years. Agagu talked about it, Mimiko talked about it. Akeredolu also started something, he got port declaration even though it was faulty that I had to pursue to get it amended.”

But late Akeredolu’s Aide faulted the claim declaring that “The statement, laced with innuendo, was a clear misrepresentation advanced by the Governor.

“This attempt to ridicule, belittle and rubbish the rigorous efforts put in by the late Governor Akeredolu to secure the Port Declaration is unacceptable.

“To merely say that ‘Akeredolu started something’ is to demean the sleepless nights and exhaustive efforts that culminated in the Port Declaration.

“It is on record that the late Governor Akeredolu activated the actualisation of the seaport by employing the services of a consulting firm headed by Mr Ekong Etim.

“This firm conducted the feasibility study of the project and came up with the Outline Business Case (OBC), which is the final report showcasing the project as a multipurpose deep sea port. The OBC was presented to the late Governor Akeredolu on August 15, 2020.

“The OBC was then sent to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance, after which it was forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Transportation.

“The Port Declaration was eventually secured in May 2023 after the memo seeking approval was presented by the Federal Ministry of Transportation through the then Minister of Transportation, Engr. Muazu Jaji Sambo, who was motivated by the intense pressure mounted by the former Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye.

“These efforts that led to the Port Declaration go far beyond what anyone, including Governor Aiyedatiwa, should merely refer to as ‘Akeredolu did something.’

“It would amount to sheer injustice to dismiss the gallantry and ceaseless efforts of the late Governor in respect of the Deep Sea Port. Aketi had laid a strong foundation for the actualisation of the port.

“On the insinuation that the Port Declaration was faulty, Governor Aiyedatiwa should be honest enough to tell the people of Ondo State and Nigerians that what he referred to as “faulty” in the Port Declaration was a clerical error where a company’s name was inserted into the document as a partner.

“It was a clerical error and not a fundamental defect. It did not reduce or cancel the validity of the license secured by the Akeredolu administration. This error was cleared by the Federal Executive Council without hesitation.

“The people of the state should also note that both China Harbor and Dubai Port had already shown interest in the development of the deep sea port in the state.

“The delay in the Port Declaration was the reason the late Governor could not further consolidate on the arrangements before he fell ill and subsequently answered the glorious call.

“As for the claim that no government had touched the area of bitumen exploration before Governor Aiyedatiwa, the facts speak for themselves. It is also on record that the Akeredolu administration pursued and secured a licence for bitumen exploration in the state.

“The Federal Government, through the then Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi, approved and announced that the licence was granted to the state as part of the efforts of the Federal Government to diversify the economy and boost the country’s foreign exchange.

“It is unfortunate that Governor Aiyedatiwa continues to attack and demean the achievements of the late Governor Akeredolu.

“Even the new Government House that was initiated and completed by Governor Akeredolu before he died is being contested by Aiyedatiwa.

“For those of us who witnessed the conspiracy that was fuelled by the unbridled ambition of today’s leadership in 2023, we are not surprised by this unwholesome conduct.

“We can only implore the people of Ondo State to seek the truth and not fall victim to falsehood masquerading as truth.”

Wike Confirms Appointment Of FCTA Workers Employed 10 Years Ago

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Ayodele Oni

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March 8, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

After 10 years of waiting, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the confirmation of appointment of 1,659 staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The 1,659 whose appointments were confirmed, were among the 2,281, who sat for the confirmation examination conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission on February 28, 2026.

The FCT workers’ Union had embarked on strike earlier in the year over several unfulfilled demands among which is non confirmation of appointment of workers.

In a statement on Sunday, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, quoted Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Emeka Ezeh, as saying that some of the workers who sat for the confirmation were employed as far back as 2016 and 2019.

“2, 512 candidates were invited to present themselves for confirmation examination but only 2,281 turned up for the examination.

“A total of 224 officers were absent, fueling suspicion that they could be ghost workers.

“Some of the workers, who sat for the confirmation were employed as far back as 2016 and 2019, while others were

employed shortly before Wike assumed office in August 2023,” he said.

The FCT Civil Service Commission has also concluded plans to conduct both the 2025 and 2026 promotions as approved by the Minister and in line with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to renewing the Hope of FCTA workforce.

Edo Wins $1 Million Global Innovation Prize in Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge

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Ayodele Oni

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March 8, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

Benin City, the Edo State capital, has secured a major international recognition after emerging among the top cities globally in the prestigious Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge, winning a $1 million innovation award.

The global competition attracted participation from over 600 cities worldwide, with only 25 cities across 20 countries making the final list. Notably, Benin City stands as one of only four cities in Africa to achieve this milestone.

The recognition places Benin City firmly on the global map of innovation and urban leadership, highlighting the city’s capacity to develop bold and practical solutions to pressing public challenges, particularly in healthcare delivery.

Reacting to the development, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, described the achievement as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to innovation and the ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across Edo State.

A statement by Patrick Ebojele Chief Press Secretary to Governor, quoted Okpebholo as saying “This recognition is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of our team to transform healthcare delivery in Edo State.

“It reinforces that bold ideas from Benin City can compete — and win — on the global stage,” Governor Okpebholo said.

The governor congratulated the Edo State Ministry of Health and the entire team that worked tirelessly on the initiative, noting that the award demonstrates the state’s growing reputation as a hub for forward-thinking governance and impactful public sector reforms.

Governor Okpebholo also commended the people of Edo State for their continued support and confidence in the administration’s programmes and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

“Congratulations to my hardworking team and to the great people of Edo State. The world is watching, and we are just getting started,” the governor added.

The Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge is widely regarded as one of the most competitive global platforms for cities to present innovative solutions to urban challenges, with selected cities receiving funding and technical support to implement transformative ideas.

Women, Indispensable Partners In Our Collective Advancement, Says Uzodimma

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The Source

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March 8, 2026

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As women were celebrated across the globe Sunday, March 8, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has described them as indispensable partners in the collective advancement of the society.

The International Women’s Day has been celebrated globally since 1922 in recognition of the invaluable roles our mothers, wives, sisters and daughters play in shaping our society through their different callings.

This year’s theme is #GivetoGain.

Taking to his social media platforms to celebrate our women, Governor Uzodimma wrote: “Across communities, women continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and dedication in shaping a more inclusive and progressive society.

“I join the world over in celebrating International Women’s Day 2026, extolling women and acknowledging their immense contribution to societal growth and nation-building.

“In Imo State, our women have continued to drive this transformational progress, and their contributions are yielding remarkable impact across our social, economic, and civic spaces.

“Through their enterprise, advocacy, and commitment to community development, they remain indispensable partners in our collective advancement. To this end, I proudly celebrate them and encourage them to continue steadfastly on the path to #GiveToGain.

“As Imo women join their counterparts across the world to mark #IWD2026, we will continue to support their worthy cause in the best interest of our society and future generations.”

In Churches across the globe on Sunday, March 8, 2026, prayers were offered for our women just as Muslims did same in their Mosques on Friday.

Ex-Councillor Olalekan, Nabbed By NDLEA With 400kg Skunk, Recovers Drugs Stuffed Inside Diapers

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Akinwale Kasali

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March 8, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

45-year old Honourable Sheleru Olalekan, former Councillor representing Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area Council has been nabbed by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, over alleged involvement in illicit drug trafficking

Olalekan who represented Orimedu community for Two Terms and currently works as a legislative aide, was arrested on March 2, 2026, at his residence in Ilado, Ibeju-Lekki.

According to a statement released on Sunday by the NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, operatives recovered 40 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis, from one of the rooms in the suspect’s house during a search.

In his statement, Sheleru admitted ownership of the exhibit and the property where it was recovered.

Babafemi explained that Olalekan confessed to have been involved in drug trafficking.

In another development at the Federal Capital Territory, NDLEA officers on March 3, intercepted a 32-year-old businessman, Emeka Hyginus Okwor, travelling from Obollo-Afor in Enugu State to Zuba, Abuja.

A search of his luggage led to the discovery of 1,000 pills of tapentadol, 250mg concealed inside baby diapers.

The suspect reportedly confessed that he was transporting the consignment to Guduwa village in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, where he operates a provision store.

“On same day, 3rd of March, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Kabba/Obajana highway, Kogi state, intercepted a consignment of Colorado, a synthetic strain of cannabis weighing 1.550kg concealed inside a standing fan carton belonging to 36-year-old Cameroonian, Mey Ali Muhamat who hails from Maroua, Republic of Cameroon. The suspect was travelling in a commercial bus from Lagos to Cameroon enroute Lokoja, Kano and Maiduguri,” the statement added.

In Niger State, NDLEA Officials on March 4, intercepted a commercial bus along the Mokwa–Jebba road coming from Ibadan in Oyo State with 500 pieces of improvised explosive device components concealed in a sack.

Also, a follow-up operation led to the arrest of the intended recipient, Osama Abdullahi, 21, in Pelegi, Mashegu Local Government Area.

In Adamawa State, NDLEA operatives in Yola on the same day recovered 122,000 pills of tramadol and 700 grams of methamphetamine from the false bottom of a truck conveying 2,000 cartons of local drinks.

Similarly, officers arrested Muhammed Ali, 20, at Gadar Tamburawa in Kano State on March 3 with 11,283 pills of tramadol.

In Ogun State, operatives conducting a raid in Ogere arrested two suspects, Nazifi Mudansir and Kabiru Musa, with 46 kilograms of skunk.

In Delta State, two suspects — Joy Chukwuma, 25, and Eugene Felix, 22 — were arrested on March 7 in Ogwashi-Uku with 18.63kg of skunk, 10.8 litres of codeine-based syrup and 4,268 pills of tramadol and swinol.

NDLEA operatives also destroyed 1,910.25kg of skunk on two farms in Egbisi forest in Uhumwonde Local Government Area of Edo State, where two suspects, Eke London, 48, and Austin Isusi, 49, were arrested. Another suspect, Alaba Adeboye, 47, was apprehended in Ikhin town, Owan East Local Government Area, with 176.50kg of skunk.

The agency said its commands across the country also continued the War Against Drug Abuse enlightenment campaign in schools and communities, including sensitisation programmes in secondary schools in Oyo, Niger, Zamfara, Lagos, Sokoto, Ebonyi and Anambra states.

IGP Disu Appoints DCP Okon Placid As New Force PRO

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Akinwale Kasali

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March 8, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

Following the removal of ACP Benjamin Hundeyin as the Force Public Relations Officer, the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has appointed Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, as the new Force Public Relations Officer, FPRO.

DCP Placid is a seasoned officer of the Nigeria Police Force with extensive experience in administration, operations, intelligence, training, and international peacekeeping.

He was born on 2 December 1970 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and hails from Mbiokporo Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo, a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (M.A.L.D) from the University of Jos and studied Law at the National Open University of Nigeria forstudied Bachelor of Laws (LL.B).

He was appointed into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police at the Police Academy, Kano, in 1996, and was commissioned in August 1998.

He has attended several professional and international courses, including United Nations Peace Operations Specialised Training (POST), with certifications as expert in Police Studies, Military Studies, Gender Awareness, International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights, and Civilian Protection. UNITAR Senior Leadership and Peacebuilding course in Kenya.

DCP Placid has served in various strategic capacities within and outside the country, including Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adamawa State; PPRO, Police Staff College, Jos; Chief of Training, African Union Mission in Sudan; Head of Training and Development, United Nations Mission in Darfur; Divisional Police Officer in Federal Housing Calabar, Bakassi, Uruan, and Gembu; Officer-in-Charge, Anti-Robbery Unit, Kaduna State; African Union Election Security Adviser; Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) in Akwa Ibom and Kogi States; Assistant Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Department, Abia State; and Deputy in charge of Administration and Finance, Zone 3 Headquarters, Yola.

He is also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Commonwealth Human Rights Trainer and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Trainer on International Humanitarian Law. He is a graduate of the Senior Executive Course (SEC 47) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and was inducted as a Member of the National Institute (mni) on 13 December 2025, prior to his redeployment to Cross River State.

He is married with children. His hobbies include listening to good music, playing football, basketball, table tennis, badminton, and engaging with people.

Ihedioha Celebrates Imo Women On International Women’s Day, Calls For Greater Investment In Women And Girls

By

The Source

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March 8, 2026

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Emeka Ihedioha on Women Day — Ihedioha Celebrates Imo Women On International Women's Day

Former Governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has paid glowing tribute to the women of Imo State in a message commemorating the 2026 International Women’s Day, praising their resilience, leadership, and contributions to the development of society.

In a statement released on Sunday, March 8, titled:

“My International Women’s Day Message to the Women of Imo State”, Ihedioha expressed deep admiration for the strength and determination of women across the state, describing them as the backbone of families, communities, and the future of Imo State.

The statement reads:

“As we mark this year’s International Women’s Day, I write with a heart full of gratitude, admiration, and hope for the extraordinary women of Imo State.

“Today is not only a celebration; it is also a moment of reflection. A moment to acknowledge the strength, resilience. and determination of the women who form the backbone of our

families, our communities, and indeed the future of our state.

“Every day across Imo State, I see women who wake up before the sun rises to care for their

families, build businesses, nurture communities, educate the next generation, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of society. I see young women who dare to dream beyond limitations, and girls whose curiosity and brilliance hold the promise of a better tomorrow. To each and every one of you, I say thank you.

“This year’s theme, “Give to Gain – The Power of Reciprocity,” speaks to a simple but powerful

truth: when we invest in women and girls, society gains immeasurably. When a girl receives quality education, a community gains a leader. When a young woman is empowered to pursue her ambitions, a nation gains innovation and prosperity. When women are given the space t o

lead and contribute fully, society gains stability, compassion, and progress.

“Reciprocity teaches us that what we give to women returns to society multiplied. That is why I firmly believe that the development of Imo State is inseparable from the empowerment and advancement of its women. To the young women and giris of imo State, I want you to know

that your dreams are valid and your voices matter.

“Do not allow anyone to convince you that your aspirations are too bold or your ambitions too

high. Continue to learn, to grow, to lead, and to believe in the immense value you bring t o our

society. Your generation carries the promise of a new Imo, an Imo that is innovative, inclusive,

and forward-looking.

“To the women of imo State who continue to inspire through leadership, service, entrepreneurship, and sacrifice, please know that your contributions remain deeply appreciated.

You are the quiet architects of the strength and stability that sustain our communities.

“As we celebrate today, let us also renew our collective commitment to creating opportunities for women and girls, to supporting their aspirations, and to ensuring that their talents are recognized and valued.

“The truth is simple: women are not only participants in the story of Imo State, they are central

to its progress and its future. From the depths of my heart, I celebrate you today and always.

“Thank you for all that you do. Thank you for all that you represent. And thank you for the hope and strength you bring t o our state.

“Happy International Women’s Day.

ADC The Last Vehicle For National Rescue Operations, Group Warns Atiku, Obi, Amaechi

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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March 8, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

A civil society group,The Handshake Movement THM, has cautioned those jostling for the Presidential ticket of the opposition Coalition platform the African Democratic Congress, ADC, against allowing their personal ambitions to fracture, and unsettle the only platform available to the suffering people of Nigeria to express themselves.

According to the advocacy group, in the face of the near death situation of the Peoples Democratic party, PDP, Labour Party LP , and other opposition parties, it will amount to a grave political misadventure for the presidential hopefuls to deny the overwhelming, but suffering majority of Nigerians the opportunity of having a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 polls.

Referring specifically to the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP in the 2023 elections, and the immediate past Minister of Transportation Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, the THM in a statement issued at the weekend, by its National Secretary, Chinedu Okpalanma, urged the aspirants to submit themselves to the rules and regulations governing the party, in the pursuit of their ambition.

The THM warned that the general dispositions of the various presidential aspirants,holds much for the unity of the ADC, as well as its ability to serve as a credible alternative to the ruling, All Progressive Congress, APC.

According to the group, overwhelming majority of Nigerians having been deeply frustrated by the growing excruciating economic hardships and insecurity in the country, have come to perceive the ADC as the only surviving opposition platform available to them.

However, the civil society group, expressed fears that unbridled and inordinate personal political ambitions of the leading presidential aspirants, could distabilize the party,and erode its capacity and readiness to serve as a veritable alternative for Nigerians.

“Personal ambition must never be allowed to fracture the very platform that millions of Nigerians now see as a possible vehicle for national rescue”, the group stated

Furthermore, the THM underscored the urgent need for the progenitors, leaders and major stakeholders of the ADC to work in concert to strengthen the party ,and sustain public trust and confidence, particularly at this trying moment in the life of the people.

The group called for discipline, transparency and sincerity of purpose on the part of the leadership of the party, in its search for political flag bearers.

Particularly, the THM emphasized the importance of eschewing sectarian, ethnic and religious sentiments in the process of selecting candidates for the 2027 elections.

Besides, the group insisted on the conduct of credible, fair, and transparent primaries, with the process building and cementing trust and confidence, rather than creating unnecessary friction and fracture.

According to the advocacy organization, the emphasis should be on the selection of candidates with capacity and national appeal, rather than appeal to ethnic and religious considerations.

Rev. Fr., Ten Others Abducted In Kaduna, Church Condemns Targeted Attacks

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Ayodele Oni

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March 8, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

A Reverend Father, Nathaniel Asuwaye and ten others have been kidnapped in a violent operation that left three people dead in Kaduna state.

The latest incident, occurred in the early hours of Saturday, as suspected terrorists stormed the Karku community in Kauru Local Government Area.

The attackers, described by local sources as “heavily armed bandits,” reportedly descended on the community at approximately 3:20 a.m. , targeting the parish house of Holy Trinity Catholic Church .

The silence of the night was shattered by sustained gunfire as the invaders overwhelmed local vigilantes and residents.

Three individuals—identified by community leaders as Jacob Dan’azumi, Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari were killed.

Some reports suggested the casualties included security operatives who attempted to repel the assault, though official police confirmation on the identities of the deceased remains pending.

The abduction of Fr. Asuwaye, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity, marks yet another dark chapter for the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.

In a statement released shortly after the incident, the Diocese expressed “profound sadness” over the targeted attack, calling on the faithful to commence a period of intense prayer for the safe return of the priest and the ten other parishioners snatched alongside him.

This latest incident follows a harrowing pattern of attacks on the clergy in Kaduna State, including the high-profile kidnappings of Fr. Bobbo Paschal in late 2025 and the tragic murder of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu exactly one year ago.

The Kaduna State Police Command has reportedly deployed a special tactical team to the Kauru axis.

A spokesperson for the command confirmed that a manhunt is underway, with security forces “combing the bushes” to track the kidnappers’ escape route toward the neighboring forest reserves.

“We are working tirelessly to ensure the victims are rescued unhurt,” the police statement read, though the captors have yet to establish contact or make a formal ransom demand.

As news of the raid spread, the Karku community has been plunged into mourning.

Residents described a state of “total helplessness,” with many calling on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the rising cases of priest abductions, which many see as a deliberate attempt to demoralize the community and its spiritual leadership.