Outrage As Dead Body Of Fmr. Kaduna Council Chair Is found After Attack On Burial Convoy

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February 19, 2026

Hon Ibrahim Gajere - Found Dead — Hon Ibrahim Gajere: Found dead.

By Adesina Soyooye

Outrage, anger, tears, sorrow and disbelief have greeted the discovery of the former Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna, Honourable Ibrahim Gajere in the bush.

The former Chairman’s brutal murder by terrorists followed an attack on travellers who were returning from a burial ceremony in Dogon Noma community, Maro Ward, Kajuru Local Government.

The incident incident which took place on Monday, February 16, 2026, according to eyewitnesses accounts, was when terrorists attacked a convoy of vehicles and set ablaze the official car of the Executive Chairman of the Council as well as three other cars.

After the attack Hon Gajere, among others, was declared missing. A search party was immediately organised by community members and residents.

But it ended in tragedy

as Gajere’s lifeless body was found in the afternoon of Wednesday by villagers who had embarked in search of him in the bush.

A source which pleaded anonymity disclosed: “It is painful to inform you that the body of the missing former Chairman of Kajuru Local Government has been found this afternoon.

“Some people have been combing the forest in search of him when they did not hear from the attackers.

“There were bullet wounds on his body.”

At the time of filing this report, neither the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, or the Kaduna State Police Command has released a statement on the incident.

Bauchi Governor Threatens War Over Arrest Of Opposition Leaders

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Adesina Soyooye

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February 19, 2026

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By Adesina Soyooye

“They want a one-party State where nobody can question why a bag of rice is N100,000. The Presidency has unleashed the EFCC and other Security agencies on the opposition and is systematically decapitating it.”

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who is also the Chairman of the embattled PDP Governors’ Forum has threatened a full scale political war if the All Progressives Congress Government led by

President Bola Tinubu continues what he described as “random and incessant” arrests of opposition figures.

The Governor spoke on the heels of the Arrest and detention of the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on alleged misappropriation of N430billion while he was in office. On release from the EFCC custody, El-Rufai was immediately picked up by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC in which custody he is currently.

Before El-Rufai, the immediate past Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, was arrested by the EFCC which dragged him to Court. He is still in prison custody.

Before Malami there was former Governor of Sokoto State, who is also a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, who was arrested by the EFCC over an alleged misappropriation of the sum of N189b while he was Governor.

Addressing a restive crowd of supporters and party stakeholders Wednesday February 18, 2026, in Bauchi, the Governor who is also the Chairman of the PDP Governor’s Forum, accused the Federal Government of unleashing the EFCC and other security agencies as “political debt collectors” to force opposition leaders into joining the APC

But he roared: “No Amount of intimidation will force me to cave in.

“No clandestine overtures and threats of legal action can force me into intention abandoning the PDP.

“If they continue with this random and incessant arrest of our leaders, we will have no choice but to declare war,” the Governor thundered.

“They are using the EFCC to harass anyone who refuses to join their party. Let me say it clearly: no amount of intimidation, no amount of blackmail, and no amount of ‘file-opening’ will make me join the APC. We will meet them on the field in 2027.”

Continuing, Mohammed said that the Presidency is gradually “decapitating the opposition to ensure an unchallenged run for a second term.

“They want a one-party state where nobody can question why a bag of rice is N100,000.

“But Bauchi is not for sale, and the PDP is not for surrender.”

ICPC Takes El-Rufai Into Custody After Bail From EFCC

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Adesina Soyooye

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February 19, 2026

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By Adesina Soyooye

Free on bail from a two-day detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, a former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has been immediately arrested by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.

In an ambush, El-Rufai was arrested by operatives of the ICPC Wednesday night as soon as he stepped out from the EFCC after perfecting his bail terms. It was like a handover of baton in a relay race.

In a statement issued late Wednesday night, ICPC Spokesperson, Mr. Okor Odey, confirmed that El-Rufai is in the Commission’s custody.

He was intercepted by the gate of the EFCC as he made to exit the premises.

It is not known for how long El-Rufai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, will be in the custody of the ICPC, but Odey’s statement reads in part:

“The Commission wishes to state that Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in our custody as at the close of work today, Wednesday, the 18th day of February, 2026.

“He is in the custody of the Commission in connection with ongoing investigations.”

The ICPC did not specify what investigation it is carrying out after the EFCC had interrogated El-Rufai on the alleged N423billion misappropriated while he was Governor, speculation is that the focus will shift to the huge foreign loans and urban development contracts El-Rufai awarded during his eight-year tenure as Governor of Kaduna State.

For the former power-broker, it is a-three way battle.

*First is with the EFCC where he is facing

allegations of misappropriation of hundreds of billions of Naira belonging to the Kaduna State Government.

*Second is with the ICPC where he is facing investigations into alleged abuse of office and contract inflation while he was Kaduna State Governor.

*The third is with the Department of State Services, DSS, which has already filed charges of

cybercrime against him over his claims of alleged interceptions of telephone calls made by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

Opinion is that on release from ICPC custody, he is likely to be picked by the DSS as its high prized guest.

Amaechi: “I Worked Closely With Tinubu, He Has No Capacity To Run Nigeria”, Says He Will Get ADC’s 2027 Ticket

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Adesina Soyooye

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February 19, 2026

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Rotimi Amaechi and Bola Tinubu2 — Rotimi Amaechi and President Bola Tinubu

By Adesina Soyooye

A boastful and confident immediate past Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, says he will get the Presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Amaechi, projecting a sure-footed disposition says the reason is simple.

Flaunting his credentials, Amaechi said he is not only the most qualified and experienced of all those vying for the Presidential ticket of the ADC, but he is, also, the youngest. “I am 60, I don’t know how old Obi is. I guess he should be between 64 and 66.”

An open competition, he emphasized, would strengthen internal democracy in the ADC.

Amaechi: “If I lose the primaries, I will be in the ADC. It is not about me; it is about installing a responsible government. But would I get the ticket? I think the answer is yes. I am the youngest of the three of us; I am 60. I don’t know how old Obi is, but I guess he should between 64 and 66. I am able to jump around. I am able to fly to wherever I need to fly to now.”

Then he flaunted his qualification:

Amaechi: “I am the most experienced of all the candidates in the ADC: I was Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term Governor, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Minister of Transportation. And I led a campaign for the first time in the history of Nigeria that took out the sitting president. Nobody wants to credit me with that.”

He emphasized why he quit the APC, a party which foundation member he was, and under which he was, for eight years, the Minister for Transportation under the Government of late President Muhammadu Buhari. His decision to abandon the APC, he said was rooted in principles not on personal grudges. Amaechi tagged President Bola Tinubu’s Government as a failure and said it has abandoned all democratic ideals, and is drifting towards authoritarianism, and deployment of state institutions to suppress dissent.

Amaechi: “The truth is simple. I did not agree with the choice of the presidential candidate. I did not believe he had the capacity to govern Nigeria. And I still do not believe so. What is happening today has only confirmed my position. If I believe that someone lacks capacity, how then do I remain in the same party supporting that leadership?

“That would make me dishonest. I had worked closely with him, so I knew exactly what I was talking about. Nigerians may not have had the opportunity to work with him closely, but I did. That experience shaped my judgment.

“Tinubu preached democracy, but today, what we are seeing is autocracy. Security agencies are being used to intimidate critics and opposition figures.”

He advised that his new Party must be “strategic in picking its flagbearer because zoning sentiments and the current power rotation arrangement could significantly shape voter behaviour, especially in the South.”

Amaechi was defeated by then aspirant, Senator Bola Tinubu in the APC Presidential Primary. In the main election, Candidate Tinubu was declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

FCT Poll: Shock As PDP Chairmanship Candidate Steps Down For APC Candidate In Bwari

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Adesina Soyooye

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February 18, 2026

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By Adesina Soyooye

A few days to Council Election in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Julius Adamu, the Chairmanship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Bwari Area Council, has stepped down for his All Progressives Congress, APC, counterpart, Joshua Ishaku Musa.

The election is scheduled to hold on February 21. Speculation is that this was the handiwork of the

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike who a couple of days ago, swore he would support only the Candidates who are in support of President Bola Tinubu. He, also, said he would see to it that those not in support of the President, would fail at the polls.

Not a few people protested what they saw as Wike’s intimidation and threat. The African Democratic Congress, ADC, protested and urged Mr President to calk Wike to order.

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For the records, Wike still claims to not only be a member of the PDP but its most important member. In this election, therefore, with Wike, a PDP member as the Minister, the expectation was that it is the APC Candidate that should, on the Minister’s lobbying, stand down for the PDP Candidate.

Enugu: Giant Community Tree Falls On Two Commuter Buses, Kills 11

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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February 18, 2026

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Scene of the Giant tree that fell on two vehicles in Enugu

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Enugu State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps FRSC, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, said that a total of 11 persons lost their lives when a giant tree fell on two vehicles along.the 9th Mile/ Old Nssuka Road in Enugu State.

According to the Sector Commander, Franklin Agbakoba, the incident, which involved a Toyota Hiace Commuter bus and a commercial Toyota Sienna car, occurred at about 9:20 pm on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Awhum Market in Awhum community.

He explained that the giant community tree may have fallen down due to heavy down pour and ferocious wind.

The tree, according to locals, was said to have fallen on the vehicles when they stopped for passengers to disembark.

“The road mishap involved 13 persons in total, which included 11 females and two males.

“Unfortunately, 11 lives were lost on the spot, including 10 females and one male, even before the arrival of the FRSC rescue team within 17 minutes of the incident”, Agbakoba stated.

The FRSC Commander further informed that the dead victims have been deposited at the Ekochin Hospital Mortuary at 9th Mile Corner close to Enugu metropolis.

He noted that the road which blocked owing to the incident, was later freed up following the intervention of personnel from the Enugu State Traffic Management Agency ESTMA.

Suspected Toxic Gas Emission Kills Over 35 At Plateau State Mining Site

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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February 18, 2026

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Mining site in Zurak Wase in Plateau State

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

No fewer than 35 miners are feared dead following suspected leakage of a highly poisonous gas at a mining site in Zurak Wase Local Council of Plateau State .

According to locals, the victims along side others working at the site were believed to have been exposed to the toxic emissions from the leaked gas cylinders, resulting in the instant death of about 35 persons, with several others at some risks.

The unfortunate incident has sent huge shock wave across the host community of the mining site, as well as neighbours who decried the growing hazards associated with most of the illegal mining activities in some parts of the State.

According to Shafi Sambo, one of the Youth Leaders of Wase, the community was alerted to the disturbing incident early morning on Wednesday.

Although no official report has been issued regarding the actual cause(s) of the incident, Sambo, however, informed that reports indicate that the victims may have died from tl inhalating leaked toxic gas at the site.

He called on the State Government and other relevant authorities to, as a matter of urgency consider the enactment of extant laws to regulate mining activities in the state.

As at the time of reporting, there were no official statements from the state authorities.

Ondo Police Confirms Two Dead In Ward Congress Violence At Idanre

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Ayodele Oni

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February 18, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

Two persons have been confirmed dead in a bloody violence at Idanre, Ondo state, witnessed during Wednesday’s ward Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Report said that one of the deceased victims was identified as the younger brother of the state APC chairman, Ade Adetimehin, who was also brutalized at the party’s Secretariat on Tuesday.

The State Police Command, while giving an update on the incident, revealed that

five persons, yet to be identified, were reportedly attacked, and a vehicle was set ablaze.

Three victims sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently receiving medical attention.

The command in a statement, signed by the spokesman, Abayomi Jimoh, stated that “it received a distress call from DPO Idanre regarding violent acts perpetrated by a group of individuals within the State on 18th February, 2026 at about 1105hrs. The report necessitated a prompt operational response from officers of the Command.

“In swift reaction, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, immediately deployed tactical teams to reinforce the existing security apparatus on ground.

“Subsequently, the Commissioner of Police, alongside the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), CC Oluyemi Ibiloye, personally led a combined team of security operatives to the scene.

“Their timely intervention ensured the restoration of peace and order in the affected area.

“During the incident, five persons yet to be identified were reportedly attacked, and a vehicle was set ablaze.

“Three victims sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently receiving medical attention, while two others were confirmed dead at the hospital.

“The Commissioner of Police visited the injured victims to assess their condition and assured them of the Command’s support.

“Investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack and to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.

“To forestall any further breakdown of law and order, the CP has ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical teams to secure the area and its environs in order to protect lives and property.

“The Command urges the good people of Ondo State to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear or panic, as adequate security measures have been put in place to ensure sustained peace and stability across the State.’

Ramadan: Kano Orders Closure Of All Entertainment And Event Centres

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Akinwale Kasali

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February 18, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

Following the commencement of the Ramadan (Fasting), the Kano State Government has directed the immediate closure of all Entertainment and Event Centres across the State.

Abdullahi Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Censorship Board made this announcement. The directive affects Event Centres and Entertainment Venues, especially ‘Gala Houses’, as well as disc jockey (DJ) operators under the Board ’s regulatory jurisdiction.

Exempted, however, is the use of the Event Centres for Weddings, Conferences and Political Gatherings.

“Effective from Wednesday, 18 February 2026, all such venues will remain closed until the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The directive will take effect from 10:00 p.m. on that day,” the statement read.

Sulaiman explained that the measure aims to create a calm and morally conducive environment for Muslim faithful to observe the fasting period without distractions.

“The action is intended to create a peaceful environment for residents to observe the Ramadan fast in accordance with religious injunctions,” he said.

He added that entertainment activities under the board’s supervision would remain suspended throughout Ramadan, with reopening dates, particularly for Eid celebrations, to be announced later.

“The closure will remain in force throughout the fasting period, while the date for reopening, particularly during the Eid celebrations, will be announced at the appropriate time,” Sulaiman said.

The board urged owners of affected centres and DJs to comply fully, warning that enforcement teams would monitor adherence and violations would attract sanctions.

The agency noted that the decision falls within its mandate to regulate entertainment activities and promote moral and social order during religious seasons.

Usman Dankwano, one of the Board of Directors, however, emphasised that only venues strictly classified as entertainment outlets, such as gala houses under the board’s jurisdiction, are affected.

Kaduna Lifts 11-year Ban On Christian Pilgrimage, Approves 50 For Trip

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Akinwale Kasali

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February 18, 2026

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Uba Sani - Governor of Kaduna State — Governor Uba Sani

By Akinwale Kasali

After an 11-year ban placed on Christian Pilgrimage in Kaduna State, respite has, finally, come for Christians. Governor Uba Sani has approved 50 Christians from the State to embark on Holy Pilgrimage.

The Christian pilgrimage scheme was halted during the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency was scrapped—a move that generated controversy within sections of the Christian community.

Lauding the Governor for lifting the suspension, Chairman of the Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of

Nigeria, Rev. Ma’aji Bawa described it as a bold and inclusive decision.

“We are grateful to Governor Uba Sani for approving 50 Christians to commence pilgrimage after 11 years. This decision has restored hope and strengthened the confidence of Christians in the State,” Bawa said.

Describing the approval as a significant first step, Bawa expressed optimism that more beneficiaries would be accommodated in subsequent exercises.

“Although the number is 50 for now, we believe it is a foundation to build upon. We trust that the government will gradually increase the number so more faithful can participate,” he said.

He further emphasised that pilgrimage was a sacred spiritual obligation and not a recreational venture.

“Pilgrimage is not a jamboree. Those going are embarking on a spiritual journey to seek God’s face. They will pray for peace, unity and development in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large,” he stated.

Bawa said the restoration of the pilgrimage scheme was symbolic and spiritually significant, noting that it demonstrated the government’s recognition of the role of faith in society.

“This gesture shows inclusiveness and respect for religious diversity. It strengthens the relationship between the government and the Christian community,” he added.

He, however, urged transparency and fairness in the selection process, stressing that only spiritually committed and responsible individuals should be chosen.

“We expect a credible and transparent process. Those selected must understand the purpose of pilgrimage and represent the state with dignity,” he said.

He called on Christians in Kaduna to remain prayerful, law-abiding and supportive of the government’s policies.

“As believers, we must continue to obey the laws of the land and support initiatives that promote unity and development. We also have a duty to pray for our leaders and the progress of our state,” he said.

He expressed hope that the resumption of the pilgrimage programme would foster greater harmony and spiritual renewal across Kaduna State.