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NDC Accuses INEC Of Blocking The Uploading Of Candidates’ Names To Portal

By
Ayodele Oni
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Independent National Electoral Commission - INEC

By Ayodele Oni

 

Still seeking a way out of the Court judgment ordering its deregistration, the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of denying it the access code required to upload the names of its candidates to the commission’s nomination portal.

 

The allegation comes as the party races to stop the enforcement of a Federal High Court judgment ordering its deregistration, raising new questions about its participation in future elections.

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has shifted the date for the release of the access code to political parties to Monday, June 29, to enable them to upload the names of their nominated candidates for the 2027 general election.

INEC had planned to release the access code on Friday, June 26, but sources from the commission and political parties said the release was shifted to Monday to ensure a smooth uploading of the access code.

 

Speaking on the development, the NDC’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, stated that the party visited INEC to obtain the access credentials needed to complete the mandatory online submission of its candidates.

 

He alleged that officials of the commission told the party they would “get back” to them, leaving it unable to complete the upload before the court’s deregistration order took effect.

 

Director maintained that the party’s failure to upload its candidates was not due to any fault of the NDC, but was caused by its inability to obtain the required access code from INEC.

 

He disclosed that the party would return to the commission to make another request, while simultaneously pursuing legal action to suspend the enforcement of the court judgment.

 

“We will go back there by tomorrow. I believe by tomorrow we must have filed a stay of execution in court,” he said.

 

According to the NDC spokesperson, the party’s legal team has already commenced the process of filing an application for a stay of execution to prevent the immediate implementation of the deregistration order pending the determination of its appeal.

 

Until such an application is granted by the court, the judgment directing the party’s deregistration remains in force.

DSS Clears, Releases Nura Idris, Wrongly Linked To Boko Haram, Gives Him N3 Million Compensation

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Idris Nura

By Ayodele Oni

 

After spending two years at detention facility of the Department of State Services (DSS), a suspect wrongly linked with Boko Haram terrorists, Nura Idris  has been released.

 

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, ordered the immediate release of Idris linked to Boko Haram terrorists.

 

Idris was also compensated with N3 million monetary compensation to meet his immediate needs, aside the DSS DG promise to help the wrongfully detained herder in his business, a practice common with the DG.

 

The setting free followed a DSS investigation review panel that cleared Nura Idris of allegations of collaboration with Boko Haram terrorists.

 

According to a security source, the farmer and animal rearer from Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was arrested by a sister security agency in Suleja, Niger State, in June 2024, for alleged links with terrorists, and was thereafter transferred to DSS custody.

 

Following a thorough review of Nura’s case, the DSS investigation panel found no basis for the charges against him, prompting the DGSS to order his immediate release and payment of compensation.

 

Receiving the compensation, Nura thanked the DGSS for what he described as a kind gesture, saying the money would help him restart his life.

 

“I thank the DGSS for his kindness. I was well treated in DSS custody and I pray that Allah rewards the DGSS immensely,” the source quoted Nura as saying.

 

His father, Yusuf Idris, who received Nura upon his release, also expressed appreciation to the DGSS for his compassion and generosity, and assured that the compensation would be put to good use.

 

 “When such cases are recorded, the DSS would usually follow up with the detainee, provide psychological and medical support, after which the Agency would further set up any business of the victim’s choice”, another source disclosed.

 

The release is part of an internal review exercise which the DSS began last year.

 

The exercise is aimed at reassessing prolonged inherited cases to ensure that erroneously detained individuals do not remain in detention.

 

“The setting free and compensations across multiple cases underscores the DSS’s growing reputation for institutional integrity and humanness.

 

“The Service under the current DG, has continued to show that safeguarding national security and citizens must go hand in hand with upholding the rights and dignity of citizens.

 

“Recall the case of Sunday Ifedi and his wife, Calista who were arrested on 8th November 2021 and detained in Wawa facility, three years before the appointment of the current DG in August 2024,” added the source.

 

Sunday was released on 16th December, 2025, after the review of detainees ordered by the DG cleared him of ties with the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the DG awarded him N10 million as compensation.

 

“Importantly, plans are underway by the DSS to rebuild a restaurant in memory of Ifedi’s wife, Calista, who died while in custody in a detention facility in Wawa.

 

 The initiative is to compensate Sunday for the allegations that his late wife operated a restaurant being patronized by IPOB, for which they were arrested.

 

 This brings to bear, over thirty cases that have since been reviewed with over N300m paid as compensation,” the source disclosed.

 

It would also be recalled that, barely one one month after ordering the release and payment of N10 million compensation of one Abuja-based business woman, Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe, in October 2025, the DSS boss ordered the release of one Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor, arrested in July 2022, for his alleged involvement in the activities of the proscribed IPOB.

 

 Five other detainees wrongfully linked to IPOB were by the same directive of the DG, released and each given an initial N2 million cash compensation.

 

Last month, the DSS also released a Yobe State resident, Ya’u Mohammed, after investigations confirmed that he had no connection to terrorism.

 

Following his release, the Service provided initial financial support worth N2 million to assist his reintegration and restoration of his livelihood.

 

“There are many more instances where DSS investigations have established innocence and have been followed by efforts to facilitate reintegration,” stated the source, adding, “these are the kind of measures the DSS is using to build public trust.”

Police Arrest 10 Over The Killing Of Benue State Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Leader

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Police on Duty

By Suleiman Anyalewechi 

 

No fewer than 10 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack and killing of  the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association MACBAN, Ardo Risku Mohammad.

 

The MACBAN leader was on Friday, June 26, 2026, ambushed and killed alongside an associate, Yakubu Isah, while returning from a peace meeting held in Ohinimini Local Council of the State. 

 

The peace meeting was  organized  between Fulani and Ayunne community leaders at the instance of the Head of Police formation in Ohinimini Local Government Area to address recent security challenges in the area.

 

The Miyetti Allah leader and his colleague were however ambushed, attacked, and killed by armed hoodlums within Okudu Community in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state while heading back to their station.

 

The Benue State Police authorities, who described the killing as “totally senseless and a criminal act capable of undermining the peace and stability of the State”, vowed to  hunt down the perpetrators.

 

Governor Hyacinth Alia had, also, in his reaction directed security agencies to carry out unfettered investigation into the incident, with a view to fishing out the masterminds.

 

In a statement from Udeme Edet, it’s spokesperson, the Police Command informed that the arrest of the suspects was sequel to what it described as intensive intelligence gathering and coordinated tactical operations conducted on Saturday night, June 27, 2026, in Otukpo.

 

The Police, also, described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing general investigation into the dastardly killing of the Fulani leaders.

 

Those apprehended are Titus Thyodenda 25, Utibe Sam 20, Owoicho Ameh 18, Sunday Useni 21 , Sunday Ogbanje 46, Daniel Raphael 23 , Adokole John 24 , Samuel Ogazi 32, Agbo Daniel ,and Onazi James 30.

 

This is as the state Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, lauded the efforts of operatives ,and investigators for their response and professionalism.

 

He described the arrest of the suspects as a major step towards ensuring justice.

 

CP Nwadiogbu while reassuring residents of adequate protection, noted that investigations are ongoing with a view to identifying and arresting others linked to the killings.

Kogi: Father Beats Teacher To Death For Allegedly Disciplining Child

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Nigerian Police

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The Kogi State Police Command has said it is on the trail of a  father who attacked, and inflicted fatal injuries on a female teacher with Brains Minds Nursery and Primary School in Ugbamaka ,Okpo District of Olamaboro Local Council of the State.

 

Abdullahi Ishaka, whose child  was allegedly disciplined, reportedly stormed the school on June 18, 2026, alongside two women, and attacked the teacher – 30-year old Maryam Usman.

 

According to a statement from Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the Command’s spokesperson, the assaulted teacher who was initially rushed to an Ugbamaka- based facility for medical attention,  succumbed to her injuries at Iko-Ojo Hospital in Okpo where she was later transfered on June 25, 2026.

 

The Police informed that concerted efforts are underway to track down fleeing Ishaka, and all those responsible for the unfortunate incident.

 

The suspect, according to the police, has been on the run since the day of the attack on the deceased.

 

However, the police assured that nothing will be spared in the efforts to hunt down the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.

Uzodimma To Address UK House of Lords As African Leadership Magazine Honours Him

By
The Source
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Hope Uzodimma
Governor Hope Uzodimma

 

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma will next week address  the United Kingdom’s House of Lords as part of activities marking the conferment of award on him by the African Leadership Organization, publishers of African Leadership Magazine.

 

The African Leadership Organization, chaired by the former President of Tanzania, His Excellency, Dr Jakaya Kikwete selected Uzodimma to be confered with the award for ” African Inspirational Leadership and Good Governance “.

 

The award ceremony, which will be held between July 2-3,2026, at the iconic  House of Lords ,Westminster, London, will also feature an address by the governor.

 

Uzodimma will speak on the topic, ” From Vision to Velocity: Driving Africa’s Next Wave of Growth and Leadership- The Imo State Experience.

 

In a letter by the Founder and Executive Chairman of the African Leadership Magazine, Dr Ken Giami, to Uzodimma,  the governor is expected to use that rare opportunity to share insights with the global audience on Imo transformation journey while contributing to broader continental conversations on leadership ,governance, economic resilience and sustainable growth.

 

He the  governor will also leverage the opportunity to strike strategic engagement with influential public and private stakeholders and position himself  as a leading African voice on transformational leadership and governance.

 

On why the Imo State Chief Executive merited the award,  Dr Giami explained that Uzodimma was selected based on the initiative and implementation of his shared prosperity agenda encapsulated on reconstruction, rehabilitation and recovery.

 

He disclosed that Uzodimma’s distinguished leadership and transformative stewardship have repositioned Imo and established him as one of Africa’s most inspirational and forward looking sub-national leaders.

 

Part of the letter read

 

As Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Your Excellency has demonstrated strategic leadership and a strong commitment to advancing governance and development within Nigeria’s democratic landscape. Through the Shared Prosperity Agenda, your administration has strengthened infrastructure, improved public service delivery, expanded opportunities for youth and women, enhanced institutional effectiveness, and promoted sustainable socio-economic development across Imo State.

 

“As Your Excellency enters the final phase of your second and final term in office, the 3R Agenda—Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Recovery—stands as a defining legacy of transformational governance. Across the world, subnational governments that invest in infrastructure, strengthen institutions, and embrace innovation are increasingly attracting strategic partnerships and long-term investment.

 

“Under Your Excellency’s leadership, Imo State—aptly positioned as “Investment Meets Opportunities (IMO)”—has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for investment and economic growth, anchored by the following milestones:

Infrastructure Development: Construction and rehabilitation of over 130 strategic roads, including the Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe corridors.

Energy and Industrial Growth: Advancement of the Light Up Imo Project and the development of the Orashi Special Energy Zone.

 

Digital Economy and Skills Development: Training of over 60,000 young people through initiatives such as Imo Digital City and Imo SkillUp.”

 

 By this award and  recognition,  Uzodimma has joined a distinguished circle of African leaders who have  won the awards and graced the cover of African Leadership Magazine, including H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone; H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi; H.E. Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia; H.E. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia; H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, former President of Tanzania; and Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, among  others.

Women Bodies Rise Against Prof Fasina’s Ambassadorial Nomination, Urge Senate To Decline Confirmation

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Prof Abayomi Fasina

By Ayodele Oni

 

The nomination of Prof Abayomi Fasina, immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, (FUOYE), as an Ambassador, by President Bola Tinubu is under threat. Over 200 women organizations moved against the nomination.

 

Over 200 Women, Civil Society Groups have urged the senate to suspend Fasina’s Ambassadorial confirmation over pending court cases and other unresolved issues while he was serving as VC.

 

They have petitioned the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs on the nomination.

 

They urged the committee to decline the confirmation of former FUOYE VC as Nigeria’s ambassador pending the determination of ongoing criminal and civil cases against him.

 

The petition, dated June 25, 2026, was addressed to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio through the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello.

 

Signed by Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Co-convener of Womanifesto, on behalf of over 200 organisations and prominent advocates, the petition argued that confirming Fasina while legal proceedings remain pending would undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s accountability institutions and damage the country’s international image.

 

The coalition revealed that Prof Fasina is facing unresolved allegations bordering on sexual harassment, abuse of office, victimisation, human rights violations and workplace intimidation.

 

It added that criminal proceedings instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), as well as civil matters before the National Industrial Court, are still before competent courts.

 

According to the petitioners, ambassadorial appointments require individuals of “the highest standards of integrity and impeccable conduct,” stressing that unresolved allegations of such magnitude should be fully determined before any confirmation process proceeds.

 

They noted that one of the allegations involves an alleged se*ual harassment complaint reportedly supported by a 37-minute audio recording, while other legal proceedings relate to workplace victimisation and abuse of authority.

 

The petitioners also referenced an earlier judgment against the administration led by Prof Fasina in a National Industrial Court case, which, according to the groups, found that the university breached an employee’s right to a fair hearing and awarded damages against the institution.

 

The organisations maintained that although every accused person is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence, the Senate’s constitutional oversight role extends beyond criminal liability to assessing whether nominees possess the integrity, character and public confidence required for high public office.

 

According to them, confirming an ambassadorial nominee, that is facing unresolved criminal and civil proceedings could weaken public trust in anti-corruption institutions and send the wrong message about Nigeria’s commitment to combating se*ual harassment, gender-based violence and abuse of authority.

 

The petitioners cited Nigeria’s obligations under the Constitution, including provisions safeguarding human dignity and freedom from discrimination, as well as international commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

 

They urged the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs to suspend consideration of Prof Fasina’s nomination until all pending judicial proceedings have been concluded.

 

“The issue before this Committee concerns public confidence in the rule of law. It concerns the credibility of Nigeria’s commitment to accountability, human rights, gender equality and institutional integrity.”

 

The organisations said delaying the confirmation would demonstrate the Senate’s commitment to transparency, accountability and due process while preserving public confidence in democratic institutions.

 

Copies of the petition were also sent to the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu.

 

Among the signatories are Womanifesto, Bring Back Our Girls, Women Aid Collective (WACOL), Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), Project Alert on Violence Against Women, the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Yiaga Africa, Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), and former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, alongside numerous other civil society organisations.

Joint Lagos-Ogun Police Security Rescues Five Kidnapped Victims, Kill Four Suspects, Arrest 84

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Police on Duty

By Ayodele Oni

 

The Inspector General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu has directed Commissioners of Police in States to collaborate in joint patrols as part of measures to reduce interstate criminal activities.

 

This was disclosed on Saturday by Commissioners of Police for Ogun and Lagos states, Bode Ojajuni and Fatai Tijani, while briefing journalists on Saturday at the Police Training School in Iperu, Ogun State.

 

The briefing followed a major joint security operation by the two states  Police Commands, which led to the rescue of five kidnapped victims, the killing of four suspected kidnappers and the arrest of four others after a fierce gun battle in a forest along the Sagamu-Benin Expressway.

 

They revealed that the operation also resulted in the arrest of 84 additional suspects linked to various criminal activities across both states.

 

According to Ojajuni, the victims were rescued unharmed from a forest near Ogbere along the J4 corridor, following a coordinated operation carried out under the newly launched “Operation Kosaye,” an initiative designed to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes in Lagos and Ogun.

 

He said the operation was launched on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, with support from the governors of both states.

 

 Ojajuni explained that security teams raided forests and other suspected criminal hideouts across communities including Ogere, Ijebu-Ode, Ajebandele and the J4 corridor.

 

“Officers also recovered AK-47 rifles, other assault weapons, locally made pistols, ammunition, battle axes, mobile phones and other items believed to be connected to criminal activities.”

 

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, dismissed reports claiming that bandits had taken over parts of Lagos and Ogun, saying the success of the joint operation showed that security agencies remained in control.

 

He said the exercise would continue for as long as necessary adding that the Inspector-General had directed police commissioners in neighbouring states to strengthen cooperation in securing border communities and dismantling criminal networks operating across state lines.

 

One of the rescued victims, 58-year-old Jimoh Badamosi, told journalists that he was travelling to Ibadan when armed men attacked motorists near Ogbere Forest, robbed them and forced five victims from three vehicles into the bush.

 

He said the kidnappers demanded ₦40 million from his family and ₦30 million from another victim’s relatives.

 

 According to him, they had spent less than 24 hours in captivity when they heard heavy gunfire, forcing the kidnappers to flee before police officers rescued them.

 

The police described the operation as part of a sustained effort to improve security in Lagos and Ogun and assured residents that similar operations would continue.

 

Authorities also urged members of the public to remain calm, provide credible information to security agencies and support ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the region.

Uzodimma Meets intelligence Defence College Members, Seeks Stronger Collaboration Against Insecurity

By
The Source
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0
L-R: Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Commodore Usman Bugaje, Leader of the Defence Intelligence College Participants Course 25 when the delegation paid a working visit to the Governor at Government House Owerri, Friday, June 27, 2026.

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies and improved intelligence gathering as critical measures for addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

 

Speaking while receiving participants of the Defence Intelligence College, Abuja, on a courtesy visit to the Government House, Owerri on Friday June 26, 2026, Uzodimma said national security is a collective responsibility that requires seamless cooperation among all security institutions and government at all levels.

 

He commended the College for exposing its participants to practical field experience, expressing confidence that their findings and recommendations would assist governments in developing effective strategies to combat insecurity.

 

“The successes we have recorded in Imo State can largely be attributed to the smooth cooperation among security agencies. National security is not the responsibility of one agency alone,” the Governor said.

 

Uzodimma identified unemployment, infrastructure deficits and rapid population growth without corresponding economic opportunities as major drivers of insecurity.

 

According to him, economic development remains the most effective long-term solution to the nation’s security concerns.

He urged intelligence officers to strengthen coordination, share information more effectively and engage local communities to enhance preventive security measures.

 

The Governor further encouraged the visiting participants to interact with security agencies in the State and draw lessons from Imo’s experience, expressing optimism that their research would produce practical recommendations capable of improving security management across the country.

 

He thanked the delegation for choosing Imo State for the study visit and praised the sacrifices of security personnel in safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and stability.

 

Participants of Course 25 of the Defence Intelligence College (DIC), Abuja, have embarked on a study tour of Imo State to examine the role of operational intelligence in crisis prevention and national security.

Leader of the delegation, Commodore Usman Bugaje, disclosed that they were in Imo State to examine the role of operational intelligence in crisis prevention and national security.

 

Bugaje said the visit formed part of the College’s practical training programme, designed to complement classroom instruction with field experience. He explained that participants would interact with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to assess the State’s security architecture.

 

According to him, the findings would be compiled into a research paper containing recommendations to strengthen security in Imo State and Nigeria.

 

“We selected Imo State because of the remarkable improvements in security recorded under Governor Uzodimma’s administration,” he said.

 

Bugaje thanked the Governor for hosting the delegation and described Imo as his “second home,” recalling his previous security assignments and contributions to peace and democratic stability in the state.

 

Present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie and some members of the State Expanded Executive Council.

Uzodimma Reaffirms Support For Cancer Advocacy As Imo Hosts FLAC

By
The Source
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0

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) Nigeria, while urging Nigerians to unite in the fight against cancer through increased awareness, prevention and sustained advocacy.

 

It was also on a day victims of the dreaded migrant tumour – men, women and children – emotionally narrated their ugly experiences with Cancer, leaving the guests in awe, but with the hope that Cancer cure is in sight if early detection is carried out.

 

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the FLAC delegation and later at a gala night held in their honour at the Government House, Owerri, Governor Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian services and dedication to improving cancer care across the country.

 

“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his government’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.

 

He described Imo as the “hospitality capital of the South-East,” welcomed the delegates on behalf of the government and people of the State, and assured them of their safety throughout their stay.

 

At the gala night, the Governor called for collective action against cancer, stressing that tackling the disease requires public awareness, education and shared responsibility.

 

He also commended the President Bola Tinubu- led Federal Government’s investment in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, and urged Nigerians to support ongoing health reforms.

 

“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” he said, adding that early detection as well as addressing the stigma associated with cancer are essential to improving healthcare outcomes.

 

Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate Governor Uzodimma’s consistent support for the organisation’s activities and advocacy.

 

She however noted that FLAC which membership comprises current and former First Ladies in Nigeria continues to celebrate cancer survivors every June to inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease, describing the Governor as “a special friend of FLAC.”

 

She later presented the Governor on behalf of FLAC, with an award in recognition of his unwavering commitment to the organisation’s mission.

 

The gala night was packed full with activities including music, fashion parade by the cancer survivors, jokes, cutting of cakes, photographs, presentation of gifts to the cancer survivors as well as fund raising to support the ongoing FLAC’s advocacy on the disease.

 

More than one hundred million naira was raised as was disclosed by the Chairperson of FLAC to support the organisation’s ongoing advocacy efforts.

 

The delegation included the wives of the Governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun States, Hajia Lami Ahmed Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Dauda Lawal and Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, respectively; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr. Amina Abubakar; former First Lady of Oyo State/ Ambassador designate, Dr. Florence Ajumobi, among many others.

Police Launch Manhunt For Killers Of Benue Miyetti Allah Leader

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0

By Suleiman Anyalewechi 

 

 Gov Alia Orders Enhanced Security Around Community Leaders Involved In Peace Efforts

The Benue State Police Command has described the killing of the State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, MACBAN, Ardo Muhammad, as totally “senseless and a criminal act with the potential to undermine the peace and stability of the State.

 

This is as the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, directed security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation into the unfortunate incident, with a view to fishing out the masterminds.

 

The source reports that the MACBAN leader was killed alongside an associate  identified as Yakubu Isah, while returning from peace meeting held in Ohinimini Local Council of the state on Friday, June 26,2026.

 

According to local witness accounts, Muhammad had attended the trouble-shooting meeting organized by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, in Ohinimini Local Government Area between Fulani and Ayunne community leaders to address recent communal clashes and security challenges in the area. 

 

However, the Fulani leader and his campanion  were  reportedly ambushed, attacked, and killed by suspected armed hoodlums within Okudu Community in Otukpo Local Council of the state while heading back their station.

 

A statement on Saturday June 27, 2026, from Udeme Edet, the  Benue state Police Command spokesperson, quoted the Commissioner of Police CP Cletus Nwadiogbu as condemning the dastardly incident as well as extending heartfelt condolences to the families, relations, friends and associates of the victims.

 

The CP also vowed that nothing will be spared in the efforts to hunt down and prosecute those behind the unfortunate incident.

 

The Command in the statement urged the people to remain calm, and avoid acts capable of escalating tension, and undermine the peace, and stability of the State.

 

Similarly, Governor Alia, while condemning the gruesome killing, described it as direct threat to the fragile peace, and reconciliation efforts ongoing across the State.

 

He charged the Police, and other security agencies in the State to take all necessary steps in locating, and apprehending the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

 

He also directed for enhanced security around community leaders, involved in the ongoing peace efforts in the State.

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