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How APC Govs. Pressurised  Tinubu, Yilwatda To Accept Primary Election Results

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President Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

 

Indications have emerged that President Bola Tinubu and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, may have yielded to pressure from the APC Governors’ Forum over the just-concluded National Assembly primary elections.

 

A reliable party source disclosed that President Tinubu had, allegedly, directed the national chairman to issue Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination forms only to candidates agreed upon by both the party leadership and APC governors.

 

It was also gathered that the party’s national secretariat agreed to concede about 80 per cent of the National Assembly tickets in each state to the governors.

 

For instance, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State was said to have secured two senatorial slots and six House of Representatives tickets, while all 26 State House of Assembly tickets in the state were conceded to him.

 

Some APC National Assembly aspirants, particularly serving senators and members of the House of Representatives, have accused governors of hijacking the party’s primary elections.

 

The senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko accused the party of betrayal after losing the APC senatorial ticket to former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was reportedly backed by  Delta State Governor,  Sheriff Oborevwori.

 

The APC National Working Committee (NWC) had repeatedly maintained that it has the final say on the party’s candidates.

 

However, it was learnt that the APC Governors’ Forum, which perceived moves by the NWC to alter the names of candidates it backed during the primaries, raised the matter with the President during the governors’ Sallah visit to Lagos.

 

The governors were also said to have convinced the President of the need to support their preferred candidates for the National Assembly tickets.

 

A source said: “Before the governors paid their Sallah visit to the President, about three governors, Prince Dapo Abiodu Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Prince Bassey Otu of Cross River State, had separately met with him on the same day.

 

“Abiodun personally presented the result sheet of the primary election that produced him as the party’s senatorial candidate for Ogun East.

 

He reportedly did this to secure the President’s endorsement and ensure that nobody tampered with the outcome.

 

“Aiyedatiwa was also said to have told the President of the need to change most of the National Assembly members in his state.

 

He argued that many of the serving lawmakers had become unpopular and that retaining them could affect the party’s performance in the 2027 presidential election.

 

“He has since been allowed to nominate two senatorial candidates and six House of Representatives candidates.”

 

Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied reports suggesting that he promised to secure senatorial tickets for lawmakers who lost out in the APC primaries.

 

It was further learnt that the Senate President may have made a U-turn after discovering that the President had eventually aligned with the position of the APC governors

Atiku Says Fmr SGF, Lawal, Resorted To Blackmail After Failed Bid To Rig ADC Presidential Primary

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Babachir Lawal and Atiku Abubakar

By Ayodele Oni

 

Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abubakar Atiku has hit back at the former Secretary to Government of the Federation, (SGF), Babachir Lawal, accusing him of resorting to blackmail after his failed bid to rig the ADC presidential primary.

 

Lawal, had since the conclusion of the ADC primary accused Atiku of rigging the election, and insisted that he is not fit to occupy the presidential seat.

 

The former SGF has also announced his resignation from the ADC, pointing out that the ADC presidential primary results were written to favour Atiku, insisting he won’t be part of the former vice president’s rigging machine in the 2027 presidential election.

 

He added that Atiku is incompetent and a tribal, religious bigot, who shouldn’t come close to the presidential office.

 

“I want no part in this conspiracy of silence. I am exiting the ADC because its just concluded primaries were at all levels massively rigged in favour of Kachalla Abubakar Atiku,” Lawal stated.

 

He said legitimate winners were sidelined and replaced by preferred candidates loyal to Atiku, undermining the party’s internal democracy.

 

In his latest criticism of Atiku, the former SGF, urged ADC to consider presenting a presidential candidate other than Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 general election, arguing that the opposition party would stand a better chance of defeating the ruling party with a more broadly acceptable contender.

According to him, the ADC must prioritize electoral viability and national appeal if it hopes to mount a serious challenge to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

The former SGF maintained that while Atiku remains a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, the party should carefully assess whether he represents its strongest option for attracting support across the country.

 

He argued that opposition parties must focus on identifying a candidate capable of uniting diverse political interests and expanding their voter base.

 

Atiku, through his media aide, Paul Ibe stated on Sunday that “Babachir Lawal was in a state of stupor, while Atiku was condemning, empathising and proffering solutions to terrorist, banditry attacks in Benue, Plateau, others

 

“We read with amusement but concern for the mental state of former SGF Babachir Lawal, his latest attempt at revisionism of his disgraceful public service record and failed efforts to cause the rigging of the ADC presidential primary.

 

“It is becoming obvious that Babachir Lawal is going bunkers possibly from the abuse of booze.

 

“Instead of addressing the issue of his ignominious role in presiding over a scam in which he allegedly extorted money to deliver the presidential ticket, but failed because those charged with the responsibility of conducting the election stopped him in his tracks, Babachir Lawal has resorted to personal attacks against Atiku Abubakar.

 

“Babachir Lawal may have been preoccupied with hitting the sauce, but it is public record that the Waziri had always spoken against terrorist and banditry attacks and shown empathy to communities that were attacked.

 

“Despite the fact that Atiku Abubakar is Fulani from Adamawa, in the North East region, the ADC presidential candidate in the 2027 election, has frequently spoken out and forcefully too in condemnation of terrorist and banditry attacks and the escalating wave of kidnappings across Nigeria.

 

“When responding to these incidents, he often criticizes the Federal Government and the leader of the government of the day, and in this dispensation, President Bola Tinubu, arguing that the country’s security architecture is collapsing and that officials rely on “empty statements” rather than taking decisive, preventive action.

 

“It is also on record that the Waziri Adamawa advocates for an overhaul of Nigeria’s counterterrorism framework.

 

“He has frequently called on the National Assembly to pass legislation that would allow state governments to arm their own security outfits with modern weapons to complement overstretched federal forces.

 

“Atiku Abubakar has also highlighted the importance of localized efforts, urging community members to provide intelligence to security agencies and avoiding acting as informants for armed groups.

 

“In addition, he has proposed the creation of a National Victims and Survivors Support Framework to ensure that affected communities receive psychological support, educational opportunities, and economic recovery programmes.

 

“In one of his most recent engagements, the former Vice President proposed for a Special Courts to not only try these criminals but that those found guilty be handed capital punishment.

 

“When Babachir Lawal is eventually sober, he may wish to take out time to review some of the links of news reports in which Atiku Abubakar spoke against terrorist and banditry attacks and proferred solutions.

 

“Those engagements covered every state of the country without exception.”

Edo Gov. Okpebholo Decries Rise In Banditry Ahead General Elections

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Governor Monday Okpebholo

By Ayodele Oni

 

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed concern over rise in banditry and other criminal activities ahead of next year’s general elections.

 

Okpebholo however declared that Nigeria will not be surrendered to kidnappers and other criminal elements, expressing confidence that the country will overcome its security challenges through collective efforts and divine intervention.

 

The governor made the declaration on Sunday during a visit to LoveWorld City (Christ Embassy) in Benin City, where he requested prayers against kidnapping, cultism, and other forms of insecurity affecting the nation.

 

Okpebholo also urged the congregation to pray for peace, prosperity, good governance, and economic recovery in Nigeria.

 

He specifically called for prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking God to grant him wisdom, guidance, and strength to lead the country and effectively manage its economy.

 

Speaking during the service, the governor emphasized that criminal elements must not be allowed to dictate the future of the nation.

 

“This country does not belong to kidnappers. No individual or group should hold the nation captive for personal or political interests,” he said.

 

He noted that kidnapping has become a growing concern as political activities intensify ahead of future elections, but expressed optimism that the situation would improve through prayers and coordinated efforts by security agencies and citizens.

 

“As elections draw closer, kidnapping has become a growing concern. However, with the prayers of God’s people and collective efforts, we believe these challenges will be overcome,” he added.

 

According to the governor, prayers offered for Nigeria would naturally extend to the peace, safety, and development of Edo State and other parts of the country.

 

The officiating pastor, Moses Olayemi, led the congregation in prayers for Nigeria, its leaders, local government areas, the economy, and communities across the nation.

 

He prayed for divine peace, protection, economic restoration, and spiritual awakening in Edo State and throughout Nigeria.

 

Pastor Olayemi also commended Governor Okpebholo for ongoing developmental projects in Edo State, particularly road infrastructure improvements.

 

“We appreciate the transformation taking place across the state. The roads and other projects are improving daily, and we commend your efforts. May God grant you the resources and strength to complete what you have started,” he said

Amusan Sets New Record In Taiwan

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Tobi Amusan in Taiwan

By Akinwale Kasali

 

Tobi Amusan, World Record holder and undisputed Best Hurdler in Africa has once again proved her mettle as a force to reckon with. This followed her Gold Podium finish at the New Taipei Athletics Open in Taiwan on Saturday.

 

Amusan grabbed Gold ahead of Taiwanese duo Bo Ya Zhang, who went for second place in 13.17s, and Yi Po-an follows as third in 13.37s.

 

The 29-year-old’s winning time of 12.72s is also a new meeting record, chalking off 0.08s off the previous mark of 12.80s held by Nia Ali, US Olympic silver medalist and former world champion.

 

Recall that the Nigerian world record holder wrote her name in gold, as she secured her first Diamond League victory of the 2026 season in emphatic fashion two werks ago in Rabat, Morocco.

 

Having won the 100 meters hurdle African Senior Athletics Championship in Accra, Ghana, she smashed her own meeting record to win the women’s 100m hurdles at the Rabat Diamond League.

 

The Ogun State born Amusan stormed to victory in 12.28 seconds, equalling her season’s best and finishing comfortably ahead of her rivals in another statement performance as she continues her build-up to the major championships later this year.

 

She outran her Bahamian counterpart, Devynne Charlton, who finished second in 12.40s, while Dutch athlete Nadine Visser placed third in 12.47s.

 

The Nigerian winning time not only earned her maximum points on the Diamond League circuit but also erased the previous meeting record of 12.45s, which she set at the same venue in 2025.

 

This remarkable feat marks a significant milestone and steady progress for the Nigerian star, who had opened her Diamond League campaign with podium finishes but was still searching for her first win of the season.

 

It would be recalled that earlier this year, Amusan finished third in Shanghai, China, with a time of 12.41s before improving to a season’s best 12.28s for second place at the Xiamen Diamond League in China.

 

On both occasions, she finished behind American hurdling sensation, Masai Russell.

 

Amusan’s victory in Rabat indicates that the World Record Holder is steadily hitting top form at the right time, as her

performance was particularly impressive given the quality of the field and the consistency.

 

She has however shown that she still remains a force to reckon with.

 

The 12.28s clocking matches the time she produced in Xiamen, which ranks among the fastest performances in the world this year and stands as the fourth-fastest time of her illustrious career.

 

Her resurgence comes after a strong start to the outdoor season before the beginning of her Diamond League campaign.

Osun Gov. Election: “I Will Win Convincingly, Our Votes Will Count” –  Adeleke

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Ademola Adeleke - Osun State Governor
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State.

 

By Ayodele Oni

 

Osun state Governor, Ademola Adeleke has tasked residents and indigenes to ignore rumours and scaremongering about the forthcoming gubernatorial elections.

 

The governor declares “we shall win convincingly and we shall be declared winner with wide margins.”

 

Mallam Olawale Rasheed,

Spokesperson to the State Governor, stated that Adeleke was responding to concerns in some quarters about election rigging and political violence.

 

According to him, the governor said all hands are on deck to ensure that “our people exercise their voting rights without any hindrance”, vowing that “our votes will count and we shall emerge victorious.”

 

Governor Adeleke called on Osun people to ignore the scaremongering, the rigging rumours and the threats, stressing that those peddling fear mongering have only strengthened the determination of the people to sustain and retain good governance.

 

According to the Governor, “residents and voters are resolved  to enforce free and fair elections within the ambit of the law, as well as through formal and informal structures.

 

“No one, I repeat, no one can deny Osun people their legitimate rights to choose their leaders.

 

“We are the cradle of Yoruba nation. We are the ancestral state of Mr President. No security or electoral official will dare attempt to set Osun state on fire. No federal official will contemplate rigging the forthcoming elections in Osun state.

 

“We will resist any move or ploy to tamper with the electoral process. We are closely monitoring all pre-election activities while watching machinery has been set for both election and post- election period.

 

“We are not taking anything to chance,’ the governor assures the public.

 

On the political rupture within the Osun main opposition party, Governor Adeleke called on all politicians of goodwill to join hands with him to sustain current statewide delivery of good governance.

 

“Our candidature is beyond party lines. Ours is a pan-Osun movement, a rainbow coalition, to ensure the final exit of the state from under-development. So our doors are open for new members to join our party.

 

“I call on politicians and non-political stakeholders to join me in Accord Party ahead of August 15. It is better to abandon a sinking ship and join the light which my candidature represents.”

Fmr Minister Adelabu Confirms Return Of Abducted Family Members, Lauds Security Agencies

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Adelabu Sister and Sons

By Ayodele Oni

 

The family of former Minister of Power and a Gubernatorial aspirant of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Adebayo Adelabu has reacted to the release of the abducted members.

 

It expressed gratitude to God and Nigerians following the successful rescue of Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her twin sons, Peter and Paul, who were kidnapped last week by gunmen in Ibadan.

 

The Nigeria Police Force had announced the rescue og Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, from their abductors following a late-night operation on Saturday.

 

The victims were freed alive during the rescue mission carried out at about 7:30 p.m., few days after they were kidnapped in Ibadan, Oyo State.

 

Police sources disclosed that two suspected kidnappers were killed during a fierce gun battle with operatives, while two firearms were recovered from the criminal gang.

 

Mrs. John-Paul, who is the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adelabu, was reportedly abducted alongside her twin sons at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026, while taking the children to school.

 

According to security sources, sustained intelligence gathering, electronic tracking, and tactical pressure mounted on the kidnappers forced them into a confrontation with police operatives, culminating in the successful rescue of the victims.

 

The rescued mother and her children were said to be in stable condition following the operation.

 

The family, in a statement signed by Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro confirmed that the victims were freed unarmed and are in good condition.

 

The statement described the outcome as proof of what collective action, citizen support, and committed security institutions can achieve.

 

It thanked President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu and the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde for their concern and support during the ordeal.

 

It also commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Oyo State Police Command, and the Commissioner of Police for their professionalism and tireless work on the case.

 

Special appreciation was also extended to the Director-General of the Department of State Services, DSS headquarters in Abuja, and the Oyo State Directorate for intelligence-led efforts that contributed to the rescue.

 

“Gratitude was also given to the APC national leadership, Oyo State chapter, party leaders nationwide, government officials, political associates, religious and traditional rulers, community leaders, friends, and well-meaning Nigerians whose prayers, visits, calls, and messages strengthened the family.”

 

While celebrating the rescue, the family said their thoughts remain with other kidnap victims still in captivity, praying for their safe return.

 

It noted that insecurity cuts across politics, ethnicity, and religion and called for continued unity and support for security agencies to make Nigeria safer.

Insecurity: CAN  Urges FG To Seek Foreign Help, Calls For State Of Emergency

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Bishop Barnabas Akin-Akinsanya - South West CAN President

By Ayodele Oni

 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) South West zone, has called on the Federal Government to immediately declare a state of emergency on security and adopt urgent measures to stem the rising tide of kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes.

 

The association expressed concern over the worsening security situation across the country, particularly in the South-West region.

 

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of CAN South-West, Bishop Barnabas Akin-Akinsanya, described the growing wave of abductions and attacks in states such as Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Lagos as a serious threat to national peace, economic development, and social stability.

 

The association insisted that the deteriorating security situation warrants declaring a security emergency to coordinate an aggressive response against criminal elements.

 

Recognising the increasingly sophisticated operations of criminal gangs, CAN advised the Federal Government to seek technical and intelligence support from friendly nations and international security partners where necessary.

 

Expressing concern over the vulnerability of forests, highways, farmlands, and border communities across the South-West, CAN warned that criminal elements are increasingly exploiting these areas as operational bases.

 

The association called on governors in the region to strengthen inter-state security collaboration, improve intelligence sharing, and provide greater support for existing regional security outfits.

 

It also advocated increased investment in community-based intelligence gathering and surveillance systems to detect and prevent criminal activities before they occur.

 

The Christian body noted that incidents of kidnappings and other violent crimes, once considered isolated cases, have now become a recurring national challenge that continues to instill fear and uncertainty among citizens.

 

CAN condemned the activities of kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements terrorising communities across the country, while expressing sympathy with victims and their families.

 

The association also offered prayers for the safe release of those still in captivity and comfort for families who have lost loved ones to criminal attacks.

 

The association urged governments at all levels to move beyond verbal assurances and take concrete, decisive actions to address the nation’s security challenges.

 

According to CAN, extraordinary times require extraordinary responses, underscoring the need to deploy modern security technologies, enhance intelligence gathering, and improve coordination among security agencies.

 

“The time has come for governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and adopt extraordinary measures to confront this national emergency,” the statement read.

 

CAN specifically called on the Federal Government to strengthen the country’s security architecture by equipping security agencies with modern surveillance equipment, drones, advanced communication gadgets, intelligence systems, and rapid-response capabilities needed to combat criminal networks.

 

The association pointed out that national security should take precedence over political considerations, bureaucratic bottlenecks, or concerns about national pride.

 

“Every legitimate avenue capable of restoring peace and security to our nation should be explored,” CAN stated.

 

The Christian body also renewed its support for the establishment of state police, urging the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to accelerate efforts towards decentralising policing in the country.

 

According to CAN, state policing has become imperative given the unique security challenges facing different regions of the country.

 

While acknowledging the growing security concerns, CAN urged Christians not to surrender to fear, encouraging them to continue praying for peace, security, and national healing.

 

The association, however, advised churches and worshippers to exercise caution during night vigils and other late-night religious activities, especially in areas where adequate security arrangements may not be guaranteed.

 

It further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel through high-risk areas, and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.

 

Praying for divine intervention, the association concluded: “May God deliver our nation from the hands of evil and restore lasting peace, security, and prosperity to Nigeria.”

Two Infants Die As Military Rescues 360 Abducted Ngoshe Residents

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Military Rescues 360 Abducted Ngoshe Residents

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

Troops of the Operation Had in Kai, in conjunction with operatives of the Special Forces of the Nigerian Army, have successfully rescued over 360 victims of the Ngoshe, Borno State abduction.

 

The Source reports that suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents had on March 3, 2026 attacked, and whisked away over 400 residents of Ngoshe, including the Chief Imam, in Gwoza Local Council of Borno State.

 

However, scores of the  victims were reported to have escaped from the kidnappers’ den on March 24, 2026.

 

Only last month, the abductors issued an ultimatum to the authorities and  warned that they may be forced to marry off the female folk and eliminate others especially the male victims if their demands, including a substantial amount of cash are not met.

 

But the Theatre Commander of the North East Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulraham at the weekend informed that the victims were rescued following a coordinated, and special operation carried out on Saturday  June 6, 2026.

 

He emphasized that Special Forces operatives had first launched a decoy operation that resulted in tension and confusion within the enclave of terrorists with troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade moving in swiftly for the rescue operation.

 

He further informed that the rescued victims were subjected to immediate medical screening with those in need offered medical attention by the Brigade’s medical team, while others were admitted at the General Hospital Gwoza for a comprehensive treatment.

 

The Theatre Commander  however regretted that two infants lost their lives due to the harsh and difficult terrain during the process of moving the victims to safety.

 

” The rescued civilians were among residents abducted during a terrorist attack on Ngoshe community on March 3 ,2026 .

 

” However ,the operation recorded a tragic set back as two infants died during the rescue efforts due to harsh and difficult terrain encountered while moving the victims to safety.

 

“The victims were also provided with food and water before being moved to a secure holding facility pending their handover to relevant authorities and reunification with their families” General Abubakar stated.

 

Confirming the safe release of the victims, the President of the Borno South Youth Alliance BOSYA, Samaila Kaigama, disclosed that the body played a pivotal role in the rescue efforts through its series of mediations.

 

According to him, the leadership of the Youth body had engaged the abductors’ in sustained communications and negotiations, expressing immense gratitude over the success of the rescue efforts.

 

“We have secured the release of all the 416 women and children from Ngoshe community taken away. They were released on Saturday, June 6, 2026,  Kaigama disclosed.

Terrorism: Acquire Weapons, Defend Yourselves, Emir Appeals To His Subjects

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Emir of Argungu - Alhaji Mohammad Samaila Mera

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

Apparently frustrated by the growing level of insecurity in the country, and the vulnerability of his people, the Emir of Argungu in Kebbi state, Alhaji Mohammad Samaila Mera, has advised his subjects to separately, and collectively acquire firearms to defend themselves.

 

The source reports that many parts of Kebbi state have, of recent, been the epicentre of violent attacks and other criminal activities perpetrated by hordes of suspected terrorists groups, including the very dangerous Lukarawa militia.

 

Most communities have been subjected to consistent raids, pillaging, killings, abduction and wanton destruction of homes and properties by the insurgents who have found Kebbi State a haven, being a border State.

 

The Argungu Monarch who spoke during a routine meeting with District Village Heads, as well as some major traditional title holders at his Palace, enjoined the people to, as a matter of urgent importance, consider pulling resources together for the purpose of acquiring some legally permitted weapons for the purpose of self-defence.

 

While appealing for vigilance and proactiveness, the royal father emphasized that the time has come for the people to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in protecting themselves against incessant violent attacks, killings ,and Kidnaping by suspected terrorist elements.

 

He expressed the confidence and optimism that such proactive measures by the people will go a long way in deterring and mitigating the activities of the insurgents.

 

The Emir noted that his message is rooted in the Islamic teachings, that emphasizes that it is not ideal for faithful to remain lukewarm in the face of obvious threat to their existence.

 

“It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens, and rape our women.

 

“Be prepared to defend yourself, your family, and your communities against any attack”, Emir Mera admonished.

 

However, he stressed that his call should not be misconstrued as a licence for people to take laws into their hands and or  resort to acts of gangsterism and terrorism.

 

Rather, he emphasized that his message should be seen from the perspective of self-defence, noting that the security challenges have become too intense and overwhelming as to demand the application of  some extra-ordinary measures.

 

“You see, each time bandits attack people , including village heads and other leaders will start running , simply because communities don’t have any mechanisms for effective response,and self-defence”, he added.

 

The Royal father said it is completely unacceptable for communities to continue to lose their people without any form of resistance.

 

This was as he warned against leveraging his call to promote ethnic violence and extrajudicial killings.

 

Particularly,bthe Emir cautioned against carrying out reprisal attacks on innocent people or communities, insisting that such unlawful measures have proven to a major harbinger of vicious attacks and killings.

 

According to him, even though the Lakurawa terrorist group has left the area, they have left behind several brain washed and armed bandits who have  continued to terrorize communities.

Okonjo-Iweala Loses Brother, Ogwuashi-Uku Kingdom Mourns

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Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

By Akinwale Kasali 

 

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General, World Trade Organisation, WTO, has lost her younger brother, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo .

 

The Prince’s sudden passing has thrown the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State and the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family into mourning.

 

Confirming his demise, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, in a statement announced that he passed on May 30, 2026.

 

His Royal Majesty, Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, described the deceased as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother and dedicated uncle whose death has created a deep void in the Royal Family and the kingdom.

 

The Monarch said Prince Ikechukwu  was “a proud and irreplaceable member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family whose roots run deep in the history, dignity and tradition of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.”

 

He noted that the late Prince would be remembered for his grace, humility and commitment to family and community.

 

The Monarch added that the memory of the deceased would endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

 

The late Prince is survived by his wife, daughter, brothers, sisters and other relatives.

 

The revered Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom Monarch urged sons and daughters of the kingdom at home and in diaspora to keep the family in their prayers and support them through the period of mourning.