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Self-styled Prophet, Onye Eze Jesus Bags Six Years In Jail, Fined N20 Million

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Onye Jesus

By Suleiman Anyalewechi 

 

The Anambra State authorities in continuation of  their avowed commitment towards ridding the State of the activities of fake and fraudulent spiritualists , traditionalists, and other  criminal elements, on Friday, secured the  conviction of a self-acclaimed prophet, Onyebuchi Okocha.

 

Okocha, popular as “Onyeze Jesus”, was on Friday handed down a six-year prison term, and a fine of N20 million by an Anambra High Court sitting in Awka, the State Capital over charges bordering on alleged violation of the provisions of the Anambra State Homeland Security laws of 2026.

 

The law, which became operational in 2025, is primarily targeted at curbing the alleged unwholesome activities of fraudulent spiritualists, traditionalists, and enablers of other criminal activities such as armed robbery, internet fraud, and ritual practices for the purposes of wealth acquisition.

 

Delivering judgment on an application filed by the Anambra State Government, trial Judge, Honourable Justice Jude Obiora, held that individuals claiming to possess supernatural powers leading to economic and other fortunes, through some unlawful practices and who prepare charms outlawed by the Anambra Homeland Security law are liable to both imprisonment and financial penalties.

 

Consequently, the trial Judge  having found the defendant, Onye Eze Jesus guilty of contravening relevant Sections of the Anambra Homeland Security laws convicted and sentenced him to six years in jail, and a fine of N20 million.

 

The Source reports that since launching a state-wide crackdown on individuals and groups engaged in alleged ritual practices, fraudulent spiritual activities, and the use of charms for the facilitation of criminal activities such as kidnapping, and internet fraud in February 2025, the Anambra State Government have arrested and prosecuted a number of individuals.

 

The State Government, early June, arrested and arraigned no fewer than 10 alleged fake and fraudulent  Church pastors and prophets, including a former Nigeria Democratic Congress NDC Abia Central Senatorial District aspirant, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa whose Ministry is based in Onitsha.

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DHQ: Military Rescued 40 Persons, Arrested 20 Terrorists In Seven Days

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
Soldiers on Duty

By Akinwale Kasali 

 

The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has announced a landmark victory recorded by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, as it reportedly rescued more than 40 kidnapped victims and  arrested over 20 suspected terrorists, collaborators and other criminal elements within seven days.

 

The Military achieved this feat during a coordinated operations across the country between July 10 and July 16.

 

Maj-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this on Saturday in Abuja in a statement on military operations nationwide, stating that during the operations the troops also neutralised several terrorists and dismantled criminal networks.

 

He said that the successes were recorded by troops of Operations Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace, Whirl Stroke, Delta Safe and Udo Ka in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups.

 

Onoja added that troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the Northeast, leading to the surrender of 10 family members of terrorists; the arrest of six suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators; as well as the rescue of 13 abductees.

 

According to him, troops also foiled infiltration attempts around Maiduguri, neutralised terrorists during ambush operations and arrested a suspected foreign spy at Mallam Fatori in Borno State.

 

In the North-West, Onoja said troops of Operation Fansan Yamma arrested terrorist- collaborators, neutralised three terrorists and rescued 14 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Zamfara and Kebbi states.

 

He said troops also recovered vehicles and other items from fleeing terrorists while successfully repelling attacks on several communities.

 

The Defence spokesman said troops of Operation Savannah Shield rescued four kidnapped victims in Niger and Kwara states, while forest guards neutralised a suspected terrorist and recovered an AK-47 rifle, magazines and a dane gun during an operation in Kwara.

 

He added that Operation Enduring Peace troops intercepted suspected arms traffickers in Kaduna State, arrested wanted criminal suspects in Plateau State and rescued four kidnap victims after foiling attacks along major highways.

 

According to him, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke arrested an ammunition courier conveying 60 rounds of ammunition in Nasarawa State and four suspected terrorist collaborators in Kogi State.

 

He said troops also rescued a school principal, a NECO official and two students abducted during an attack on an examination centre in the Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi after sustained pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon them.

 

Onoja said troops of Operation Delta Safe sustained the fight against crude oil theft by discovering and destroying illegal refining sites in Rivers State containing stolen crude oil and refining equipment.

 

He added that troops also neutralised two suspected kidnappers in Edo State, recovered three rifles and ammunition, and rescued three abductees.

 

In the South-East, Onoja said Operation UDO KA troops arrested suspected members of a proscribed secessionist group, recovered weapons and ammunition and rescued two abductees along the Aba–Port Harcourt Motorway.

 

He said the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism, courage and dedication across all theatres of operation.

 

According to him, the CDS also applauded the intelligence-led collaboration among security agencies that led to the unconditional rescue of the 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity without any concession to the abductors.

 

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces and other security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring that ongoing operations would be sustained until peace, security and stability were fully restored across the country.

Examination Fraud: UNICAL Dismisses Eight Staff Members, Demote Don

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
University of Calabar - UNICAL

By Akinwale Kasali

 

The Management of the University of Calabar, UNICAL, has dismissed eight members of staff and sanctioned another with a two-year promotion delay, following disciplinary actions approved at the institution’s 174th Governing Council meeting.

 

Aside examination  fraud, the dismissed staff were also alleged to have diverted the Institution’s fund and vandalized School properties.

 

A memo signed by the University Registrar, Dr. Icha Chukwuka, who doubles as Secretary to Council, revealed that the sanctions followed a review of disciplinary cases presented before Council members.

 

Those dismissed include Prof. Emilia Oyira of the Department of Nursing Science, over alleged examination misconduct;  Ukachukwu Echezunachi Darlington of Chemical Pathology, Akinrinade Opayemi Ogunluyi of Microbiology, Dr Arum Priscilia Nchekwube of Internal Medicine, and Okoi Nyesam Eni of the Clinical Medical Hostel, all sacked over absence and abandonment of duty.

 

Others include Joseph Edet Okon of the Works Department, dismissed over allegations of vandalizing and carting away armoured cables, and Eworo Valentine Ibor of Pure and Applied Chemistry, dismissed for allegedly falsifying and altering examination results.

 

In the same vein, Emmanuel Adariku of the Alumni Relations Office was dismissed over unauthorized withdrawal of funds from the Friends of Malabo/Alumni Trust Funds account, while Dr Mathias Agba of Nursing Science was handed a two-year promotion delay and forfeiture of 50 percent of his withheld salary over negligence linked to an examination misconduct case.

 

The Registrar’s memo stated that the University “continues to reiterate its zero tolerance to all forms of unethical practices,” noting that the administration of Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong “remains resolute in his determination to rebrand the institution on a foundation of integrity and excellence in service delivery.”

 

The disciplinary action is coming amid heightened scrutiny of ethical conduct among staff of tertiary institutions nationwide, with universities under pressure to clean up their systems following repeated public outcry over examination fraud, financial impropriety and abuse of office by both teaching and non-teaching staff.

 

The University’s Public Relations Unit which released the statement, said the affected staff were dismissed in line with due process, following Council’s deliberation on the disciplinary reports presented to it.

Again, Armed Men Seize Three Siblings, Mother’s Corpse In Benue State

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Gunmen

By Suleiman Anyalewechi 

 

Armed men have reportedly abducted three siblings conveying the remains of their mother in the  Ohinimini Local Council of Benue.

 

The victims were  taking the corpse of their mother who died in Abuja to their home community of Ikienyi  in Okpokwu Local Council of Benue state for burial when they were intercepted by suspected terrorist elements in the early hours of Saturday, July 18, 2026.

 

The siblings, alongside their mother’s body were kidnapped along the Ogobia/Otukpo Road, within the axis of Omutele and Ankpechi Villages.

 

Eyewitness accounts informed that the victims whose vehicle  developed some mechanical faults at about 2.00 am  were abducted a few minutes after fixing the vehicle, and resuming their journey.

 

According to the locals, the siblings were taking away between 3.00am and 4.00 am by the armed men after firing sporadically to scare residents.

 

The incident occurred almost at the same area where some suspected hoodlums had attacked and killed some people a couple days ago.

 

Some parts of the Ohinimini and Otukpo Local Councils  have been witnessing renewed and coordinated attacks and killings since July 1, when the Benue State Chapter Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association MACBAN Ardo Risku Mohammad and his associate Yakubu Isah Mairiga were ambushed and killed along Otukpo area after attending a peace meeting held at the headquarters of the Council.

 

Confirming the unfortunate incident, Gabriel Adole, the Chairman of Ohinimini Council informed that he is still  trying to establish the actual circumstances surrounding the development.

 

As at the time of reporting, the State Police Authorities were yet to react to the situation.

 

It will be recalled that penultimate week, suspected armed terrorists had equally intercepted some mourners, including family members conveying the corpse of a deceased FRSC Deputy Commander to Otukpo. They later abandoned the corpse in a bush.

After Initial Portal Failure Is Restored, NBA Election Voting Begins

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
NBA

By Ayodele Oni

 

After initial hitches occasioned by portal failure, thousands of lawyers began voting electronically on Saturday in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) national elections, with three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) contesting the association’s presidency amid legal disputes, allegations of interference, and concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.

 

The election will produce a successor to the outgoing NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), with Olumuyiwa Akinboro (SAN), Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe (SAN) and Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya (SAN) vying for the office.

 

The presidency has been zoned to the Southwest, following the decision of the Midwest Bar to opt out after producing two recent NBA presidents — Augustine Alegeh (SAN) and Olumide Akpata.

 

Akinboro, a Life Bencher, previously served as NBA General Secretary and later as Secretary and Chairman of the NBA Abuja Branch.

 

Akangbe is a former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, former Chairman of the NBA Finance Committee and a member of the Body of Benchers.

 

Badejo-Okusanya previously served as General Counsel in the Lagos State Governor’s Office during the Babatunde Fashola administration and chaired the Planning Committee for the NBA’s 2024 Annual General Conference.

 

The Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) has published the final voters’ register containing more than 30,000 eligible lawyers after months of verifying members’ eligibility.

 

Only lawyers who paid their practising fees and branch dues within the stipulated period are eligible to vote.

 

Despite concerns raised after the Managing Director of the election service provider was arrested, the NBA National Executive Council (NEC) on Friday confirmed his release and insisted that the election would proceed as scheduled.

 

Following an emergency virtual meeting, the NEC unanimously resolved that the 2026 NBA National Officers and General Council of the Bar elections would be held as planned.

 

The NBA, the ECNBA assured members that all logistical and operational arrangements had been completed and that there was no justification for postponing the exercise.

 

The council also condemned the arrest and detention of the election service provider’s Managing Director, describing it as disturbing, while urging all authorities to respect the independence of the association and refrain from interfering in its electoral process.

 

The election has, however, been overshadowed by legal challenges and calls for postponement.

 

Egbe Amofin Oodua had earlier secured a court order seeking to stop the other presidential candidates after endorsing Akinboro as its sole candidate. However, the Court of Appeal later set aside the order

 

On Friday, the group renewed its opposition to the election, calling for its suspension to allow reforms to the electronic voting process.

 

Chairman of its Governing Council, Isiaka Olagunju (SAN), accused the NBA leadership of abandoning an earlier agreement with stakeholders to postpone the poll.

 

He also questioned the integrity of the current electronic voting system, alleging that email-based verification remains vulnerable to manipulation through compromised email accounts, altered voter profiles and intercepted one-time passwords.

 

The group proposed that future NBA elections should adopt verification linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN) and registered telephone numbers to improve transparency.

 

Olagunju warned that proceeding without implementing the proposed reforms could undermine confidence in the association’s electoral process.

 

Also on Friday, the Atiku Media Office alleged attempts by unnamed individuals to influence the outcome of the NBA election through the use of security agencies and the courts to favour a preferred candidate.

 

The media office claimed the alleged interference formed part of a broader effort to weaken democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections and called for respect for the constitutional independence of the ECNBA.

 

The NBA leadership also dismissed documents circulating on social media claiming that the Attorney-General of the Federation had directed the suspension of the election, describing the reports as false.

 

To strengthen confidence in the process, the NBA invited local and international election observers, including Yiaga Africa, the European Union, the United States and United Kingdom missions, and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), to observe the electronic voting exercise.

 

Voting will be conducted entirely online through the ECNBA platform. Only lawyers whose names appear on the final voters’ register will be allowed to vote using unique credentials issued by the electoral committee.

 

The ECNBA said each eligible lawyer would vote once, while complaints relating to technical issues would be handled through its helpdesk.

 

Campaign activities have also been prohibited during the voting period, with the electoral committee expressing confidence that technological safeguards put in place will ensure a credible, transparent and secure election.

 

Results are expected after the close of voting, following collation and verification by the electoral committee

2027: Gombe Gov Targets One Million Votes For Tinubu

By
James Orji
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0
Governor Muhammad Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe State

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has called on the aggrieved members of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC in the state to close ranks, saying this will enable the party deliver the state for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2027 election.

The state helmsman said the party’s targeting 0ne million votes for Tinubu, and this will only be possible if the members of the party are able to forge a united front ahead next year’s general election in the country.

According to the governor, who spoke while inaugurating the APC Reconciliation Committee in the state,  saddled with the responsibility to resolve grievances arising from the party’s congresses and primary elections, the aggrieved members should leave the past behind them, forge a united front with other stakeholders, in the overall interest of the party head the election.

If this is done, the governor said, the party will emerge victory in the state, by wining all the seats in the state House of Assembly, National Assembly, including the presidency for Tinubu, saying the party’s target is to secure “one million” to  return Tinubu to Aso Rock.

“I am confident that if we remain united, the APC will deliver one million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Gombe State. We will also retain all 24 seats in the State House of Assembly and win the state’s three Senate seats as well as all six seats in the House of Representatives,” Governor Yahaya said.

ADC: Court Strikes Out Suit Challenging Atiku As Presidential Candidate

By
James Orji
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0

The Federal High Court in Abuja has  struck out a pre-election dispute suit filed by the former governor of Rivers, Rotimi Amaechi, against former vice president Atiku Abubakar, the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN reports.

According to the agency report, the court took the decision after the former governor withdrew the suit earlier filed by his lawyers on his behalf.

Recall that Amaechi had file the suit challenging Abubakar’s emergence as the presidential flag-bearer of the African Democratic Congress, ADC for the 2027 election.

The former Minister of Transport in the suit, also prayed the court for an order setting aside the presidential primary election of May 25 that produced Abubakar as ADC candidate.

He told the court that the election was conducted in breach of Section 77(5) and (6) of the Electoral Act, 2026; the ADC’s Constitution, 2026; and Sections 2, 2.1 and 2.2 of ADC’s Guidelines for the conduct of primary elections for the nomination of candidates for the 2027 general elections.

In his ruling, Jutsice Joyce Abdulmalik, said he decided to strike out the suit after Amaechi’s lawyer, Jibrin Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, moved a motion for the case to be withdrawn.

The magazine reports that the ADC presidential candidate has since picked the former governor as his ruing mate for next year’s election, a move analyst insist may have prompted Amaechi to withdraw the suit.

Uzodimma Lauds Tinubu’s Reforms, Urges Media Support

By
The Source
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0
Governor Hope Uzodimma
Senator Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo State

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has commended President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, inviting the media to be part of efforts towards national development, by sustaining objective reportage of government programmes.

 

He spoke weekend while hosting members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Media Team, who were on a tour of the State, to a dinner at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Owerri.

 

The Governor likened Nigeria’s current transition to the biblical journey of the Israelites from Egypt, noting that meaningful reforms often require patience, perseverance and gratitude.

 

Uzodimma said President Tinubu assumed office in 2023 with a clear vision anchored on the All Progressives Congress (APC)  manifesto, stressing that the media remains indispensable to the success of democracy. “Nothing works effectively if the media are against it,” he said.

 

He likened President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms that are helping to transform different sectors of the Nigerian socioeconomic and political sectors to what happened in Singapore years back, under their leader, Lee Kuan Yew.

 

Highlighting achievements of his administration, the Governor said Imo State’s internally generated revenue has grown significantly while public debt has continued to decline.

 

He noted that the current situation was brought about, partly by the strategic and intentional reforms and collaboration between Imo State and the Federal government, and by the increase in the federal allocation to the State.

 

Uzodimma also cited major improvements in road and other infrastructure, reduction in travel time across the State, and ongoing investments in electricity generation and distribution.

 

The Governor was unequivocal that Imo  under his watch is an APC State, noting, “What we have here in Imo is one Party State.”

 

Uzodimma expressed appreciation to the media team for their support, and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to the Country’s progress, assuring that the dividends of ongoing reforms would become increasingly evident.

 

Leader of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Media Team, Sunday Dare, commended Governor Uzodimma for what he described as “remarkable infrastructural development and visionary leadership.”

 

Dare said the team’s inspection of projects across the State revealed significant progress in road infrastructure, healthcare, energy, urban renewal and the digital economy.

 

“What I’ve seen in Imo is amazing. We have seen happiness boldly written on the faces of the people,” he said, noting that “the State’s investment in roads, healthcare and gas utilisation reflected a deliberate effort to improve residents’ welfare.”

 

Dare described the Imo Digital City as “the icing on the cake” of the Governor’s infrastructure drive, saying it demonstrates foresight in preparing young people for the digital economy.

 

He added that the projects the team saw in Imo “align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” and praised Uzodimma for providing leadership that has transformed the State and inspired confidence in governance.

 

Editor of Vanguard Newspaper (Northern Region), Soni Daniel who spoke on behalf of the journalists expressed delight at what he termed “the sagacity of Governor Uzodimma” and  commended the Imo State Government for what he described as “remarkable infrastructure and development initiatives after touring projects across the State.”

 

He said road development had received priority attention, while also praising investments in education, healthcare, digital innovation and gas utilisation.

 

“What we have seen in Imo is amazing,” Daniel said, adding that “the administration came with a vision to arrest stagnation and take the development of Imo to the highest level.”

Kidnap Of OriirePupils, Teachers: FG Charges Three To Court

By
Adesina Soyooye
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0
Oyo Kidnappers

By Adesina Soyooye 

 

Three of the alleged Kidnappers of the Oriire school children and teachers, have been charged to Court by the Federal Government.

 

Both the Presidency and Security Agencies, in their separate briefings and updates had said that eight of the kidnappers were arrested while an undisclosed number were neutrallsed during the operations.

 

Later, however, it was reported that five out of the arrested eight had died due to severe injuries  while three remain alive. Apparently, it is the three that have now been charged.

 

Those charged are Abdulrazak Umar (a.k.a. Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (a.k.a. Yunusa bin Musa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (a.k.a. Abu Itisar). The three are all from Suleja,  Niger State, Nigeria.

 

The 10-count charge preferred against them by the Federal Government before an Abuja Federal High Court are wrapped around terrorism, kidnapping, concealment, incitement and illegal mining.

 

According to the Court filings, the three, between January and May 2026,  allegedly, conspired with one Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab, to kidnap school children and teachers in Oyo State. This offence is  contrary to Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

 

They are also charged with allegedly aiding the kidnap of the school children and teachers, and concealed information of the identities and activities of the alleged masterminds despite knowledge of the plot, offences said to contravene Sections 26(2) and 16(1) of the Act respectively.

 

In the charge sheet, the three were also alleged to have on, or about 2nd June 2026, professed  membership of Darul Salam, an affiliate of Jamaatu Asarul Muslima Fi Bilandis Sudan (Ansaru), a proscribed terrorist organisation in Nigeria. This, the charge said, is contrary to Section 25(1) of the Act.

 

The first defendant, Abdulrazak Umar, in seperate counts, is pointedly accused of providing training and instructions to terrorists and inciting members to commit acts of terrorism through a *WhatsApp group titled “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace.”* These offences  contravene Sections 15 and 2(2)(g) of the Terrorism Act as well as Section 18 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.

 

The tenth count alleged that Umar engaged in unlawful gold mining at streams within Chaza area of Suleja LGA between 2024 and 2026, contrary to Section 8(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act.

 

The charges read as follows:

 

“COUNT 1

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults all of Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between January- May, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court committed an offence when you conspired with Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab to kidnap school children and teachers in Orire LGA, Oyo State. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 2

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID).

YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and_SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults all of Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between January-May, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court committed an offence when you aided Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab in the kidnap of school children and teachers in Orire LGA, Oyo State. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 26(3) of the Act.

 

 

COUNT 3

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID).

YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and_SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults all of Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between January-May, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court committed an offence when you aided Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab in the kidnap of school children and teachers in Orire LGA, Oyo State. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 26(3) of the Act.

 

COUNT 4

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ ABU KHALID).

YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and_SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults, all of Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between January-May, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence to wit: concealment in that you had information about Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab as terrorists who are masterminds of the kidnap of school children and teachers of Oriire LGA of Oyo State but failed to report same to the relevant security operatives. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 5

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and_SHAMSU ADAMU SANT (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults, all of Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between January-May, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence to wit: concealment in that you had information about the kidnap of school children and teachers of Orire LGA of Oyo State by Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab but failed to report same to the relevant security operatives to facilitate their apprehension. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 6

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), YUNUSA MUSA (A.K.A YUNUSA BIN MUSA) and SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (A.K.A ABU ITISAR), adults all of Suleja LGA, Niger State_on or about the 2nd June, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence to wit: membership when you professed to be members of Darul Salam, an affiliate of Jamaatu Asarul Muslima Fi Bilandis Sudan (Ansaru) a proscribed terrorist group in Nigeria. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 25(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 7

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), Male, adult of Sandako, Suleja LGA, Niger State_on or about July, 2026 at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence in that you provided training and instructions to terrorists via your whatsapp group tited “The oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace”. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 8

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), Male, adult of Sandako, Suleja LGA, Niger State on or about July at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence in that you provided training and instructions to terrorists via your whatsapp group titled “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace”. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 2(2)(g) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 9

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), Male, adult of Sandako, Suleja LGA, Niger State_on or about July at Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence when you incited your members on your whatsapp group titled “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace” through your preachings to commit acts of terrorism. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

 

COUNT 10

That you ABDULRAZAK UMAR (A.K.A ABU KHALIFA/ABU KHALID), Male, adult of Sandako, Suleja LGA, Niger State sometime between 2024-2026 at Chaza Area, Suleja LGA, Niger State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence in that you engaged in mining of Gold at streams in Chaza area, Suleja LGA, Niger State without lawful authority. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 8(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, LN 2004 and punishable under the same Section of the Act”.

 

It is not known, however, if the three being charged were arrested on July 10 when the victims regained  freedom, or arrested before then – in the process of trailing the kidnappers.

 

The Oyo school children and their teachers were abducted from their schools on May 15, 2026. Three of the teachers lost their lives – one within the  school premises on the day of abduction, and two, gruesomely murdered while in captivity.

League Of Kano Veteran Journalists To Promote Professionalism, Members’ Welfare – Mahmud

By
The Source
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0
League of Kano Journalists

By Lamara Garba Azare

 

NUJ pledges support, partnership

 

The League of Kano Veteran Journalists (LKVJ) has been established to promote professionalism, safeguard the integrity of journalism, enhance the welfare of veteran media practitioners and provide mentorship for the next generation of journalists.

 

Registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in June 2026, the League brings together seasoned journalists with between 25 and 30 years of professional experience who are committed to contributing their knowledge, experience and expertise to the advancement of journalism in Kano State and Nigeria.

 

As part of efforts to foster collaboration with key stakeholders in the media industry, the leadership of the League on Friday, 17th July, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, to formally intimate the Union about its establishment and seek its partnership in advancing the ideals of the profession.

 

Speaking during the visit, the Interim Chairman of the League, Alhaji Aminu Mahmoud, said the organisation was founded by accomplished journalists determined to preserve the noble values of the profession while promoting the welfare, dignity and relevance of veteran journalists in society.

 

He disclosed that the League of Kano Veteran Journalists was registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in June 2026, making it a legally recognised organisation with a clear constitutional framework and well defined objectives.

 

According to him, the League’s Board of Trustees is Co-chaired by former National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Malam Sani Zorro and one time Deputy National President of the NUJ, Malam Nasir Zahraddeen, while a former National Vice President of the NUJ, Zone A, Abdulkadir Ahmed Ibrahim Kwakwatawa, is the Board’s Secretary.

 

Mahmoud added that the Interim Management Committee would soon be inaugurated to oversee the affairs of the League. Besides himself as Interim Chairman, the interim leadership comprises Lamara Garba Azare as Vice Chairman I, Amina Mohammed Usman as Vice Chairperson II, Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi as Secretary, Nasir Yusuf Gwadabe as Communications Officer, while Adamu Abubakar Gammo,   Abdullahi Yusuf Malam, Halima Ben Umar are other executives of the League.

 

He noted that similar associations already exist in several states, particularly in the South West, adding that Kano now joins Kwara and Plateau as one of the few northern states with such a body of veteran journalists.

 

Describing the NUJ as the League’s most important partner, Mahmoud said the founders maintained close consultations with the National Secretariat of the NUJ throughout the process leading to the establishment of the organisation.

 

He explained that the League has a well defined constitution and objectives centred on improving members’ welfare and healthcare, restoring the dignity and relevance of veteran journalists, promoting cooperation among members and creating opportunities to mentor and guide younger journalists.

 

The Interim Chairman further stated that the League would be studying emerging issues affecting journalism and make meaningful contributions to economic, political and social discourse as a body of experienced professionals. He added that the organisation also intends to intervene, whenever necessary, in disputes involving the media and government, the media and the public, as well as between the media and regulatory bodies.

 

Mahmoud appealed to the NUJ Kano State Council to work closely with the League in promoting ethical journalism, defending press freedom and collectively sanitising the journalism profession in Kano State.

 

Responding, the Chairman of the NUJ Kano State Council, Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, congratulated the veteran journalists on the successful establishment of the League and described the initiative as a welcome development for the journalism profession.

 

He said the wealth of experience and institutional memory possessed by veteran journalists would be invaluable in mentoring younger practitioners, promoting ethical standards and strengthening professionalism within the media industry.

 

The NUJ Chairman who was represented by Vice Chairman of the Council Comrade Mustapha Muhammad assured the League of the Council’s readiness to collaborate in pursuing shared objectives, particularly in the areas of capacity building, professional development, members’ welfare and the promotion of responsible journalism.

 

Dederi expressed confidence that the cordial relationship between the two organisations would contribute significantly to preserving the integrity of the profession and advancing the collective interests of journalists in Kano State.

 

The visit ended with both organisations reaffirming their commitment to fostering closer cooperation in promoting ethical journalism, protecting the image of the profession and ensuring that the experience and wisdom of veteran journalists continue to serve the public good.

The NUJ National Trustee Comrade Abbas Ibrahim and Salisu Ibrahim Fagge are among the founding members of the League.

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