Anambra, Ebonyi Govts Talk Tough On Ogboji Killing, Vow Justice

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July 2, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru and his Anambra State counterpart, Prof. Charles Soludo have opened discussions on the killing of 10 Ebonyi indigenes by gunmen in Anambra State.

Nwifuru, who disclosed this, condemned in strong terms, the brutal killing of 10 Ebonyi indigenes by gunmen in Anambra State, describing the attack as barbaric and a direct assault on peace and human dignity.

The victims, residents of Ogboji in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, were reportedly gunned down on Monday during a community meeting.

The assailants, who opened fire without warning, are yet to be identified, and no group has claimed responsibility for the massacre at the time of filing this report.

Reacting through his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, on Tuesday night, Nwifuru expressed outrage and vowed that the perpetrators would not escape justice.

“The senseless act of violence against law-abiding citizens is not only barbaric but a direct assault on peace, unity, and the sanctity of human life.”

Governor Nwifuru disclosed that he had already initiated talks with his Anambra counterpart, Governor Soludo, urging him to ensure a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation.

He warned that failure to bring the killers to justice could damage the cordial relationship between both States.

“Such barbarism has no place in modernity, and State arsenals will be deployed to unmask the perpetrators of the bloody killings. The administration in Ebonyi State remains committed to protecting the lives and property of Ebonyi people both at home and in the diaspora.”

He further appealed to Ebonyi people, especially the families and communities affected, to remain calm and resist any urge for reprisal, as government actions are underway to ensure justice.

“There will be no sacred cows. We will follow this matter closely until justice is served,” Nwifuru assured.

The Governor reiterated his trust that Anambra State and relevant security agencies would act decisively to arrest those responsible for the heinous crime.

Also reacting, Anambra State Government expressed sadeness over the recent killing of innocent people at Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area.

“The Government strongly condemns this dastardly act in the strongest possible terms and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.”

According to the State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, the Government has assured the good people of Anambra and beyond that this incident was not targeted at any particular State or ethnic group.

He said preliminary investigations suggest that the unfortunate incident may have stemmed from an internal squabble.

Mefor further asserted that the State Government expects the police command to conduct a thorough investigation, identify the perpetrators of this heinous crime, and bring them to justice.

It assures the people of Ogboji and the entire state that it will do everything humanly possible to ensure justice is served.

“We urge all residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace and security in our great state,” Mefor added

Atiku-led ADC Coalition Insists Abuja Unveiling Must Go Ahead

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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July 2, 2025

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The African Democratic Congress, ADC, says the party’s unveiling will still go ahead despite the initial hiccups experienced due to the cancellation by the Hotel booked for the event by the coalition of opposition forces planning to wrest power from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. .

A hotel in Abuja, the nation’s capital Well Carlton Hotel, the magazine reports had earlier on Wednesday canceled ADC’s reservation citing “internal compliance matter” breaches.

The party is being promoted by key opposition leaders in the country, such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Ahmed Nasir El Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna state, Rotimi Amaechi , a former governor of Rivers state and Minister of Transportation, amongst others.

The opposition leaders had earlier in the week adopted the ADC as a platform to fight President bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC in the 2027 elections, and had slated today for the unveiling.

In a statement signed by ADC’s Deputy National Secretary, Nkem Ukandu, the coalition said the unveiling would now take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja by 2:00 pm on Wednesday.

“Members of the National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, BOT, and other key stakeholders and members are expected to attend.

“Please note that attendance is self-sponsored,” the statement read.

The coalition had earlier named former Senate President David Mark, and ex-governors Rauf Aregbesola as Acting National Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

Jonathan Mourns Dantata, Describes Him As Visionary Industrialist

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The Source

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July 2, 2025

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Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has expressed sadness over the passing of Kano billionaire businessman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died at the age of 95 years.

In a condolence message sent to the family, the former President described the late elder statesman as a respected industrialist, distinguished patriarch, and outstanding philanthropist.

In the message, Dr. Jonathan stated: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of elder statesman and accomplished businessman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata. His death is a great loss to the nation, especially given his considerable contributions to entrepreneurship, economic development, and community service.

“Alhaji Dantata was a great industrialist, distinguished patriarch and philanthropist whose vision and commitment helped shape Nigeria’s private sector landscape. His life was a testament to the power of enterprise defined by humility and an unwavering dedication to the service of humanity.

“As a patriarch of the Dantata family and a custodian of values that promote peace, entrepreneurship, and education, he leaves behind a rich legacy that will not only be remembered for generations but will continue to inspire many across our country.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the good people of Kano State. May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all those who mourn his passing.”

Ikechukwu Eze
S.A. to H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

David Mark Dumps PDP, Joins ADC

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Akinwale Kasali

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July 2, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

Former Senate President of Nigeria and one of the founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, David Mark, has officially announced his resignation from the party.

His resignation from the Party came as a surprise to many, but the Benue born former Lawmaker cited crisis and internal wrangling in the PDP as the reason for him dumping the Party.

His resignation came shortly after he was appointed among the interim leaders of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, which has been adopted by a Coalition of Opposition Parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mark played key roles in shaping the PDP during his time, announced that he was leaving the party due to ongoing internal conflicts.

He said the persistent leadership issues and unresolved divisions had weakened the PDP and damaged its image.

In a letter dated June 27, Mark informed his ward in Otukpo, Benue State, about his decision to withdraw from the party.

He noted that he had remained loyal to the PDP even when others left, especially after the 2015 presidential loss, but could no longer continue due to the current state of the party.

After holding discussions with his family and political allies, Mark decided to join the new coalition, which he described as a fresh effort to protect democracy and provide Nigerians with a better political option.

The coalition, which aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), recently chose the ADC as its platform.

Bauchi Set To Create New Emirates

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Ayodele Oni

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July 2, 2025

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Bala Mohammed - Governor of Bauchi State — Governor Bala Mohammad

By Ayodele Oni

In quest of communities for more Emirates to ease grassroot administration, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has approved the constitution of a high-powered committee to review and assess all Memoranda submitted by communities seeking the creation of new Emirates, Chiefdoms, and Districts in the State.

At present, the state has six emirates namely, Bauchi, Katagum, Misau, Jama’are, Ningi, and Dass.

Government insisted that one of the conditions for the creation of a new Emirate is financial sustainability.

The committee, comprising 41 members, will operate based on defined criteria and will be guided by equity and fairness while ensuring socio-political inclusiveness and financial sustainability for the Emirates, Chiefdoms, or Districts to be created.

According to a statement issued by Mukhtar Gidado, Special Adviser Media and Publicity to the Governor, the move is part of the state government’s commitment to deepening grassroots governance, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting inclusivity within traditional institutions in the state.

“The committee will ensure that all Memoranda submitted by communities are thoroughly reviewed and assessed based on merit and feasibility.”

The 41-member committee will be chaired by Alhaji Hamza Koshe Akuyam (Banagan Misau) from Misau Local Government Area, with Justice Habibu Idris Shall from Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area serving as Deputy Chairman.

Other members of the committee include representatives from various Local Government Areas, government agencies, and traditional institutions.

Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Hamza Koshe Akuyam said “We are committed to ensuring that the process of creating new Emirates, Chiefdoms, and Districts is transparent, inclusive, and fair,”

The committee’s secretariat will be headed by Ahmed Ali Ranga, Permanent Secretary (Political), who will serve as Secretary, along with co-secretaries Shehu Yahaya Jalam, Permanent Secretary (Special Services); Auwal Shehu Jalo, Permanent Secretary LGSC; and Mohammed Ali Manti, Director Chieftaincy Affairs.

The establishment of the committee is a significant step towards promoting grassroots governance and preserving cultural heritage in Bauchi State.

Anambra: Gunmen Storm Community Meeting, Kill 15, Injure Many

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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July 2, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Anambra State Police Command on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, strongly condemned the mindless shooting incident in the State that left about 15 people dead.

The attack was carried out on Monday, June 30, in Ogboji community, Orumba South Local Council of the State by some yet-to-be identified gunmen at a meeting venue. It also left several others seriously injured

According to the Police, the gunmen operating in two SUV vehicles stormed a gathering of some Ebonyi State indigenes in the State, and started shooting sporadically. They left behind a gory tale and sight .

A viral video of the unfortunate incident showed several lifeless bodies dotting the venue of the said meeting, with shocked and angry residents bemoaning the dastardly action

While it is not yet clear those behind the gruesome attack, as well as the motives behind it, speculations have tended to link the development allegedly to the activities of sit-at-home enforcers.

However, another school of thought has also located the unfortunate incident in a possible communal disagreement ,which is a rampant development in most pasts of Ebonyi state .

This theory is reinforced by feelers suggesting that the assailants, before departing the scene, demanded the minutes of the said community meeting.

A statement on Tuesday by the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, however, put the death toll at 10, with nine others injured.

This is as the Command vowed to put all necessary efforts towards tracking down the perpetrators of the heinous crime .

“The armed criminals came in two Sports Utility Vehicles SUV and attacked the gathering of a group unprovoked , shooting sporadically .

“The victims were rushed to the hospital and regrettably 10 people were confirmed dead. The bodies have been deposited in the morgue”

According to Ikenga, security has been enhanced in the affected area with operatives drafted in both for the maintenance of law and order and discreet investigation into the incident.

Lagos Monarch Sacks Six Chiefs For Attending LP Event

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The Source

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July 2, 2025

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By Gideon Njoku

Six Chiefs have been dethroned by the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi, for attending the campaign flag-off of the Labour Party, LP, at the Apapa area of Lagos State.

What angered the Monarch, according to him, is that the Chiefs went to the event without any clearance from him, and, thus, violated Palace protocol. Their presence there was an impersonation of him.

The dethroned Chiefs are: Chief Lateef Ojora (Bale Alaba Oro), Chief Saliu Biliamin (Bale Alafia Dodoro), and Chief Taiwo Hassan (Bale Oke Ira).

Others are Chief Idris Ojora (Bale Abule Kere), Chief Hakeem Oseni (Bale Mosafejo Amukoko), and Chief Sule Balogun (Balogun of Abule Kere).

Their dethronement followed a meeting held at the Palace on Monday, where Oba Oyegbemi described the actions of the Chiefs as unacceptable.

The statement which dethroned them reads:

“Following the outcome of this event, which unfolded without his prior knowledge, Kabiyesi Ojora summoned the Bales, Balogun, and the Ojora Councils to his ancient Palace for clarification.

“In a tone marked by disappointment and authority, Kabiyesi stated that the Chiefs’ actions were in violation of their duties. He reiterated that no Chief should make decisions or act on his behalf without his explicit consent, as they all serve to represent him and uphold the traditions of the land.

“The decisive action of dethroning the six Chiefs underscores his commitment to maintaining order and coherence within his leadership structure. During this assembly, Kabiyesi also took the opportunity to commend the present Government’s ongoing development initiatives in Ojora Land, expressing his commitment to continue supporting the Administration as it fosters growth and progress for the Kingdom.”

It is not known yet if the Chiefs went to the Labour Party event as the representatives of the Monarch or in their individual capacities.

“Buhari Is Broke”, Says Garba Shehu

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Adesina Soyooye

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July 2, 2025

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By Adesina Soyooye

“Some Governor’s didn’t trust Buhari but he tried his best”

Immediate past President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, is broke. This ridiculous and unbelievable revelation was made by his Media Aide, Garba Shehu.

Shehu was Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity for the eight years he was the President. He has continued to play that role even after Buhari’s exit from office.

Shehu who spoke in Abuja to Journalists when he briefed them on his plans to present his book titled According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience said Buhari left the Presidential Villa clean, and credibility unblemished because he never asked anybody for bribe, and nobody gave him any bribe. As unbelievable as it sounds and reads, Shehu insists his Principal is broke.

Shehu said: “Buhari is broke and does not have money. Nobody can say they gave him a bribe. Since Buhari left office, no journalist has had cause to call me for reaction. I now sleep very well.”

Shehu also laughed at the academic certificate controversy which dogged Buhari all through his eight years in office. He said it was politics at its worst.

Shehu: “The allegation over his certificate was purely political. Buhari was Military Secretary; his records were intact. Government College, Katsina was burnt, and some officers were punished for allowing politicians access to records. But the matter was long resolved.”

He also defended Buhari for not talking to the Media. All through his eight years in office, Buhari shielded himself from the Media. But Shehu defended: “Buhari’s media silence is his personality. He is not a showman and preferred his actions to speak for him. He is an avid reader and reads newspapers daily but avoided unnecessary media appearances.

Generally, Shehu is confident history will be fair to the former President. He said: “History will judge Buhari. People will eventually see that he did his best, particularly on security. Boko Haram was his biggest challenge. The farmer-herder crisis predates him. Some governors didn’t trust him, but he gave it his best.”

How Nigeria Army Killed Danbokklo, Notorious Terrorist

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Akinwale Kasali

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July 1, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

He was boss to Bello Turji’s boss and more dangerous than him

The Nigeria Army has recorded a breakthrough by getting rid of notorious terrorist, known as Yellow Danbokkolo, in Sokoto. This heart-warming killing was achieved during a weeklong encounter in the North West.

Troops of Operation Fasan Yamma eliminated the notorious terrorist, and thus brought respite to Sokoto State and its environs.

Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, Director, Defence Media Operations, confirmed the killing in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Kangye said the operation was conducted in conjunction with Hybrid Forces supported by air components and other security agencies, following credible intelligence on the movement of fleeing bandits and terrorists.

“During the encounter, a notorious terrorist kingpin, known as Yellow Danbokkolo, who, for years has devastated residents of Eastern Sokoto, suffered serious gunshot wounds.

“He subsequently died on Monday from the injuries sustained during the fierce battle with our troops.

“It is believed that Yellow Danbokkolo was much more dreaded than Bello Turji. He was the mastermind of the December 2021 arson on travellers in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara, during which all the passengers were burnt to death,” he said.

Kangye said the neutralised kingpin lived on endless bouts of pentazocine to sustain his cruelty and heinous activities.

He said the troops with the renewed resolve, were on the hunt for Bello Turji, who had been in hiding.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is committed to restoring normalcy in all parts of the country and, therefore, call for the cooperation of all Nigerians in this drive,” he added.

“We Have Fixed Dates For Five Major Elections Against 2025” – INEC Chairman

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Ayodele Oni

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July 1, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, has announced that the commission is working on supplementary provisions as it affects section 65 of the electoral act, 2022, which deals with election results.

Addressing concerns about the interpretation of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 regarding the review of election results, Yakubu assured that the Commission is finalizing supplementary regulations to provide clarity.

Yakubu disclosed this on Tuesday during the second quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.

He urged the RECs to intensify efforts in implementing electoral policies and preparing for upcoming elections, stressing that their responsibilities are full-time and not limited to general election periods.

He welcomed newly appointed National Commissioners, Prof Sunday Aja and Abdulrazak Yusuf, as well as six recently sworn-in RECs, four of whom were attending the meeting for the first time.

Highlighting the significance of their roles, the INEC Chairman reminded the RECs that elections and related activities take place year-round and that their effectiveness depends on their commitment and knowledge of the Commission’s policies.

“You do not need an elaborate conference or workshop to build the capacity of your staff.

“You must implement new policies and innovations introduced by the Commission to improve electoral service delivery.”

Yakubu also emphasized the need for RECs to focus on decongesting polling units, cleaning the voters’ register, strengthening stakeholder engagement at the state and local government levels, and improving logistics and election security management.

He announced that the Commission has fixed dates for five major electoral activities within the next year.

These include:Bye-elections in 12 states on August 16, 2025, Anambra Governorship Election on November 8, 2025, FCT Area Council Elections on February 21, 2026.

Others are Ekiti Governorship Election on June 20, 2026 and Osun Governorship Election on August 8, 2026

Yakubu disclosed that activities are already underway in preparation for these polls, including the commencement of political campaigns in Anambra and the publication of the Notice of Election for the Ekiti poll.

On voter registration, the Chairman revealed that the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) will resume on August 18, 2025, for online pre-registration and on August 25 for in-person registration.

However, in Anambra State, the CVR will begin next week across all 326 wards to ensure compliance with legal requirements ahead of the November governorship election.

“These will be published on our website and other platforms once approved.”