NSGF Flays Killing Of Travelers In Kaduna, Cautions Against Reprisal Attack

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June 22, 2025

Governor Muhammad Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe State

By Ayodele Oni

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, (NGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, has appealed for any possible reprisal attack over gruesome killing of innocent travellers from Kaduna State in Plateau State at the weekend.

The victims, who were reportedly en route to attend a wedding ceremony, were ambushed and brutally murdered in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Governor Yahaya in a statement, on Sunday, signed by Director-General Press Affairs Gombe Government House Ismaila Misilli, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the incident as a barbaric and cowardly act that has no place in a civilised society.

“I am deeply saddened by this horrific and inhumane attack. Such mindless violence against innocent citizens is unacceptable and must be met with swift and decisive justice.”

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kaduna State, particularly to the bereaved families affected by the attack.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for comfort to their families in this difficult time.

Yahaya commended Plateau State Government and security agencies for their quick response, particularly the arrest of suspects linked to the incident.

He called for a thorough investigation and prompt prosecution of all those involved to ensure that justice is served.

“The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is not just about accountability; it is about restoring faith in the rule of law and protecting the rights of every Nigerian citizen.”

The NSGF Chairman also appealed to residents of Plateau, Kaduna, and neighbouring states to remain calm and law-abiding, urging against any form of reprisal.

“Let us not allow the actions of a few to divide our communities or ignite further violence. I urge everyone to exercise restraint and patience as authorities work to ensure justice is served.”

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Northern Governors’ Forum to collaborate on strengthening security, promoting peaceful co-existence, and addressing the root causes of conflict and insecurity across the region.

“The safety and security of our people remains our top priority. We will continue to work together as Northern Governors to strengthen community relations, improve intelligence sharing, and ensure such tragedies never happen again.”

Lagos: 40Ft Container Crushes Mini Bus, Kills Driver, Injures Many

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Akinwale Kasali

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June 22, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

LASTMA, LASEMA On Rescue Mission

A 40-feet Containerized Truck has crushed a mini bus, popular as Korope, at Agbotikuyo enroute Iyana Ipaja leaving several persons injured.

The catastrophic collision involved a fully-laden 40-foot Mack containerized truck (MUS 729 XY), which, reportedly, due to brake failure, toppled onto a commercial minibus.

Tragically, the devastating impact led to the instant death of the minibus driver. His life was abruptly cut short in the line of duty.

This development led to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, to issue a statement which regretted the harrowing road traffic gridlock in the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025.

In a remarkable display of sense of duty and courage, LASTMA Officers deployed along the corridor swiftly mobilized and rescued three passengers — two females and one male — unhurt, but were immediately handed over to medical emergency responders for attention.

The fallen articulated truck obstructed over 50 percent of the arterial carriageway, precipitating a substantial traffic backlog that rippled across adjoining routes, notably Shofunde and Olufunlayo.

LASTMA operatives immediately instituted comprehensive traffic diversion and control protocols to alleviate the congestion and maintain orderliness.

The truck driver, in a failed attempt to abscond from the scene, was apprehended by vigilant LASTMA Officers and handed to security personnel from both the Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions, who had been duly notified by LASTMA officials.

The emergency response teams from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Response Unit, Lagos State Ambulance Services, LASAMBUS, and officers of the Nigeria Police Force collaborated efficiently with prompt coordination by LASTMA rescue team to secure the accident scene, recover the remains, and ensure traffic and civil normalcy were fully restored.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Honourable Sola Giwa, expressed profound sadness and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

He used the occasion to issue a stern reminder to all operators of articulated vehicles to exercise the utmost vigilance and mechanical diligence.

In his words, “Truck operators must adhere strictly to safety protocols. It is non-negotiable that every articulated vehicle undergo thorough mechanical inspection — especially the braking systems — before venturing onto our roads. Preventable tragedies like this underscore the need for unwavering compliance.”

Hon. Giwa also assured the public that the State Government remains resolute in its commitment to traffic safety enforcement, robust emergency responsiveness, and the relentless pursuit of roadworthiness compliance to avert further loss of lives.

Gunmen Abduct High Court Judge

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Adesina Soyooye

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June 22, 2025

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Honourable Justice Ebitimi Gabriel Umokoro

By Adesina Soyooye

Tension has rightly gripped Yenagoa, the capital city of Bayelsa State.

A serving Judge of the State’s High Court, the Honourable Justice Ebitimi Gabriel Umokoro, has been abducted by gunmen.

The Judge whose sits in Court Seven, was abducted Saturday evening, June 21, 2025, in front of a popular restaurant, Kilmanjaro, at about 7.00pm.

It is not known if he was intercepted while in his car, if he was the driver, if he was being driven by his driver, or if he went to the restaurant and just exited when he was accosted by his abductors.

The latter is most improbable as Judges are not known to visit restaurants/eateries. By the nature of their job, they are conservative and very hardly go to such public places for, in this case, dinner.

At the time of filing this story, neither the Police nor the State Judiciary has issued a statement.

Body Of Nollywood Actress, Esther Odeniyi, Still Unclaimed Days After She Slumped, Died

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Akinwale Kasali

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June 22, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigerian make-believe Industry, Nollywood, has been dealt a big blow, following the passing of rising Actress, Esther Odeniyi. She slumped and died at home.

Thr Actress, popular as Berry White, was said to have slumped at her apartment and died immediately.

Announcing her shocking passing, was her fellow actress, Bakare Zainab. She broke the on her Instagram page.

According to Bakare’s post, “Berry White reportedly slumped in her apartment and passed away.

“Tragically, her body has remained in the apartment for days due to difficulties in reaching her family”.

Bakare, however, pleaded with the public, saying, “Ahhh Berry. Esther Arike ooooo. Eleyi dun mi o. I am not quick to type RIP, but please, anybody that knows Esther’s family should contact them. She slumped 3 days ago and her corpse is still in her house.

“Posting this so we can get information on how to reach her family.”

Her fans, friends and colleagues have begun pouring out tributes online, expressing shock and sorrow over the sudden loss of the young actress, whose interpretation of her roles depict that of a rising star in tye making.

“My Purported Resignation Null And Void” – Ahoada Local Government Administrator

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 22, 2025

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Goodluck Iheamnacho - Ahoada Local Government Administrator

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Sole Administrator of Ahoada East Local Council of Rivers State, Goodluck Iheamnacho, on Saturday June 21, 2025, insisted he remains in charge of affairs of the Local Government.

The Source reports that Iheamnacho was one of the Interim Chairmen appointed for the Rivers State’s 23 Local Government Areas by the Sole Administrator of the State, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas in April, 2025.

But earlier on Friday, June 20, 2025, reports were rife that Iheamnacho, has resigned his position to pursue some other personal issues.

His purported resignation was contained in a letter dated June, 20, 2025 and addressed to the Rivers State Sole Adminstrator.

“I humbly write to your noble office to convey to you my resignation as the Administrator of Ahoada East LGA.

“My sincere gratitude goes to the Government of Rivers state ,and the good people of Ahoada East for finding me worthy to serve ..from the 11th day of April 2025 to 20th day of July 2025”, part of the resignation letter reads.

But speaking in a live Radio programme, Iheamnacho disputed his purported resignation, and dismissed the letter in circulation as fake and the handiwork of detractors.

While urging the public to disregard the said resignation letter, the Council Administrator alleged that he was attacked in his office by some hoodlums who, also, carted away valuable official documents, including personal items.

He claimed that the so called resignation letter in circulation may have been a direct fall out from the vandalization of his office as well as the tampering of official documents.

He insisted that the resignation letter apart from not being signed by him, is carrying July 20, 2025 as the effective date of his purported resignation instead of Friday, June 20, the very day the letter was circulated.

“I did not resign from my appointment as the Sole Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Area.

“I was attacked in my office and the letter they brought was not signed by me .In fact, I know nothing about the resignation letter.

“I want to tell members of the public that I did not resign as the Sole Administrator of Ahoada Eat LGA and any information aired is null and void. I am still the Sole Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Area”, Iheamnacho noted.

Findings by this Medium however revealed high wired political intrigues at play with some forces no longer comfortable with Iheannacho’s stay in office .

The unseen political forces are said to be unease about the independent mindedness of the Council Chairman, a development they fear may be an impediment to their wide future plans.

Indications that his travails may be having an official stamp of approval emerged on Saturday, following the insistence of the Ahoada Council Chief Security Officer, CSO, Hector Ekeakita on the sanctity of Iheamnacho’s resignation.

While also speaking in a Radio interview, Ekeakita noted that irate Ahoada youths had actually stormed the Council Secretariat in their numbers to demand the resignation of the Chairman over alleged corrupt tendencies.

According to the CSO, the youths accused Iheamnacho of misappropriating funds meant for the development of the Council, and consequently pressured him to resign.

He stated that while a scuffle resulted from the confrontation by the youths, he nevertheless denied any attack on the embattled Council chairman.

“He, Iheamnacho, was not attacked by hoodlums. Let us face the facts .The Ahoada youth came in their numbers to tell him”,’Please our brother you are siphoning money.’

“Just two months in office, you have decided not to take care of our people and environment.

“They demanded from him an explanation on why the Council Secretariat is dirty and why nobody is taking care of the Council ,and also why he should be operating from Port Harcourt”, Ekeakita stated .

Meanwhile, the Council Secretariat has been closed to the public with some stern-looking security operatives taking over.

Rivers, Bayelsa Governors To Join APC – Akpabio

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 22, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, informed that the suspended Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara and his Bayelsa State counterpart, Senator Duoye Diri, are next in line to join forces with the All Progressive Congress, APC.

Both Governors are of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP extraction.

This is as he expressed confidence that the APC will over run the South-south region in the next general elections.

The Senate President who spoke at the formal reception ceremony in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, to receive Governor Umo Eno into the APC’s fold, noted that after the defection of the Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Eno of Delta and Akwa Ibom States respectively, it will be the turn of Rivers and Bayelsa to complete the capture of the political soul of the South South region.

The Source reports that the South South geo-political Zone has been the bastion and one of the strongholds of the PDP since the advent of the current political dispensation in 1999.

Post-2023 general elections, the PDP was firmly in control of the oil rich region, producing five Governors out of the maximum six available.

However, some political developments have since left the party currently in charge of only two states – Bayelsa and Rivers.

According to Akpabio, in 2027, the entire South-south region will be queueing up behind President Bola Tinubu in his quest for a second term in office.

“Governor Umo Eno after you, who knows, Rivers State will tumble, after Rivers state, Bayelsa will join, and of course, we are already in control of Edo State.

Henceforth, particularly come 2027, the South-south will go one way, and unanimously vote for President Tinubu”, Akpabio stated.

He asserted that contrary to the false impression being created in some quarters, overwhelming majority of Akwa Ibom citizens and residents are in total support of the decision of the Governor to dump the PDP for APC .

The Senate President also commended the Delta State Governor for his political foresight in leaving the PDP, to join forces with the APC.

He expressed the optimism that the new political alignment will usher in more growth and development into the South- south region.

To Survive Trump,Talon Preaches Integration Among African Continent

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Ayodele Oni

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June 22, 2025

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Patrice Talon - Benin Republic President

By Ayodele Oni

Benin Republic President Patrice Talon, has charged African nations to integrate in order to survive U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist policies.

Referencing changing global trade dynamics, President Talon particularly cited U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist policies as a signal for African nations to prioritise their interests.

“The trade war should remind us that nations act in their interest, and so should we. At some point, we may even have to thank President Trump for that reminder.”

Talon urged West African leaders to move from talk to action.

“If we cannot create wealth and opportunity, all our other values—democracy, liberty—cannot be sustained. Integration must be real. Integration must be delivered.

Talon spoke in Abuja, Nigeria at the signing of an integration agreement between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

President Talon called for urgent reforms to rescue West Africa’s stalled regional integration, describing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as “in crisis.”

“ECOWAS is a perfect example of regional integration. Unfortunately, our ECOWAS is in crisis right now.”

He cited the West African Gas Pipeline, which was designed to enhance regional energy cooperation, as an example of failure due to administrative bottlenecks.

“It is ridiculous. This failure of regional cooperation wastes resources and undermines integration.”

As a result of these delays, Talon said Benin has had to source gas from Qatar via a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU).

On the West African Power Pool, another regional initiative, he said:

“We invested heavily in this infrastructure. But it is not functioning as expected. Unless we act decisively, I’m not confident it ever will.”

President Talon also addressed logistical obstacles along the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor, which unnecessary border checks and harassment have hampered.

“The road exists. But a businessman should be able to travel from Lagos to Abidjan in hours—not days—without facing harassment at multiple checkpoints. That is not integration,” the Beninois leader declared.

He warned that poverty remains the region’s most dangerous destabilising force.

”Poverty is the main threat to democracy, security, and stability. If we do not address poverty through integration, our values will remain hollow.”

“President Tinubu and I have agreed on full integration between Benin and Nigeria. The responsibility now lies with our ministers to implement it.

“Benin and Nigeria are more than twins—we are the same people. Let us show the region that integration is possible.”

Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, signed the agreement, alongside Benin’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Shadiya Alimatou Assouman, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Shegun Adjadi Bakari.

Kano: Early Morning Explosion Kills Five, Seriously Wounds Others

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Ayodele Oni

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June 21, 2025

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An explosion at a metal scrap factory located at Mariri in Kano

By Ayodele Oni

An explosion at a metal scrap factory located at Mariri, along the Kano-Maiduguri Road, has claimed five souls. 15 others sustained serious injuries.

Another report stated that the explosion involved a military-grade mortar bomb.

Kano State Police Command confirmed that five people lost their loves while many are receiving treatment at a hospital.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday caused panic in the affected area and drew emergency responders to the scene, including security personnel.

The State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, who arrived at the scene shortly after the explosion said the blast may have originated from a military ordnance believed to have been improperly handled or transported.

“I received a call that something serious had happened. When I arrived, I found that it was a suspected explosion—possibly a military mortar bomb. Fifteen people were injured, and unfortunately, five died”, he said.

He added that the victims were quickly evacuated to nearby hospitals while the dead were taken to the morgue.

“The situation is still under investigation, but we understand the vehicle involved may have come from Yobe State.

“Preliminary findings suggest the explosive material was being transported by a trailer, but it remains unclear whether the vehicle was carrying military personnel or contractors.”

He said authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the explosion or the ownership of the explosives.

“Security agencies are currently investigating the incident. The facts will be clearer once the investigation is completed,” the Commissioner noted, urging the public to remain calm.

Automated Passport System Exposes Convict Processing Travel Docs, NCoS Suspends Operatives

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Ayodele Oni

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June 21, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

As a first step, the Nigerian Correctional Service, (NCoS), has suspended two of its operatives after it was discovered that a convicted inmate tried to process an international passport while in custody.

NCoS Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

Report has it that a robbery convict, Haruna Ayo, was escorted to a passport office in Lagos for processing of travel documents.

As reported by the Punch, the incident happened on Wednesday, May 19, 2025, when warders from the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Apapa, moved the inmate to the Nigeria Immigration Service passport office at FESTAC Town under suspicious circumstances.

According to NCoS spokesman, the misconduct was detected through the automated passport application system operated by the Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS), underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing inter-agency cooperation.

“The Service wishes to clarify that this misconduct was uncovered a fortnight ago through reforms introduced in the NIS, which flagged the irregularity.

“This particularly speaks to inter-agency collaboration and cooperation.

“The implicated officers were suspended by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, CDCFIB, under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as part of disciplinary measures.”

The NCoS spokesman quoted the Controller General of Corrections, Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, as reaffirming the Service’s commitment to discipline, transparency and professionalism across all custodial facilities nationwide.

According to him, the Service is committed to its core mandates of secure custody, humane treatment and the reformation of inmates in line with international standards.

“The Service categorically states that any personnel found engaging in acts of misconduct, corruption or sabotage will be shown the way out of the system.”

Ondo To Enact Death Penalty Law For Kidnapping, Cultism

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Ayodele Oni

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June 21, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Executive Council has approved the enforcement of the death penalty for persons convicted of kidnapping, and cultism, as part of efforts to strengthen security and ensure the safety of residents across the state.

This was disclosed by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), during a press briefing held on Saturday, after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace, infrastructure development, and grassroots governance across all parts of the state.

According to the Commissioner, the Council discussed key security concerns and resolved to begin the process of repealing certain laws relating to kidnapping in the state.

Ajulo noted that kidnapping and cultism have become major threats to safety and public order, adding that strengthening relevant legal frameworks would help deter such crimes and improve the overall security landscape.

He disclosed that proposals would soon be transmitted to the House of Assembly for necessary legislative action, including sentencing convicted kidnappers to death.

Also speaking, Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, revealed that the Executive Council approved the construction of two major dual carriageway road projects in the state.

The first is the construction of a 24.75-kilometre dual carriageway in Okitipupa and a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway from Supare Junction – Akungba – Ikare Road in Akoko area.

The specifications are similar, including a 9.3-metre carriageway on either side, 1.2-metre median, reinforced concrete line drains, walkways, a 3-metre utility area, solar-powered streetlights, and traffic management systems. It is also built to withstand heavy vehicular movement.

In addition to these, the Council approved the provision and installation of 6,000 standalone solar streetlights across the three senatorial districts—2,000 each for Ondo North, Ondo Central, and Ondo South. This, according to Engr. Olawoye, is part of the state’s agenda to improve safety and public lighting infrastructure.

In the health sector, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Prof Simidele Odimayo, also spoke on efforts to combat the spread of Lassa fever in the state, saying that a new research-based approach has been adopted to eliminate the disease.

He highlighted recent successes in testing, referrals, and surveillance, which have already helped in managing cases effectively.