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Suspected Armed Herders Kill 15 In Renewed Wave Of Attacks On Benue Communities

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Gunmen

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The authorities of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State have strongly condemned the latest round of attacks and killings of no fewer than 15 persons in parts of the Council.

 

The victims were reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen who allegedly invaded Efeyi/Ugboju communities of the Local Council early Tuesday morning.

 

According to eyewitness accounts, while 14 people were killed in Efeyi-Ugboju, one was killed in the nearby community of Ipom-Ugboju earlier on Monday

 

There are, however, strong indications that the casualty figures could be  more, especially in Efeyi/Ugboju communities where  dead bodies according to locals are still being recovered, with several others said to have been seriously injured.

 

The attackers who were said to be heavily armed, reportedly operated for several hours, without any intervention from either conventional security agencies and or local vigilante groups.

 

“The attack started at about 5.00 am on Tuesday and lasted till 9 am. 14 people were slaughtered in Efeyi-Ugboju, while the armed herders responsible for the attacks killed another at Ipom-Ugboju on Monday”, a local volunteered.

 

While confirming the development, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Council, Hon Maxwell Ogiri, described the attack and killings as barbaric and unprovoked.

 

He further noted that 14 bodies have been recovered, with several individuals sustaining varying degrees of injuries.

 

“There was no provocation. They came only to shed blood and kill our people. 14 dead bodies have been recovered, while many others were wounded.

 

“The people are now living in fear, and there is great apprehension. Residents of neighbouring communities are already fleeing for safety”, Ogiri lamented.

 

This is as he expressed serious concern over the inability of security agencies to contain the  attacks and killings, wondering if there are actually sufficient presence of operatives in the affected areas.

 

The source reports that the twin Benue State Councils of Ohinimini and Otukpo have been visited with an orgy of violent attacks and bloodletting since the gruesome killings of the Chairman of the State’s Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association MACBAN Ardo Risku Mohammad and his associate Yakubu Isah Mairiga on June 26 ,2026.

 

Although the authorities and the Fulani leadership have tended to downplay the widespread insinuations, the killing of the Miyetti Allah leader in Okukwu/Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area while returning from a peace and security meeting held in Ohinimini Local Council is believed to have triggered spates of attacks and reprisal attacks across the two councils.

Ogun Probes Building  Collapse Which Claimed One Life

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Bulding Collpased in Ajuwon Ogun

By Ayodele Oni

 

Interim report has attributed structure failure for the collapse of a building in Ogun state on Monday just as governor,  Dapo Abiodun ordered a comprehensive technical investigation into the collapse of a two-storey building.

 

The incident happened at Baale Road, Ajuwon, in Ifo Local Government Area, as the  State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and preventing similar incidents across the state.

 

The building, which collapsed on Monday afternoon following a severe thunderstorm, claimed one life, while several occupants narrowly escaped.

 

Preliminary findings by a multi-agency investigation team revealed that the structure suffered a catastrophic structural failure, causing the lower floors to sink into the ground, with only portions of the upper slab remaining visible above the debris.

 

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred at about 3:00 p.m., shortly after a heavy downpour accompanied by intense thunderstorms and a reported lightning strike in the vicinity.

 

Two women and their children reportedly escaped moments after noticing signs of structural distress, while a young man sustained minor injuries as he fled the building before it gave way.

 

Emergency responders, including officials of the Ogun State Safety Office, State Fire Service, Ministries of Environment, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Works and Infrastructure, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Ifo Local Government Water and Environmental Sanitation Department, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated search-and-rescue operations.

 

Contractors working within the Akute-Alagbole and Agbado axis also swiftly deployed heavy equipment to the site, joining the rescue efforts less than 10 minutes after the collapse.

 

Although initial surface searches did not locate any victims, traces of blood and footprints beneath the rubble prompted emergency teams to undertake a carefully controlled excavation exercise.

 

The operation eventually led to the recovery of one deceased victim, whose identity had yet to be confirmed at the time of the report.

 

The investigation team noted that while adverse weather conditions preceded the collapse, the exact cause of the structural failure could not be determined at the scene.

 

Experts explained that only detailed structural, geotechnical and forensic engineering investigations would establish whether the incident resulted from foundation failure, soil instability, construction defects, the use of substandard materials, or other underlying factors.

 

Consequently, Governor Abiodun has directed specialists from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the Ogun State Building Control Agency, the Building Production Management and Material Testing Agency, and other relevant regulatory bodies to conduct comprehensive assessments of the collapsed structure, evaluate soil conditions, examine construction materials, and inspect adjoining buildings to determine whether they have also been compromised.

 

Governor Abiodun expressed deep sadness over the tragic incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, while sympathising with all those affected by the collapse.

 

He also commended emergency responders, first responders, volunteers and community members for their prompt intervention, which led to the successful rescue of several occupants and helped minimise further loss of life.

 

The Governor assured residents that the State Government would provide every necessary support to those affected while investigations continue.

 

He stressed that anyone found to have violated approved building regulations, deviated from approved plans, or compromised construction standards would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

 

The Ogun State Government also expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its support during the emergency response, describing the collaboration as a demonstration of the strong partnership between both states in protecting lives and property.

 

Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening enforcement of physical planning regulations across the state, the government urged property developers, builders, artisans and residents to obtain all statutory approvals before commencing any construction project and to adhere strictly to approved building plans and specifications issued by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

 

Government warned that unauthorised alterations to approved building designs, the use of substandard materials, and non-compliance with established construction standards pose grave risks to lives and property.

 

It stressed that strict adherence to building regulations remains the most effective safeguard against avoidable structural failures.

Appeal Court Judgement: Motivation For ADC – Mark

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
David Mark - ADC Chairman
David Mark

 

By Ayodele Oni

 

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, (ADC), Senator David Mark, has described the judgment of the Court of Appeal which nullified the earlier judgment of the Federal High Court that sought to deregister the African Democratic Congress ( ADC) as a victory not just for the party, but for Nigeria’s democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law.

 

This is contained in a statement by his spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan in Abuja.

 

He said the judgment has restored confidence in the nation’s judiciary and reaffirmed that the courts remain the last hope of the common man and a dependable guardian of democratic values.

 

“The verdict is a reassuring reminder that our judiciary can still rise above pressure and protect democracy, political pluralism and the constitutional rights of citizens and political parties,” Senator Mark stated.

 

He noted that the attempt to deregister the ADC was a direct assault on multiparty democracy and an unfortunate effort to undermine the constitutional right of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the political process.

 

The ADC National Chairman commended the Justices of the Court of Appeal for their courage, impartiality and fidelity to justice, adding that the judgment has strengthened public confidence in the nation’s democratic institutions.

 

Senator Mark urged all ADC candidates, members and supporters across the country to remain resolute, united and focused on the party’s mission of rescuing Nigeria through purposeful leadership and good governance.

 

He stressed that the legal victory should serve as renewed motivation for party faithful to intensify grassroots mobilisation and continue working tirelessly towards the success of the ADC in the 2027 general elections.

 

“Our attention now returns fully to building a stronger, more united and people-oriented political platform that will offer Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027.

 

“We must remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to the task ahead,” he added.

 

Senator Mark reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law and peaceful political engagement, assuring Nigerians that the ADC will continue to champion policies that promote national unity, security, economic prosperity and justice for all.

Fubara Has No Other Choice Than To Return To Us – Wike

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Nyesom Wike - FCT Minister
Nyesom Wike

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Minister Nyesom Wike, has described as a no-choice-situation the decision of the Rivers state Governor, Siminalayi Fubara to return to his original political nest.

 

The Source reports that Fubara who had since late 2023 been enmeshed in a bitter political acrimony with Wike, his political benefactor, on July 22 ,2026 declared a unilateral ceasefire, with the formal announcement of his reunion with Wike-backed Rainbow Coalition in Rivers state.

 

Declaring his unalloyed commitment and unflinching support for the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Fubara said he has fully re-united with his estranged political family.

 

He also enjoined his supporters and admirers to shift their loyalty and commitment to the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition, a multi-political platform being promoted by the FCT Minister primarily for the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

 

Reacting to the development for the first time on Tuesday, Wike while warmly welcoming his prodigal son, insisted that there is nothing like sin in political relationships.

 

He described Fubara’s decision to return to the political family that made him as a right step in the right direction, noting that the move will further strengthen the re-election bid of President Tinubu in 2027.

 

Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the FCT, Wike remained adamant that Fubara never committed any political sin to warrant forgiveness.

 

” I don’t know what you mean by sin, or being forgiven. In politics, there is no sin. If someone realises his/her mistakes and decides to correct same, there is nothing wrong with that.

 

” Politicking is not a sin. What matters is recognising that you were on the wrong path and taking the decision to correct it”, the FCT Minister stated.

 

He, however, emphasized that he is not surprised at the decision of Governor Fubara to retrace his steps, and added that he had earlier predicted his inevitable return.

 

“If you can recall, I said during my last media chat that he ( Fubara) had no other choice but to return to the same political family that produced him.

 

” I have now been informed that he has made that declaration publicly ,and we welcome him. Our doors are open. Everyone is welcome for us to work together. There is no better alternative. We will all work together to move the state forward.

 

” He ( Fubara) has publicly stated that he has returned to where he started, and we have received him with an open mind.

 

“There is nothing to hide. We will all work together to ensure that we deliver the votes president Tinubu needs for re-election” Wike noted.

FCT Minister Wike Promises To Complete Road Project Abandoned 12 Years Ago

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Nyesom Wike
Nyesom Wike. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory,

By Ayodele Oni

 

As weeks of projects commissioning are ongoing in the Federal Capital Territory,  (FCT), the Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike has promised to deliver another set of projects including the Inner Southern Expressway (Goodluck Jonathan Way) awarded in December 2014, and abandoned for 12 years in December.

 

Wike gave the promise in Abuja on Tuesday, after inspecting the project, along with the ongoing construction of the service carriageways of the Southern Parkway in Gaduwa District.

 

He stated that the 10-kilometre road project, awarded in 2014, began from the Southern Parkway to Ring Road II at Galadimawa, with five bridges.

 

According to him, the road was the only project, apart from the Apo-Karshi Road, awarded by previous administration that has not been completed by President Bola Tinubu administration.

 

He assured that the contractor would complete the remaining six out of the 10-kilometre road and hand it over by end of December, subject to availability of funds.

 

The minister described the road as a “major road” that would change the landscape of the FCT, if completed, adding that talks were ongoing with Ministry of Finance to make the needed funds available.

 

“So we’ll continue to dialogue with the Minister of Finance to see how we’ll be able to access the funds and pay off the contractor for it to finish that project.

 

“It is very, very key to us and that of course will change the entire landscape of the FCT.

 

“Apo-Karshi Road awarded in 2010 is almost completed. We were there yesterday,” he said.

 

Wike added that completing the projects would fulfill Tinubu’s promise to complete all projects awarded by precious administrations from 2010 to 2023.

 

“It will be a remarkable achievement for this administration to finish all projects awarded by previous administration so that we don’t have abandoned projects everywhere.

 

“So, it’s  a good development for us, continuity. So we’re happy with what we’ve done,” Wike said.

 

The minister also inspected the ongoing construction of two service carriageways of the Southern Parkway, spanning from Arterial Road S20 (Oladipo Diya Way) in Gaduwa District to Ring Road II.

 

The Southern Parkway serves as one of the most essential transportation corridors within Abuja’s southern development axis, linking multiple dense residential districts across Phases I to IV of the Federal Capital City.

 

“You know, this road was flagged-off during the inauguration of projects to celebrate Tinubu’s third year in office. We have to come and see what they’ve done.

 

“The contractor promised to hand over the project by end of December and I believe them.”

 

Reacting to the declaration by Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers that he has returned to the Rainbow Coalition and pledged complete loyalty to Tinubu’s re-election, Wike said “there is no sin in politics.

 

“If someone realises he made a mistake and decides to correct it, there is nothing wrong with that. What matters is recognising that you were on the wrong path and make the right decision”.

 

The Minister said he has welcomed Fubara back into the political fold, insisting that the governor had “no other choice” than to return to the political family that brought him to power.

 

Wike said Fubara’s decision to publicly align with his political camp was a step in the right direction, adding that the reconciliation would strengthen support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

 

“I said during my last media chat that he had no other choice but to return to the same political family that produced him,” he said.

Abia Govt Condemns Killing Of Citizen Chika Ibe By South African Police, Demands Justice

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Killing Of Citizen Chika Ibe By South African Police

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The Abia State Government, on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, called for a swift and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate death of Chika Ibe, a Nigerian national from Abia State at the hands of South African security agencies.

 

Ibe, who hailed from Lokpaukwu, in Umunneochi Local Council of Abia State was  killed by South African Police operatives on Wednesday, July 23, 2026.

 

According to a statement from Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media, disturbing videos circulating online showed police officers assaulting Ibe, with one of them allegedly using a polyethylene bag to suffocate him to death.

 

The Government emphasized that while the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident are still under investigation, it however insisted that footages from circulating video indicated a high level of cruelty that is condemnable in the strongest terms.

 

” In one of the videos ,Mr Ibe was heard shouting loudly “I am dying” yet ,the police officers remained unperturbed, until he stopped breathing”, Ekeoma stated.

 

According to the statement, the recent incident involving Ibe came just on the heels of the reported shooting of another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks by the same South African security operatives.

 

Citizen Chuks, according to the Abia State Government, is currently battling for his life owing to the serious gunshot injuries sustained.

 

“The Abia state Government joins the Federal Government in condemning this dastardly act . We recall with pain that in recent times, many Nigerians have either been killed, assaulted, or had their businesses looted in a wave of xenophobic attacks and targeted violence carried out by some South Africans.

 

“Nigerians in the diaspora deserve to live with dignity and safety, not in fear. We, therefore, demand as follows:

 

” That the demands by the Federal Government of Nigeria for immediate answers from the South African Government through a swift, transparent and independent investigation into the killing be done quickly.

 

” That the perpetrators of this heinous act must be identified, arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Anything short of justice will be a further insult to Nigeria and to the memory of this Abian and other Nigerians that had died in similar circumstances.

 

” That the Government of South Africa should immediately bring this carnage to a halt by genuinely calling its citizens to order.

 

“These attacks are a very sad commentary on Africans who are supposed to live as brothers and sisters”, the Abia State Government stated.

 

This is as the State Government, extended heartfelt condolences to the family , relations, and friends of the deceased.

 

The Source reports that over 98 Nigerians are believed to have been killed in similar controversial and dastardly circumstances in the last couple of years following the steady rise in xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African immigrants in South Africa.

 

Only recently, the Nigerian Government, as well as other African authorities were forced to repatriate several thousands of their citizens who had been victims of sustained violent attacks from South African citizens, while their security agencies cheered on.

Nigeria’s First Lady Supports Vulnerable Groups In Ondo With Food Items

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Oluremi Tinubu Pet Project

By Ayodele Oni

 

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has intensified efforts to address hunger and child malnutrition through the establishment of community food banks and expanded food outreach programmes under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

 

The initiative, aimed at improving access to nutritious food and strengthening community support systems, was extended to Ondo State on Tuesday as vulnerable groups benefited from the RHI Social Investment Programme Food Outreach Scheme held in Akure.

 

Represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, Mrs Tinubu said the intervention is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable Nigerians and ensuring children have the opportunity to grow, remain healthy and thrive.

 

She pointed out that the Food Outreach Scheme was launched in March 2024 to provide food items to persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, thereby supporting their families and improving their well-being.

 

According to her, the programme was made possible through the commitment of two donors who provide two truckloads of food items to the Renewed Hope Initiative every month, allowing two states to benefit monthly.

 

She identified the donors as the Abdusamad Rabiu Africa Initiative and another donor who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that the consignment delivered to Ondo State was provided by the Abdusamad Rabiu Africa Initiative.

 

The First Lady explained that the Renewed Hope Initiative complements the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, by supporting Nigerians to pursue their aspirations irrespective of their circumstances or status, while addressing food insecurity and malnutrition.

 

She commended Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his commitment to the welfare and development of the people of the state.

 

She also praised the wife of the governor, Mrs Oluwaseun Esther Aiyedatiwa, for her dedication to the successful implementation of Renewed Hope Initiative programmes and support for vulnerable groups.

 

In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the intervention as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to alleviating poverty and supporting vulnerable Nigerians.

 

The governor pointed out that the programme went beyond food distribution, describing it as a celebration of compassion, solidarity and a shared commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged.

 

He commended the Renewed Hope Initiative for its vision and dedication to identifying and addressing pressing needs within communities.

 

Governor Aiyedatiwa also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for supporting the initiative, saying it reflected the President’s commitment to reducing poverty across the country.

 

He reaffirmed the Ondo State Government’s loyalty and commitment to Federal Government programmes, noting that such initiatives had positively impacted the Sunshine State.

 

The governor reiterated his administration’s political support for President Tinubu, declaring that Ondo State had already endorsed the President for the 2027 presidential election.

 

“We have already declared Ondo State for Tinubu 2027 and we remain unwavering in our resolve to deliver en masse in the Sunshine State for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term,” he added.

Nobody Can Intimidate Me Into Accepting Muslim-Muslim Ticket –  Vatsa, APC Chieftain

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Hon Jonathan Vasta

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

“You don’t go to Church and sing choruses and dance with then but when it comes to appointments you marginalise them” – Vatsa

 

Former Niger State Commissioner for Information, and founding member of the All Progressive Congress, APC,  Hon Jonathan Vast,  has commended the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for restoring religious balance  in the  governance space of the State by the selection of a Christian running mate ahead of the 2027 polls.

 

This is as the APC chieftain vowed never to back down on his opposition to the APC Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

 

The source reports that for years, the political landscape of Kaduna state had been defined by a somewhat unwritten political charter in which the two dominant religions – Islam and Christianity share the two most important positions in the state( Governor and Deputy Governor)

 

However, the equation was disrupted throughout eight-year tenure of immediate past Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai ,who, for the first time since the advent of the present democratic arrangement in 1999, opted for a Muslim-Muslim ticket, a development that unsettled not a few observers.

 

But at an interactive session with the media, Vatsa, a Christian faithful from Niger State, applauded Governor Sani for his decision to pick a Christian from Southern Kaduna, as his running mate.

 

“I want to commend Governor Uba Sani for this singular gesture towards the Christian community in Kaduna state” Vatsa stated.

 

However, the former Niger State Commissioner for Information , Culture and Tourism, remained adamant about his opposition to the decision of the APC to retain  its controversial 2023 Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 polls.

 

Vatsa had, last week, Wednesday, July 22, 2026, publicly berated the retention of Vice president Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 general elections.

 

He categorically described the repeat of the 2023 Muslim -Muslim ticket by President Tinubu and the APC as a  “serious mistake and insensitive”

 

According to him, whoever advised the president and the APC to repeat the Muslim-Muslim ticket for the forthcoming elections does not mean well for the president and the party , adding that the situation in 2023 is different from what is on the at the moment

 

“With the current situation in the country, and the insinuations of Christian genocide all over the world about Nigeria, nobody expected the president to repeat this arrangement.

 

“Nobody can convince the Christian community in the country to vote for APC in 2027 where other political parties have Christians as their Presidential  or Vice presidential candidates . It will be difficult” he added.

 

While reaffirming his earlier stand on the contentious Muslim-Muslim ticket, Vatsa at his media briefing, vowed never to succumb to any acts of intimidation, harassment, and or arm-twisting.

 

“I stand by my earlier condemnation of the same-faith ticket at the Federal level and in Niger state. These decisions are politically insensitive and unacceptable.

 

“Even if you don’t like the messenger, you should take the message. You don’t go to Church to sing choruses and dance with Christians and when it comes to appointments or elective offices, you marginalise them”, Vatsa asserted .

 

He emphasized that no  blackmail, intimidation and harassment will make him to change his position on the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket both in Niger state and at the Federal level.

WAFCON 2026:  Super Falcons Gun For Victory Against Malawi, As Thief Who Stole Them Blind In Hotel Is Arrested

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
Super Falcons

By Akinwale Kasali

 

As the Super Falcons file out against Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,  WAFCON, debutants, the ‘Scorchers’ of Malawi at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday night, what is expected from them by their teeming fans is to record a resounding win against their opponent.

 

Recall that at the last WAFCON Championship, the Super Falcons, dubbed the most successful Women’s team on the African continent and one of the best in the world came from behind to snatch the crown from the hands of Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses, with a 3-2 win in a memorable Final.

 

The Atlas Lionesses of Morocco is targeting a third successive Final appearance with two silver medals from the previous two, spanked Kenya Harambee Starlets by four unreplied goals on Sunday as the championship kicked off, and Cup-holders Nigeria felt it was a message sent to them that the battle for the trophy will be much tougher this time.

 

Today’s clash against the Malawians is an encounter between authority and ambition, with the Super Falcons the overdogs against the Scorchers who will be playing their first-ever match in the Women Africa Cup of Nations finals, but who have the reverred Chawinga sisters – Tabitha and Temwa – capable of turning a match on its head in a matter of seconds.

 

Malawi Coach, Lovermore Fazili has told his team to put their losses to Morocco’s Lionesses and Ghana’s Black Queens in friendly matches over the past 13 months, but have also drawn with highly-rated Zambia (who possess Barbara Banda, Grace Banda and Rachael Kundananji), and made short work of Angola in their final qualifying fixture for this tournament.

 

Fazili also has defenders Ireen Khumalo, Olivia Phikani and Benadetta Mkandawire, midfielders Rose Kadzere, Letticia Chinyamula and Faith Chinzimu, and forwards Vanessa Chikupira and Deborah Henry among others, who are capable of making the night tough for the Super Falcons.

 

The Super Falcons is however not perturbed as Head Coach, Justine Madugu, who led the Falcons to their successful Mission X in 2024 insists his team of winners will not under-rate the debutants.

 

“We have huge respect for all our opponents,” Madugu said at Monday’s pre-match press conference in Rabat.

 

“Every team that qualifies for this tournament deserves commendation and a lot of respect. Yes, they are debutants, but they are a very good side. We don’t take anything for granted. Everybody is coming here with a purpose and a mission, so you don’t undermine or underestimate what anybody can do.

 

“We are here for the defence of the WAFCON trophy and the team is fully ready and set to go. We will stick to our gameplan and our mission.”

 

The champions will be led out by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, an effervescent attacking midfielder, with perennial Africa’s best goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who plays in the WSL in England with Brighton Hove and Albion, defenders Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran and Tosin Demehin, midfielders Deborah Abiodun and Halimatu Ayinde, and forwards, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Asisat Oshoala also likely to start.

 

If the above are the starters, Nigeria’s bench will in itself be intimidating, with England-based goalkeeper, Comfort Erhabor, defenders Christy Ucheibe, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isa and Shukurat Oladipo, midfielders, Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini, and forwards, Gift Monday, Omorinsola Babajide and Folashade Ijamilusi capable of forming another champion team.

 

The match will kick off at 9pm Morocco time (same time in Nigeria).

 

Meanwhile, the Moroccon Police has announced the arrest of a Suspect who confessed to stealing cash belonging to several Super Falcons players at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco.

 

The arrest came few days before Nigeria’s opening match against Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON 2026 Championship.

 

The Police has stated that the suspect is expected to return all the stolen money while criminal proceedings are set to follow.

 

The incident occurred on the final day of the team’s training camp in Casablanca before the Super Falcons relocated to Rabat for their Group C matches.

 

Nigeria opened their WAFCON 2026 camp on July 15 in Mohammedia, a coastal city in Morocco, before moving to Rabat on Saturday, where they will be based throughout the group stage.

 

Super Falcons Midfielder, Esther Okoronkwo revealed on social media that she, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were among the players who had cash stolen from their hotel rooms.

 

According to Okoronkwo, more than $1,000 was taken during the incident. She also accused the hotel staff of failing to properly address the matter when the players reported the theft.

 

“We started talking to them and they don’t have answers. They also started being disrespectful,” Okoronkwo said while warning members of the public against patronising the hotel.

One-Term: Oshiomhole Slams Obi’s Desperation

By
James Orji
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0
Peter Obi
Mr Peter Obi
Senator Adams Oshiomhole has dismissed Peter Obi’s pledge to transform Nigeria within a single four-year term if elected president in 2027, describing the promise as unrealistic and a reflection of political desperation.
The former Edo State governor made the remarks during an appearance on TVC’s Beyond the Headlines, where he questioned both Obi’s credibility and his capacity to deliver on his campaign promises.
According to him, Obi has failed to demonstrate consistency in his political career. He recalled that the former Anambra State governor had once vowed never to leave the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) out of respect for the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, only to abandon the party immediately after completing his tenure.
“The Peter Obi who governed Anambra is not the Peter Obi Nigerians are seeing today,” Oshiomhole said, arguing that the former governor had become “a political wanderer.”
He also took aim at Obi’s business background, insisting that his experience as a trader does not equip him for the long-term planning required to govern a country as complex as Nigeria.
“Traders think in the short term. They are not wired for long-term projections like manufacturers and investors,” Oshiomhole argued, adding that Obi’s business activities were centered on importation rather than local production.
He further alleged that Obi’s business model “exports jobs and imports unemployment,” claiming it runs contrary to the industrial growth Nigeria needs.
Defending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Oshiomhole said the President inherited a deeply troubled economy but had shown the courage to implement difficult reforms aimed at putting the country on a stronger footing.
He likened Tinubu’s economic policies to a painful but life-saving surgical operation, insisting that while the reforms have imposed short-term hardship, they are beginning to produce positive results.
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