Atiku Demands Accountability For Civilians Death Over Borno-Yobe Airstrike

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April 13, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the death of over 30 people in a Military Airstrike that struck the popular weekly market between Gubio and Geidam areas Saturday evening.

The Nigerian Air Force airstrike struck Jilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, which left several civilians dead.

Atiku described the incident as tragic and raised concerns about the protection of civilian lives during military operations.

The incident reportedly left traders and residents in panic as explosions rocked the busy trading centre.

The NAF has confirmed conducting precision airstrikes in the Jilli axis as part of ongoing counter-insurgency operations under Operation Hadin Kai on April 11, 2026.

It stated that the strikes targeted terrorists’ locations and resulted in the neutralisation of Boko Haram militants.

However, the military has not publicly addressed civilian casualties or confirmed any strike on the market itself.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, Atiku said the incident represents a broader failure in the country’s security operations.

“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience.

“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage. How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them?”, he wrote.

He compared Nigeria’s situation with a recent United States military operation, saying significant resources were deployed to protect a single life.

“Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life. That is the value they place on one citizen.

“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence,” he added.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security,” he said.

He, however, extended condolences to families affected by the incident.

US Preaches Transparent Legal Processes To Tackle Terrorism As Nigeria Names Newspaper Publisher Sponsor

By

Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Government of Nigeria has named a Newspaper Publisher, Tukur Mamu, as one of the sponsors of Terrorism.

The FG had, a couple of days ago, named 45 people and organizations as sponsors of Terrorism.

Mamu, Publisher of Desert Herald was one of them.

Mamu first came into national attention after the unprecedented attack on an Abuja-Kaduna train in 2024 which resulted in the killing of a number of people and the abduction of scores. Thereafter, Bama acted as a go-between for the terrorists and the families of the victims. His home became a clearing house for the delivery of hundreds of millions of Naira to the terrorists until he ran into trouble with security agencies which suspected his actions. The ante was raised when he was arrested in Saudi Arabia on his way to perform a religious obligation along with his way.

Presently, he is under prosecution by the Department of State Services, DSS.

Last week, the Federal Government began the prosecution of suspected terrorists by arraigning 500 of them, and at the end of day, 386 of them were jailed. Others are pending.

This ongoing trial and conviction of the suspects found guilty of terrorism charges have attracted commendation from the United States (US) government.

The US has, based on that, lauded President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government of Nigeria for its efforts to tackle terrorism and strengthen the judicial process in the country.

In a statement shared on X on Sunday, Massad Fares Boulos, US Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, acknowledged the Nigerian government’s commitment to accelerating terrorism-related trials and addressing long-standing delays in the courts.

He noted that the recent conviction of 386 Islamist militants marked a significant step towards accountability and justice.

He further highlighted the importance of timely and transparent legal processes in combating extremism and reinforcing public confidence in judicial institutions, while stressing that adherence to the rule of law remains vital for national security and long-term stability.

The statement reads, “The United States commends the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes.

“We welcome the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in the courts, and we recognize this as an important step toward accountability and justice.

“We believe that timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions.

“Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians, and we support continued efforts to strengthen judicial efficiency and fairness across the country.”

The development comes a day after the Federal Government released a list of 48 individuals and groups allegedly linked to terrorism financing in Nigeria.

The list, published on Saturday by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, identified suspects believed to be supporting terrorist activities across the country.

Some of those named were reportedly connected to organisations such as the Indigenous People of Biafra and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Supreme Court To Hear ADC, PDP Appeals Tuesday

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 13, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has scheduled hearing for Tuesday April,14, 2026, an appeal filed by the factional National Chairman of the opposition Coalition platform the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Senator David Mark, challenging the Court of Appeal’s verdict on the internal and leadership crisis rocking the party.

The source reports that the Appallate Court had, on March 12, 2026, in its ruling on Mark’s appeal against an application filed by factional leader, Bala Nafiu Gombe, at an Abuja Federal High Court, ordered all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the motion on notice at the trial court.

The Court of Appeal also ordered parties to return to the trial court for the continuation of proceedings in the Nafiu Gombe’s suit challenging the Mark-led national leadership.

The Apex Court also has fixed same Tuesday for the hearing of the appeal filed by the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee NWC of the Peoples Democratic party, PDP, against the Court of Appeal judgment of March 9, 2026, nullifying its Ibadan National Convention, and recognizing the Nyesom Wike-backed Abdulraham Mohammed-led leadership of the party.

Mark, in his appeal, is seeking the Apex Court’s order nullifying the Appallate Court’s verdict ordering the resumption of proceedings in the suit filed by Nafiu Gombe at the trial court ,as well as for parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the motion on notice before the trial court.

The Mark-led national leadership is also seeking an order of the Supreme Court restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC from executing the Appallate court’s ruling on parties maintaining the status quo ante bellum.

Similarly, Mark is praying the apex Court for an order of stay of execution of the Court of Appeal judgment, pending the hearing and determination of his motion on notice before the court.

In his application, Mark is also seeking the Supreme Court’s order compelling the INEC to continue to recognize his leadership as the ADC’s authentic NWC pending the final determination of his motion on notice.

The Mark’s ADC leadership attempt at securing similar reliefs at the trial court was dismissed by Honourable Justice Emeka Nwite, prompting it to approach the Court of Appeal.

In the same vein, Honourable Justices James Omotosho and Peter Lifu of Abuja Federal High Courts had earlier ruled to nullify the Ibadan National Convention of the PDP where the Turaki national executive committee emerged.

The Turaki national executive committee, in its two appeals, are challenging the Court of Appeal rulings affirming the trial court’s judgment nullifying the Ibadan National Convention of the PDP.

Dabiri-Erewa: Obidients Are ‘Monsters’, Will Cause Obi’s’ Downfall’

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James Orji

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April 13, 2026

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Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has lashed out at the Obidient Movement, the group supporting former Labour Party, Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi presidential ambition describing them as monsters.

Dabiri Erewa made the remark on series of posts, on Sunday, saying their actions are capable of marring the presidential ambition of Obi, a former governor of Anambra state.

The former LP Presidential candidate is among top politicians in the country eyeing the nation’s top job next year, as President commander-in-chief.

Obi had in 2023 contested the presidential election under the LP but lost to incumbent, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He recently declared his intention to run again under the African Democratic Congress, ADC platform, and the Movement has reiterated his support for him, saying Presidency or nothing for the former governor.

But not a few Nigerians have also accused the Obidients of social media bullying of opponents of the former governor, calling on Obi to call them to order to save his political ambition.

The NiDCOM Chairman spoke amidt last week’s remark by Presidential Spokesman, Daniel Bwala that the ‘Obidients’, a group rooting for Obi to become Nigerian’s president in 2027 are only loyal to him and not to the country.

According to Dabiri- Erewa, the behavior of the Movement is capable of marring Obi’s political future, and his chances to become Nigeria’s leader in the future.

The Movement, the NiDCOM chairman stated may become Obi’s downfall and undoing politically, calling on the former Anambra helmsman to call them to order.

She wrote: “Peter Obi has actually raised monsters. By God’s grace, Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win the 2027 elections. When it’s the turn of the South East and perhaps it falls on him, I hope he realises that these Obidients could ironically become his downfall. He needs to call them to order,”

In a follow up post, the NiDCOM boss said she cannot be intimidated to silence, accusing the Obidients of “toxic behaviors.”

“This is my personal account. You can hack it again if you wish. So because I’m a public official, I should remain silent in the face of what I consider toxic behaviour?” she stated

Bwala, the magazine recalls, had last week accused the Movement of being unpatriotic, saying they will do anything to undermine the security of the country.

He said: “I know the environment I come from; it’s an environment where there exists a species of ‘Trojans’ of social media called the ‘Obidient,’ who do not care about the national interest or the security of Nigeria and will do everything possible to achieve the aim of their hero, no matter the cost,” he stated.

Olubadan: Ibadan Indigenes Warn Fayose To ‘Shut Up’; ‘Take Your Politics Elsewhere’

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James Orji

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April 13, 2026

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Ibadan indigenes, under the aegis of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII have called on a former governor of Ekiti state, Ayodele Fayose, to ‘shut up’ over his recent comment, to the effect that Governor Seyi makinde of Oyo state is planning to dethrone the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja.

The CCII CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, made this known in a statement released by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide yesterday, saying there is no iota of truth in the suggestion of the former governor.

According to the CCII, the former Ekiti helmsman is just trying to cause disaffection and distrust among the people of the state by making such a provocative statement, capable of inciting violence in the state.

The CCII said Governor Makinde is a true indigene of Ibadanlan and would not contemplate the removal of Oba Ladoja, saying the people of the city will not tolerate any plan by outsiders to set the state on fire.

Fayose had on Sunday, in a post he shared on his verified X handle alleged that Governor Makinde is plotting to remove the revered traditional ruler over recent political realities in the state, saying the state government will first issue a query to Oba Ladoja “this wee” before the very act of removing him is done

Fayose: “I heard reliably that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is plotting the removal of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

“The plot is to commence this week, with a government query to be issued against the Olubadan, citing his absence at the failed coronation of High Chiefs in Ibadanland two weeks ago, and other allegations.”

But Ajewole warned Fayose to stop peddling lies about any rift between Oba Ladoja and Governor Makinde because there’s nothing of such, adding that the governor and the traditional ruler are notable indigenes of the ancient city, saying the indigenes will not take it lightly with anyone trying to destabilize the city through careless political comments, noting that Fayose is only misleading his readers with such remarks.

“Ibadanland would not tolerate external attempts to destabilise its peace through careless political rhetoric. The allegation lacked credibility and should be disregarded by the public,” the CCII said in the statement.

“Matters relating to the Olubadan stool follow a well-established process that cannot be altered by political speculation.”

“Fayose should not inflame the polity in Ibadan and the state in general with reckless and unverified statements. We advise him to keep his mouth shut and take his divisive politics elsewhere rather than dragging Ibadan into unnecessary controversy.

“Our own Governor Makinde is a true son of Ibadanland who would not do anything to undermine the institution of Olubadan. He is not in the same class and mould with Fayose who is ready to do anything for political gains,” the CCII said.

Meanwhile, the state government, on Sunday, dismissed Fayose’s claim, describing it as unfounded, describing Fayose’s remark as a blatant lie and political falsehood.

The state’s Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, who denied the claim, said the state government has no such intention, saying Fayose is a known peddler of falsehood.

“The source of the information is a machine of serious falsehood, and it has been displayed once again. It is a lie. It is not true. It is a falsehood meant to achieve a warped end,” Oyelade said.

Also, the media aide to Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, described the statement credited to Fayose as a baseless rumour, describing the alleged rift between Governor Makinde and Olubadan as a wishful thinking by the former governor.

Uzodimma Seeks Global Support For Imo Medical City, Partners ANPA On Knowledge Transfer To State’s Medical Personnel

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The Source

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April 12, 2026

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Imo Medical City — From left: President of Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas, Dr. Cliff Eke, member, Dr. Ngozika Nwaneri, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, his wife, Chioma, and the Imo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, during the inauguration of the ANPA 2026 Medical Week at the Banquet Hall, Government House Owerri... Sunday, April 12, 2026

Governor Hope Uzodimma has unveiled plans to establish a world-class Medical City in Imo State, seeking international collaboration to transform the State into a hub for quality and affordable healthcare.

Specifically, the Governor has indicated the readiness of Imo State government to partner members of the Association of Nigeria Physicians in the Americas (ANPA) to train the personnel of the Ministry of Health and related agencies on transfer of contemporary medical knowledge and skill for the purpose of domesticating same and making healthcare delivery easily accessable by the people.

Speaking at the inauguration of the ANPA Medical Mission to Imo State, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House Owerri, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, the Governor said the initiative forms part of a broader 25-year development agenda aimed at reducing medical tourism and attracting global investment.

“We want to reverse the trend where our people travel abroad for treatment. Instead, we aim to make Imo a destination for medical solutions,” he stated.

Uzodimma commended the visiting medical team from the United States for their humanitarian efforts, urging a shift from short-term outreach to long-term partnership. “Medical missions are commendable, but sustainable healthcare requires stronger collaboration,” he said.

He stressed the importance of training as a key component of the mission, noting that equipping local health workers and residents with emergency response knowledge and skills could significantly reduce preventable deaths.

The Governor also highlighted reforms in the health sector, including the establishment of a Central Drug Distribution System to eliminate fake drugs and improve standards of care.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to healthcare development, Uzodimma said Imo offers a conducive environment for investment, with ongoing infrastructure upgrades and policy support.

He urged the visiting professionals to partner with the State in building a resilient healthcare system, expressing optimism that the relationship would yield long-term benefits.

Governor Uzodimma invited the visiting medical practitioners to be “ambassadors of Imo,” as the State is on the rise in ways that will be a win win situation for her and her partners.

President of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Dr. Cliff Eke disclosed that the group’s ongoing medical outreach in Imo State is aimed at building sustainable healthcare systems rather than offering short-term interventions.

Dr. Eke described the programme as part of the broader Diaspora Health Initiative (DHI), conceived to harness the expertise of Nigerian health professionals abroad.

He noted that over 120 volunteer healthcare professionals, including surgeons, dentists, nurses, pharmacists and specialists across multiple disciplines, had travelled from the United States and the United Kingdom to participate in the exercise.

“ANPA (2026) Week is more than a Medical Mission. It focuses on knowledge exchange, skills transfer and capacity building, alongside free medical and surgical services,” he said.

Dr. Eke explained that the initiative was inspired by the need to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, expressing hope that such missions would eventually become unnecessary. “Our greatest hope is that one day medical missions will be rare, because the system has become self-sustaining,” he added.

He disclosed that activities for the week include complex surgeries, health screenings, and training programmes such as basic life support and newborn care.

According to him, the outreach, valued at over $500,000, underscores the diaspora’s commitment to supporting healthcare delivery in Nigeria through collaboration with local institutions and government agencies.

The Group had earlier in the day joined Governor Uzodimma to worship at the Government House Chapel where the Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Gilbert Alaribe preached on humanity’s need for God’s mercy as the Catholic Church celebrated the Feast of Divine Mercy.

Present at the event were the wife of the Governor, Barr Chioma Uzodimma, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Hon Nkiru Onyejiocha, former Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Henry Ikoh, Deputy National Women Leader of All Progressives Congress, Hajia Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim; Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Dr. Kalu Uche and other members of the clergy.

Traditional rulers, Local Government Council Chairmen, Imo APC executives, captains of industries, opinion leaders, stakeholders as well as members of the Imo State Expanded Executive Council were present at the event.

No Plans To Drop My Deputy – Gov Eno Declares

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 12, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Dr Umo Eno, has debunked claims suggesting that plans have been concluded to drop his Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, in the build up to his re-election bid in 2027.

The Source reports that there have been widespread speculations surrounding the fate of the Deputy Governor with reports claiming that the Governor has concluded plans to jettison the 2023 ticket to reflect the present political realignment in the State.

According to sources, Governor Eno, who, in 2025, defected to the All Progressive Congress APC ,from his original political abode- the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has been under intense pressure to rejig governance structure to accommodate the old APC members

Specifically, the rumour mill has been awash with reports that the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the leader of the old APC structure in the State is allegedly rooting for one of his core cronies to be picked as Governor Eno’s running mate ahead of the 2027 polls

There are strong indications that Akpabio, a former Governor of the State, prefers the Akwa Ibom State representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission NNDC, Victor Antai, to replace the incumbent Deputy Governor.

The Senate President is said to be working on the theory of having Antai inherit Governor Eno at the end of his second tenure in 2031.

But speaking at the occasion of the 80th birthday celebration of the Deputy Governor’s husband, Etim Eyakenyi on Sunday, Governor Eno dismissed the speculations on the purported plans to tinker with the gubernatorial ticket as false and unfounded.

The Governor emphasized that he has no reason to drop his Deputy, noting that she has remained loyal ever since 2023 when she emerged.

Governor Eno, while denying being under pressure to alter the 2023 ticket, insisted that he has no cause to abandon his Deputy now or in the future.

“Akon Eyakenyi, has not disappointed me, even for one day as my Deputy. And if you make me Governor ten times, she will be my Deputy 10 times”, Eno vowed.

US Commends FG Over Conviction Of 386 Terrorists, Calls For Sustained Judicial Reforms

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Akinwale Kasali

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April 12, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

The United States Government has lauded the Federal Government for securing 386 convictions in terrorism-related cases, describing the development as a significant step towards justice and accountability.

The Commendation was disclosed by the United States of America Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulosin, a statement shared via X on Sunday, where the official praised Nigeria’s efforts to fast-track terrorism trials.

The Statement by the US reads: “The United States commends the Nigerian Government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes.

“We welcome the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in the courts, and we recognise this as an important step toward accountability and justice”.

The U.S. further stressed the importance of transparent legal processes in tackling extremism.

“We believe that timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians,” it added.

The recognition and Commendation is coming at a time the FG announced that it has secured 386 convictions out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.

Disclosing the US Commendation to Journalists was the

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, at the conclusion of the ninth phase of the trials, where he said, “In total, we brought about 508 cases. Of these 508, we were able to secure 386 convictions. Eight discharges, two acquittals and 112 adjourned to the next session or phase”.

Fagbemi added that the next phase of the trials had already been scheduled.

“Don’t forget that this is the ninth phase. The 10th phase will come up between the 15th and the 18th of June by God’s special grace,” he stated.

The trial, which began on April 7, 2026, ended on April 10, 2026.

He noted that over 500 suspects were arraigned for offences bordering on terrorism under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.

The proceedings involved 10 Judges of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court and were conducted despite the Easter vacation period.

Fagbemi said the inclusion of discharges and acquittals reflected the government’s commitment to due process and the rule of law.

The latest convictions come amid ongoing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation.

It would be recalled that in 2015, President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act, citing concerns over violence linked to extremist groups.

Though the Nigerian government rejected the designation, maintaining that the violence was driven by criminality and insurgency affecting both Muslims and Christians, rather than targeted religious persecution as alleged by the US.

Fayose Alleges Plot By Governor Makinde To Remove Olubadan

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Akinwale Kasali

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April 12, 2026

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Fayose and Makinde — LR, Ayodele Fayose and Governor Seyi Makinde

By Akinwale Kasali

A former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, has alleged a plot by Governor Seyi Makinde to oust the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja from the throne.

Fayose alleged that Makinde has, for months, been plotting the removal of the former Oyo State Governor.

Recall that the Olubadan was installed as the Olubadan by Makinde less than six months ago.

Taking to his X handle on Sunday, Fayose claimed that the alleged move would begin with official queries against the Monarch over his absence at a recent Coronation ceremony.

Fayose wrote: “I heard reliably that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is plotting the removal of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rahidi Adewolu Ladoja. The plot is to commence this week, with Government Query to be issued against the Olubadan, citing his absence at the failed coronation of High Chiefs in Ibadanland two weeks ago, and other allegations”.

The two term Ekiti State Governor described Governor Makinde as a ‘sigidi’, a statuette, stressing that he would continue watch his ignominious machinations.

“As for us, we will be watching the Sìgìdì of Seyi Makinde tó fẹ́ se eré ẹ̀tẹ́,” he added.

The allegation is, however, coming on the heels of a recent speculation about a possible disagreement between the Monarch and the State Government.

It would be recalled that the Olubadan recently dismissed claims of any rift between the Traditional Ruler and the Governor, describing such reports as unfounded.

In a statement, the Palace said: “We wish to make it abundantly clear that there is no rift between Kabiyesi and Olori omo oba of Ibadanland.”

It also addressed reports regarding the monarch’s absence at the coronation event, clarifying that the Olubadan did not deliberately avoid the ceremony.

“In addition, the Olubadan did not travel out of Ibadan to avoid the coronation ceremony. Kabiyesi is hale and hearty in Ibadan and performing the role expected of him as Olubadan,” the statement added.

Many Feared Killed, Several Seriously Injured, As NAF Airstrike Hits Borno/Yobe Crowded Market

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 12, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

An accidental airstrike from the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has reportedly killed several persons at a crowded weekly market on the border between Borno and Yobe States.

Several others were reportedly injured in the unfortunate incident which occurred at Dilli Market within Gubio Local Council of Yobe State.

The airstrike which was originally targeted at Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements with operation camps on the border areas of the two security challenged states, however mistakingly hit the market on Saturday evening.

The weekly market, according to local witness accounts, holds much attraction for traders and other market users from across many communities within the border of Borno and Yobe States, including Giedam, and Gubio from Yobe State ,as well as Chibok and Benisheikh in Borno State.

The Yobe State Police Command, however, could not provide the exact number of casualties as at the time of reporting.

Dungus Abdulkarim, the spokesperson for the Command, while confirming the unfortunate development, however informed that operatives have been deployed to the affected areas for an on-the-spot assessment.

“We are aware of the incident that occurred at Dilli Market along the Borno/Yobe border, and we are currently gathering information on what actually transpired.

“At the moment, we do not have confirmed casualty figures as details are still being gathered.

“Security agencies are on the ground assessing the situation, while efforts are ongoing to ensure proper documentation and response, after which the public will be informed.

However, some local witness accounts have put the initial casualty figures at over 30, with more believed to have succumbed to their injuries at medical facilities.

Several others who sustained severe injuries are said to be battling for their lives at various hospitals, with fears of more deaths rife

The Source reports that the alleged ill-fated airstrike targeted at insurgents in the aftermath of the Benisheikh military base invasion that resulted in the death of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers .

Most of the terrorists operating within the axis are believed to be conducting their shopping at the busy weekly market,and also come regularly to collect taxes and levies from the people.

The authorities of the NAF and the Governments of Borno and Yobe States were yet to react officially to the incident as at the time of reporting.

But a local witness informed that the market is within the jurisdiction of Gubio Local Government Area in Yobe state, even though it is sitting on the border .