Home Blog Page 10

Governor Uba Sani Urged to Secure Release of Abducted Residents

0

By Abdullahi Alhassan

KADUNA – The Chairman of the Elders Forum of Gidan Waya, Yarkasuwa, Saminaka, in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Mr. Rabo Sabo Jantsauni, has sent a desperate appeal to Governor Uba Sani, seeking help to secure the release of 13 kinsmen who were kidnapped on November 11, 2025, and remain in captivity despite the payment of a ₦40 million ransom to the bandits.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, Jantsauni recounted how bandits stormed their village in November 2025, killing four people, injuring five others, and abducting 13 residents.

He identified those killed as Promise Korau, 18; Hycent Timothy, 19; Mato Shagori, 40; and Markus Ishaya. Those currently receiving treatment in hospital are Kefas Iliya, 23; Philimon Daniel, 25; Ezra Samson, 27; and one unidentified person.

The 13 kidnapped victims are Habibu Yahaya, 42; Love Markus, 38; Mummy Markus, 49; Catherine Shitu, 40; Ibrahim Bagobari, 46; John Ibrahim, 15; and Rev. Istifanus Dungu, 58. Others are Christiana Dungu, 14; Prince Dungu, 13; Miss Dauda; Mrs. Rev. Danbala Inuwa, 38; Lois Markus, 25; and Yohanna Umar, 30.

According to Jantsauni, the bandits later demanded ₦300 million as ransom, but the community could not raise the amount, asking, “Where did they expect us to find such a huge amount?” He explained that the community eventually sold about 3,000 bags of assorted grains to raise ₦40 million, which was delivered to the bandits.

Jantsauni lamented that despite paying the ransom, “it is now three weeks, and the bandits are yet to release the 13 kidnapped people. Worse still, they attacked the village again on January 7, 2026, and abducted two Fulani women.”

“The community wants to appeal to Governor Uba Sani to come to our rescue and ensure that our people regain their freedom. We do not know if His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, or even our local government chairman is aware of what has happened to us. That is why we are appealing through the media,” he said.

While acknowledging the efforts of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Lere, who reportedly visited the community several times after the attack, Jantsauni appealed for urgent intervention from both the state and federal governments.

“We are calling on the state government, the local government, and Governor Uba Sani to help us secure the release of our people. We also want the governor to reach out to the federal government for assistance,” he said.

Beyond the trauma of the abduction, the community is now facing hunger after selling off its grain reserves. “After selling our food to pay ransom, we are now going hungry. We can no longer feed our families,” he said, calling on the government to provide food support while the community awaits the return of their abducted relatives.

He described the situation as heartbreaking, noting that the entire community has been thrown into mourning, fear, and uncertainty. “Everybody is shedding tears. We are suffering, and our people are still in captivity,” he added.

Zulum Urges Borno Residents to Support Rayyan Microfinance Bank

0

By Abdullahi Alhassan

BORNO – Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has unveiled Rayyan Microfinance Bank, headquartered in Maiduguri, the state capital on Sunday.

Rayyan Bank is an Ethical Compliant Digital Bank that offers non-interest financing. With a commitment to ethical compliance practices, the bank also provides a comprehensive range of banking solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held in Forshams Event Centre, Maiduguri, Zulum emphasised that the bank is a critical tool for building resilience and fostering self-reliance among the people of Borno. He highlighted its role in providing the financial backbone communities need to rebuild livelihoods affected by years of insurgency.

“Microfinance banks are crucial for driving financial inclusion, reducing poverty and promoting economic growth through providing accessible financial services to such as small loans, savings accounts and insurance amongst others to low income individuals who don’t have access to traditional banking systems in Nigeria,” Zulum said.

He added, “I want to commend the vision and tenacity of the chairman and members of this very important bank, I also want to assure you that the government, under my leadership, will partner with you to promote the ideals of the non-interest banking system which is very important to our economy.”

Demonstrating Borno State government’s confidence in the new institution, Zulum directed the State Ministry of Finance to open an account with Rayyan Microfinance Bank.

Following the unveiling, the Governor formally presented the bank to the public, urging residents, cooperatives, and business owners to utilise its services to grow their businesses, support local enterprises, and contribute to the state’s economic resurgence.

The event featured keynote addresses and lectures by academics, regulatory agencies, religious scholars, and other stakeholders, highlighting the potential of non-interest banking to promote ethical investments and foster inclusive economic growth.

177 Worshippers Still in Captivity, CAN Seeks Govt Intervention

0

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

KADUNA – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State has held a special prayer session for the safe return of 177 worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali community, one week after the incident.

The prayer session, held on Sunday at Tawaliu Baptist Church in Maraban Kajuru, brought together Christian leaders from across Kaduna State and the wider northern region as families of the abducted worshippers continued to wait anxiously for their release.

The worshippers, who are members of the Evangelical Church Winning All and the Cherubim and Seraphim churches, were abducted during Sunday services when armed men invaded Kurmin Wali community and forced congregants into surrounding forests. Although a few of the victims later escaped, many remain in captivity.

Speaking at the prayer gathering, the Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Reverend Joseph John Hayab, urged churches to strengthen surveillance and security around places of worship in response to the growing threat against worship centres.

He said churches must combine prayer with vigilance by putting in place basic internal security and monitoring arrangements that would enable them to observe activities within and around worship premises during services.

According to him, unrestricted access to church premises without situational awareness exposes worshippers to danger and leaves congregations vulnerable to attacks.

Reverend Hayab described the security situation in Kajuru as deeply troubling, noting that repeated attacks on communities and churches had reached an unacceptable level and required urgent collective action.

He warned that unless proactive steps were taken, churches would continue to suffer losses, stressing that faith must be accompanied by responsibility and preparedness.

“We have been praying and watching instead of watching and praying. The church must wake up,” Reverend Hayab said.

In his remarks, the Chairman of CAN in Kajuru Local Government Area, Reverend Enoch Kaura, said the prayer session was convened to seek God’s intervention for the safe return of the abducted worshippers and to pray for wisdom for government authorities and security agencies in addressing insecurity in the area.

Reverend Kaura condemned the abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali and criticised what he described as the initial denial of the incident by government authorities, saying it cast doubt on the accounts of victims, families, clergy and eyewitnesses.

He traced the roots of insecurity in Kajuru to the 1980s, noting that violence escalated in 2017 and 2018 during the crisis in Kasuwan Magani, which culminated in the abduction and killing of the area’s paramount ruler.

According to him, the Kurmin Wali abduction was not an isolated incident, recalling previous attacks on Buda Church where a pastor and some members were abducted, as well as the killing of a church member in Ugakala Maro last year.

He said that since 2019, no fewer than eleven pastors and their wives had been killed, while several others had been abducted, forcing many communities to abandon their homes.

While acknowledging that the administration of Governor Uba Sani had recorded relative peace in parts of Kajuru, Reverend Kaura said lingering insecurity continued to prevent residents from fully returning to normal life, particularly in harvesting their farm produce.

He called on the government and security agencies to intensify security operations in Kajuru and other vulnerable areas to prevent further attacks and ensure the rescue of all abducted worshippers.

The prayer session was attended by the Kaduna State Chairman of CAN, Reverend Caleb Bawa Ma’aji, bishops, and clergy from various denominations.

Delta Governor Unleashes “Zero Tolerance” Crackdown

0

...Orders Police to Hunt Down, Prosecute All Illegal Firearm Holders Ahead of 2027 Polls

By Sunday Apah

ASABA – In a hardline security directive, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commanded the state’s police force to **arrest and prosecute without exception** anyone caught with illegal firearms or attempting to disrupt public peace—especially as the 2027 general elections loom.

Governor Oborevwori issued the stern order on Tuesday while receiving the newly posted Commissioner of Police for Delta State, CP Aina Adesola, and his management team at the Government House in Asaba.

Describing CP Adesola’s posting as a “strategic homecoming,” the governor emphasized that the police chief’s prior experience in the state would be crucial in **crushing criminal elements** and maintaining order. He hailed the existing collaboration between security agencies for the current relative peace but warned that **any slide back into lawlessness would be met with ruthless enforcement**.

“Before 2023, criminals and youths brazenly brandished firearms on our streets—spreading fear and chaos. That era is over. Under my watch, it will **never be allowed to return**,” Governor Oborevwori declared.

He further commended officers such as ACP Aliyu Shaba and the former Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations for their fierce crackdown on gun violence in once-volatile areas, signaling that such **aggressive policing would continue and intensify**.

With another election cycle approaching, the governor charged the police to remain **unyielding and proactive**, stressing that the full force of the law must fall on anyone threatening the state’s security.

“We will **not tolerate insecurity**. Anyone found with illegal weapons or trying to breach the peace must be hunted down, arrested, and prosecuted—no excuses, no exceptions,” he vowed.

Oborevwori also called on residents to act as the “eyes and ears” of security agencies, warning that peace is non-negotiable for development and investment.

“Without peace, investors flee. With peace, Delta State is open for business—and we **will defend that peace with everything we have**,” he asserted.

In his response, CP Aina Adesola thanked the governor for the reception and pledged an **unrelenting, tireless campaign** to keep Delta safe. “Under my command, the people will sleep with both eyes closed. We will ensure lasting peace through relentless action,” he promised.

Just In: Police Arrest 22 Suspects in Grisly Murder of Ughelli Prince

0

...As Egbo Vows to Purge Ughelli of Criminal Elements, Dismiss False Curfew Reports as “Dangerous Propaganda”

By Sunday Apah

UGHELLI — In a sweeping crackdown that has sent shockwaves through the area, security operatives have detained over twenty-two persons linked to the brutal assassination of Prince Idjesa Oharisi of Ughelli Kingdom royal family.

The revelation came from the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Hon. Chief Jaro Egbo, Esq., during a high-profile condolence visit to the bereaved Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Evang. Wilson Ojakovo, Oharisi III.

Speaking with formidable authority within the sacred walls of the royal palace on Monday, January 26, 2026, Egbo described the killing as a “heinous and calculated atrocity” that has pierced the heart of the entire kingdom. “This is not merely a crime; it is an act of war against our traditions, our peace, and our future,” he thundered. “The blood of a prince cries out for justice, and we shall deliver nothing less.”

The chairman dispelled any notions of inter-communal strife, instead pointing an accusatory finger at the metastasizing scourge of cultism masquerading as rebellion.

 

 

He issued an unequivocal decree to all criminal factions operating within Ughelli: “Your time is up. Vacate our streets, our communities, and our kingdom immediately, or be prepared to face the relentless and unforgiving wrath of the law.”

Egbo confirmed that the arrests are part of a broader, aggressive operation targeting recent waves of violence, with the investigation into the prince’s murder being treated as an absolute priority.

He assured the people of Ughelli that security agencies are deploying every resource at their disposal to dismantle the networks responsible.

In a firm rebuke of spreading misinformation, both Egbo and the Ovie categorically denied the existence of any government-declared curfew. “Let these words echo through every quarter: there is no curfew in Ughelli,” Egbo stated, his tone leaving no room for ambiguity.

He issued a stern warning to overzealous security personnel, stating that any intimidation of innocent citizens under this false pretext would be met with severe disciplinary action.

Emphasizing Ughelli’s critical role as a commercial and cultural linchpin connecting three major geopolitical zones, Egbo warned that any attempt to destabilize the throne or undermine the kingdom’s sovereignty would be crushed.

He appealed directly to families, elders, and community leaders to reclaim their youth from the clutches of violence and cultism, pledging the local government’s total commitment to eradicating this menace.

His Royal Majesty, the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, received the chairman’s pledges with solemn gratitude, describing the visit as “a powerful testament to unity in our moment of profound sorrow.”

The monarch also vehemently dispelled the curfew rumours, labeling them “malicious fabrications” intended to breed fear and disorder. “I have issued no such order.

These lies must cease,” he commanded, urging all citizens and media houses to obtain information solely through authorized official channels.

Agbeyi Lauds Alema of Warri, Uduaghan, on Birthday

0

By Admin 

Dr., Monday Agbeyi has congratulated Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a distinguished humanist, bridge-builder, and an outstanding pillar of community development whose life has been devoted to service to humanity.

In a statement issued to newsmen in Warri, Delta State, Dr. Agbeyi extolled the Alema for his unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and grassroots development, noting that Chief Uduaghan’s leadership style is anchored on humility, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people.

He said the Alema has continued to play a stabilising role within Warri Kingdom and its environs through dialogue, wisdom, and selfless interventions.

According to him, the celebrant’s numerous philanthropic and humanitarian gestures over the years have positively transformed lives, empowered the less privileged, and strengthened communal harmony. Dr. Agbeyi stressed that Chief Uduaghan’s contributions to social cohesion and human capital development have earned him widespread respect and admiration both within and outside Delta State.

Dr. Agbeyi further described the Alema as a father figure and dependable leader whose counsel and moral authority have guided many individuals and institutions, adding that his dedication to justice, fairness, and inclusive progress has set him apart as a quintessential community builder.

He prayed that Almighty God grants Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan many more years in good health, renewed strength, divine wisdom, and lasting fulfillment, urging the younger generation to draw inspiration from his exemplary life of service and integrity.

Tompolo’s Peace Initiative Brings Development to Ogbinbiri, Ogbudugbu Communities

0

By Admin 

Hon. King Producer Miebi has commended High Chief Dr. Government Owoizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for his uncommon commitment, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the promotion of peace and stability in the Niger Delta region. He described Tompolo as a true patriot whose selfless interventions have continued to prevent avoidable conflicts and foster unity among communities.

According to Hon. Miebi, the recent peaceful resolution of the long-standing boundary dispute between Ogbinbiri and Ogbudugbudu communities in Egbema Kingdom, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, stands as a landmark achievement.

He noted that the dispute, which had persisted for generations, could have easily degenerated into a full-blown communal crisis if not for the timely and decisive intervention of Tompolo.

He further explained that through personal sacrifice, strategic engagement, and the deployment of his own resources, High Chief Tompolo successfully resolved the dispute by establishing a boundary road acceptable to both communities.

This intervention not only ended decades of tension but has also opened the area to increased development, improved access, and enhanced socio-economic activities for the benefiting communities.

Hon. Miebi emphasized that this historic intervention has permanently etched Tompolo’s name in the annals of Egbema Kingdom.

In recognition of this noble contribution, he proposed that the Ogbinbiri/Ogbudugbudu boundary road be officially named after High Chief Dr. Government Owoizide Ekpemupolo, Tompolo, so that future generations will remember his role in transforming conflict into cooperation and development.

He therefore called on leaders, stakeholders, and influential figures across the Niger Delta to emulate Tompolo’s peace-building approach, rather than promoting division or instigating conflicts for selfish interests. Hon. Miebi stressed that sustainable development in the Niger Delta can only be achieved through dialogue, sincerity, and genuine concern for the collective good of the people.

Okpe Authority Limited to 510 Acres, Itsekiri Leaders Clarify

0

By Admin 

  
The Chairman of the Abigborodo Management Committee, Hon. Barrister Misan Ukubeyinije, Esq., a former Commissioner in Delta State, in a statement released to newsmen on Friday, raised serious concerns over the planned foundation-laying ceremony of a Sub-Palace in Sapele Town by the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, scheduled for January 24, 2026, while drawing attention to an earlier caveat issued by Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Administrator of several Itsekiri communities in Sapele, stressing that Sapele is not the exclusive property of any single ethnic group.

He stressed that Sapele is not the exclusive town of the Okpe people, noting that the town has a well-documented historical background that predates recent claims of exclusive ownership.

Barrister Ukubeyinije reaffirmed that Sapele historically belongs to the Itsekiri nation, a position he said is supported by documented historical and colonial records, while acknowledging that other ethnic groups have long coexisted peacefully in the town.

He referenced the 1930 Colonial Intelligence Report on the Okpe-Sobo clan, authored by L. E. A. Fellows, which listed recognized Okpe villages as Amukpe, Elume, Orerokpe, and Gbukurusu, with no mention of Sapele as an Okpe settlement.

The former Commissioner further clarified that the judgment in Chief Ayomano v. Ginuwa II (JELR 81222, WACA), often cited by the Okpe Kingdom, did not confer ownership of Sapele on the Okpe people but rather awarded them a clearly defined area of 510 acres of land.

According to him, any attempt to exercise authority or erect traditional structures beyond the legally granted 510 acres would amount to an encroachment and could trigger avoidable communal tension in the area.

Barrister Ukubeyinije emphasized that while the Itsekiri people remain committed to peace and lawful coexistence, any action capable of undermining historical facts and legal boundaries would be resisted through all lawful means, urging restraint in the interest of peace and stability in Sapele.

Forum of Ughievwen Communities Executives Passes Vote of Confidence in Governor Oborevwori

0

By Sunday Apah

In a decisive and unified show of support, the Forum of Ughievwen Communities Executives has formally passed a vote of confidence in Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

This resounding endorsement follows the Governor’s strategic empowerment of the kingdom, notably through the donation of an official SUV to its monarch and the appointment of qualified Ughievwen indigenes to pivotal positions within his administration.

The historic declaration was ratified during a conclave hosted by His Royal Majesty, Matthew Ediri Egbi, the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, who received the assembled executives from across the kingdom.

Presiding over the gathering, HRM Egbi underscored the dual purpose of the meeting: the ceremonial distribution of annual calendars, diaries to community leaders, and palliative rice provisions to the eldest men in each community.

He affirmed that the assembly serves as a critical annual forum to deliberate on pressing issues impacting the kingdom’s welfare.

The monarch issued a stern admonition to the community leadership—including Presidents General, Secretaries, Otota (Spokesmen), and Women Leaders—mandating an unwavering commitment to peace and inclusive governance.

He emphasized the imperative of prioritizing collective kingdom-wide development over parochial community interests.

HRM Egbi also formally acknowledged his inclusion among the 64 traditional rulers statewide who were beneficiaries of Governor Oborevwori’s official vehicle donation initiative, framing it as a gesture of profound respect for the traditional institution.

In a series of robust commendations, community leaders including Comrade Felix Nana of Otor-Owahwa and Mr. Andrew Umukoro of Erhuwaren lauded the Okobaro for his exemplary leadership and magnanimity.

They attested that his reign has been instrumental in fostering unprecedented peace and unity across Ughievwen.

The leaders further issued a compelling call for communities hosting key infrastructure to subordinate local interests to the broader, strategic development of the entire kingdom.

They expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his tangible recognition of Ughievwen, both through the bestowal of the royal vehicle and the strategic placement of its sons and daughters in sensitive governmental roles.

The executive body moved decisively to pass a formal vote of confidence in the Oborevwori administration.

The motion was adopted unanimously, signaling a formidable and consolidated front of support from the Ughievwen Kingdom for the state’s current leadership.

Governor Oborevwori Mourns Demise of Iconic GCU Principal, D. M. Siakpere

0
Oplus_16908288

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed profound grief over the demise of the revered educationist and elder statesman, Chief David Mafuvbe Siakpere, the former Principal of Government College Ughelli (GCU), who passed away on January 18 at the age of 84.

In a solemn condolence message delivered by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori eulogized the late Siakpere as a monumental figure within Delta State’s educational landscape and a devoted Urhobo patriot, whose entire life was consecrated to service, discipline, and the shaping of successive generations of leaders.

The Governor extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Egbo-Uhurie Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, the bereaved Siakpere family, the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association, and the Urhobo nation at large, acknowledging the profound and irreplaceable nature of their loss.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized that Chief Siakpere’s tenure at the helm of Government College Ughelli is universally commemorated as a golden epoch, distinguished by unparalleled academic rigor, unwavering discipline, moral fortitude, and the cultivation of exceptional alumni who have attained distinction in myriad fields globally.

The Governor articulated that the departed icon was far more than an administrator; he was a visionary mentor, a principled disciplinarian, and a nation-builder whose impact resonated far beyond the school’s walls. He noted that Siakpere embodied a generation of school principals who prioritized character formation with the same fervor as intellectual development, a creed that cemented GCU’s enduring status as a premier secondary institution in Nigeria.

“Chief David Mafuvbe Siakpere was, in every respect, a legend. His life’s work has left an indelible legacy upon the educational fabric of Delta State and upon the countless students who graduated under his steadfast guidance at Government College Ughelli,” Governor Oborevwori declared.

The Governor further highlighted that beyond his pedagogical achievements, the late Siakpere commanded immense respect as a community leader and elder statesman, whose wisdom, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the Urhobo cause earned him universal esteem.

Governor Oborevwori concluded with prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and for divine solace and fortitude for his family, the Egbo-Uhurie Community, and all who mourn his passing. He affirmed that Siakpere’s enduring legacy of excellence, discipline, and service would continue to inspire generations to come.

Latest Stories

Trending Reports