Police Arrest 12 Suspected Gun Runners, Drug Peddlers in Delta
Newlywed Wife Kills Husband With Rat Poison
By Sunday Apah
In a grim marital homicide case, the Jigawa State Police Command has detained a recently married woman accused of fatally poisoning her spouse.
The victim succumbed after ingesting a meal purportedly prepared by his wife.
The tragic event unfolded on January 23, 2026, around 1700hrs in Gauza village, situated within Jahun Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
In an official statement released to press representatives in Dutse on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer for Jigawa State Command, SP Shi’isu Adam, verified the occurrence.
He recounted that the deceased consumed lunch at his residence before abruptly falling critically ill.
Per the police account, the man was urgently transported to a medical facility for treatment but was declared deceased during intervention.
Subsequent to the episode, investigative personnel from the Jahun Division initiated proceedings, apprehending the deceased’s wife as the prime suspect.
SP Shi’isu Adam disclosed that “during questioning, the detainee admitted to contaminating her husband’s food with rodenticide.”
He further noted that the “accused alleged she enlisted her cousin to procure the rat poison utilized in perpetrating the offense.”
The Public Relations Officer conveyed that the suspect asserted she had been compelled into the matrimonial union by her parents—a circumstance she cited as motivating her conduct.
Nonetheless, the police representative affirmed that the Jigawa State Commissioner of Police has mandated an exhaustive inquiry into the matter at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Dutse.
He stated that following the investigation’s completion, the accused will face formal charges and prosecution in a judicial venue.
Concurrently, the police command has encouraged citizens to maintain tranquility and adherence to legal statutes, advocating for lawful avenues in resolving familial and marital conflicts.
The announcement additionally “cautioned against extrajudicial actions, emphasizing that such measures frequently yield irrevocable outcomes.”
Accordingly, law enforcement assured the community of the command’s dedication to equitable justice and the safeguarding of lives and property statewide.
“The police will guarantee that judicial fairness is administered in this incident,” the PPRO affirmed, adding that “the suspect remains in custodial detention pending judicial proceedings.”
APC Jajiya Political Movement Intensifies Efforts to Strengthen Party Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Zamfara State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken significant steps to strengthen its cohesion and capability ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party’s Jajiya Political Movement held strategic stakeholders meetings across all 14 Local Government Areas of the state, aimed at ensuring unity and success of the party.

The meetings, conducted simultaneously across the state, were part of activities planned by the leader of the APC Jajiya Political Movement, Hon Dr Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, to explore ways of renewing commitments for the overall interest of the party and its victory.

Speaking while receiving the committee’s report, the Chairman of the Committee, Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammed Gurbin-Bore, expressed satisfaction with the way and manner the committees at local government level conducted their activities.
He said the strategic stakeholders meeting was aimed at strengthening the capacity of the movement across the state and renewing their support to their leader and Zamfara Guber hopeful, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, and the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
According to him, the movement under its political leader vowed to participate in all schedules of activities outlined by the National Headquarters of the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammed Gurbin-Bore added that they concluded all necessary arrangements to partake in the forthcoming Party congresses, and the ongoing party membership E-registration so as to ensure that all eligible members of the party were registered in the exercise.
The chairman of the committee also reaffirmed the movement’s support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid comes 2027 general elections. He said as you know in their last meeting in Kaduna, they unanimously endorsed Rt Hon Dr Aminu Sani Jaji PhD for Governor of Zamfara state and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027 elections.
The event was attended by the chairmen of the committee at various local Government Areas, critical stakeholders of the APC Jajiya Political movement and a cross section of the party supporters who expressed their enthusiasm for Aminu Jaji’s Governorship ambition in 2027.
The APC Jajiya Political Movement has taken a strong stance in support of their leader, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ahead of the 2027 general elections. The movement’s efforts are aimed at strengthening the party’s cohesion and capability, and ensuring victory for the APC in Zamfara State and the country at large.
The party’s National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has been commended for his prompt response and intervention in addressing the issue of denial to participate and be registered in the ongoing party e-membership registration in the state.
The APC Jajiya Political Movement is committed to ensuring that all eligible members of the party are registered in the exercise, and that the party is well-positioned for victory in the 2027 general elections.
The movement’s efforts are a clear indication of its commitment to the APC and its desire to see the party succeed in Zamfara State and the country at large.
The APC Jajiya Political Movement’s efforts are expected to boost the party’s chances of winning the 2027 general elections, and to ensure that Zamfara State is governed by a capable and visionary leader.
The movement’s support for Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a clear indication of its commitment to the APC and its desire to see the party succeed in Zamfara State and the country at large.
Zulum Approves Upward Review of Allowances for CJTF, Vigilantes, Volunteers
… Earmarks N232.4 million for Monthly Allowance
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved an upward review of the monthly allowances to volunteers under the Borno Youth Empowerment Scheme, popularly known as the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Vigilantes Hunters and Neighbourhood Watch.
This decision underscores the commitment of Borno State Government to supporting those that risk their lives daily to safeguard communities and restore lasting peace in the state.
In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, said Governor Zulum approved the upward review of the monthly allowance for each volunteer from ₦30,000.00 to ₦50,000.00, while leaders of the volunteer groups will now receive ₦150,000.00 each.
Already, the reviewed allowance has started hitting their accounts resulting in a revised monthly expenditure to ₦232.4 million.
The groups have been critical pillars in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency, complementing the efforts of the Nigerian military and other security agencies in maintaining peace and stability across Borno State.
Upon assumption of office in 2019, Governor Babagana Zulum graciously approved the upward review of volunteers’ monthly allowances from ₦15,000.00 to ₦20,000.00, and later further increased the allowance to ₦30,000.00. Since then, Borno State Government has consistently ensured the payment of ₦30,000.00 monthly to each volunteer.
While this support has significantly assisted the volunteers, prevailing economic realities, rising costs of living, and the increasing operational risks associated with their duties have made a further review necessary.
“The Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Vigilantes, Hunters, and Neighbourhood Watch have consistently demonstrated gallantry, resilience, and unwavering commitment in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents,” Zulum stated.
“In recognition of these sacrifices and in appreciation of their steadfast dedication to peace and security, His Excellency has approved an upward review of the monthly allowance for each volunteer from ₦30,000.00 to ₦50,000.00, while leaders of the volunteer groups will now receive ₦150,000.00 each,” he added.
This increase will take effect from January 2026, with a total of 45 leaders benefiting from the leadership allowance.
The enhanced allowance is expected to further boost their morale, strengthen operational effectiveness, and reinforce the resolve of the volunteers to continue supporting ongoing security operations.
Their invaluable contributions include the arrest of key insurgent commanders and the provision of actionable intelligence to security forces that has led to the prevention of attacks and the protection of lives and property across communities in the state.
Governor Zulum commended the volunteers for their patriotism, courage, and selfless service, and call on them to re-dedicate themselves to duty, uphold discipline, and sustain their collaboration with security agencies in the collective quest to entrench peace, stability, and development across the state.
Clerics Urge Marketers to Show Mercy, Reduce Food Prices
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
A Nigerian pastor has mobilised over 1,000 Christian and Muslim volunteers to visit markets across Northern Nigeria and appeal to traders not to hike the prices of commodities ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

Pastor Dr Yohanna Buru, General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, led a team of Christian pastors and reverends to Barnawa Market in Kaduna South where they met with the market chairman and union leaders.

“We came to beg you to please cut down the prices of foodstuffs as the holy month of Ramadan is about to set in,” Pastor Buru said. “This will enable Muslims to participate fully in the fasting.”
The team is embarking on a massive campaign across Northern Nigeria to appeal to marketers to reduce prices of goods and services during Ramadan. Pastor Buru said the campaign would assist in encouraging some marketers to reduce prices, enabling fasting Muslims to buy food at affordable rates.
“We want Muslims to buy foodstuffs and fruits at affordable prices throughout the 30 days while breaking their fast,” he said. “God will be angry with any trader who doubles the price of goods to take advantage of the holy season.”
Pastor Buru explained that the team of Christian clerics deemed it necessary to interact with marketers on the need to reduce prices of goods and services so that Muslims can afford foodstuffs during the holy month.
In less than three weeks, Muslims around the world would begin the 30 days of fasting and prayers, hence the need to appeal to marketers not to take advantage of the holy month by creating artificial scarcity or hoarding food items.
According to him, the campaign would assist in encouraging some marketers to reduce the prices of commodities, enabling fasting Muslims to buy food at affordable rates.
He added that every year ahead of Ramadan, he usually embarks on similar campaigns by visiting markets in Kaduna and other parts of Northern Nigeria to appeal to traders to reduce prices of foodstuffs and other commodities.
“This year’s 2026 campaign started at Barnawa Market and will spread to markets across the North with the aim of appealing to marketers to cut down prices to enable Muslims participate fully in the 30 days of Ramadan,” he said.
Pastor Buru disclosed that over 1,000 Muslim and Christian scholars have been mobilised across the 19 Northern states to embark on continuous advocacy and appeal to market unions to reduce prices for the sake of the holy month.
He said the team would continue to visit markets across the North so that Muslims can afford foodstuffs as the Ramadan fasting begins, stressing that the advocacy has become necessary due to rising food prices.
He noted that every year before Ramadan, Muslim and Christian clerics usually meet with marketers to discuss the importance of the holy month and caution them against price hikes or artificial scarcity.
Pastor Buru said this marks his 15th market outreach ahead of Ramadan in Kaduna and other Northern Nigerian markets, stressing the need for affordable food access for Muslims.
The clerics are expected to visit Sheikh Gumi Central Market, Railway Market, and Barnawa Market, among others in Kaduna.
Speaking separately, Reverend Titus Ishaya Joshua said the team appealed to Kaduna marketers to show mercy by reducing food prices, noting that such acts would attract blessings.
Similarly, Reverend Immanuel John said the visit was in solidarity with Muslims preparing for Ramadan, urging traders not to exploit the holy month through price increases.
Responding, the Chairman of Barnawa Market, Mallam Abdullahi Suleman, expressed happiness over the visit and assured that market leaders would engage traders to do the needful.
“There are great rewards from God for any marketer who reduces the prices of foodstuffs during the holy month of Ramadan,” He said they are going to talk to marketers to do the needful.
Also speaking, the Youth Leader of the market, Mallam Gambo Abdullahi, said he was impressed by the visit and called on Muslims and Christians to continue praying for peace and unity in the country.
National Grid Collapse Again, Plunging Generation to a Mere 24 Megawatts
By Sunday Apah
The nation’s electricity infrastructure has suffered another catastrophic failure, with the national grid collapsing entirely and triggering extensive blackouts across multiple regions.
This breakdown has severely disrupted power supply for millions of residential and commercial consumers.
Investigative findings confirm that power generation plummeted dramatically from upwards of 4,500 megawatts to a critically low threshold of just 24 megawatts as of 1:30 p.m. Every one of the 23 generation facilities linked to the grid ceased production during the event, leading to a complete suspension of power allocation to all 11 distribution companies.
Authorities have not yet identified the precise cause of the failure, and representatives from the Transmission Company of Nigeria had not released a comprehensive statement by the time this report was finalized.
This incident marks the first recorded grid collapse of 2026, occurring only weeks after a previous failure on December 29, 2025, which similarly resulted in nationwide electricity disruptions.
Industry analysts note that recent grid collapses have frequently stemmed from a confluence of technical malfunctions, insufficient maintenance of transmission infrastructure, and volatile generation outputs. Energy sector stakeholders have repeatedly urged governmental and operational bodies to enforce stronger preventive protocols to avert such systemic recurrences.
As the public anticipates an official response, this latest grid failure has intensified scrutiny over the reliability of Nigeria’s power network and its capacity to meet escalating demands for stable electricity.
Court Convicts AAC Consulting Firm for N30.5m Theft
By Admin
Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday, January 23, 2026, convicted a company, AAC Consulting Limited, for stealing the sum of ₦30,564,635.81 ( Thirty Million Five Hundred and Sixty Four Thousand Six Hundred and Thirty-five Naira Eighty-one Kobo) belonging to contract staff of Chevron Nigeria Limited.
The company was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on January 12, 2026 on an amended one-count charge bordering on stealing, contrary to Section 285(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Vol. 44, Laws of Lagos State, 2011.
The trial had commenced on June 5, 2023, when AAC Consulting Limited and its Managing Director, Anthony Adeoye, were arraigned before the court on a 50-count charge bordering on stealing and issuance of dud cheques.
The defendants had initially pleaded “not guilty” prompting the commencement of full trial.
During the trial, prosecuting counsel, I. O. Daramola called two witnesses who testified for the prosecution and tendered several documents, which were admitted in evidence and marked as exhibits by the court.
However, following the repayment of the full sum to the petitioner in December 2023, the defendants changed their plea from “not guilty ” to “guilty.”
Consequently, the EFCC amended the charge, and the company pleaded “guilty” to the one-count charge of stealing.
The charge reads:
“That AAC Consulting Limited, on or about 27th April 2013, at Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, dishonestly converted to its own use the aggregate sum of ₦30,564,635.81 (Thirty Million, Five Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand, Six Hundred and Thirty-Five Naira, Eighty-One Kobo), property of contract staff of Chevron Nigeria Limited.”
During the proceedings on Friday, January 23, 2026, Justice Oshodi found the company guilty and convicted it accordingly.
The court also ordered the company to pay a fine of ₦5 million within 14 days, failing which it will be wound up.
Delta APC Stakeholders Meet In Asaba, Harp On Unity, E-Registration, Congresses
By Admin
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State on Friday converged at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, for a high-level meeting that underscored unity, E-Registration, grassroots mobilisation and preparedness ahead of forthcoming party congresses.
Addressing leaders and members, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori stressed that leadership derives its legitimacy from the people and must be guided by humility, empathy and service.
He urged stakeholders to place collective interest above personal considerations, resist division and avoid unnecessary conflicts, noting that unity remains the party’s greatest strength.
The governor said meetings of the nature provide opportunities to review progress, strengthen structures and prepare for critical political milestones, adding that mobilisation, registration and participation would ultimately determine electoral outcomes.
While stressing the need for them to deliver massive votes for President Bola Tinubu and all other elective positions in the 2027 elections, he said the number of votes they are able to deliver will determine their strength and what they are able to attract at the federal level.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, urged members to maintain focus as the party approaches congresses, praising the progress recorded in the e-registration exercise and the party’s growing diversity.
He cautioned against rumours and delays, called for early engagement and consensus-building at the local level, and advised dialogue to reduce tension.
Immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, thanked Governor Oborevwori for convening the meeting and described his visit to Government House after many years as a gesture of inclusiveness.
He pledged to work in unity with Governor Oborevwori and other stakeholders to strengthen the APC. Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, commended stakeholders for their unity and sustained engagement, urging intensified grassroots mobilisation to deepen e-registration by taking the exercise to homes and communities.
He emphasised inclusiveness, and consensus in the conduct of congresses, praising Governor Oborevwori’s role in fostering harmony and urging leaders to return to their constituencies with renewed commitment.
National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Felix Morka, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s leadership and the digitalisation of the party’s membership register, recommending a consensus approach for the forthcoming congresses.
In his welcome remarks, State APC Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, said the party had recorded over 90 per cent realignment since April 2025, describing the gathering as evidence of growing unity and momentum.
On e-registration and congress preparations, Delta North APC Chairman, Ogbueshi Adizue Eluaka, noted peace in the district but highlighted challenges with registration. Delta Central Chairman, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, reported progress with Okpe Local Government leading statewide and appealed for restraint pending guidelines, while Delta South Chairman, Prince Austin Oribioye, urged the resolution of technical glitches to meet targets.
The State E-Registration Coordinator, Prince Fred Mordi, said Delta State was selected to host the South-South training, reporting rising registration figures despite minor challenges and expressed confidence in meeting targets before the deadline.
A minute of silence was observed in honour of late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi who represented Delta North Senatorial District at the Senate
Police Arrest 10 Suspected Armed Robbers, Recover Pistols, Ammunitions, Car in Delta
By Sunday Apah
The police have arrested ten suspected armed robbers and kidnappers at various locations in Delta State and also recovered live ammunition, pistols and a GLK Mercedes Benz car in Delta State.
In a statement by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe on Thursday 22nd January, 2026, stated that it was on 20 January 2026, at about 0430 hours, that operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrime Squad (SAKCCS), acting on credible intelligence, carried out a coordinated follow-up operation in connection with reported cases of kidnapping and armed robbery across Obinoba, Obiaruku, Abraka, Ororokpe and surrounding communities.
According to the statement, “the intelligence-led operation, which was executed along the Jedo/Ugboton–Warri axis, saw the operatives discreetly trail a suspect to a notorious criminal hideout allegedly operated by one Oke Jerry Ekokodjie (male) and one Ibori (surname unknown).
“Upon storming the location, the principal suspects, Oke Jerry Ekokodjie and Ibori, along with three (3) others, were successfully arrested, while some members of the gang fled through adjoining creeks and waterways.
“A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of dangerous and incriminating exhibits, one (1) locally fabricated Beretta-style pistol with three (3) rounds of 9mm live ammunition, one (1) Mercedes-Benz GLK (black in colour), one (1) battle axe, illicit substances in commercial quantity, and one (1) Point-of-Sale (POS) machine.
“The arrested suspects have been cautioned and are currently in police custody undergoing further investigation, while sustained efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing members of the criminal syndicate.
Also, on 22 January 2026, at about 0256 hours, a team of police operatives from Obiaruku Division carried out a targeted raid on a suspected cultists’ hideout at Amai Community, Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
During the operation, five (5) suspects were arrested. They include: Frank Etiyemonu (male, 36 years), Chinedu Emeka (male, 25 years), Festus Nwadiche (male, 26 years), Azuju Onowu (male, 29 years), and Ozor Blessing (male, 29 years).
A search conducted at the hideout led to the recovery of incriminating items, including one (1) locally made pistol, two (2) battle axes, quantities of Indian hemp and other suspected hard drugs, as well as other dangerous weapons. The suspects are currently in police custody, while investigations are ongoing.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, commended the operatives for their professionalism and effective use of actionable intelligence.
He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering resolve to rid Delta State of criminal elements through sustained proactive and intelligence-led policing.
The CP urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely and credible information, assuring strict confidentiality.
Governor Oborevwori Extols Festus Keyamo on 56th Milestone
By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended formal felicitations to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, in commemoration of his 56th birth anniversary, observed on January 21.
The Governor’s commendation was disseminated through an official communiqué released in Asaba on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon.
Governor Oborevwori acclaimed Chief Keyamo as an eminent Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a seasoned public administrator, and a devoted nationalist whose legal acumen and civic duty have persistently advanced Nigeria’s developmental trajectory.
He extolled the Aviation Minister for his consequential role in revitalizing and redefining Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace industry, emphasizing Keyamo’s dedication to reinforcing safety protocols, optimizing operational efficacy, and cultivating investor assurance.
The Governor further hailed Keyamo for his steadfast resolve, principled fortitude, and professional rigor in governmental office, observing that his stewardship has infused renewed strategic emphasis and prominence into the aviation domain during a pivotal era in the nation’s progress.
Governor Oborevwori additionally recognized the Minister’s resolute allegiance to the advancement, cohesion, and fortification of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and nationally, characterizing him as a reliable political figure and consensus architect whose endeavors have substantially reinforced the party’s foundations.
According to the Governor, Chief Keyamo’s political discernment and adherence to democratic principles continue to garner him widespread esteem both within and beyond partisan circles.
“On behalf of my family, the state administration, and the citizenry of Delta State, I congratulate my esteemed brother and associate, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, on the celebration of his 56th anniversary.
“He remains a distinguished indigene of Delta State who has elevated our stature through his exceptional contributions to national service,” Oborevwori affirmed.
The Governor invoked divine continued guidance, sustained vitality, and profound wisdom for the Aviation Minister, voicing assurance that Keyamo will persist in delivering transformative leadership to Nigeria in the forthcoming years.





















