The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Delta North Senatorial District has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for re-election in the upcoming 2027 elections.
This decision was made during a meeting held on Sunday in Boji Boji Owa, Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, which was chaired by the state’s Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA. The attendees agreed on the endorsement, citing the positive contributions of both leaders as key factors for their re-election.
Hon. Victor Nwokolo, the representative for Ika Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, initiated the motion for the endorsement of both the President and the Governor. The motion received a second from Hon. Emeka Nwobi, the Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, and was unanimously accepted by all present.
During the meeting, Delta North Senatorial Chairman of the APC, Ogbueshi Adizue Eluaka, highlighted the pivotal role of Sir Monday Onyeme as the leader of the party in the district.
Sir Onyeme expressed his gratitude for the strong turnout, stating, “I am genuinely inspired by the enthusiasm and unity demonstrated here today, which shows we are prepared to elevate the APC in Delta North. Your presence signifies our collective purpose and determination.”
He continued, “For us to achieve significant success in 2027, we must unite from the ward level up to the local government areas; our unity is our greatest asset, and we must safeguard it at all costs. Loyalty to the party and respect for our leadership are essential; if we want the APC to flourish, all members of the government—both elected and appointed—must set a strong example and wholeheartedly support the party’s framework.”
Former Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasized the importance of the party’s focus on securing victories for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the 2027 elections.
Engr. Omeni Sobotie, the state chairman of the party, characterized the meeting as an assembly of “key players who can win elections in Delta North,” urging members to remain united in order to bolster the APC’s strength in the district.
Among those contributing to the discussions were Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Hon. Pascal Adigwe, Hon. Doris Uboh, Chief Nkem Okwuofu, Elder Moses Iduh, and Sir Chamberlain Dunkwu, all of whom reiterated their commitment to securing victories in future elections.
Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents the Delta Central Senatorial District, has asserted that the establishment of Ethiope State offers a crucial chance to address historical disparities, empower the Urhobo Nation, one of Nigeria’s key ethnic groups, and create new avenues for economic and social progress, improve governance, and safeguard cultural heritage.
During a public hearing held by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review at the Chief D.S. Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Saturday, Senator Dafinone, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committees on Local Content and Legislative Compliance, stressed that the proposed state aims to rectify the long-standing inequities faced by the Urhobo community—Nigeria’s fifth-largest ethnic group and predominant residents of Delta State.
The senator pointed out that the Urhobo people have historically experienced systemic exclusion in Nigeria’s current state configuration, despite their significant population and economic contributions. He stated that establishing Ethiope State would “correct this imbalance, ensure more equitable resource distribution, and accelerate infrastructural advancements.”
According to submissions from the Urhobo people, the proposed Ethiope State would include two Urhobo kingdoms in the Warri South Local Government Area, the Urhobo population in Patani Local Government Area, and all eight local government areas predominantly inhabited by the Urhobo. Dafinone argued that this geographic consolidation would embody the “demographic and administrative foundation for statehood” overlooked by the existing framework.
In addition to addressing historical grievances, Senator Dafinone underscored the substantial economic opportunities that Ethiope State could offer, noting that the Urhobo occupy some of Nigeria’s most productive oil fields. However, he lamented that their communities remain economically underdeveloped and excluded from decisions regarding resource management.
“While Urhoboland is a significant oil-producing area, residents have minimal influence over how these resources are governed or reinvested,” he stated. “The creation of Ethiope State would empower local control over resources, stimulate economic development, and promote responsible resource management under the guidelines of the Petroleum Industry Act.”
He elaborated on the solid economic potential of the proposed state, citing “considerable oil and gas reserves,” “extensive fertile land suitable for large-scale agriculture,” and “access to coastal regions and seaports such as Sapele and Warri, which provide vast opportunities in fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime trade.” Dafinone also mentioned the presence of “valuable mineral resources” and “extensive forest reserves with substantial timber yields.”
He remarked, “According to the 1999 Constitution, proposals for new states must fulfill specific criteria, including popular support, defined territorial boundaries, economic feasibility, and legislative endorsement. Ethiope State meets these requirements, making it one of the most viable and legally sound proposals for state creation in Nigeria today.”
“Establishing Ethiope State would create a more coherent administrative structure, grounded in shared cultural values and identity. This would lead to more effective service delivery, greater citizen involvement, and policies tailored to local needs.
“With statehood, the Urhobo people would gain the autonomy to define their developmental priorities, implement localized policies, and assume responsibility for governance. This self-determination would enhance civic engagement and accountability.
“Ethiope State would be in a better position to pursue targeted development strategies to meet the needs of its residents, covering areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and industrialization.
“Recognizing statehood would validate the contributions of the Urhobo people to the Nigerian Federation, elevate our political status, deepen our sense of belonging, and bolster national unity and stability.”
Dafinone also highlighted the existing infrastructure as a strong institutional base, mentioning “Delta State University, Abraka; the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun; the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun; Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara; Federal Polytechnic, Orogun; and Delta State College of Physical Education, Mosogar,” along with key industrial assets such as “Delta Steel Company in Aladja and Warri Refining & Petrochemicals Company Limited.”
Senator Dafinone reiterated that the formation of Ethiope State is not only feasible but also “essential” to rectify historical injustices, promote equity, and secure the rightful place of the Urhobo people within Nigeria’s federal structure. He framed the proposal as “a plea for fairness, efficiency, and inclusivity—core principles essential for a functional federation.”
The Delta State Police Command has arrested 27-year-old Kelvin Obakpororo for the murder of his lover, a mother of two identified only as Excellence.
Police Public Relations Officer for the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, made this announcement on Sunday in Asaba, the state capital.
He stated, “You may recall that between June 26 and 27, 2025, social media was flooded with reports about the mysterious murder of a girl named Excellence in Sapele, who was killed by her boyfriend, the father of her two children.
“The suspect initially evaded capture but has since been arrested and is now in police custody.”
Edafe reassured the public, saying, “For those demanding justice for Excellence, we want to inform you that the suspected killer is in custody, and we will ensure he is arraigned in court shortly.”
In a confession, Kelvin Obakpororo explained that he had been under the influence of drugs when he committed the act.
“She was doing a hook-up. Whenever she came to my house, she would take some clothes and change to meet another man. On that fateful day, we had an argument; she grabbed a knife, and I picked up a hammer,” he recounted.
After overpowering her, he said, “I struck her on the forehead three times with the hammer before she fell and died.”
“I didn’t know she would die, and it wasn’t my clear eyes. I took 200mg of tramadol. It’s a mistake. I’m so sorry. She had two sons: three and two-year-old sons, for me,” he narrated.
The suspect said he was into pressing (Internet fraud), and regretted killing the mother of his children.
A prominent ex-agitator, High Chief Andabofa Opunama, has called on the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro, not to yield to the demands of some selfish beneficiaries who are urging that the increased budgetary allocation for the programme be used for stipend increments.
He stated that the increased Amnesty budget should instead be used for the empowerment of those who were at the forefront of the struggle but were not enlisted, as well as for supporting the widows of those who died during the struggle and for building infrastructure for impacted communities in the Niger Delta, among other priorities.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Chief Opunama explained that those agitating for salary increases are primarily those who hold many slots—ranging from 50, 100, 200, to 300 slots and so on.
According to him, “These greedy beneficiaries know that when the stipend is increased, they will benefit more at the detriment of the larger population of the Niger Delta region.”
“The Presidential Amnesty Programme was created by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to mitigate militancy and violence, address environmental degradation, promote youth empowerment and rehabilitation, and foster peace and stability.
“And indeed, the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has been focused on reintegration and infrastructural development to promote peace and stability in the Niger Delta region,” he added.
Chief Opunama reiterated that the increased budgetary allocation for the Presidential Amnesty Programme should continue to concentrate on its reintegration efforts by identifying the widows of fallen agitators, less privileged individuals, jobless Niger Deltans, and those who were enlisted in the programme under various circumstances. He emphasized the need to engage them in vocational training, education, and economic empowerment opportunities to facilitate their smooth transition back into society.
He pointed out that the PAP can utilize the increased budgetary allocation to rebuild and improve critical infrastructure in the Niger Delta, such as roads, thereby enhancing connectivity and access to remote areas.
Furthermore, the funds can be used to improve healthcare services and outcomes for local communities, construct water projects to ensure access to clean water and sanitation, and encourage active participation from impacted communities in decision-making processes. There should also be a focus on providing vocational training, micro-credit schemes, and entrepreneurial opportunities for men, widows, and the elderly.
“Social support should include targeted assistance for vulnerable groups, such as widows and the elderly, to address their unique needs,” he added.
“By adopting this community-centric approach, ex-agitators can become agents of positive change, helping to rebuild and strengthen the Niger Delta region.
“This shift in focus will ultimately benefit the entire community, promoting lasting peace and prosperity,” concluded Chief Opunama.
A political leader in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Prince Elvis Oharisi, Sunday, said the people of the Local Government Area had vehemently rejected former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, hence the people shunned the One Million-Man March organized by the former Deputy President of the Senate.
The march, which held on Saturday, was meant to show support for Omo-Agege’s political aspirations, has sparked significant controversy among the youth.
Oharisi, in a strongly worded statement, said the All Progressives Congress, APC stakeholders in the area, especially the youths, by their actions, have expressed their dissatisfaction with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, describing him as a desperate and selfish politician, whose aspiration would not augur well for the people.
They insisted that the One Million-Man March lacked genuine purpose and was primarily a platform for promoting Omo-Agege’s personal agenda.
“This event is not about us or the issues that matter to us. It’s simply a means for Omo-Agege to boost his own dwindling political image.
“While we appreciate the importance of political engagement, our leaders must prioritize our welfare over personal ambition.
“Many young people voiced that they are tired of events that do not add value to the polity. We want to see real commitment to our needs, not just grand events that offer little or no substance,” the statement read.
According to him, “the rejection of Omo-Agege’s event serves as a reminder that the people of Ughelli North, particularly, the youth, are a significant force that cannot be overlooked.”
While describing that the one Million-Man March was a show of shame, he said that the fewer than 80 youths who participated, were hired from outside the local government area. He maintained the exercise was a total failure.
Oharisi said that the refusal to participate in the One Million-Man March highlights a broader trend among the youth in Ughelli, who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional political manoeuvres of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.
The elders and leaders of the five federal wards in Ughievwen Kingdom have adopted Rt. Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen as their political leader, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their sole APC candidates for the Presidential and Governorship elections, respectively, in 2027.
These adoptions were made known during a meeting of the elders and leaders of Ughievwen Kingdom held at Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen’s residence in Iwhrekan town, Ughelli South LGA of Delta State, on Saturday.
Barr. Abraham Erhuen, who moved the motion for the adoption of Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen as the political leader of the Ughievwen people, was seconded by Olorogun Sunday Apah before it was accepted by all present.
The Ughievwen leaders had earler articulated several reasons for their unanimous support for Oghenechovwen.
They highlighted Hon. Dr. Oghenechovwen’s dedication to public service and his track record in effectively addressing the needs of his followers.
The leaders expressed confidence that he would continue to prioritize the well-being of the Ughievwen people.
The motion for the adoption of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as sole candidates of the Ughievwen people for the Presidential and Governorship elections in 2027 was moved by Olorogun Bernard Mimeyerayen Jamaho and seconded by Chief Mrs. Victoria Djowha.
Moreover, the leaders believe that the endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori signifies a strategic approach toward ensuring that Ughievwen Kingdom receives its fair share of development agendas.
They noted that both leaders have demonstrated commitment to political inclusivity and have worked tirelessly to uplift their constituents, making them the ideal candidates for the upcoming elections.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen thanked the people of Ughievwen for his adoption as their political leader. He noted that he would discharge his duties in collaboration with the elders for the benefit of every indigene and voter in Ughievwen Kingdom.
In their related speeches, Olorogun Johnson Boro, Olorogun Godini G. Darah, Chief Dr. Akpokiboro Patrick Fovie, and Chief Andrew Desi urged the Ughievwen people to be united and committed to the development of Ughievwen Kingdom and its people.
They recounted their struggles for the emancipation of the Ughievwen people in the 80s and 90s, emphasizing that some of the strides enjoyed by the current generation are a direct result of their efforts.
The moderator of the meeting, Dcn. Matthew Kwode and Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple), who spoke earlier in the same vein, stated that the purpose of the meeting was to constitute a formidable team that would work for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The duo emphasized the need to rally around Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen for better coordination of the Ughievwen polity.
Also, Hon. Comrade Reuben Izeze, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), commended the Ughievwen people for the unity exemplified during the meeting.
He urged them to consistently support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, noting that their leadership aligns with the needs and aspirations of the Ughievwen people.
Others who attended the meeting included Hon. Festus Utuama, member, DTHA, Chief Adelabu Bodjor, Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, Sir. Isaiah Kekeje, Chief Ojays Ojigho, Olorogun Godwin Okporoko, Mr. Sunday Kotor, Chief Felix Kupa, Mr. Oteri Homes (Ghana Bar), Olorogun Gordons Okomitie, and Chief Ben Emoefe (aka Benjones), Chief Ubu Jiminyevwen, Hon. Michael Oshetigho, Hon. Paul Abada, Peter Abada, Rt. Hon. Mary-Andrew Majemite, Comrade Ezekiel Oghenetega Okoh, Chief Hope Ejiro, Mr. Isaiah Awherhurho, Hon, Happy Gbeke, Mr. Sadiq Hitler, Chief Matthew Ofioguma, Chief Daniel Ekorhi, Chief Godwin Sito, Hon Ferere Umudi, Hon. Ejaeta Sunday, Mr. Godwin Ewhien, Hon Jacob Tone, Hon Sunday Mrakpor, Hon Kenneth Fovie, Mr Thomas Edafevwiroro, Mr. Sunday Amuoso, Solomon Toka, Mr Rufus Onokurhefe, Mr. Frank Ugen, Chief Fidelis Tuvatah, Prince Solomon Ugen, Chief Okiemute Oviri, Chief Mrs. Regina Ofigho, Mr Matthew Tisha, Miss Vera Kpemu, Barr Emmanuel Pippa, Hon Charles Kwode, Mr. D. J Foghi, Chief David Uhahwa, Rev. Fr. Chris Ekabor, Rev Isaac Chichan, Prince Koyoyo Urhorho, Mr. Ben Igho, Engr Stephen Dorume, Hon, Happy Mukoro, Mrs Noreen Ughojor, Engr. Isaac Agboro, Engr. Godwin Sigbenu, Amos Dase and many others.
On July 15, 2024, Hon. Dr. Lucky Irorefe Avweromre PhD, JP was inaugurated as the Executive Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
As he marked his first anniversary in office, it is undeniable that his administration has ushered in a refreshing wave of change that has not only redefined governance at the grassroots level but has also set a robust precedent for effective leadership in Delta State.
Dr. Avweromre’s vision for Ughelli South is encapsulated in a well-structured development blueprint defined by four cardinal pillars: PEACE, UNITY, INNOVATIONS, and DEVELOPMENT.
This checklist has served as the foundation upon which his administration has built its mission, with each project representing a step toward achieving overarching goals that cater to the well-being of the community.
At the core of Dr. Avweromre’s governance model lies a commitment to fostering PEACE.
His administration understands that social harmony is an integral prelude to progress. Consequently, various initiatives have been devised to promote inclusivity and bridge societal gaps.
Regular town hall meetings and community dialogues have become platforms where citizens air grievances and contribute to decision-making.
UNITY forms the next pillar of this blueprint. To Dr. Avweromre, unity is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible good that must be actively cultivated.
The administration has summoned various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups, to foster a collective spirit that transcends ethnic and political divisions.
This inclusive approach has resulted in increased community participation in governance, leading to support for various government initiatives.
INNOVATIONS form a cornerstone of Dr. Avweromre’s projects, bringing a fresh approach to traditional governance.
The administration harnesses technology to streamline services and improve efficiency in various sectors, including health and education.
Digital systems have been introduced to monitor project implementations and engage citizens more interactively.
DEVELOPMENT, the final pillar in Dr. Avweromre’s agenda, seeks to address fundamental infrastructure deficits in Ughelli South.
From health facilities to educational institutions and road networks, the advancements witnessed within the past year speak volumes about this commitment to sustainable progress.
In just twelve months, the impact of Dr. Avweromre’s administration is evident through a series of completed projects that have demonstrably improved the lives of Ughelli South’s residents.
Among the most significant projects completed within this timeline are: The rehabilitation of Okwagbe Health Center entailed significant upgrades that have resulted in more efficient delivery of health services to the community. The construction of a Security House at the same health center provides an enhanced sense of safety for patients and staff alike.
Solar Energy installations have not only powered operations but also reduced dependence on erratic national grid electricity, allowing for sustainable health service delivery. A new solar water system was installed at Baba-Ido Primary School, ensuring that students and staff have access to clean water—a vital resource for health and learning.
In a bold initiative to improve the learning environment, the renovation of Gbaregolor Primary School’s classrooms was executed, showcasing a commitment to quality education. In addition, providing pupils and teachers with modern desks and seats makes for a more conducive learning atmosphere.
The administration awarded scholarships to 21 students at the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, helping to foster higher education goals among youth.
The construction and sand filling of access roads, notably the 4.3km Ewu–Oviri-Olomu Road, have remarkably improved transportation and trade.
A wooden bridge connecting Omosuomo Inland and the Waterside illustrates the administration’s commitment to rural accessibility.
The onstruction of car parks at the Ughelli South Legislative Complex demonstrates the administration’s foresight in its infrastructural planning.
An important initiative aimed at enhancing local economies involved distributing cassava grinding machines to several communities, positioning them for self-sustenance and growth.
The procurement of vehicles for local government staff not only enhances transport efficiency but also signals an investment in human resources.
Security remains a pressing concern for many; therefore, the construction of security facilities at strategic points has become a focal point of the administration. This responsive measure reassures citizens and bolsters community engagement in security matters.
The achievements thus far are commendable, but Dr. Avweromre’s administration does not rest on its laurels.
A number of substantial projects are ongoing and re-emphasize his administration’s vision for sustained progress. Notable projects include: Old Administrative Block Renovation: This project is aimed at revamping the local government’s backbone, ensuring that administrative activities run smoothly and efficiently.
The ongoing construction of a resettlement center in Okuama Community, including a solar-powered borehole and facilities like toilets and kitchens, directly addresses community needs for social infrastructure.
With focus distributed across the 20 wards in the local government area, constituency projects are not just about infrastructure but are aimed at ensuring that all communities—regardless of size or influence—are accounted for in local governance.
As Ughelli South celebrates the first anniversary of Dr. Avweromre’s administration, the future glows with promise.
His unwavering commitment to service delivery, accountability, and inclusive governance serves as an inspiration.
The administration’s projects reflect a meticulous approach to problem-solving, demonstrating that leadership is more than just holding an office; it is about engaging with the community and fostering genuine change.
As the local government embarks on yet another year, the call to residents, stakeholders, and partners is clear: unity in purpose is paramount.
There is a profound need to rally together and support the ongoing initiatives of Dr. Avweromre to build an enduring legacy of development, peace, and progress in Ughelli South Local Government Area.
Through the lens of his first year in office, the future for Ughelli South is brighter than it has ever been, and with Dr. Avweromre at the helm, the continuous quest for development and innovation persists, promising a transformed, prosperous community ready to face the challenges ahead.
The achievements of the past year testify to the potential that lies in dedicated governance, setting precedents for future leaders to emulate.
The Delta State Government has called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to ramp up efforts to dismantle drug cartels and target dealers and suppliers operating within the state.
During a courtesy visit from the new State Commander of the NDLEA, CDR. Halilu Hamidu, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Director General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, expressed the Governor’s unwavering commitment to establishing a Drug-Free Delta.
Dr. Oghenesivbe highlighted the urgent need for the NDLEA to implement innovative strategies in combating drug abuse and urged Commander Hamidu to adopt a results-oriented approach to eliminate drug cartels and suppliers in Delta State.
“It’s crucial to shift from sporadic surveillance to a consistent emphasis on intelligence gathering and substantial action against drug cartels. Without traffickers and sellers, there will not be victims,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of strategically targeting key areas, particularly within the state capital, to ensure the governor’s goal of achieving a Drug-Free Delta is realized.
“By collaborating with intelligence from arrested suspects and street dealers, you can trace back to suppliers and key figures in drug trafficking, which is vital for ensuring the safety of Deltans and securing the future of our youth,” he added.
Dr. Oghenesivbe lamented the rise in criminal activities, such as rape, armed robbery, kidnapping, ritual killings, and traffic accidents, attributing these issues primarily to the consumption of illegal drugs. He urged the NDLEA to take significant measures to combat this trend.
In alignment with the Peace and Security objectives of Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, Dr. Oghenesivbe noted that the state government has provided over 40 operational vehicles to various security agencies, including the NDLEA.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to offering counseling and rehabilitation support for drug victims through the establishment of rehabilitation centers in Kwale and Agbor, ensuring that individuals struggling with drug abuse receive the help they need before reintegration into society.
Dr. Oghenesivbe assured CDR Hamidu of ongoing collaboration with the NDLEA, particularly with the upcoming second phase of the Drug-Free Delta Sensitization Campaign, and mentioned that the government is considering relocating the NDLEA’s office from Ogwashi-Uku to Asaba for improved operational efficiency.
In his remarks, CDR. Hamidu emphasized that his visit aimed to strengthen the existing partnership between the NDLEA and the state government.
He outlined his vision for the agency, which includes shifting the narrative surrounding drug abuse and trafficking in Delta State through three strategies: arrests and prosecution, public awareness, and harm reduction via rehabilitation programs.
Hamidu requested support and logistical assistance from the state government to help him achieve these objectives. Accompanying him on the visit were the Deputy State Commander, CDR. Victor Isibor, and other NDLEA officials.
A violent assault in Bindi-Jebbu, located within the Tahoss community of Riyom Local Government Area in Plateau State, has resulted in the deaths of at least 27 farmers, including both men and women.
Residents reported that the attack took place on Monday and left numerous individuals wounded, with some victims hurriedly transported to medical facilities such as Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Hospital for treatment.
The chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, Bature Sati Shuwa, confirmed the incident but was unable to provide an exact casualty count at the time of reporting, explaining that he was en route to the affected community.
Security agencies, including Operation Safe Haven and the Plateau State Police Command, have yet to release official statements regarding the incident. Representatives from these agencies, Major Samson Zhakom and DSP Alabo Alfred, did not respond to messages sent by our correspondent as of press time.
Dalyop Solomon, the National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, verified the killings during a statement in Jos on Tuesday.
He indicated that the assailants, believed to be members of the Fulani ethnic group, attacked the community with gunfire and set several homes ablaze.
“Twenty-seven individuals lost their lives, and many others were injured. We have transported the deceased to various hospitals for post-mortem and are preparing for their burial,” Solomon stated.
He also mentioned that all the bodies had been deposited at local morgues, and a date for their funeral would be announced in due course.
This recent attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State, where numerous communities have been targeted by armed groups recently.
The incident has provoked widespread concern and outrage, with calls for enhanced security measures to safeguard the lives and property of residents. The Plateau State Government has yet to issue a formal response.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 elections, has officially stepped down from his position within the opposition party.
His resignation comes as he prepares for the 2027 elections and acknowledges the formation of a new coalition party known as the Alliance Democratic Congress.
The announcement was made through a letter dated Monday, July 14, 2025, which was addressed to the chairman of the PDP Jada 1 ward in Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State.
A copy of the letter was posted on social media by Abdul Rasheeth, the Special Assistant on Media to the former Vice President, on Wednesday.
In the letter, Atiku stated, “I am writing to formally announce my resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.”
He continued, “I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunities provided to me by the party.”
Atiku reflected on his experience, noting, “Serving two full terms as Vice President of Nigeria and running for President on two occasions has marked significant moments in my life.”
As one of the founding members of the party, he shared his feelings of sadness over this decision.
The former vice president indicated that ongoing issues within the PDP have become insurmountable, hindering their chances in the upcoming elections.
“At this time, I find it essential to part ways due to the direction the party has taken, which I believe strays from the core principles we established. It is with great regret that I submit my resignation, recognizing the profound differences that have developed.”
“I wish the party and its leadership all the best in the future. I thank you once more for the support and opportunities,” he added.
Previously, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, had dismissed speculation regarding his departure.
Ibe emphasized that the former Vice President remains dedicated to the party’s ideals.
He labeled the rumors about Atiku’s resignation as unfounded fabrications stemming from politically motivated agendas.
Various online news sources unrelated to The PUNCH reported that Atiku had left the PDP to pursue another party in his quest for the 2027 presidential race.
In response, Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to remaining a loyal member of the PDP.
The statement read, “We would not typically respond to unverified claims on social media, particularly from anonymous sources, but due to heightened concerns from the public and credible members of the media, we feel it necessary to clarify:
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and current Presidential Candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has not—let us reiterate, has not—resigned from the PDP. He continues to be a committed, genuine, and loyal member of the party.”
The aide denounced the rumors as not just false but as a deliberate political smear campaign designed to mislead the public and create discord among those who look to Atiku Abubakar for leadership and guidance.
