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Police Arrest Man Fleeing With ‘Wife’s Corpse’ on Motorcycle in Ogun

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Police Arrest Man Fleeing With ‘Wife’s Corpse’ on Motorcycle in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a man allegedly transporting the corpse of his wife on a motorcycle, following a stop-and-search operation in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area.

Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday that the arrest was made after credible information was received that the suspect, Godonu Lowe, of Omolende Village via Idogo, was attempting to flee the community while carrying a body on his motorcycle.

Acting on the tip-off, officers intercepted Lowe and untied a sack tied to the back of his motorcycle. The contents were discovered to be the corpse of an adult female, later confirmed to be his wife. The body showed marks of violence and bleeding around the neck, suggesting foul play. A blood-stained cutlass was also recovered at the scene.

The suspect has been taken into custody, while the remains of the victim were evacuated to the State Morgue in Ilaro for preservation and autopsy.

The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, commended the anonymous informant and urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support the police in crime detection and prevention.

Atiku Slams Playing of Tinubu’s Anthem at Judges Conference, NJI Denies Claims

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Atiku Slams Playing of Tinubu’s Anthem at Judges Conference, NJI Denies Claims

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the playing of President Bola Tinubu’s political slogan at the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference, describing it as unethical and an assault on national dignity. In a personally signed statement on Wednesday, Atiku said it was inappropriate for members of the executive to introduce partisan music at an event involving another arm of government.

Atiku said a video from the opening session of the conference showed “On Your Mandate,” Tinubu’s political chorus, being played in place of the National Anthem after the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, delivered her speech. He said he initially suspected the footage to be a deepfake but later confirmed it to be authentic. According to him, neither the Presidency nor the Chief Justice’s office offered clarification on the matter.

He described the incident as part of what he called a broader pattern in which the Tinubu administration sought to capture state institutions and suppress opposition voices. Atiku noted the irony of the President addressing judges on integrity and the sanctity of the judicial profession on the same day partisan music was played at the event.

He said replacing the National Anthem with Tinubu’s campaign tune before the judiciary was “reckless, scandalous, disgraceful, and deeply irresponsible,” adding that it signalled an attempt to drag the judiciary into partisan politics. Atiku questioned how judges could maintain independence when partisan displays were allowed at judicial gatherings.

Responding to the allegations, the National Judicial Institute (NJI) dismissed the reports as misleading and inaccurate. Kolade Umoru, NJI’s Head of Information, Media and Public Relations, said only the National Anthem was rendered collectively at the beginning and conclusion of the opening ceremony, and no judge sang or chanted any political song.

Umoru explained that the brief rendition of “On Your Mandate” was played solely by the Guards Brigade Band as part of its ceremonial protocol to usher the President to the podium and was not initiated or endorsed by the judiciary. He said the judiciary had no control over the band’s musical selections, which follow military ceremonial procedures. Judges stood only out of respect for the Office of the President.

NJI reiterated that the judiciary remains non-partisan and committed to constitutional neutrality. It urged the public and the media to verify information before sharing it and warned against circulating claims capable of undermining national institutions.

Fresh Kwara Attack: Bandits Abduct Four Rice Farmers in Bokungi Village

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Fresh Kwara Attack: Bandits Abduct Four Rice Farmers in Bokungi Village

Bandits have abducted four rice farmers in Bokungi village, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, less than 24 hours after the attack on Eruku town. The latest incident occurred on Wednesday between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. while the farmers were working on their fields.

According to local sources, two farmers were first taken while packaging their harvested rice. Shortly after, another two individuals were seized from a nearby farm, bringing the total number of abducted victims to four. Residents said the attackers invaded the area and fired shots into the air before whisking the victims into the bush. No ransom demand had been made as of Thursday.

Residents of Bokungi described the repeated attacks along the Lafiagi–Bokungi axis as alarming, noting that the pattern of violence had heightened fear and disrupted farming activities. They appealed to security agencies to intensify operations to prevent further incidents and called on both federal and state authorities to restore peace to the area.

A senior police officer at the Edu Divisional Police Headquarters in Lafiagi, who confirmed the incident, said efforts were underway to rescue the victims, adding that the state police command had been notified for reinforcement. The officer urged residents to provide credible information that could help security operatives identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Tinubu Places Nigeria on Highest Security Alert After Kebbi, Kwara Abductions

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Tinubu Places Nigeria on Highest Security Alert After Kebbi, Kwara Abductions

Nigeria’s federal government has placed the country’s security agencies on the highest alert following recent attacks and abductions in Kebbi and Kwara states. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the red alert on Wednesday while briefing the media, conveying President Bola Tinubu’s sympathies to affected families and communities.

The development came as Tinubu postponed his scheduled trips to the G20 Summit in Johannesburg and the AU-EU Summit in Luanda to focus on the worsening security situation. The president awaited detailed briefings on the abduction of students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, and the attack on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, Kwara State.

Following the request of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Tinubu ordered the deployment of more security personnel to Eruku and the wider Ekiti Local Government Area. He also directed security agencies to pursue the bandits responsible for the attacks.

Idris said the president had mandated security forces to rescue the abducted Kebbi schoolgirls swiftly and eliminate terrorists, bandits, and criminal networks nationwide. He described the killing of Brigadier-General Musa Uba and the attacks in Kebbi and Kwara as painful reminders of the threats facing the nation, stressing that the government remained resolute in defeating terrorism and restoring safety.

Vice President Kashim Shettima was in Birnin Kebbi on the president’s behalf to meet with state authorities, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and families of the abducted students. Shettima assured the families that Tinubu was deeply troubled by the incidents and determined to ensure the safe return of the schoolgirls. He said the abduction was an assault on the nation’s collective conscience and vowed that every instrument of the state would be deployed to secure their release.

Shettima also paid tribute to Brigadier-General Uba, who was killed by terrorists in Borno State, promising federal support for the families of the fallen officer, the vice principal of the school, and others killed in recent attacks.

Kebbi State Governor Mohammed Idris expressed gratitude to Tinubu for the sustained communication and support since the incidents occurred. He voiced confidence that the students would be rescued soon and assured the federal government of the state’s continued cooperation.

Also present at the Kebbi meeting were top government officials, legislators, security chiefs, and community leaders.

Kebbi Government Rejects Claims of Attack on Christian Enclave

The Kebbi State Government refuted claims by U.S. Representative Riley Moore that the abduction of the 25 schoolgirls occurred in a Christian community. Chief Press Secretary Ahmed Idris clarified that Maga is a predominantly Muslim community and that all abducted students were Muslims. The government described Moore’s remarks as misleading and cautioned against statements capable of inflaming religious tensions.

To further dispel misinformation, the Danko-Wasagu Local Government Chairman, Hussaini Aliyu, released the names and class details of the abducted students, reiterating that they were all Muslims.

Kwankwaso Demands Decisive Action

Former Minister of Defence and NNPP leader, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, condemned the rising insecurity, citing the Kebbi abductions, the killing of Brigadier-General Uba, and mass kidnappings in Zamfara. He said the developments reflected serious setbacks in the fight against insecurity and called for urgent, decisive action through reinvigorated armed forces and strengthened police capability.

Bandits Kill Former Councillor in Sokoto

Bandits attacked Kabunga village in Kware Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Tuesday night, killing at least two people, including former councillor Alhaji Yahaya Bawa Rumus, and abducting several residents. Witnesses said the attackers stormed the community around midnight, moving from house to house. As of Wednesday, there was no official security statement, and no reinforcements arrived during the attack.

Trial of Alleged Ansaru Terrorists Stalled

The trial of alleged Ansaru leaders Mahmud Usman and Abubakar Abba was stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja after their lawyer requested more time to prepare their defence. The DSS opposed the transfer of the defendants to a correctional facility, arguing that proper protocol for access had not been followed. Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter to January 15 and ordered the defence to follow DSS procedures for client access.

Usman and Abba face terrorism charges. While Usman pleaded guilty to one count, Abba maintained his plea of not guilty to all 32 counts.

MAN Pushes Blue Economy Investment As Diri Promises 24-hour Power In Bayelsa For Manufacturers

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MAN Pushes Blue Economy Investment As Diri Promises 24-hour Power In Bayelsa For Manufacturers

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged increased investment in the blue economy to drive industrialisation in the Niger Delta, identifying opportunities in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repairs, and marine technology. The call was made at the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch, which concluded at the weekend in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

In a communique issued at the end of the AGM, MAN and the African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) affirmed their capacity to develop the blue economy sustainably but stressed the need for improved infrastructure, including transportation networks and power supply, to support growth in the region.

The communique, signed by Vincent Okuku, Michael Nosa Agana, and Chibuzor Eze, emphasised that the future of the Niger Delta economy depended on diversification beyond extractive industries. It noted that technology, innovation, value addition, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce were central to advancing manufacturing.

The association urged governments in the region to intensify support for industrial activities and promote collaboration across sectors. It also advised Bayelsa and Rivers states to harness their strategic positions by developing the blue economy and forming cross-border partnerships to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.

This year’s AGM held outside Port Harcourt for the first time was hosted by the Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme, “Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.”

In his welcome address, branch chairman Okuku commended the Bayelsa government under Governor Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development and collaboration with the private sector. He also acknowledged the Rivers State government’s progress in rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving road access, and delivering key infrastructure.

He, however, expressed concerns over persistent challenges confronting manufacturers, including high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxation, inconsistent regulations, and pressures from host communities.

MAN President, Francis Meshioye, said the Niger Delta’s resources and location positioned it for significant industrial expansion. He called for policy measures that promote local production, boost trade, and attract investment to the region.

Goodwill messages were delivered by officials of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and the Bayelsa State Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment.

In his remarks, Governor Diri praised MAN for its contributions to national development, noting that its resilience and innovation aligned with his administration’s “Assured Prosperity” agenda. He announced that manufacturers relocating to Bayelsa would enjoy 24-hour uninterrupted power supply and highlighted the state’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, security, and human capital to position it as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Diri added that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-standing aspiration of the state, following the successful 2024 edition held in Port Harcourt.

Fubara Hails NSITF For Empowering Workers, Disburses N75m Compensation In Rivers

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Fubara Hails NSITF For Empowering Workers, Disburses N75m Compensation In Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) for strengthening social protection for workers through the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS), describing the initiative as a gift to the Nigerian workforce.

Fubara gave the commendation on Wednesday when he received the Managing Director of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, and his delegation at Government House, Port Harcourt. The visit followed the disbursement of N75 million to beneficiaries of the ECS in the state.

The governor said the scheme was projecting the federal government positively, noting that Rivers State would formally key into it.

According to him, “The good work of NSITF, through the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, is projecting the federal government in a very positive light. In fact, it is a gift to Nigerian workers and everyone who has keyed into the scheme.”

Fubara added that subscribing to the scheme would support the state’s efforts to improve workers’ welfare and could also help curb corruption by reducing workers’ fears about their future.

He emphasised the importance of institutions that provide security for employees, particularly those who suffer injuries, disabilities or death in the course of duty, saying the state government would ensure compliance beginning with contractors working on the state secretariat.

Earlier, Faleye thanked the governor for the reception and explained that NSITF was in the state to present compensation cheques and seek the government’s partnership in extending the benefits of the ECS to civil servants.

He said Rivers State’s participation would position it as a leader in the South-South region, noting that the scheme provides long-term social safety nets and enhances productivity across workplaces.

At the presentation ceremony, the NSITF boss issued three cheques totalling N75.84 million to beneficiaries. The dependants of late Ositoyibo Ogaga Joseph received N54.64 million, with Faleye announcing that the family would also get monthly death benefits of N2.02 million until the last child turns 21 in 2042.

Joseph, an employee of Depthwize Nigeria Limited, died on August 15, 2023, when a drilling rig collapsed. Representatives of the company commended NSITF for its support to the deceased’s family.

Another beneficiary, Okochi Aaron, an employee of Daewoo who lost his left leg in a 2022 accident, received N13.19 million covering medical refunds and disability benefits. Faleye noted that Aaron would continue to receive monthly payments until 2033.

A third cheque of N8 million was presented to Kennelyn Ken-Mbata, an NSITF employee who suffered a workplace accident that resulted in a dislocated knee. She expressed gratitude to the organisation for the timely assistance.

Faleye attributed previous delays in processing claims to late submissions and verification requirements but reiterated the agency’s commitment to world-class social protection for workers.

Curacao Makes History as Smallest Country Ever to Qualify for World Cup

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Curacao Makes History as Smallest Country Ever to Qualify for World Cup

Curacao has become the smallest nation in history to reach the FIFA World Cup, securing qualification for the 2026 tournament after a tense 0–0 draw with Jamaica in Kingston. With a population of just 156,000, the Caribbean island finished top of Group B with 12 points from six matches, edging Jamaica by a single point.

The historic feat capped a dramatic finale to the CONCACAF qualifying series. Jamaica launched relentless pressure in the second half, striking the woodwork three times before being awarded a stoppage-time penalty. However, the decision was overturned after a VAR review, allowing Curacao to hold on for the crucial point that sealed their first-ever World Cup berth. Veteran coach Dick Advocaat, who missed the match due to a family emergency, now becomes the architect of one of football’s most unlikely qualification stories.

Curaçao fans celebrate World Cup 2026 qualification after a 0-0 draw with Jamaica at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica on November 18, 2025. The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup on November 18 as Haiti booked their return to the tournament for the first time in 52 years along with Panama. A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao — with a population of just 156,000 — squeeze into next year’s finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. (Photo by Ricardo MAKYN / AFP)

Haiti also secured a World Cup return for the first time since 1974, defeating Nicaragua 2–0 in a match played in Curacao due to unrest at home. Goals from Louicius Don Deedson and Ruben Providence lifted Haiti to the top of Group C with 11 points, edging Honduras, who drew 0–0 with Costa Rica and narrowly missed the intercontinental playoff on goal difference.

Panama claimed the remaining automatic qualification ticket on Tuesday with a convincing 3–0 win over El Salvador, ending Suriname’s hopes despite Suriname later squeezing into the playoff spots following a 3–1 defeat to Guatemala.

Curaçao fans celebrate World Cup 2026 qualification after a 0-0 draw with Jamaica at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica on November 18, 2025. The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup on November 18 as Haiti booked their return to the tournament for the first time in 52 years along with Panama. A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao — with a population of just 156,000 — squeeze into next year’s finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. (Photo by Ricardo MAKYN / AFP)

Curacao now holds the distinction of being the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, surpassing Iceland’s record from 2018. The expanded 48-team format for the 2026 tournament opened the door to this milestone, but it was Curacao’s resilience under pressure in Kingston that ultimately sealed their place on football’s biggest stage.

Crisis in PDP Fuelled by Wike’s Impunity and Arrogance, Says Bala Mohammed

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Crisis in PDP Fuelled by Wike’s Impunity and Arrogance, Says Bala Mohammed

Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, on Tuesday accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of driving the deepening crisis within the PDP.

Mohammed alleged that Wike had vowed to ensure the PDP does not form the next government in 2027, describing his actions as “impunity” and warning that they were not helping the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He spoke at the PDP Secretariat in Abuja after two groups within the party clashed while attempting to take control of the party’s headquarters ahead of a parallel meeting planned by the faction that held a national convention in Ibadan over the weekend.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said the ongoing conflict was a fight about the future of democracy in Nigeria. He attributed his fallout with Wike to issues surrounding party discipline and adherence to the PDP constitution.

Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemned what it called a “disturbing and dangerous assault on democracy” after armed men loyal to senior officials of the ruling party allegedly attacked the PDP Secretariat. The ADC warned that Nigeria’s democracy was under threat.

Wike Faction Ratifies Expulsion of PDP Governors, Others

A factional National Executive Committee (NEC) loyal to Wike ratified the expulsion of Governors Makinde, Mohammed and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, as well as several senior PDP figures including PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, Senator Kabiru Tanimu Turaki and Chief Olabode George.

They were accused of anti-party activities.

Bala Mohammed Accuses Wike of Gangsterism and Political Sabotage

Bala Mohammed labelled Wike’s actions as immoral and accused him of working for the APC to destroy the PDP. He described the crisis as a showdown “between good and bad”.

He said:
“The showdown you are seeing is a showdown between good and bad. This is a creation of one man called Wike, who thinks that he can continue to pollute the political space by showing gangsterism, ‘animism’, hooliganism and charlatanism.”

He questioned the morality of Wike remaining in the PDP while allegedly working for the APC.
“Is it moral for him to say that he will be in APC to destroy us? Is it normal that he is working for somebody else and he said we will not produce a government in 2027?”

Mohammed insisted that the Wike-led group lacked any legal basis to hold NEC or BOT meetings or use the PDP building. He noted that the Ibadan convention was legal and recognised under party rules.

Security Tension as Factions Battle for Party Headquarters

Chaos erupted at the PDP Secretariat on Tuesday as the Wike-backed faction temporarily took control of Wadata Plaza, Abuja. This prompted the swift arrival of Governors Makinde and Mohammed, who confronted the faction.

Police fired multiple tear-gas canisters to disperse supporters as both sides attempted to hold their meetings at the same venue.

The Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC), elected at the Ibadan convention, had scheduled its inaugural meeting for 10 a.m. The Abdulrahman-led faction also summoned NEC and BOT meetings for the same location.

Security operatives from the police, DSS and NSCDC cordoned off roads leading to the secretariat as tension escalated.

While suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu gained access to begin accreditation for the factional NEC meeting, the Turaki group had not arrived. Anti-Turaki protesters displayed placards reading “No to Turaki” and “Turaki Must Go”.

Anyanwu described the security presence as routine for major PDP meetings.

Governors Confront Wike’s Faction Amid Tear Gas

As police fired more tear gas, Makinde, Mohammed and Turaki forced their way into the NEC Hall. The governors’ faction overpowered the Wike group inside the secretariat.

Wike later arrived in a convoy but was prevented from entering by the governors and newly elected NWC members, who barricaded the main entrance.

Bala Mohammed decried the situation and called on the international community, including U.S. President Donald Trump, to intervene.
Turaki said: “We won’t give up our secretariat, and we shall defend it with our lives.”

Makinde: This Is a Fight for Democracy

Makinde said the dispute was not personal but about preserving multiparty democracy.
“We believe that our founding fathers gave us a multi-party democracy. We must sustain it so that Nigerians can have options when they are choosing their leaders.”

He declined to address personal issues with Wike, saying:
“Small minds talk about people, average minds talk about events. We will rather talk about issues.”

ADC Warns of Democratic Backslide

The ADC condemned what it called a violent takeover of the PDP Secretariat, accusing the ruling party of attempting to entrench one-party rule. It described the incident as a “dangerous assault on Nigeria’s democracy”.

Factional NEC Expels More Leaders, Dissolves State Excos

The NEC loyal to Wike ratified expulsions and dissolved state executive committees in Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara, Yobe, Lagos, Edo and Ekiti. It also ordered expelled party member Chief Ali Odefa to refund all salaries and allowances collected since December 2024.

The communiqué warned that the party “will not bow to lawlessness or personal ambition.”

Turaki-Led NWC Salutes Nigerians for Support

The Turaki-led NWC thanked Nigerians for standing by the PDP “in its struggle against tyranny and state-backed aggression”.

The NWC alleged that over 200 tear-gas canisters were fired at unarmed PDP members.

It warned that the attack threatened the survival of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy and urged the international community to condemn it.

Police Cordon Off PDP National Secretariat Amid Escalating Leadership Crisis

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Police Cordon Off PDP National Secretariat Amid Escalating Leadership Crisis

Police have sealed the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, following violent clashes between two rival factions vying for control of the opposition party.

A visit to Wadata Plaza on Wednesday showed barbed wire stretched across the entrance, creating a barrier that prevented access to the premises. Only a few police officers were seen on duty, while leaders of the opposing groups stayed away.

A chieftain of the faction led by Kabiru Turaki criticised the police barricade, insisting that members loyal to Turaki would still “come to their office” despite the restriction.

The tensions spilled over on Tuesday when members of the two factions confronted each other at the secretariat. Supporters of Samuel Anyanwu—backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—refused to vacate the premises ahead of a scheduled meeting.

Chaos erupted when Turaki, alongside Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, arrived with other newly elected PDP executives. Police fired several rounds of teargas to disperse Anyanwu’s supporters, who attempted to block entry into the building.

Turaki later accused the opposing faction of attempting to disrupt the party’s activities with “armed thugs,” saying over 50 canisters of teargas had been deployed during the confrontation. He declared that his group had “driven them out of the secretariat” and that he had formally assumed office as national chairman.

The standoff follows the party’s recent national convention in Ibadan, held amid conflicting court rulings. At the convention, the Turaki-led faction expelled Anyanwu, Wike, former Ekiti governor Ayodele Fayose, and several others for alleged anti-party activities.

In response, Anyanwu’s group rejected the convention as a “jamboree” and declared the expulsions invalid. They proceeded to announce the expulsion of Turaki, Makinde, Mohammed, and their allies.

The deepening crisis underscores ongoing power struggles within the PDP, with both factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and legitimacy.

Gunmen Attack Kwara Church, Kill Two in Renewed Assault on Eruku Community

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Gunmen Attack Kwara Church, Kill Two in Renewed Assault on Eruku Community

Two people have been killed following an attack by suspected bandits on the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, and its surrounding community in Eruku, a border town in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when armed assailants stormed the outskirts of the town, shooting sporadically and forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes. Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived “suddenly and heavily armed.”

“They came around nightfall and started shooting. Two people were killed instantly, and we don’t even know how many were taken,” a resident said.

Another member of the community lamented that Eruku had faced “perpetual attacks for the last three weeks,” despite repeated appeals to authorities. “We are living in fear every day,” he added.

Local resistance from police, vigilantes, and the Eruku Progressive Union has not deterred the attackers, heightening anxiety among residents who are now calling for federal intervention.

Police said operatives responded swiftly and forced the attackers to flee. According to Police Public Relations Officer SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, a search of the area revealed the body of Mr Aderemi inside the church, while another victim, Mr Tunde Asaba Ajayi, was found dead in the bush. A vigilante, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and was taken to ECWA Hospital in Eruku.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq condemned the attack and directed immediate reinforcement of security personnel. His Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the governor’s request for additional operatives to support ongoing efforts.

AbdulRazaq expressed sympathy to the victims’ families and the church community, noting that the recent deployment of 900 additional troops to the state by President Bola Tinubu would bolster security and help restore calm.

The latest assault adds to growing concerns over escalating banditry in border communities. It also follows the recent abduction of 26 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, where the Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Makuku, was killed.

Atiku Blames Tinubu, Security Chiefs After Reported Killing of Brig-Gen Musa Uba in Borno

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Atiku Blames Tinubu, Security Chiefs After Reported Killing of Brig-Gen Musa Uba in Borno

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the reported killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba in Borno State, accusing President Bola Tinubu and the military leadership of failing to prevent the incident amid renewed terrorist attacks.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, Atiku said he was “deeply saddened and extremely shocked” by reports of Uba’s death. He faulted what he described as unclear explanations from the military hierarchy, noting that initial official statements suggested the incident had not occurred.

Atiku wrote: “I am deeply saddened and extremely shocked and disturbed by news making the rounds of the killing of Brig. Gen. Musa Uba by terrorists and the failure of the military hierarchy to clearly explain how it happened or what went wrong, as initial official denials indicated that this was not the case.”

He accused President Tinubu of neglecting his constitutional responsibility as Commander-in-Chief, arguing that political considerations were being placed above national security. “This for me is unequivocally a failure of political leadership as the President seems only more interested in decimating the opposition by all means possible, while forgetting his crucial role as Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces,” he said.

Describing Uba’s death—and the deaths of troops under his command—as “one death too many,” Atiku warned that the resurgence of terrorism represents an escalating threat the country cannot ignore. He urged Nigerians, as well as the military, to remain resilient, saying “even this season shall pass away.”

Atiku also called on the President to consider authorising the military to take control of Borno or any other state facing severe threats until stability is restored. “We must care enough for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our sake,” he said.

He further challenged President Tinubu to fulfil his primary duty to protect Nigerians. “The security of the lives of our people is your primary responsibility … you must live up to it or be humble enough to admit incompetence and either ask for help or resign,” Atiku stated.

He extended condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the family of Brig-Gen Uba, and all citizens affected by the country’s worsening security situation.

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