News Avant-Garde

News Avant-Garde

NiMet forecasts sunshine, cloudy weather for three days

Environment /

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has forecast a mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy weather conditions across the country from Monday to Wednesday. In its weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja, NiMet predicted sunny skies with patches of cloud over the northern region during the morning hours. NiMet said by afternoon and evening, isolated thunderstorms with moderate rain would be expected in parts of Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Adamawa, Kebbi, and Kaduna States. The outlook partly read,” For the central region, sunny skies with some cloud cover are anticipated in the morning. “Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms and moderate rain are forecast over Plateau, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kwara, Nasarawa, and Niger States. “Cloudy skies are expected in the southern region, with morning rains likely over Akwa Ibom. “This will be followed by thunderstorms and light to moderate rain in parts of Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Edo, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Delta, Ekiti, Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States.” According to the agency, on Tuesday, thunderstorms with light rain are expected over parts of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, and Jigawa, with other areas in the North experiencing sunny weather with patches of cloud in the morning. It was stated that,” Moderate rain is forecast later in the day for Adamawa, Taraba, Borno, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, and Bauchi States. “In the central region, morning thunderstorms with light rains are expected in the FCT, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Plateau, and Kogi, with afternoon or evening thunderstorms and moderate rains in the same states. “Southern regions will see cloudy skies in the morning, with thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rain in the afternoon or evening, especially in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Edo States. “By Wednesday, thunderstorms with light rain are expected in Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States in the morning, while the rest of the North will experience sunny weather with cloud patches.” The agency said moderate rains were forecast later in the day across Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, and Kaduna. “In the central region, sunny skies with sunshine intervals are predicted for the morning, while thunderstorms with moderate to heavy rain will occur later. “The southern region is expected to be cloudy in the morning, with thunderstorms and heavy rain in the afternoon and evening.” NiMet advised the public to take precautionary measures, as strong winds might precede thunderstorms. It said loose objects should be secured to avoid damage. The agency also urged people to avoid driving during heavy rain, disconnect electrical appliances during storms, and avoid tall trees due to the risk of falling branches. “Airline operators must obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective flight planning. “Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following updates via NiMet’s official website: www.nimet.gov.ng,” the outlook read. Source: Punch

NiMet forecasts sunshine, cloudy weather for three days Read More »

Sokoto windstorm kills five, destroys over 1,400 homes

Environment, News /

The windstorms that swept through Gwadabawa and Kware Local Government Areas of Sokoto State on Tuesday have claimed the lives of five residents, injured dozens, and left a trail of widespread destruction across both communities. Officials from the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency, who conducted a joint on-the-spot assessment, disclosed the grim aftermath during a visit to the affected areas on Saturday. According to the assessment report, the storm affected over 1,400 homes and vital public infrastructure, including schools and other government buildings. It was said that in Gwadabawa LGA alone, the disaster led to the destruction of 878 houses, affecting 1,306 households and displacing an estimated 7,836 individuals. “Eleven people sustained varying degrees of injuries. Officials confirmed five fatalities in the Marabawa community, including two children aged 18 months and 3 years, who were identified as the children of one Mansur Salihu Talhi” The assessment team in Gwadabawa, according to SEMA, included DPM Shehu Muhammad, Councillor for Gidan-Kaya Ward Hon. Siba Sodangi, community elder Adamu Abdullahi Talhi, and SEMA Desk Officer Nafi’u Bello. According to SEMA, “In Kware LGA, 523 houses were reported destroyed, affecting 1,403 households and injuring 18 persons. “Several public structures, including parts of Government Secondary School Kware, suffered significant damage to fences and classrooms. “A particularly hard-hit area was Kofar-Barga in Kware, where the home of a resident, Ahmad Abbas, was flattened. “Similarly, approximately 100 houses were damaged in the 30-Quarters area of the town.” SEMA also confirmed that documentation of all affected individuals and properties is ongoing. The agency said, “The data will be submitted to the state and federal governments to facilitate swift humanitarian assistance for the victims” Source: Punch

Sokoto windstorm kills five, destroys over 1,400 homes Read More »

Tinubu condemns Plateau travellers killings, orders perpetrators’ arrest

Crime, News /

President Bola Tinubu has condemned the recent killing of travellers in Plateau State, describing the attack as “unacceptable and barbaric.” This was just as he directed security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday. The statement read, “President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of travellers in Plateau State, urging security forces to ensure the arrest and punishment of the culprits. “Reacting to the news of the murder of 12 wedding guests, including the father and brother of the groom, the President described the heinous action as unacceptable and barbaric. “The victims, many of them injured, were travelling from Zaria, in Kaduna State, to Jos, in Plateau State. President Tinubu directs the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to work with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure those responsible for the attack are held accountable. “The President called for calm, promising not to allow the dastardly act to go unpunished. The Government of Plateau State must take decisive action in handling these vicious cycles of violence. “The state government must work with security agents to get to the root of this recent incident and use it as a deterrent against future occurrences. “Freedom of movement by all citizens is non-negotiable. We will not tolerate any attempt by anyone or group of people to curtail that fundamental freedom through acts of extreme violence and fear. “The President commiserates with the victims’ families and the people and government of Kaduna State.”

Tinubu condemns Plateau travellers killings, orders perpetrators’ arrest Read More »

ABU Wins Inaugural ECOWAS Moot Court Competition

Education, Sports /

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has emerged as the winner of the inaugural ECOWAS Moot Court Competition. The competition, which had eight universities compete for the top prize of N5 million, had the University of Jos as its first runner-up, receiving N3 million. Organised by the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, the competition, which concluded over the weekend, also featured law undergraduates from American University, Yola; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Igbinedion University, Okada; Lagos State University; Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti; and the University of Uyo. The Moot Court Competition, marking a significant step towards deepening youth engagement in regional integration and justice, was held under the theme ‘Promoting Regional Integration and Human Rights through Judicial Processes in West Africa’. In his closing remarks, the President of the court, Justice Ricardo Claúdio Monteiro Goncalves, described the event as a “historic milestone” for the ECOWAS Court and a “beacon of hope” for the next generation of legal professionals in West Africa. Applauding the eloquence, analytical acumen, and professionalism displayed by the participants. He congratulated all the universities represented, declaring that “every team is a winner” for its invaluable contributions. Goncalves also announced that, following the overwhelming success of the maiden edition, the Moot Court Competition will become an annual flagship programme of the court, with plans to expand participation to universities across all ECOWAS Member States. “By creating platforms such as this, the Court not only demystifies its work but also plants the seeds of a more robust legal culture—one that upholds justice, human rights, regional cooperation, and the rule of law,” he stated. Delivering the vote of thanks, the Vice-President of the court, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, lauded the competition as a powerful blend of vision and execution. He commended the students for their dedication and decorum and acknowledged the essential roles played by judges, academic mentors, ECOWAS institutions, and development partners. “Whether or not you won today,” he told the participants, “you have all emerged as ambassadors of law and justice in the ECOWAS region.”

ABU Wins Inaugural ECOWAS Moot Court Competition Read More »

PDP, APC trade words as EFCC arrests 15 ex-Plateau lawmakers

Politics /

The Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress in Plateau State, on Thursday, traded words following the arrest of 15 former lawmakers, including ex-Speaker, Moses Thomas Sule, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The PUNCH reports that the anti-graft agency, on June 17, 2025, apprehended the former legislators who are currently serving as liaison officers to Governor Caleb Mutfwang in their various constituencies, over allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. The EFCC specifically accused them of violating the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and procurement irregularities. Other arrested former lawmakers are Gwottson Fom, Sani Abubakar, Philip Gwom, Timothy Dantong, Happiness Mathew Akawu, Cornelius Dotyok, Agbalak Ibrahim, Danjuma Azi, Fwangje Bala Ndat, Salome Tanimu Wanglet, Namba Rimuyat, Nimchak Rims, Ishaku Maren and Paul Datugun. In a statement on Thursday, the PDP condemned the arrests, alleging that they were orchestrated by APC leaders in the state for political gain. In the statement signed by PDP’s State Publicity Secretary, Jonathan Amande, the party described the action as a “political witch hunt” aimed at suppressing opposition voices ahead of the 2027 election and undermining the current PDP administration in the state. The statement read “The Peoples Democratic Party wakes up to a disturbing trend of the arrest of the former speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and 14 others, orchestrated by some leaders of the All Progressives Congress in the state for cheap political gains. “These party leaders are wielding anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission as a tool to target and intimidate members of the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections. “As a party, we condemn in the strongest terms the parading of our members like common thieves, an action we consider purely politically motivated and aimed at undermining the PDP administration and the party’s influence in the state. “This use of the EFCC as a political witch-hunt designed to stifle dissent and suppress opposition voices in the country will do more harm than good, especially since the PDP administration has focused on moving Plateau State forward rather than hunting the last APC administration in the state, despite the numerous messes discovered under their eight years of tenure.” The statement reaffirmed PDP’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law while encouraging citizens to remain vigilant against any attempts to manipulate state institutions for partisan purposes. “We want to reiterate our call for transparency and accountability in governance. “The misuse of institutions like the EFCC threatens the democratic process and the fundamental human rights of citizens. “The PDP remains committed to opposing any actions that undermine the tenets of democracy in Nigeria,” the statement added. The State APC Chairman, Rufus Bature, denied any involvement of his party in the arrests, stating that the allegations were “a figment of the PDP’s imagination.” He said the EFCC was doing its routine work, adding that the APC had no hand in the matter. “The allegations against us by the PDP over the arrest of the former lawmakers are a figment of their imagination. Nobody has ever discussed anything about the former members of the state House of Assembly. “As a party, we have never sat down to discuss it not to talk of going to the EFCC. “As far as APC in Plateau State is concerned, we don’t know anything about their arrest. EFCC is doing its routine work and we cannot interfere with their job,” he said. Source: Punch

PDP, APC trade words as EFCC arrests 15 ex-Plateau lawmakers Read More »

Karma in action, LP mocks Tinubu over APC Gombe crisis

Politics /

The Labour Party National Caretaker Committee on Tuesday took a swipe at President Bola Tinubu over the recent chaos that rocked the All Progressives Congress stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe, describing the internal fracas as a classic case of “political karma.” The incident, which saw loyalists of Vice President Kashim Shettima clash with APC zonal leaders, has sparked a fresh wave of recriminations within the ruling party, revealing simmering tensions in the North-East stronghold. But for the Labour Party, the internal rupture in the APC is more than just a power struggle; it’s a moment of reckoning. In a statement on Tuesday, the Acting National Chairman of the LP caretaker panel, Senator Nenadi Usman, said the turmoil unfolding within the APC, just days after President Tinubu openly mocked the opposition, is nothing short of poetic justice. “Just last week, Nigerians watched as President Tinubu stood before lawmakers at the National Assembly on Democracy Day and boasted about enjoying ‘the opposition in disarray.’ “Today, the irony is glaring, his own party is unravelling in full public view,” She declared. Usman said the president’s mockery of opposition parties reveals a deeper contempt for democratic values, noting that the health of any democracy depends on the strength of its opposition, not its suppression. “A president who celebrates the weakening of the opposition is, by extension, celebrating the weakening of democracy itself. “This is not merely an unfortunate coincidence. This is karma at work,” she stated. According to her, the APC’s internal implosion in Gombe, centred around attempts to marginalise Shettima in his own political base, exposes a dangerous pattern of authoritarian overreach within the ruling party. She said, “In their reckless bid to enforce a one-man agenda, they’ve sacrificed due process and party unity. “The public humiliation of their own Vice President sends a chilling message about how loyalty and dignity are traded within the corridors of power.” Usman said the Labour Party takes no joy in the APC’s crisis, but emphasised that the development should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerians. “This is not a moment for gloating. It is a time for sober reflection. President Tinubu must look in the mirror. “The politics of sabotage and suppression will not take Nigeria forward,” Usman said. Reaffirming her party’s commitment to democratic ideals, Usman added, “Nigeria needs leaders who value truth, humility, and national interest over personal ambition. “The future of this country depends not on crushing dissent, but on protecting it.” Source: Punch

Karma in action, LP mocks Tinubu over APC Gombe crisis Read More »

Police arrests three masterminds of Abuja kidnappings

Crime /

Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command have arrested three notorious kidnap suspects linked to a spate of deadly abductions in Abuja and neighbouring states. According to a statement signed by the Force PPRO, Abuja Command, SP Josephine Adeh, on Thursday, the suspects, 27 years old Ya’u Shittu from Kaduna State; 30 years old Sale Usman from Niger State; and 28 years old Ibrahim Abdullahi from Abuja, were captured during sting operations carried out between June 13 and 18, 2025, in Kaduna, Niger, and Nasarawa states by the Command’s elite Scorpion Squad. The suspects, who have been on the Command’s wanted list, reportedly confessed to multiple kidnappings and murders, including the 2024 killing of a pastor in Mpape and the abduction of children in the same area where their father was shot dead. Police also tied them to the kidnapping of a woman for whom N10 million was paid in ransom, with each gang member pocketing N500,000. Adeh said the breakthrough followed “credible digital reconstructive intelligence” and was led by ACP Victor O. Godfrey. According to the police, Ibrahim Abdullahi, who also doubled as the gang’s arms supplier, led officers to a hideout in Bukuru, Nasarawa State on June 18. Upon arrival, the police team was met with gunfire from other gang members, prompting a shootout. “Abdullahi attempted to flee but was shot and rearrested. Other gang members escaped and are currently being pursued,” the statement added. Exhibits recovered from the scene included a long knife and various charms. FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao S. Adewale, commended the bravery of the Scorpion Squad and reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to public safety. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security operatives. “This is a major blow to violent crime in the FCT. We are determined to rid our communities of criminal elements,” he said. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. Meanwhile, police have intensified efforts to track and arrest the fleeing members of the gang. Source: Punch

Police arrests three masterminds of Abuja kidnappings Read More »

Pastor Enenche rejects N30m donation from Kebbi governor

News /

The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, has rejected a N30 million donation offered by the Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a crusade organised by the church in the state. The gesture occurred at the Kebbi Healing and Deliverance Crusade, where a representative of the governor, Kebbi’s Commissioner for Social Duties, Zayyanu Umar Aliero, announced the cash gift on behalf of the governor. Aliero told the gathering that the N30m was approved as a donation to the crusade’s organising committee and was available in cash. Aliero said, “Our Governor, His Excellency Dr Nasir Idris, a faithful Governor and also a Comrade Governor, who you all know is the only Comrade Governor in this country. He has therefore graciously approved the donation of the sum of 30 million naira to this gathering. “That is to the organising committee. His Excellency has approved the donation of a sum of 30 million naira to the organising committee, which you know that whenever His Excellency makes a donation, he doesn’t leave without bringing that donation in cash. So before I leave this stage, I want to present that sum of 30 million naira in cash.” However, Enenche declined the offer, taking to the stage to urge that the money be redirected to charitable causes. “If there is anything like orphanage, if there is anything like that, at your discretion, please apply this amount of money to it. No. It will not be received,” the senior pastor said. Speaking later, Enenche explained the church’s stance, emphasising that public funds should be used solely for public causes. “We are one of those who believe that government money should be used for government projects and government things should be used for government things; and church money should be used for church things, not mixed together. “That is what we did that is what we do. As small as the Glory Dome is right there, government money is not in it. From land to the building to everything,” he said. He added that the body of Christ should “trust God for supernatural supplies.” He suggested that the donation be handed over to a government-approved religious body instead, such as the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board or the Christian Association of Nigeria. “This is so that we can retain our dignity as a body of Christ; retain our dignity as a church, and say what we need to say when we need to say it. And be able to say what we need to say when we need to say it,” he said. Aliero, speaking after the rejection, acknowledged Enenche’s position. “They don’t accept it because whatever he is doing, he is doing it for the sake of God. We really appreciate and we really thank him for what he is doing in our state,” he said. Source: Punch

Pastor Enenche rejects N30m donation from Kebbi governor Read More »

Tinubu assembles top brass, ex-govs to end Benue killings

News /

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday set up a committee to help restore sustainable peace to Benue State following last Friday’s massacre in Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, which saw around 200 people killed. Members of the peace committee selected by the President include former Military Governor of Benue State, Gen Atom Kpera (retd.), Senator George Akume, Senator Gabriel Suswam and Samuel Ortom — all former Benue governors. The Paramount Ruler of Tiv Nation and Chairman, Traditional Council, Benue State, HRM Prof. James Ayatse and Paramount Ruler of Idomaland, the Ochidoma, HRM Dr John Elaigwu, are also on the team. Advising the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on the importance of stakeholder management for peaceful and progressive governance, Tinubu urged the governor to champion the activities of the peace committee, which also includes federal officials, and non-indigenes living in the state. “Let us meet again in Abuja. Let’s fashion out a framework for lasting peace. I am ready to invest in that peace. I assure you, we will find peace. We will convert this tragedy into prosperity,” the President told Alia at a town hall meeting at the Benue State Government House banquet hall in Makurdi, the capital city. The meeting included the Secretary to the Federal Government, George Akume, traditional rulers and former governors of the state. The governors of Kwara, Imo, Kogi, Plateau, Ondo, and Nasarawa also attended the meeting. Tinubu stated that the peace effort would yield sustainable results only if it were broad-based and collaborative, calling for synergy with neighbouring Nasarawa State, whose governor, Abdullahi Sule, was also present at the meeting. “I want the traditional rulers — the Tor Tiv, the Och’Idoma and others to be included in this peace committee. “The Governor of Nasarawa is here and the Governor of Benue is here, let’s create that synergy for peace, development, and prosperity. “We’re here to govern, not to bury. We’re here to raise families, not to lose some,” he said. The President called on the people of Benue to support Governor Alia, urging communities to embrace peace and inclusion. “This is a very critical time. The governor needs your help. Let’s have a committee with non-indigenes incorporated.” He assured the state of the Federal Government’s backing and his personal resolve to end the cycle of bloodshed, saying, “I give you the assurance that we will find peace, we will convert this tragedy to prosperity again and again.” Suspected armed herders stormed Yelewata village in Guma LGA of Benue State late Friday, June 13, unleashing one of the deadliest assaults the state has seen in years. Amnesty International and local official reports say that at least 100 residents were killed, dozens remain missing, and hundreds are nursing gunshot and burn wounds after attackers set houses ablaze through the early hours of Saturday. The Police confirmed the raid, with some sources putting the casualty figure at around 200. Many victims were internally displaced people who had taken refuge in the village after earlier attacks. The Benue State government said it has launched a manhunt, but residents fear more reprisals as the rainy season, peak period for disputed grazing and planting, sets in. Pope Francis prayed for the “terrible massacre” during his Sunday Angelus. It is the latest cycle of violence linked to farmer-herder tensions, banditry and a security vacuum that rights groups say allows perpetrators to act with “utter impunity.” At Wednesday’s town hall meeting, Tinubu directed the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to immediately arrest those who perpetrated the heinous killings. “I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals. Let’s get those criminals,” Tinubu told the IGP. While thanking the military high command for their response so far, the President expressed dissatisfaction at the lack of arrests days after the mass slaughter. “Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals. “Christopher (Chief of Defence Staff), thank you very much. I watched your comments. I know you can’t be tired of staying in the bush, including Oluyede (Chief of Army Staff) and the Air Marshal. “Thanks to all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground. Let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out,” he said. Tinubu also charged the heads of intelligence agencies to improve their surveillance and response systems. “DG NIA and DG DSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence that this will not occur again,” the President said. He urged Governor Alia to allocate land for ranching and directed the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security to follow up. He called for blood donations to support those receiving treatment at the Benue State Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, where he had earlier visited victims and medical staff. While underscoring the importance of peace for sustainable development, President Tinubu implored the Governor to ensure Benue was peaceful, adding that the circumstances of his visit this time should not have been a reason to visit. “I wanted to come here to commission projects, to reassure you of hope and prosperity, not to see gloomy faces. But peace is vital to development,” he said. “The value of human life is greater than that of a cow. We were elected to govern, not to bury people. “Governor Alia, you were elected under the progressive banner to ensure peace, stability, and progress. You are not elected to bury people or comfort widows and orphans. We will work with you to achieve that peace. You must also work with us. “Not everyone will like you in politics. They hate me, too — like hell. But here I am, still your President. I made a promise to protect democracy, freedom, and prosperity, even for my abusers and accusers. That’s leadership.” Alia’s plea In his remarks, Governor Alia appealed to the Federal Government to establish a Special Intervention

Tinubu assembles top brass, ex-govs to end Benue killings Read More »

Benue killings: Police disperse protesters as military begins air surveillance

Crime, News /

The Nigerian military has deployed aerial surveillance across Makurdi and its environs following the deadly attacks on Yelwata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday. Also police in the state dispersed protesters on Sunday using teargas. PUNCH Online had earlier reported that no fewer than 100 persons were feared killed and many others injured when terrorists invaded the communities using commercial buses. Since Sunday morning, low-flying military aircraft have been observed hovering over Makurdi, as well as parts of neighbouring Guma and Gwer West LGAs. A military officer who spoke on condition of anonymity, as he was not authorised to comment publicly, said the aerial surveillance was part of a strategy to monitor developments in the area. “The air surveillance is to monitor the situation of things around Makurdi and environs so we will know how to tackle it swiftly “The residents should not panic; the military is on top of the situation,” the source said. Police disperse protesters with teargas Meanwhile, police in the state dispersed protesters on Sunday using teargas after they refused to allow the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, and the Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, to address them. The demonstrators had earlier gathered peacefully at the Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi, carrying leaves and calling on the Federal Government to protect citizens across the country. Some protesters, including Architect Brahms Ikuan and Gideon Inyom, decried the frequent attacks in the state, accusing authorities of failing to protect the lives of ordinary people. IG takes over state security – Commissioner Speaking to journalists later, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Emenari Ifeanyi, disclosed that the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, had assumed control of security operations in Benue. “The IG has taken over the security of Benue State. As I speak to you now, the IG has already sent Special Forces who are already on ground, and more are coming. “All the Special Forces are intelligence-based. They will go, no matter where the bandits are, and get them,” Ifeanyi said. He noted that some units had arrived in Makurdi the previous night, while earlier deployed forces had been stationed in Naka, Apa, Agatu, Daudu, and Yelwata. “We are in control of the situation, so I’m assuring all citizens of the state that we are in control. “All the security agencies are with us on this. We have already made some arrests.” The commissioner added that Governor Hyacinth Alia had provided all necessary logistical support to aid security operations. He explained that Saturday’s attack in Yelwata may have been opportunistic, as a large number of officers had earlier been deployed to other hotspots. Ifeanyi said,”What you see happening in Yelwata yesterday is because we have taken over Apa, Gwer West and are moving seriously in Agatu. “They just want to do something to show that they are in control, while they are not, and will never be. “Whatever is paining you is paining us more. We are here to protect lives and property. “We have security everywhere now, even in Yelwata, there are tactical teams in the bush even before the attack.” He urged residents to allow the Special Forces to work without hindrance. “Give the Special Forces and tactical teams room to work. If you prolong your stay here, you are giving the enemies more time to plan. “We have intelligence reports of their movement and we are blocking them, and you will see the end result,” Ifeanyi said. Source: Punch

Benue killings: Police disperse protesters as military begins air surveillance Read More »