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Niger Governor Declares State Of Emergency Over Insecurity

Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has declared a state of emergency due to escalating insecurity in the state capital, Minna, prompted by a resurgence of violent activities involving thugs.

Speaking at a Sallah Durba festival organized by former governor Babangida Aliyu on his farm in Minna, Governor Bago announced stringent measures to restore peace, including authorizing security forces to shoot at sight any threatening thugs within the state.

The governor’s directive follows a recent upsurge in thuggish activities, resulting in the tragic death of two individuals and numerous injuries in Minna on Friday night.

“I declare a state of emergency with shoot-at-sight orders for any thug found within the metropolis and the state,” declared Governor Bago. “We have zero tolerance for insecurity and thuggery. Sites of artisan miners contributing to this menace have also been shut down, with violators facing fatal consequences. Sponsors of such activities will be dealt with decisively.”

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The Minna Emirate had suspended its annual traditional Sallah Durba for seven years due to insecurity, with residents relying on Aliyu’s self-organized Durba. However, violent incidents resurfaced recently, with Minna, known for harboring violent gangs like Yandaba, witnessing fatalities and injuries.

Former Governor Babangida Aliyu attributed the recent crisis to miners’ activities but assured that calm had been restored.

He noted that the insecurity had forced temporary business closures and disrupted the customary festivities associated with the annual festival.

“Insecurity persists in certain areas presently,” stated Aliyu. “I have addressed some issues, and I’m pleased that the governor is employing similar strategies. We must confront these criminals decisively by apprehending both them and their sponsors. Many have already fled town as they are unemployed criminals. It’s imperative to deal with them resolutely.”

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Pastor Enenche’s Accusation Of Church Member During Testimony Sparks Controversy

A video circulating on social media has sparked debate and controversy over Pastor Paul Enenche’s treatment of a church member during a testimony session at Dunamis International Gospel Centre in Abuja.

In the video obtained by Daily Gazette, Pastor Enenche questions the credibility of a woman, Anyim Vera, who claimed to have graduated with a “B.sc in Law” from the National Open University of Nigeria.

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Pastor Enenche interrupted Vera’s testimony, accusing her of lying and stating that there is no such degree as “Bsc in Law.”

He also suggested that she did not sound like a law graduate based on her speech and demanded that she leave the pulpit.

Following the incident, netizens discovered evidence confirming Vera’s graduation from NOUN with an LLB in Law, as listed in the convocation ceremony on April 13.

This revelation has led to mixed reactions on social media, with some calling for Pastor Enenche to apologize for publicly embarrassing the church member, while others defend his actions.

Critics argue that Pastor Enenche’s approach was harsh and overly condescending, especially considering the woman’s lack of eloquence in English.

They believe that there could have been a more constructive way to address the situation, even if the woman had made a mistake in her testimony.

However, some supporters of Pastor Enenche argue that the woman’s failure to articulate her degree accurately brought the situation upon herself.

They suggest that she could have written down her testimony if she had stage fright or difficulty expressing herself verbally.

The incident has sparked discussions about the importance of sensitivity and empathy in church leadership, as well as the need for understanding and support for individuals who may struggle with communication or language barriers.

As the debate continues, many await Pastor Enenche’s response to the growing calls for an apology.

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As Enugu Grapples with Rise In Vandalism Of Public Utilities

Enugu State has been facing a surge in vandalism targeting public utilities, posing significant challenges to essential services and infrastructure across the state.

Incidents of vandalism have been reported in various areas, including damage to electrical transformers, water pipelines, and telecommunication infrastructure.

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The vandalism of public utilities not only disrupts essential services but also imposes financial burdens on the state government and local communities.

Repairing and replacing damaged infrastructure incur significant costs, diverting resources that could otherwise be allocated to development projects and improving public services.

Authorities in Enugu State must take decisive actions to combat this escalating menace.

There must be efforts to apprehend and prosecute perpetrators, with law enforcement agencies intensifying surveillance and patrols in vulnerable areas such as Holy Ghost/Old Park axis, Garriki, Abakpa, Mayor, New market among other areas.

Community engagement and awareness campaigns are also needed to educate residents about the consequences of vandalism and the importance of safeguarding public utilities.

Stakeholders on their part should explore innovative strategies such as the use of technology and community policing initiatives to enhance security and deter criminal activities.

There must be collaborative action between government agencies, law enforcement, communities, and relevant stakeholders to address this challenge effectively.

These will ensure the well-being and prosperity of Enugu residents.

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G7 Expresses Solidarity With Israel, Vows Response to Iran’s Continued Destabilizing Actions

G7 leaders has condemned Iran’s attack against Israel and reaffirmed the Group of Seven’s commitment to Israel’s security during a meeting on Sunday regarding the development.

In a statement following a video meeting, the leaders of the Group of Seven powers said they “unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct and unprecedented attack against Israel”.

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“We express our full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirm our commitment towards its security,” they said, in the statement published by the Italian G7 presidency.

“With its actions, Iran has further stepped toward the destabilisation of the region and risks provoking an uncontrollable regional escalation. This must be avoided.

“We will continue to work to stabilise the situation and avoid further escalation.

“In this spirit, we demand that Iran and its proxies cease their attacks, and we stand ready to take further measures now and in response to further destabilising initiatives.”

Iran launched the attack, its first ever to directly target Israeli territory, in retaliation for a deadly air strike widely blamed on Israel that destroyed its consular building in Syria’s capital early this month.

The attack came as the Israel-Hamas war raged in besieged Gaza.

The G7 which groups the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Britain, Italy and Canada — also said Sunday they would step up efforts to end that crisis.

“We will also strengthen our cooperation to end the crisis in Gaza, including by continuing to work towards an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and the release of hostages by Hamas, and deliver increased humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in need,” they said.

The Israel-Hamas war began with an unprecedented October 7 attack by the militant group against Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

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Fubara Applauds Odili’s Backing Amid Escalating Political Tensions In Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Similanayi Fubara, has lauded the unwavering support of former Governor Peter Odili, describing it as “honest and genuine,” despite causing unease among certain circles.

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Speaking to residents of Ndoni community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government area of Rivers State after commissioning a health center donated by Odili, Governor Fubara expressed gratitude for the former governor’s steadfastness.

Governor Fubara highlighted the significance of aligning with individuals of integrity and character, contrasting them with those who merely claim such qualities without substance.

He emphasized the importance of standing firm on principles, commending Odili for exemplifying integrity.

The governor reiterated his commitment to ensuring the functionality of the health center and thanked the community for their support.

The event marked a moment of giving back to society, with Governor Fubara endorsing it as part of the “I” agenda, a genuine initiative aimed at community development.

Acknowledging Odili’s philanthropic gesture, Governor Fubara emphasized that it reflected true greatness and integrity, urging continued support for the former governor.

Meanwhile, Odili recently declared Governor Fubara as the political leader of Rivers State amid ongoing political tensions within the state.

This declaration coincides with a rift between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Governor Fubara.

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Army Refutes Claims Of Recruiting Repentant Boko Haram Members In Enugu Barrack’s Killing

The Nigerian Army has firmly denied recruiting repentant Boko Haram members, dismissing reports circulating on social media as misinformation.

This clarification came after allegations surfaced that a former Boko Haram terrorist, purportedly integrated into the army, committed a heinous crime by murdering his female partner at an Enugu barracks.

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Director of Army Public Relations, Major Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, issued a statement titled, “Re: Repented Boko Haram Member Enlisted into Nigerian Army Slits Woman’s Throat in Enugu Barracks, Hides Corpse,” refuting the claims and attributing them to mischief.

The statement reads; “The attention of the Nigerian Army (NA) has been drawn to a publication by an online media on 13 April 2024 tilted, “Repented Boko Haram Member Enlisted into Nigerian Army slits Woman’s throat in Enugu Barracks, Hides Corpse.”

“Much as it is highly regrettable that a young lady lost her life in the hands of a man with whom she was in an amorous relationship, the incident should not be latched on to insinuate a laughable claim that the dastardly act was committed by a repentant Boko Haram recruited into the Nigerian Army.

“It is pertinent therefore to clear the air on the allegation as insinuated by the medium.

“The NA has at no point in time, either in the past or present enlisted repentant Boko Haram members to its strength.

“However, considerations were given to Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) who in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the North East distinguished themselves morally and patriotically.

“Such members of the CJTF must have also shown commitment, dedication and loyalty to the service and the nation.

“The sad incident of the gruesome murder of Miss Hauwakulu Tabra by Private Adamu Muhammad occurred on the night of Thursday 11 April 2024 and her corpse was discovered within the barracks on Friday 12 April 2024.

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“Preliminary investigations revealed that the late Hauwakulu Tabra was actually murdered by the said soldier, who is presently in detention for further investigation to unravel the motive behind his actions.

“The Nigerian Army extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased Miss Hauwakulu Tabra and also emphatically assert that at no time has the NA enlisted repentant Boko Haram members into its fold as mischievously insinuated.

“The general public should be rest assured that justice will be served, as the NA will not condone any unprofessional conduct or indiscipline within its ranks.”

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Edo LP Governorship Candidate Accuses Top Govt Official Of Masterminding Attack On Him

Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, has accused a senior government official of orchestrating an attack on him and other participants during an interactive session organized by the University of Benin Staff Club.

The incident, which occurred last Friday at the university, saw the event violently disrupted, leading to chaos on the premises.

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In a widely circulated video released on Saturday, Akpata revealed that a senior lecturer, injured during the attack, was receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed Benin hospital.

Akpata vehemently denied allegations that his security personnel shot a UNIBEN student, stating, “I only wished that the individual could show his face to determine the veracity of his story.”

Describing the interruption as “rude,” Akpata recounted the incident, which saw hoodlums claiming to be university students disrupting the event, demanding prior notification.

He highlighted the shock experienced by attendees, including professors, and praised security agents for safely escorting him past the barricade erected by the hoodlums.

Accusing certain “old and very tired politicians” of instigating the disruption, Akpata directly addressed the senior government official allegedly involved, warning against misinformation and affirming his presence during the attack.

However, the Edo State Government swiftly condemned the assault on Akpata at the university.

Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, emphasized ongoing investigations into the incident and warned against violence or irresponsible behavior associated with Akpata’s visit.

Meanwhile, the university’s management also denounced the attack, pledging to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the disturbance.

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Kidnappers Of Ortom’s Former Chief Of Staff Demand N100 Million Ransom

The abductors of Abigail Orbunde, the wife of the former Chief of Staff to the immediate past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, along with their housemaid, Patience Ogute, have demanded a ransom of N100 million for their release.

Tahav Argezua, a close associate of Terwase Orbunde, disclosed this information, noting that the abductors communicated the demand during a call to Orbunde, who is currently hospitalized.

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Argezua stated that the gunmen, who spoke Fulani among themselves and communicated with Orbunde in Hausa, threatened to harm the women if the ransom was not paid.

The abduction occurred when five gunmen attacked Orbunde’s farm, resulting in his injury.

Orbunde is receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Makurdi.

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Iran Attack On Israel Reckless – France, UK

The UK condemned Iran’s attack on Israel, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement posted on X.

“I condemn in the strongest terms the Iranian regime’s reckless attack against Israel. Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on sowing chaos in its own backyard,” Sunak’s statement said.
“The UK will continue to stand up for Israel’s security and that of all our regional partners, including Jordan and Iraq,” it said. “Alongside our allies, we are urgently working to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation. No one wants to see more bloodshed.”

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French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné on Saturday strongly condemned Iran’s attack on Israel and reiterated France’s solidarity and “commitment to Israel’s security.”

Meanwhile, the Netherlands said the situation in the Middle East is “very concerning” after Iran launched the attack. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on X that earlier Saturday, the Netherlands and “other countries told Iran loud and clear to refrain from attacking Israel.”

Austria and the Czech Republic expressed their support for Israel after Iran’s attack.

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Netanyahu Orders Israeli War Cabinet To Respond To Iran’s Attack

Israeli security cabinet has directed the three-member war cabinet to determine the response to Iran’s attack, as announced by an official after a late-night meeting on Saturday.

The decision follows Israel’s report of over 200 “threats,” as stated by the Israel Defense Forces.

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The war cabinet, consisting of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, and Benny Gantz, will now deliberate on Israel’s course of action.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Home Front Command has retracted its call for residents nationwide to remain close to shelters. This reversal occurred shortly after the Israel Defense Forces instructed residents in parts of northern Israel to stay near protected areas and wait for at least 10 minutes in the safest possible location upon the activation of sirens.

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