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Fubara Dissolves Rivers Pensions Board Inaugurated By Ibas

 

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has ordered the immediate dissolution of the Rivers State Pensions Board (RSPB), which was inaugurated earlier this month by the former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).

The dissolution was announced in an official statement issued by the Head of Service, Dr. Inyingi Brown.

According to the statement, the functions of the defunct board will now be managed by the Office of the Accountant General.

The now-dissolved board had been inaugurated on September 12, just before the end of the emergency administration in the state.

At the time, Ibas had tasked the board with addressing long-standing issues surrounding pension administration in Rivers State.

However, Governor Fubara’s directive marks a swift reversal of that move.

The statement further directed all former board members to hand over any assets or property of the board in their possession to the Director of Administration.

“His Excellency, the Executive Governor, will in due course constitute a new board to manage the affairs of pensions,” the statement concluded.

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Your Pain Is Like Surgery, But Growth Is Underway – Tinubu To Nigerians

 

President Bola Tinubu has once again addressed the nation’s ongoing economic challenges, likening the current hardship to the pain of surgery, with the promise of eventual recovery and prosperity.

Speaking in Ibadan on Thursday during the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tinubu reassured Nigerians that the worst is over.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel. Your suffering is the pain of a painful surgery, but we have turned the corner, and prosperity awaits,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the people of Ibadan for their support during the 2023 presidential election and acknowledged their resilience amid his administration’s economic reforms.

Since taking office in May 2023, President Tinubu has rolled out sweeping economic policies, including the controversial removal of the fuel subsidy.

While the move was intended to stabilize the economy, it has led to a sharp rise in fuel prices, transportation costs, and food inflation, deepening hardship for many citizens.

Critics argue the reforms have worsened poverty, while supporters maintain they are necessary for long-term economic recovery.

President Tinubu was in Ibadan to attend the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who officially became the 44th Olubadan following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.

Tinubu arrived in the city at around 2:25 pm, accompanied by Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

He was received by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde before heading to Mapo Hall, the venue of the coronation ceremony.

At the event, Tinubu praised the new monarch, calling him “a rare gem of history” and praying for a long and impactful reign.

“It’s a great honour for me to witness your coronation. All the things you started and the history we’ve shared make this moment very special,” Tinubu said.

Governor Makinde presented Oba Ladoja with the staff of office in front of a large crowd of dignitaries and traditional rulers.

Notable guests included former governors Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Traditional rulers in attendance included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III

The event was heavily secured by operatives from the DSS, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies.

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Five Killed, Several Abducted In Zamfara Mosque Attack

 

Tragedy struck again in Zamfara State as armed bandits launched a deadly assault on a mosque in Yandoto community, Tsafe Local Government Area, early Friday morning.

According to reports from Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency outlet, the gunmen stormed the mosque during morning prayers, opening fire on worshippers.

At least five people were killed on the spot, while several others were abducted and taken into the nearby forest.

The exact number of those kidnapped remains unknown.

The violent incident has sent shockwaves through the community. Grieving residents later gathered for funeral prayers in honor of the slain victims.

“We ask Allah to forgive their sins, accept them as martyrs, and bring peace to our troubled land,” said a community elder during the service.

This latest attack comes just days after a similar incident in Gidan Turbe village, also in Tsafe LGA, where 40 worshippers were kidnapped during early morning prayers.

In that case, eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived around 5:30 a.m., encircled the mosque, and forcefully led the victims into the forest near the Gohori area.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from state authorities or security agencies regarding the Yandoto mosque attack.

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Borno Police Confirms Death Of Three Children Found In Parked Car

 

Tragedy struck in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State as the Police Command confirmed the sudden and unnatural death of three young children discovered inside a parked vehicle.

The victims identified as Anwar Baba Zannah (3 years), Mama Baba Zannah (1 year, 5 months) and Ahmed Muhammad (5 years), were reported missing on September 23, 2025, by their parents, Baba Zannah Jaridama and his neighbour, Muhammad Bukar.

Two of the children were Jaridama’s biological children, while the third belonged to his neighbour.

Initial speculation circulated online suggested foul play, with some unconfirmed reports linking the deaths to Jaridama’s alleged criticism of unnamed politicians on social media.

Others believed the children may have wandered into the vehicle while playing and tragically suffocated after getting trapped.

In an official statement on Friday, Borno Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Keneth Daso, clarified that the children’s bodies were discovered the following morning, September 24, inside a parked Honda Civic belonging to Jaridama.

Police officers promptly responded and evacuated the victims to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), where medical personnel confirmed their deaths.

The bodies have been deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy.

Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the true circumstances behind the heartbreaking incident.

He extended condolences to the grieving families and urged the public to remain calm as the investigation continues.

“The Command reassures the public of a transparent process and encourages citizens to share credible information that could aid ongoing investigations,” Daso stated.

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Six Suspects Arrested Over Police Officer’s Killing In Bayelsa

 

The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of six suspected cultists in connection with the killing of a police constable, Oboh Goodluck, in Yenagoa.

Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, disclosed the arrests during the funeral service held for the late officer on Friday, September 26, in the Bayelsa capital.

Constable Goodluck was reportedly attacked and killed by cultists in the OMPADEC area of Amarata community on August 19 while on his way to work.

Idu stated that additional suspects linked to the killing had been identified and would soon be apprehended.

He issued a strong warning to anyone targeting police personnel, stressing that such attacks would not go unpunished.

“The Nigerian Police Force will not tolerate the murder of its officers. We are committed to bringing all those responsible to justice,” the Commissioner said.

He also reassured police personnel that the Force would continue to defend and support them in the face of such threats.

In a bid to honour the slain officer, Idu revealed plans to request Governor Douye Diri to designate the site of the killing as a memorial location.

Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, Comrade Kwokwo Robert expressed gratitude to the Police for their role in the burial arrangements and urged authorities to ensure that justice is served.

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Nigerian Army Reaffirms Commitment To Upholding Human Rights In Operations

 

The Nigerian Army has restated its commitment to safeguarding human rights and improving its compliance with international best practices across all military operations.

This pledge was made by the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Major General Gold Chibuisi, during the 5th Edition of the Nigerian Army Human Rights Seminar, held on Friday in Enugu.

The event was themed: “Human Rights and Operational Effectiveness: Establishing the Nexus.”

Maj.-Gen. Chibuisi emphasized that the Army had taken significant steps to prioritize human rights, including establishing functional human rights desks across all formations to handle complaints and promote accountability.

“The Nigerian Army is constantly reviewing all its operations to ensure that it complies with human rights and best international practices,” he said.

“We have continued to court martial and deal decisively through punishment personnel that infringe on human rights of the civil populace and ensure that justice is rightly served.”

He also noted the Army’s ongoing investment in training and retraining personnel on human rights principles, particularly those relevant to field operations.

Chibuisi expressed optimism that the seminar would strengthen civil-military relations and enhance the Army’s image:

“I am optimistic that this gathering will help to promote human rights, create better understanding between the civil populace and the army, and ensure that the Nigerian Army wins the war and hearts of Nigerians in every ramification.”

He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his approval and support in organizing the seminar and other civil-military programmes.

In a goodwill message, Mr. Chukwuma Odo, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Enugu Branch, praised the Army for hosting such a “thought-provoking” seminar and acknowledged the strides being made toward accountability.

“As NBA, we will continue to support the Nigerian Army and ensure that Nigerians, especially law-abiding citizens, are treated with the dignity, respect, and civility they deserve,” Odo said.

Declaring the seminar open, Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena, represented by Justice Anthony Onovo, urged the Army to carefully balance operational success with protection of human rights.

“By observing human rights, the Nigerian Army will ensure that everyone is treated with decorum and fairness,” he noted.

Justice Ozoemena emphasized that the key to achieving this balance lies in transparency, accountability, and a strong moral commitment to doing what is right.

“I must commend the participants of this seminar and appreciate the Nigerian Army in its commitment to follow the right path to ensure that our society is a secured and better place,” he added.

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CAC, SMEDAN Launch Free Business Registration For 250,000 MSMEs

 

In a bid to promote formalisation and support small businesses, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have launched a nationwide campaign to provide free business name registration for 250,000 nano, micro and small enterprises (MSMEs).

The initiative was unveiled in Abuja, where both agencies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the scheme.

A joint statement released by CAC and SMEDAN said the drive is part of commemorating the second year in office of CAC Registrar‑General Hussaini Magaji and SMEDAN Director‑General Charles Odii, both appointed in October 2023.

Formal registration has long been a barrier for many small businesses in Nigeria. Costs, bureaucratic processes, and lack of awareness often keep entrepreneurs in the informal sector, limiting their access to finance, markets, and government support.

This new campaign seeks to remove those hurdles by covering the registration cost for eligible MSMEs, onboarding beneficiaries into SMEDAN’s MSME database and connecting them with aftercare services, including training, grants, and market linkages.

At the event, CAC’s Registrar‑General emphasized that current reforms under President Bola Tinubu are designed to expand opportunities for small businesses across Nigeria.

“This drive is about breaking down the barriers that keep too many of our small businesses informal. By removing the cost of business name registration for 250,000 businesses, we are helping more entrepreneurs take the first step towards growth, legitimacy, and access to bigger opportunities,” he said, adding that CAC will forgo approximately N3 billion in registration fees for this scheme.

SMEDAN’s DG, Charles Odii, noted that this collaboration not only encourages formalisation but also addresses the high failure rate of SMEs.

“Formalisation is the gateway to support. By ensuring these businesses are registered and onboarded into our database, we can provide continuous aftercare, whether that is access to grants, training, or new markets,” Odii said.

He explained that MSMEs already in SMEDAN’s database but without CAC registration will automatically qualify for this programme.

Odii further assured that an upcoming CAC fee review will not affect this free registration drive.

To benefit from the programme, Visit portal.smedan.gov.ng to fill out the registration form, MSMEs on SMEDAN’s database without CAC registration will automatically qualify, Once registered, beneficiaries will receive instructions on how to complete their CAC certification.

Across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, SMEDAN’s state offices and on‑ground Business Clinics will assist entrepreneurs who may face challenges with digital processes.

By lowering the barriers to formalisation, this initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda, aiming to foster a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

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One Dead As Anambra Records Two Building Collapses In A Week

 

Anambra State has been rocked by two separate building collapses within the space of a week, leaving one person dead and others feared trapped.

The first incident occurred on Tuesday, when a two-storey residential building on Prince Chinedu Akwuaka Street in Onitsha North Local Government Area gave way around 9am Two occupants were pulled from the rubble alive, but one later died in the hospital.

Just two days later, on Thursday, a three-storey building still under construction collapsed behind the Anambra State House of Assembly, near Ekwueme Square in Okpuno-Awka.

The structure was at the roofing stage when it suddenly crumbled. At the time of this report, fears persist that some construction workers may still be trapped beneath the debris.

Confirming the Onitsha incident on Friday, Chairman of Onitsha North LGA, Tony Nweze, stated that the collapse was likely due to regulatory violations or construction malpractice.

He assured the public that a full investigation is underway.

“This collapse may not be an isolated case,” Nweze said.

“We suspect regulatory breaches or poor construction practices. Anyone found culpable will be prosecuted.”

The Anambra State Police Command also confirmed the incident. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that rescue operations were still ongoing as of Friday, in collaboration with emergency agencies.

“The tragic collapse at Akpaka GRA 33, Onitsha, resulted in two people being rescued. Sadly, one of them was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital. The second victim is responding well to treatment,” Ikenga said.

He added that the body of the deceased has been deposited for preservation and autopsy, and assured the public of continued efforts to ensure no victims remain trapped.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reiterated the command’s commitment to working with relevant agencies to prevent future collapses.

A resident, Osinachi Chukwudi, who witnessed the Onitsha collapse, described hearing two loud bangs before the structure gave way.

He confirmed that one victim was rescued immediately, while the second succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

Meanwhile, in Awka, eyewitnesses described the second collapse as sudden and alarming, with the unfinished building falling “with a thunderous noise” and no prior signs of structural failure.

Panic ensued as locals feared workers were trapped beneath the debris.

Emergency responders are continuing search and rescue efforts at the site.

The incidents have raised fresh concerns over building standards and enforcement of regulations in Anambra State.

Residents and local authorities are calling for tighter oversight and stricter penalties for construction violations.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on rescuing any remaining victims and preventing further tragedies.

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Former Agriculture Minister Audu Ogbeh Laid To Rest In Benue As Tinubu Pays Tribute

 

Former Minister of Agriculture and elder statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, was laid to rest on Friday in his hometown of Efugo, Otukpa, in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, as tributes poured in from across the country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, described Ogbeh as a patriotic leader whose legacy will continue to guide future generations.

Speaking at the burial ceremony, Akume read a message from the President titled “Contributions of Chief Audu Ogbeh to the Political Development of Nigeria,” in which Tinubu praised Ogbeh’s humility, integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to national service.

“Chief Ogbeh was a bridge-builder who brought people together. His death has left a deep void in our political landscape, but the legacy of his leadership and statesmanship will endure,” Tinubu stated.

President Tinubu highlighted Ogbeh’s critical role in Nigeria’s political development.

A founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ogbeh served as National Chairman of the PDP from 2001 to 2005, helping to steer the country through its early democratic transition post-1999.

He later became a key figure in the formation of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and eventually joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015.

“His influence extended beyond party lines,” Tinubu said.

“He stood for peace, unity, and purposeful leadership. His intellectualism and integrity earned him respect across the political divide.”

The former minister’s casket was lowered into the grave at approximately 1:18 pm in a solemn ceremony attended by top government officials and political figures.

Among the dignitaries were Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Barr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers Council, Dr. Mathias Byuan, Executive Director, FHA, Senator Titus Zam, representing Benue North-West, Sam Ode, Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr. Chris Ngige, former Governor of Anambra State and Chief Steven Lawani, former Deputy Governor of Benue State, among others.

Tinubu urged the late statesman’s family to uphold his values and continue his legacy of service to Nigeria.

“As we reflect on his life, may we all strive to emulate his selflessness and dedication. His contributions to our democracy and development will never be forgotten,” the President said.

Chief Audu Ogbeh leaves behind a powerful legacy of public service, political reform, and statesmanship that spanned decades and political parties.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact lives on.

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Obidients Will Shape 2027 Elections – ADC Chieftain

 

A leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stated that the Obidient movement will play a defining role in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, emphasizing the growing influence of its members within the ADC’s leadership.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise Television on Friday, Chille Igbawua, a prominent chieftain of the ADC, addressed growing speculation about the role of Peter Obi and the Obidient movement in future political realignments.

“People think they [the Obidients] stand apart, but many of them are already embedded in the leadership structure of the ADC,” Igbawua said.

“We absolutely need their energy and commitment going into 2027.”

Igbawua dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), was detached from the movement or the broader political coalition in which the ADC plays a key role.

“Peter Obi has been actively involved in the coalition’s activities since the beginning. He participated in forming the reconstituted National Working Committee and National Executive Council,” he explained.

He further noted that while some comments made by self-identified Obidients might not reflect Obi’s views, the former governor remains deeply engaged and aligned with the coalition’s vision.

Commenting on the internal crisis within the Labour Party, Igbawua acknowledged that the factional split has also created some divisions within the Obidient movement.

However, he clarified that those loyal to Peter Obi remain aligned with the ADC-led coalition.

“Even the national chairman of the Labour Party attends coalition meetings with us, alongside Peter Obi. That shows where the alignment lies,” he said.

He stressed that Obi’s own words and presence speak louder than external narratives.

“I’ve heard him say both in public statements and at our meetings that he is committed not just to seeking office, but to rescuing Nigeria. I believe what Peter Obi says and does not rumours spread by people from past campaigns,” Igbawua added.

Looking ahead, Igbawua revealed that the coalition is laying the groundwork for governance, not just electioneering.

“We are developing a realistic manifesto, building a functional constitution for our party, and crafting a policy blueprint for an ADC-led government. When we win, we won’t be figuring things out, we’ll be ready from day one.”

While specific strategies remain confidential, he affirmed that the coalition understands what it takes to win elections and govern effectively.

“Our focus is not just on the presidency. It’s about building a credible, accountable political alternative that can truly transform Nigeria,” he said.

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