The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Okene church attack: Victims’ families laud DSS for swift re-arraignment of suspected mastermind

    Okene church attack: Victims’ families laud DSS for swift re-arraignment of suspected mastermind

    …believe justice will be served

    Families of victims and survivors of the 2012 gun attack on Deeper Life Bible Church, Otite, near Okene in Kogi State, have commended the Department of State Security (DSS) for re-arresting and swiftly arraigning Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki, the suspected mastermind of the deadly assault.

    The attack, which occurred on August 7, 2012, claimed more than 19 lives after three gunmen armed with AK-47 rifles opened fire on worshippers during a Bible study session. 

    Fifteen people were killed instantly, while four others later died from injuries sustained in the attack. Dozens of worshippers were also injured. The assault was believed to have been carried out by the Ansaru terrorist group.

    Following Obadaki’s recent arraignment, victims, their relatives, survivors and residents of Otite expressed satisfaction with what they described as the speed and vigour with which the DSS, under its new leadership, is prosecuting the case. They also reaffirmed their confidence in the judiciary to deliver justice.

    After the Okene church attack, Obadaki was reportedly linked to a series of violent crimes, including coordinated raids on five commercial banks in Uromi, Edo State, during which several people were killed and large sums of money stolen.

    He was later arrested by security agencies and remanded at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja but escaped during the July 2022 jailbreak at the facility.

    On November 15, 2025, the DSS announced that it had recaptured the fugitive Ansaru leader. Six days later, Obadaki was arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism, conspiracy, aiding terrorist attacks, concealment of information and escape from lawful custody.

    While he pleaded guilty only to the sixth count relating to his escape from custody, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to January 26, 2026, and ordered that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the next hearing.

    Reacting to the development, residents of Otite said the swift re-arrest and arraignment of Obadaki had restored their confidence in the security agency.

    One community leader said the town had nearly lost hope of ever getting justice after years of delays. According to him, the prolonged absence of trial and Obadaki’s escape during the 2022 Kuje jailbreak deepened doubts and renewed the trauma of the attack.

    “For years, if you searched for Otite, what came up was that terrorists attacked our Deeper Life Bible Church. We still live with the scars of that day,” he said.

    He added that news of Obadaki’s recapture in mid-November and his prompt arraignment had rekindled hope in the community.

    “Given what we have heard about the new DSS leadership and the way this case has been handled so far, our cautious optimism has turned into renewed faith. We believe things will be different this time, and that justice will finally be served,” he said.

  • 2026 Budget reflects Tinubu’s resolve on security, road development – Goronyo

    2026 Budget reflects Tinubu’s resolve on security, road development – Goronyo

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emphasis on security and road infrastructure in the 2026 Appropriation Bill has been described as people centred and responsive to Nigeria’s most pressing development challenges.

    The Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Goronyo, said the President deserves broad commendation, noting that the strong allocation to security in the 2026 budget reflects a clear resolve to safeguard lives and property. 

    Goronyo, in a statement on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media, Abdullahi A. Mohammed, stressed that sustainable development cannot be achieved in an environment undermined by insecurity.

    The Minister said that by prioritising security in the budget, the President has taken a decisive step that will not only protect citizens but also unlock economic opportunities by boosting investor confidence, expanding business activities and reinforcing national stability.

    He also praised the substantial allocation to road infrastructure, saying sustained investment in the construction, rehabilitation and completion of federal highways would ease transportation difficulties and address long standing mobility challenges.

    Goronyo said improved road networks would significantly reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs and improve access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services for millions of Nigerians.

    The Minister said the combined focus on security and infrastructure, alongside ongoing economic reforms, fiscal discipline and investments in education and health, would help ease the hardship currently faced by citizens.

    He said these priorities were critical to job creation, economic growth and improving the overall quality of life across the country.

    Goronyo assured Nigerians that the Federal Ministry of Works would fully implement all road projects approved in the 2026 budget, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He also called on stakeholders, including State governments, contractors and host communities, to support the timely execution of road projects nationwide, stressing that collaboration was essential to delivering the expected benefits of the budget to Nigerians.

  • NEFGAD lauds Tinubu’s reforms in procurement

    NEFGAD lauds Tinubu’s reforms in procurement

    The Network for the Actualization of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD) has commended President Bola Tinubu for the bold, visionary, and far-reaching reforms outlined in his presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, particularly his remarks on public procurement. 

    The organisation noted that the President’s statement underscored the administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, efficiency, and prudent management of public resources.

    In a statement signed by the organisation’s Acting Head of office, Unekwu Ojo, NEFGAD lauded the President’s disclosure that the Federal Government commenced a comprehensive procurement reform framework from November last year, describing it as a decisive shift toward strengthening due process, reducing waste, and enforcing accountability across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

    “The reforms have demonstrably shortened procurement processing timelines, enhanced compliance, and strengthened sanctions against erring contractors and public officials, setting a new benchmark for governance and fiscal prudence,” the statement said. 

    The group noted that November 2024, the period referenced by Mr. President, coincided with the assumption of office of the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun. 

    “This establishes, beyond doubt, that the procurement reforms acknowledged by Mr. President are being driven and implemented under the leadership of Dr. Adedokun, in alignment with the policy direction of the Tinubu administration.

    “Of particular significance is the President’s emphasis on the Nigeria First Policy, which mandates MDAs to prioritise Nigerian-made goods and local companies in public procurement,” the statement said. 

    NEFGAD described this policy as a strategic intervention aimed at deepening local content, stimulating domestic industries, creating jobs, encouraging innovation, and reducing Nigeria’s over-reliance on imports. 

    The organisation emphasised that procurement is no longer a mere administrative process but a powerful instrument for national economic development and industrial growth.

    It commended the remarkable achievement of the Bureau of Public Procurement under Dr. Adedokun, which has recorded over ₦1 trillion in savings within just one year through enhanced price intelligence and benchmarking mechanisms. 

    “This figure is larger than the cumulative savings recorded by the BPP in 17 years from 2007 to 2024 before Dr. Adedokun’s assumption of office, marking the most significant cost-saving milestone in the history of the Bureau and perhaps in the entire continent by any government in a single budget cycle.” The group noted.

    NEFGAD observed that these gains are a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s procurement system is entering a new era defined by efficiency, national interest, and sustainable economic growth. 

    The organisation stressed that while the achievements are commendable, sustained reforms must be safeguarded through strict adherence to due process, impartial enforcement, and continuous transparency.

    The group called on all stakeholders, including MDAs, civil society organisations, and the media, to actively engage in monitoring the implementation of procurement reforms, ensuring that the Nigeria First Policy achieves its intended goals without being hijacked by vested interests or manipulated for political patronage.

    NEFGAD also urged the government to institutionalise best practices, consolidate savings, and expand the culture of accountability, warning that the long-term success of the reforms hinges on consistent oversight, robust regulatory frameworks, and unwavering political will.

    According to NEFGAD, the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s procurement landscape is not only a victory for public finance management but also a template for good governance that other sectors can emulate. 

    The organisation reiterated its commitment to supporting the government’s reform agenda through advocacy, capacity building, and independent monitoring, emphasising that procurement must continue to serve as a strategic driver of economic development, job creation, and national prosperity.

  • ‘Single mothers’ stigma is a thing of the past – Iyabo Ojo

    ‘Single mothers’ stigma is a thing of the past – Iyabo Ojo

    Actress Iyabo Ojo has declared that the stigma surrounding single mothers is a thing of the past.

    In a recent video, Ojo emphasised that single mothers are thriving, and that their children are excelling in life.

    Ojo, who styles herself as the President-General of the Single Mothers Association, stated that men are now actively seeking single mothers, valuing their experience and often preferring them as partners.

    She noted that men are willing to marry single mothers, rather than have them as side chicks.

    She said, “Gone are the days when being a single mother was a stigma. Single mothers’ children are doing great things in life. Men are chasing single mothers. 

    “They are even begging us that they don’t want us to be a side chick. They want us to marry them because we have experience. If a man leaves you, another man will accept you. I am The President General of the Single Mothers Association.”

    Recall that the actress also used the occasion of her daughter’s baby shower to advise women on breaking generational curses.

    She cautioned against assuming that past patterns will repeat themselves, encouraging women to forge their own paths.

  • EPL: Joao Pedro equalises as Chelsea rally to stun Newcastle

    EPL: Joao Pedro equalises as Chelsea rally to stun Newcastle

    Chelsea forward Joao Pedro haunted former suitors Newcastle United as his side showed their powers of recovery to come back from 2-0 down and claim a point.

    It looked a long way back for Chelsea at a raucous St James’ Park after a well-taken double from Nick Woltemade put Newcastle in control at half-time.

    But no side have dropped more points – 13 – from winning positions in the Premier League than Newcastle.

    So the stadium suddenly felt a little nervy when Chelsea captain Reece James pulled one back with a pinpoint 25-yard free-kick just a few minutes into the second half.

    It then turned a little hostile when Newcastle were denied a penalty after Trevoh Chalobah bodychecked Anthony Gordon inside the box before Chelsea equalised.

    Joao Pedro, who opted to move to Chelsea ahead of Newcastle last summer, drew his side level. The Brazilian raced through on goal and slotted the ball past Aaron Ramsdale after capitalising on a slip from defender Malick Thiaw.

    It set up a grandstand finish as the game became increasingly stretched and Harvey Barnes had a glorious opportunity to win it for Newcastle late on, but the substitute fired wide on the volley to leave head coach Eddie Howe covering his face with his hands on the touchline.

    Chelsea remain six points clear of Newcastle in fourth while Howe’s side are in 11th for the time being.

  • NSE pays courtesy visit to ENGAUSA, honours Ringim

    NSE pays courtesy visit to ENGAUSA, honours Ringim

    The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Kano chapter has paid a courtesy visit to the head office of ENGAUSA Global Tech Hub where it formally honoured the company’s chief executive officer, Engr. Mustapha Habu Ringim, for his contributions to engineering practice and skills development in Nigeria.

    The delegation, led by the NSE Kano chairman, Engr. Dr. Murtala Alhaji Garba, visited ENGAUSA on Tuesday, December 17, 2025 in what the society described as a moment of professional recognition, institutional engagement, and reaffirmation of the role of engineers in youth empowerment and inclusive development.

    During the visit, the NSE leadership presented a Certificate of Award conferred on Ringim in recognition of his sustained efforts in advancing practice-oriented engineering education, building inclusive innovation ecosystems, and empowering unemployed and underemployed youths through hands-on technical skills.

    The society noted that Ringim’s work, delivered through ENGAUSA Global Tech Ltd and the ENGAUSA Skills Development Foundation (ESDF), has helped translate engineering knowledge into livelihoods, startups, and community-based solutions.

    Through ENGAUSA Global Tech Ltd, these interventions focus on industry-driven innovation, enterprise development, and applied engineering solutions, while the ENGAUSA Skills Development Foundation plays a complementary grassroots role by promoting inclusive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

    The Foundation also undertakes advocacy and awareness campaigns on the dignity and economic value of TVET, with the aim of reshaping societal perceptions and encouraging young people and communities to embrace skills-based career pathways.

    Ringim was honoured as Special Guest of Honour at the NSE Kano Chapter’s monthly meeting on July 30, 2025, where the Society publicly acknowledged his growing influence in repositioning engineering as a tool for employment creation, skills development, and social transformation.

    At the meeting, he presented a technical paper titled “Bridging the skill gaps: The role of engineers in empowering unemployed youths through practical innovation.” 

    In the presentation, Ringim challenged engineers to move beyond conventional practice and embrace broader responsibilities as mentors, innovators, and ecosystem builders.

    Drawing from ENGAUSA’s experience, he highlighted the importance of practice-driven TVET models, engineering hubs that connect theory with industry and community needs, and foundations that combine skills delivery with sustained TVET advocacy.

    According to NSE officials, the paper generated extensive discussions among members and reinforced the view that engineering excellence should be measured by its contribution to societal development.

    The courtesy visit also provided a platform for strategic dialogue between the NSE Kano Chapter and ENGAUSA leadership on strengthening industry-professional-community linkages, supporting young engineers through mentorship, expanding TVET awareness to underserved populations, and promoting ethical and socially responsible engineering practice.

    Both parties expressed optimism about future collaborations aimed at deepening engineering professionalism while expanding access to skills, innovation, and decent work opportunities.

    Ringim thanked the Society for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that engineering knowledge delivers tangible social and economic impact.

    “Engineering must not stop at drawings and calculations; it must reach communities, create jobs, and restore dignity through skills,” he said.

    ENGAUSA Global Tech Ltd is an innovation-driven enterprise providing engineering, technology, and enterprise solutions, while the ENGAUSA Skills Development Foundation serves as its nonprofit arm focused on inclusive skills development, TVET awareness, and community empowerment.

    The NSE Kano chapter said the recognition underscores the transformative power of engineering when aligned with inclusion, practical innovation and skills advocacy.

  • Gunmen open fire on police checkpoint in Ondo, injured two officers

    Gunmen open fire on police checkpoint in Ondo, injured two officers

    Suspected gunmen have attacked police officers attached to the Ondo State Police Command at a checkpoint in Ipele Junction, Owo Local Government Area of the State.

    The attackers, said to be about three and riding on a motorcycle, reportedly opened fire on the operatives attached to the Safer Highway Patrol while they were on duty at the checkpoint.

    During the attack, two police officers sustained gunshot injuries, while a female bystander identified simply as Taiwo was also injured.

    Confirming the incident in a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Jimoh Kazeem, said the officers were attacked while discharging their lawful duties.

    Kazeem explained that the operatives responded swiftly and were able to repel the attackers.

    “All the injured victims were immediately rushed to the hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention,” he said. 

    He added that one of the suspects, identified as Nwabali, was arrested during the operation, while the motorcycle used by the attackers was recovered.

    “The suspect is presently in custody and has made useful statements that are aiding ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing accomplices,” Kazeem added. 

    He noted that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. 

    The police spokesperson disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as tragic and reprehensible.

    However, the commissioner commended the Safer Highway Patrol operatives for their bravery, vigilance and swift tactical response, which he said prevented loss of lives.

    CP Lawal noted that the incident underscored the effectiveness of ongoing policing reforms and enhanced operational strategies being championed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

    He expressed appreciation to the IGP for his strategic leadership and continued support in strengthening the nation’s security architecture.

    Reaffirming the command’s commitment to public safety, the commissioner assured residents of the state that the police would remain resolute in the fight against criminal gangs and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice.

  • UFAM celebrates year-end thanksgiving, rewards best staff with new car

    UFAM celebrates year-end thanksgiving, rewards best staff with new car

    UFAM Services, a conglomerate has held its annual Thanksgiving and End-of-Year Party in a grand celebration to round off the year.

    A major highlight of the event was the presentation of a brand new saloon car to Ms. Winner Ihemeje, who emerged as the Best Performing Staff of the Year. 

    The gesture, presented by the Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Umar Ali Mustapha, drew loud applause and admiration from staff and invited guests.

    In his address, Alhaji Mustapha commended the entire workforce for their dedication and resilience throughout the year, urging them to “buckle up” for even greater achievements in 2026. 

    He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to excellence, innovation and the recognition of hard work.

    Several other employees were also honoured for their outstanding contributions. Mr. Sylvester Odey received the Meritorious Award for Long Service, while Ms. Doubra Ikiere was presented with the Meritorious Award for Resourcefulness and Innovation. 

    The Meritorious Award for Diligence and Hard Work went to Mr. Richard Okobiah and Ms. Maryjane Ogili, while the Award for Punctuality was presented to Ms. Favour Okike.

    The celebration featured music, goodwill messages and moments of camaraderie, reflecting a strong sense of unity among staff and management. The event set an optimistic tone for a productive and prosperous new year for UFAM Holdings Nigeria Limited.

  • Circular road committee visits Olubadan, seeks royal guidance on corridor dispute

    Circular road committee visits Olubadan, seeks royal guidance on corridor dispute

    The Circular Road Stakeholders Engagement Committee set up by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to address grievances arising from protests over the proposed corridor of the 110-kilometre Circular Road project has paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

    The committee visited the monarch at the Oke Aremo Palace to brief him on its activities and seek royal guidance on how to effectively carry out its assignment.

    Members of the committee include prominent Ibadan Mogajis (family heads), chairmen of the six local government areas through which the Circular Road passes—Oluyole, Ona Ara, Egbeda, Lagelu, Akinyele and Ido—representatives of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as officials of the Oyo State New Towns and Cities Development Authority (OYNTCDA).

    They were received by Oba Ladoja in the company of the Asipa Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, and other senior palace officials.

    Introducing the mission of the committee, its chairman, Engr. Abduljelyl Karheem (Mogaji Adanla), said the committee was inaugurated following Governor Makinde’s pronouncement during his engagement with protesters against the Circular Road corridor on November 26, 2025.

    According to him, the governor had promised to constitute a broad-based ad hoc committee to further engage affected communities, examine their grievances and advise the government based on its findings.

    Karheem commended Oba Ladoja for his foresight in conceiving the Circular Road project and taking the initial step of acquiring land for it, noting that this vision laid the foundation for the significant progress being recorded under the Makinde administration.

    Providing an update on the committee’s work, the Executive Adviser to the Governor on New Towns and Cities Development, Mrs Mofoluke Adebiyi, outlined the activities carried out so far.

    She said the committee began with an inaugural meeting involving a 14-man team representing affected persons across the six LGAs, after which it embarked on on-the-spot assessments of impacted communities, engaging residents and noting community-specific concerns in relation to government policy.

    Adebiyi disclosed that visits had already been conducted in Oluyole, Ona Ara, Akinyele and Ido local government areas, while visits to Egbeda and Lagelu were scheduled for later the same day.

    In his remarks, Oba Ladoja recalled that during his tenure as Oyo State governor, his administration acquired 75 metres on each side of the Circular Road alignment and paid compensation to affected landowners.

    He said Governor Makinde had since briefed him on the extension of the corridor to 500 metres by the immediate past administration, which he noted was the core issue behind the current agitation.

    While acknowledging the immense socio-economic benefits of the Circular Road to Ibadan and Oyo State, the monarch stressed that those whose properties would be affected must be adequately and promptly compensated in line with prevailing economic realities.

    Oba Ladoja also warned against the activities of land speculators along the Circular Road axis, urging OYNTCDA and relevant MDAs to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being exploited.

    He further advised the state government to consider introducing a rail line running parallel to the Circular Road to complement the movement of goods to industrial hubs, as well as installing weighbridges to preserve the road’s lifespan.

    Also speaking, the Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Area and Vice-Chairman of the committee, Hon. Sikiru Oyedele Sanda, praised Oba Ladoja for his enduring commitment to the development of Ibadanland and Oyo State, assuring the monarch that his counsel would guide the committee’s work.

    Other committee members present included the Chairman of Lagelu LGA, Hon. Kamorudeen Mudashiru; Mogaji Olawale Oladoja (Mogaji Akinsola); Mogaji Adewale Badmus (Mogaji Itabigbo); and Mogaji Adewale Bankole (Mogaji Alago).

    Also in attendance were officials of OYNTCDA, representatives of the Ministries of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; Works and Public Infrastructure; Justice; and the Office of the Executive Adviser to the Governor on Security.

    Following the palace visit, the committee proceeded with its third batch of surveillance visits to Egbeda and Lagelu LGAs, where it engaged community members in areas including Fasade, Ayede, Ejioku, Idi-Igba/Aba Oyo and Eni-Oosa.

  • SDP hails Supreme Court verdict, says ruling reinforces party autonomy

    SDP hails Supreme Court verdict, says ruling reinforces party autonomy

    The opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP) has welcomed the Supreme Court judgment that fined the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ₦2 million for interfering in the internal affairs of the party, describing the ruling as a major boost for multiparty democracy and the rule of law.

    The apex court on Friday dismissed an appeal filed by INEC challenging the leadership of the SDP, thereby upholding earlier judgments in favour of the party.

    INEC had approached the Supreme Court to overturn the October 17 judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, which affirmed a Federal High Court ruling compelling the electoral body to recognise and include SDP candidates in by-elections conducted across 12 states.

    Former presidential candidate of the party and lead counsel in the suit, Prince Adewole Adebayo, told journalists that the verdict serves as a strong warning to the electoral body to stay clear of matters strictly within the jurisdiction of political parties.

    Adebayo insisted that the SDP has no leadership crisis, maintaining that the recognised national officers, including the Acting National Chairman, Professor Sadiq Umar Abubakar; National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye; and members of the National Working Committee (NWC), remain validly in office.

    He recalled that the dispute began after the party appointed an acting chairman who wrote to INEC to nominate candidates, a move the commission rejected while engaging with a chairman who had already been removed.

    According to Adebayo, courts at all levels were unanimous that INEC lacked the powers to question or override the internal decisions of the party.

    He noted that the Court of Appeal had earlier upheld the SDP’s right to restructure its leadership and authorised the acting chairman to act for the party, a position now affirmed by the Supreme Court.

    While acknowledging that the fine would ultimately be borne by taxpayers, Adebayo said it remains a necessary reminder that no institution has the authority to destabilise opposition parties.

    Reacting separately, the Acting National Chairman of the SDP, Professor Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, described the judgment as a landmark ruling that strengthens Nigeria’s democratic process.

    Speaking to journalists at the party’s secretariat in Abuja, Gombe said the Supreme Court verdict reaffirmed the principle that party administration must be guided by party constitutions, not external interference.

    He called on INEC to fully comply with the judgment by recognising the authority of the SDP National Working Committee and disengaging from suspended or expelled members.

    Gombe also urged INEC to remove the name of the party’s former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, from its records, insisting that the Supreme Court ruling has conclusively settled all leadership issues.

    He expressed optimism that the decision would reset relations between INEC and political parties, promoting respect, fairness and due process as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.