The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • ‘Violation of speed limit responsible for accidents on Otedola Bridge’

    ‘Violation of speed limit responsible for accidents on Otedola Bridge’

    Federal Road Safety Corps Lagos Sector Commander, Oseni Hamzat admits steepness of bridge but says road wide enough if drivers comply with speed limit, road decorum.

    What, in your opinion, are the reasons for the incessant auto crashes on Otedola Bridge?

    The problem on that axis is on two fronts. There is the Otedola Bridge and there is the Kara Bridge where they are currently working on the expansion joints. And that calls for some of the unrests we are experiencing on that corridor, especially around that Kara Bridge/OPIC area. That’s why people are complaining of heavy traffic gridlock. But of course, there is no pain without gain. When they were constructing or doing rehabilitation works on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, people cried and lamented; I was sector commander, Lagos-Ibadan then. But the same people are now enjoying the benefits. However, there are vandals on those bridges, especially Kara. Do you know that they carted away some of the irons and some other things? When I inspected it, I found out that the problem was not just of the effect of vehicles. Yes, there are overloaded vehicles that created some lacuna or problems, but vandals are there too.

    Let’s talk about the Otedola Bridge, which has seemingly become a death trap?

    I’d say human factor. Yes, there is a bit of engineering issue because of the steepness of the road, but it is wide enough for safe driving. However, human activities and our tendency not to follow rules, speed limit violation and all that are serious contributors. And this may be as a result of some vehicles that don’t have enough of compression. Some of them, when they descend the hill, they want to use extra force to emerge through the slope. Mind you in that process, the slightest distraction would cause a derail, loss of control, and you see such vehicles capsizing or landing on their side, and affecting some other oncoming vehicles. These are some of the things we have observed overtime. If everybody drives the way they should, obey traffic rules, that road would be managed properly. And if we’re talking of correcting the engineering issue, a bridge is not something that can be reconstructed overnight, especially on a highway like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. A minute of road closure or obstruction on that road will immediately amount to over a kilometer of traffic gridlock. So the drivers should change their attitude and be more careful and responsible, especially when they approach that part of the road.

    But be that as it may, there is an ongoing collaboration – you know that part of Kara falls into Ogun state. Last Sunday, we held a meeting with Lagos and Ogun states on how to collaborate and ensure that that those issues are taken care of. Tomorrow (this past Thursday), we, the FRSC Lagos/Ogun, the controller of works, Lagos and Ogun, and some other stakeholders are going for physical inspection of that area. You can see that we’re not just sitting quiet doing nothing. We are not happy with the situation; the traffic gridlock is affecting us as well. We use the same road, we have appointments too, and you can’t violate traffic rules because you are officials.

    We’ve also noticed that the accidents on this bridge almost always involve trucks and articulated vehicles; is there no way these truck drivers can be educated to take appropriate measures so that we can avoid these kinds of incidences?

    We do, we do more of advocacy, but it just means that it’s not enough yet. We need to heighten it; we need to go to their sources, to let them know more of these things. We also do more of checking. It might interest you to know that we have met them at their depots on several occasions. But these are wet cargoes. For the dry cargoes, the inspections are being done at the various ports, which is not comprehensive enough. So, by the time we are done with these collaborative efforts, you will see that we would be able to forge ahead and take care of these things.

    Read Also: Heavy gridlock as truck falls on Otedola Bridge  

    There is also the related issue of traffic gridlock, how are you handling that?

    If human beings take care in how they handle situations like that, definitely, there would be reduction in such incidences. Let us assume a crash happens; there is something we also need to do to forestall people from driving against traffic, which our people are want to do, and which contributes to the heavy traffic gridlock our people experience. Unabated driving against traffic has a ripple effect and it can lead to total lockdown of the entire Lagos State, like it happened two Fridays ago. So part of what we’re recommending are heavy-duty machines or cranes that can be immediately deployed to remove some of these vehicles when these incidences happen.

    How about the FRSC stationing men to warn drivers of the steeply road ahead, so that even if they didn’t know or have forgotten, they could be reminded and they can take precaution?

    It is quite possible, but it is more important that drivers understand what they need to do. Even if we deploy one million officers to warn them, a stupid driver would run at a suicidal speed that he would ignore even the men standing. That is the truth.

    Do you have a data of the amount of incidences that we have been having on that axis as per certain time?

    Yes, it can be generated because we have all the crashes on that axis documented, but I will need the permission from my national headquarters in Abuja.  

  • Rape of two-year-oldrenews concerns over gender-based violence in Plateau (1)

    Rape of two-year-oldrenews concerns over gender-based violence in Plateau (1)

    • Inside Plateau’s growing gender-based violence crisis

    Plateau State has in recent years remained one of the flashpoints of gender-based violence in North-Central Nigeria. Cases of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and child rape continue to make headlines, revealing the vulnerability of women and children in the state. One of the most disturbing incidents in recent times is the rape of a two-year-old girl, Maryam Ahmad, in Bassa Local Government Area, an event that has once again drawn attention to the systemic challenges of tackling gender-based violence in Plateau State, DAVID ADENUGA reports.

    Maryam Ahmad was just two years and eight months old when her life changed forever. According to her mother, Safiya Umar, a sexual assault on her occurred in October 2025 under circumstances she described as tragic and totally unexpected.

    Safiya explained that she lives separately from her husband, who resides in another house with his other wives.

    On the day of the incident, she had gone to attend to her sick father and, feeling exhausted, allowed Maryam to visit her father’s house in Bassa; something she rarely permitted. That decision, she admitted, would later haunt her.

    Safiya recalled: “When I came back and didn’t see her, I went to check. I found her lying down, with some bloodstains.

    “At first, I thought she had hurt herself. She was sleepy and later started vomiting.

    “She kept shouting ‘trader man, trader man.’ That was when I checked her and saw some dry blood.

    “Then I knew that something terrible had happened.”

    Medical examinations would later confirm her worst fears.

    The Toro Centre for Care and Support for Adolescent Children and Women got involved in the case after receiving reports.

    The Executive Director, Sulaiman Muhammad Sani, said his organisation was first informed on the second day, though details were unclear.

     “Later, we heard the child was in a hospital in Bauchi.

    “I mobilised my team, and after examination, we realised the facility was not suitable, so we moved her to Jos University Teaching Hospital,” he said.

    At JUTH, paediatric doctors referred Maryam to the emergency unit, where further examinations confirmed sexual abuse. Tests at the police clinic corroborated the findings.

    Despite her young age, Maryam was able to identify the alleged perpetrator.

    Sani added that the suspect had allegedly attempted such acts before, but earlier incidents were reportedly resolved quietly after community interventions.

    The suspect, 26-year-old Job Josiah from Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State, was arrested the day after the incident.

    However, the case took on a new dimension when some community members tried to dismiss the allegation because Josiah is a Christian.

    “They said we were lying against him. But a child of two years cannot lie. When she was asked at the station, she pointed at him,” Safiya said.

    Attempts to suppress the case initially led Sani’s organisation to publicise aspects of the incident on social media, drawing attention from senior police authorities.

    Plateau State Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina personally interrogated the suspect after receiving calls from higher authorities, including an Assistant Inspector-General of Police.

    The case was later transferred from the State Criminal Investigation Department to the Ministry of Justice for legal advice; a stage that would determine whether the suspect would face charges in court.

    “We are following the case bumper to bumper,” Sani said.

    “We have seen cases delayed for months, with suspects granted bail and justice frustrated.

    “We do not want that to happen here.”

    Gender-based violence as a trend

    Maryam Ahmad’s case is one of many across Plateau State. Between 2023 and 2025, Plateau recorded several gender-based violence incidents involving minors and women, according to civil society organisations and media investigations.

    In September 2025, a 14-year-old girl in Gangare, Jos North, was allegedly raped by a chemist shop owner, who was reportedly released by community leaders after initial apprehension.

     In October 2025, the police arrested a man for allegedly defiling a three-year-old girl in Mista Ali community, a case that sparked tension in the area. Some parents were reportedly pressured to accept financial settlements, allowing perpetrators to evade justice.

    Reports have highlighted a disturbing trend of sexual violence linked to insecurity and conflict in rural areas. A February 2025 report noted that several women were allegedly raped by “land-grabbing terrorists” in one year.

    A widow from Mangu Local Government Area recalled how five bandits gang-raped her 13-year-old daughter after killing her husband in November 2025.

    Read Also: Chris Okafor to VDM, Doris, others: prove rape allegation or face legal action

    Advocacy groups have also raised the alarm over rising sexual violence in rural communities such as Bokkos, Mangu, and Bassa, where limited access to justice and fear of stigma discourage reporting.

    In 2024, a series of child defilement cases prompted the Plateau State Government to restate its zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence, leading to renewed collaboration with non-governmental organisations and the establishment of gender desks in some police divisions.

    Despite the foregoing efforts, activists say prosecution remains slow, survivor support is inadequate, and poverty continues to expose women and children to risk.

    The National Human Rights Commission reported that Plateau State has recorded a total of 1,868 gender-based violence cases from 2024 to date.

    Kiyenpiya Mafuyai, the state’s Director Legal Coordinator, attributed the high numbers to prolonged violent attacks in the state, which have led to displacement, economic hardship, and increased vulnerability.

    She also noted that harmful traditional and religious practices contribute significantly to GBV.

    Mafuyai stressed that the official figures do not reflect the true scale of the problem, as many cases go unreported due to stigma and fear. She observed that most reported cases involve child rape, while older women are less likely to come forward.

    “Many perpetrators are shielded. Even when cases are reported, incidents are often frustrated because people come to plead that the perpetrator be released or pardoned.

    “Religious leaders, traditional rulers and politicians sometimes defend perpetrators instead of protecting victims.

    “This discourages reporting because survivors feel they may not get justice,” she said.

    She added that child-rape cases occur for many reasons. Some claim ritual purposes are involved, while in other cases, the psychological motives of perpetrators are unknown.

    “Rape remains a persistent form of gender-based violence in the state, and many survivors are unwilling to report because they lack confidence in the justice system,” she said.

    The NHRC also noted that perpetrators are often shielded even when cases are reported. Religious leaders, traditional rulers and politicians sometimes intervene for perpetrators, discouraging survivors from seeking justice.

    The Commission stressed the need to change this narrative, saying perpetrators must be held accountable to serve as a deterrent to others.

     Efforts  to address GBV

    The NHRC engages in continuous advocacy across key sectors, pushing for reforms that make reporting safer and more survivor-friendly. It also advocates for shelters for victims of domestic violence.

    Sustained advocacy led to the passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law in 2022, which criminalises most forms of GBV and prescribes life imprisonment for rape.

    The Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission also provides another platform for reporting cases.

    The NHRC operates a complaint mechanism that allows members of the public to report GBV for investigation and appropriate action. It works with the police to strengthen gender desks and trains officers to respond sensitively to survivors.

    The Commission also engages men and young people to discourage harmful behaviour and conducts annual awareness campaigns during the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV.

    These involve the justice sector, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, and communities, using media programmes and town hall meetings to raise awareness and protect survivors.

    For Safiya Umar, the struggle goes beyond seeking justice. With her husband ill and no stable source of income, caring for Maryam and her other children has become increasingly difficult.

    “I am not doing anything for a living. Even feeding is a problem. We just want the government and police to help us get justice,” she said.

    As of the time of this report, Maryam’s case remained with the Plateau State Ministry of Justice, awaiting confirmation on whether the suspect had a case to answer in court.

  • Banditry: Combined military operations restoring peace in beleaguered Kwara communities

    Banditry: Combined military operations restoring peace in beleaguered Kwara communities

    • Six wounded terrorists hospitalised in Omu-Aran

    Although it is not yet uhuru in parts of Kwara State with regard to the threats of insecurity, peace is gradually returning to a few of the affected communities. Bandits and other non-state actors have in the last one year held six local government areas in Kwara South and North regions by the jugular.

    The invasion of the massive forests of Ekiti, Ifelodun, Oke-Ero and Isin local government areas in Kwara South and Edu and Patigi in Kwara North has left in its wake summary termination of lives, dislocations and disruption of normal activities. The scary development had temporarily turned the once serene agrarian communities into desolate habitations, with Eruku, Babanla, Oke-Ode and Gbugbu in Kwara South and North as some of the worst hit last year.

    Some members of these communities are yet to come to terms with the reality of life. Some fleeing members had returned while others were still taking refuge on the outskirts of Ilorin, the state capital, it was gathered.

    An indigene of Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area, where scores of vigilantes were gunned down late last year, said the community is now bubbling with life. In Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area where some Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) worshippers were killed and about 30 kidnapped last year, the monarch, Owa Busari Olarenwaju, hailed the swift intervention of the security personnel. He said that life was gradually returning to his domain.

    But the Coordinator, Joint Security Watch in Kwara South, Elder Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, told The Nation that the people who fled their communities would not be able to fully return until the completion of the ongoing security operations. “Only a few of them have returned. Until the conclusion of the ongoing efforts on forests clearing through the joint military operations, it may not be visible,” Oyin-Zubair said.

    He reported a fresh kidnap incident on Idofin–Odo, Aga–Olla Rroad, where two women and a young boy were abducted by suspected bandits. “One elderly woman has been released. Another escaped. But the young boy remains in captivity. Security agencies are intensifying efforts to ensure his safe rescue,” he said.

    Oyin-Zubair added that sustained military air and ground operations across parts of Kwara State have forced armed bandits to flee their forest hideouts, leading to the destruction of several criminal camps and neutralisation of over 100 terrorists. The security operation is code-named “Operation India.”

    According to him, the offensive targeted major bandit enclaves in Baba Sango and other forests spanning Ifelodun, Edu and Patigi local government areas, where airstrikes and ground bombardments were carried out by the military in collaboration with other security agencies.

    He revealed that intelligence reports confirmed that many of the fleeing bandits sustained gunshot injuries, with six of them currently receiving treatment at Omu Aran General Hospital, while others were believed to have relocated towards Ekiti Local Government Area around the Isapa axis.

    He commended the forest guards in Ekiti and Oke-Ero local government areas for their swift response and bravery in repelling bandits and preventing their movement into the communities.

    “Their vigilance and courage have played a vital role in securing Ekiti and Oke-Ero LGAs and blocking the infiltration of fleeing criminals,” he added.

    Read Also: Governor Lawal renews synergy against banditry 

    Oyin-Zubair urged residents of Kwara South and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or strange faces in their areas. “The bandits may attempt to regroup in new locations. Community alertness is critical at this time as authorities continue operations to restore lasting peace across the state,” he said.

    Security agencies have assured residents of sustained military presence in the affected forests until all criminal elements are flushed out and normalcy is fully restored, he said.

    Based on the ongoing Operation India, two local government areas of Ifelodun and Edu have imposed a 24-hour curfew on communities in the areas. The curfew affects the entire Oro-Ago District in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state, the council chairman Hadji Abdulrasheed Yusuf said in a statement.

    The curfew is aimed at supporting ongoing security operation in the area. Oro-Ago has one of the longest forests housing bandits in Ifelodun Local Government Area. The LG chair added: “The curfew goes into effect by 6 am on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in a coordinated effort to put terrorists in disarray and protect lives and property in the area.

    “Within this period, there will be no human or vehicular traffic in the entire district. This is in support of the ongoing security clearance operation in the area. Further reviews of this measure will be communicated.”

    In Edu LGA, the Council Chair Abdullahi Bello announced a 24-hour curfew on Gbugbu community, including the popular international market in Gbugbu. Bello added that the curfew was effective from 6pm on Tuesday, January 27.

    He said: “The curfew is part of the measures to protect lives and property in the area as security forces continue their operation in areas of interest.

    “This means human and vehicular movement is prohibited in the area under curfew. This is a security decision.”

    Sadly, a security source said the operations were being hampered by moles and informants in different communities, who give out information about troops’ movements.

    “Residents need to be vigilant. They need to speak up about the informants who give out information on troops’ movements. This is important for more success,” the source added.

    As part of the efforts to restore peace in bandits-ravaged communities, late last year, about 1,000 forest guards in the state graduated from training. The guards have already been deployed to curtail the activities of terrorists, kidnappers and illegal miners in the state.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq called the initiative a game changer, which he said would leave the terrorists and kidnappers with the option of either leaving the state or paying a heavy prize. He commended President Bola Tinubu for “thinking out of the box” to repossess Nigeria’s forest resources, expel all the bad faith actors occupying the forests, and strengthen public safety.

    Governor AbdulRazaq also thanked the security forces for their commitment to protecting lives, saying a synergy with the new auxiliary forces who were all drawn from local communities will strengthen the campaign to fight terrorists and kidnappers.

    Governor AbdulRazaq said: “Today opens a new page in our campaign against all forms of terrorism, kidnapping, and opportunist attacks on our people by bad faith actors who exploit our vast territories for evil purposes.

    “The enlistment of armed forest guards to complement the patriotic efforts of our security forces is a game changer in this campaign.

    “It shows very clearly that the government is committed to the mission of ridding our country of all forms of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

    “And the message is very clear: more than ever before, the terrorists now have the option of immediately leaving our state or paying a heavy price.

    “Today’s launch of the forest guards simply means that we are going on the offensive because our people deserve their peace as freeborns. We have had enough! Anyone who thinks or acts otherwise is our enemy who will not be spared.

    “Distinguished forest guards, you are embarking on a national assignment to protect our people from all criminals in our forests.

    “Working with gallant officers and personnel of the security forces, you are to go all out to flush out the terrorists, restore sanity in our forests, and keep our communities safer than they ever were.

    “I commend the President of the Federal Republic for this bold policy response to the security situation in our country and the larger Sahel Region.

    “I thank the leadership of the National Security Adviser for pulling this through. I am also confident that all the security forces will work together with the forest guards to end this menace once and for all.

    “More importantly, I urge the people of Kwara State to work with the security forces and the forest guards to flush out the terrorists and make our state uninhabitable for them.

    “While the forest guards are auxiliaries under the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Security, I assure you of our continuous support for this initiative just like we have done throughout your training.

     “Working with the ONSA, our plan is to ensure that each local government has at least 200 forest guards who will fortify our forests and work with local vigilantes to protect lives and property. 

    “I congratulate all the new forest guards. I thank you for agreeing to serve our state, and I reassure you of our continuous support as you embark on this important national security assignment. 

    “Finally, I thank all the security forces who were involved in the rigorous training programme. You all did so well. God bless you.”

     On his part, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said the newly trained forest guards would be deployed immediately to threatened communities in the pilot states, particularly around forested and ungoverned spaces.

    “The mandate of the forest guards is two-fold. First, they are entrusted with guarding our national heritage and charged with protecting, preserving, and sustainably managing our forest ecosystems, watersheds, wildlife, and biodiversity.

    “Secondly, they serve as a critical force multiplier in our national security architecture, particularly in confronting bandits, insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements that are exploiting the vast, ungoverned forest spaces across the country for their heinous crimes.”

    Represented by the Assistant Director General for DSS, Femi Shotayo, the NSA added: “Aside from being first responders, these guards are expected to gather actionable human intelligence, support ongoing security operations, and restore state presence where it has long been absent.”

    He said the deployment of the guards will be immediate along with payment of salaries and allowances.

    Ribadu urged the trainees to abide by their oaths of allegiance to the Nigerian state and to respect human rights, gender rights, and protection of civilians, among other rules of engagement taught at the training.

    “The oath of allegiance is not a mere formality; it is a binding pledge of loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, obedience to lawful authority, and commitment to the protection of lives, property and the Constitution.

    “By this act, you formally accept the sacred responsibility entrusted to you by the Nigerian state.

    “You are henceforth bound to uphold discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights, and the highest standards of conduct in the execution of your duties,” he said.

    As a pre-emptive measure not to be caught off guard, the state government announced an extension of the closure of primary and secondary schools in concerned communities. It also announced a temporary closure of the state College of Education in Oro, Kwara South; a step indigenes of the community have hailed to high heavens.

    The indigenes, under the aegis of Oro Professional Forum (OPF) backed the state government’s decision to temporarily shutdown academic activities at the College of Education, Oro, over insecurity.   

  • ‘Name church hall after my parents’

    ‘Name church hall after my parents’

    • From Elekwachi Chinedum, Onitsha

    A philanthropist, Dr. Anthony Obele, has appealed to Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, to immortalise his late parents by naming the hall he built at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Ezinifite after them.

    He made the appeal during the memorial service of his late parents at St. Andrew’s Church, presided over by the Bishop, with a host of priests of Anglican and Catholic Churches in attendance.

    He paid tribute to the Bishop for approving that the Obele family built a hall in the church, pleading it bore his late parents’ names as lasting memorial for them.

    The Bishop, in his homily, described the remembrance of a good person as a blessing, while that of a bad person is a curse.

    According to him, Jesus Christ is concerned about both the dead and the living, as the dead reminds the living that one day, they too will die.

    The prelate urged everyone to live life in such a way that when they die, people will be crying because of their good deeds.

    Vicar of the church, Ven. Ikechukwu Okonisah, had appealed to the Bishop to approve the building of a church hall by the Obele family.

    Read Also: Rhema Christian Church sets stage for glorious year at Bethel Peace Day Service

    Responding, two sons of the late Chief & Mrs Hezekiah Obele, Pst. Eric Obele and Dr. Ikenna Obele, appreciated the Bishop, priests and the congregation for coming to worship with them in honour of their late parents, whom they said lived exemplary lives that they were still remembered till today.

    The Bishop in company of other clergy, the choir and family members had offered prayers at the graveside of the late parents before proceeding to Obele’s family compound for the dedication of Obele’s new mansion.

    Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has inaugurated five kilometres of asphalted and road built by Obele in the area as part of activities marking the memorial service of Obele’s late parents.

    He said the inauguration was in furtherance of public private community partnership (PPCP) exemplified by the philanthropist and his family for public purposes.

    He hoped the road would promote economic and social activities in the area and the state.

    The event, which also featured dedication of Obele’s palatial mansion, was attended by the traditional ruler of Ezinifite, Igwe Chukwuma Orji, his cabinet chiefs and other traditional rulers.

    President General of Ezinifite, Chief Nwora Ekwuilo, captains of industries, friends and associates were also among dignitaries at the event.

  • Bank donates solar-powered borehole

    Bank donates solar-powered borehole

    The Retail Operations Group of Access Bank has donated a solar-powered borehole to Umuokpo community in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.

    The inauguration of the borehole attracted dignitaries and prominent members of the community.

    Among them were the traditional ruler of Umuokpo autonomous community, Eze Eunan Ekeh (the Okpo 1 of Umuokpo community), the president-general of the community, as well as the councillor, Chief Chinemerem Nkwocha.

    Others included the Executive Vice Chairman of Owerri West Council, Osinachi Amako and his entourage, Chief Clement Asoluka, Access Bank workers, among other personalities.

    The Regional Director of Access Bank, Mr Charles Oguibe, said the borehole donation by workers of Access Bank to Umuokpo community was the first of its kind in Imo State.

    He said the project was aimed at providing the community with access to potable water.

    Read Also: Flooding: Group to empower 40 Anambra farmers on solar processing, storage

    The Zonal Head of Access Bank, Onyemauche Okere, said Umuokpo community should be grateful because it was randomly selected without any external influence.

    He urged residents to prioritise security of the facility.

    Eze Ekeh expressed gratitude to Access Bank for the project, noting that the community would safeguard it against vandalism.

    An indigene of the community, Chief Smart Unegbu, donated a new generator to the community to power the solar borehole, which he noted “is a high breed, as it can be powered by solar (sun) and electricity.”

    Residents hailed the management of the bank, describing the gesture as a new year gift.

  • Council boss reaffirms peace deal with counterpart

    Council boss reaffirms peace deal with counterpart

    The Chairman of Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Utibe Nwoko, has pledged to consolidate on the inter-community harmony and cordial relations with Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.

    He said Ika Council under his watch would sustain dialogue, peaceful coexistence and collaborative development with other neighbouring local governments areas, especially in Abia State.

    Nwoko said this while delivering remarks at a peace meeting between his people and residents of Ukwa East Council in Abia State.

    Describing the meeting as epochal, the council chairman said the engagement had continued to yield social and political benefits by providing a consistent platform for dialogue and peace-building.

    He said the gathering marked the beginning of a renewed phase in relationship between the people of Ikot Udo in Ika Local Government and their neighbours from Ukwa East and adjoining communities in Abia State.

    Read Also: Council seeks private sector investment pact with Türkiye

    Nwoko recalled that a similar peace meeting held on March 17, 2025, produced resolutions that had sustained peace between the communities up to the current time.

    He expressed gratitude to the governors and deputy governors of Akwa Ibom and Abia states for approving and supporting the continued convening of the peace meetings, and described their interventions as a demonstration of commitment to peace-building and inter-state cooperation.

    The council boss said Ikot Udo village in Ika Local Government shared a boundary with Abiaka village in Ibeme, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.

    He recalled that resolutions reached at the 2025 meeting was that both states would begin road construction from their natural boundaries, with Obingwa communities building towards their boundary, while Ika communities would undertake construction from Ikot Udo through Nto Mfong and Ikot Akata to Urua Inyang, covering a distance of about 3.7 kilometres.

    Nwoko said there was no genuine boundary dispute between the communities, stressing that no party was laying claim to land, houses, forests, cultural artefacts or economic trees.

    ‘’Rather, the core issue centres on identity, with Akirika Obu people seeking recognition as indigenes of Abia State, while Ikot Udo people maintain their identity as indigenes of Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

    He said identity-related differences should not be allowed to degenerate into hostility or disrupt development efforts, particularly the ongoing road building project intended to benefit the affected communities.

    According to him, disagreements over identity should never punctuate peace or truncate infrastructure projects designed to improve livelihoods and connectivity.

     Nwoko clarified that Ika Local Government did not have any boundary dispute with Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, noting that while Akirika Obu people claimed customary tenancy under Obingwa Local Government and traced their ancestral roots to Ukwa East near Port Harcourt in Rivers State, such narratives should not undermine peaceful coexistence or inter-community cooperation.

    Appealing for continuity of the road project, the council chairman urged Abia State Government to continue construction from Ntinwouzo through Obete Ibeme to Abiaka Ibeme, the last village in Obingwa Local Government, while Akwa Ibom State Government should complete its section from Ikot Udo through Nto Mfong and Ikot Akata to Urua Inyang in Ika Council

    He said completion of the road would further promote harmonious relations between Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State and Obingwa Council of Abia State, while strengthening ties with Ukwa East indigenes living in the area.

    Nwoko appealed for adequate security for contractors handling the project, to ensure uninterrupted work and timely completion, reiterating that the people of Ika, Akwa Ibom State and Abia State were peace-loving and committed to unity and development.

    He appreciated the sacrifices, goodwill and interventions of leaders from states, praying for peace in their homes and administrations, and expressing confidence that the meeting would yield fruitful outcomes.

    In their remarks, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, and her Abia State counterpart, Ikechukwu Emetu, an engineer, pleaded with the people of Ikot Udo in Ika Local Government Area and Ukwa East Council in Abia State to embrace peace for lasting development.

    They urged youths from the two communities to get involved in productive ventures, to improve their families, rather than engage in senseless feud, so as to encourage governments of the two states to do more for them.

    The peace parley was attended by stakeholders from the two states.

  • Police thwart robbery, nab mob for assaulting suspect

    Police thwart robbery, nab mob for assaulting suspect

    • From Godwin Otang, Calabar

    Cross River State Police Command, through the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, has prevented a mob action against a suspected armed robber, who allegedly attempted to rob a woman in Calabar, The Nation has learnt.

    Police sources said the operation led to the recovery of a Beretta pistol with three live 9mm rounds of ammunition and arrest of individuals involved in the mob attack.

    The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday.

    Sources said the police intervened and prevented a mob action against a suspected armed robber, who was allegedly attempting to rob a woman in Calabar.

    The operation led to the recovery of a Beretta pistol with three live 9mm rounds of ammunition and the arrest of individuals involved in the mob attack.

    The suspect, prior to the arrival of the police, was beaten unconscious by a mob at Abangasang area, Mbora Street, Calabar. He was taken to University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for medical attention.

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    The victim, whose personal information is yet to be verified, was pronounced dead at the hospital on Sunday morning.

    Three suspects are in police custody and are assisting with the ongoing investigation. The victim’s body has been evacuated and deposited at UCTH mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident continues.

    Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Rashid Afegbua,  described the operation as, “a clear demonstration of the command’s commitment to crime prevention, protection of lives and adherence to the rule of law.”

    The police boss reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for crime. The CP condemned mob action and emphasised that suspects apprehended by individuals must always be handed over to the police for proper investigation and prosecution, in accordance with the law.

    He appealed to the public to cooperate with the police by providing timely and useful information, and to refrain from taking the law into their hands.

    The command through its spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, assured the people of Cross River State of its resolve to ensure safety and security throughout the state.

  • Protest trail monarch’s election in Anambra community

    Protest trail monarch’s election in Anambra community

    From Elekwachi Chinedum, Onitsha

    Protests have greeted the election of the traditional ruler of Ndiowu community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chibuzor Okekeife, on January 12, 2026.

    While one group rejected the election, describing it as unconstitutional with the exclusion of women, the pro-monarch protesters insisted that the election must stand, having been approved by the government.

    On Monday, the anti-monarch group, predominantly women, stormed the Government House in Awka, calling on Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s intervention to forestall breakdown of law and order.

    The people also protested women exclusion from the election and use of secret ballot voting, ‘’which contravenes our town’s constitution.’’

    They called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene, to forestall breakdown of law and order.

    The protesters, predominantly women, bore placards with inscriptions such as: “The stool of Ezediohamma Ndiowu is not for sale”, “Respect our right to choose”, ‘’We say no to imposed election”, “Women must vote”, “Soludo Solution come and help us in our Eze Stool”, among others.

    Speaking to reporters, Chairman, Ndiowu Four Traditional Quarters, Chief Uchenna Iloh, sought transparent and credible poll, saying the candidacy must come from Ufere village, as stipulated by the 2024 constitution of the community.

    He said the community would not accept emergence of a United States of America-based businessman, ‘’who is from Umudiabor kindred.’’

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    Iloh said: “We’re here to protest injustice done to us, including discrimination against women in the community by the commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as the local government chairman.

    “We’re peace loving people and don’t want violence. We want women to have the right to vote, as they have always voted.

    “The commissioner insisted the election be conducted on January 12, as against the Easter period we chose, to enable more people participate in the exercise.

    “They went ahead to conduct the election on a church premises, instead of the town hall and without the women. The next thing we heard was that a new Igwe had emerged.

    “This is why we’re here to plead for governor’s intervention. We want the election conducted according to our constitution.”

    Responding on behalf of the governor, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Solo Chukwulobelu, hailed the protesters for their peaceful and orderly conduct, assuring them that their grievances would be attended to.

    He said: “I implore you to ensure there is no breakdown of order in the community. The problem will definitely be resolved and Ndiowu will continue to exist.”

    But in a sharp reaction, Chairman, Elders Council of Ndiowu Town and Leader, Ndiowu Progressives, Christian Nnabuihe, who spoke on behalf of the pro-monarch group, described Monday’s protesters as terribly misinformed, misadvised and misguided.

    He also described the constitution they paraded as fake, insisting that the 1990 constitution approved by government and Aguata High Court remained the authentic document guiding the community.

    Addressing reporters yesterday, Nnabuihe said the constitution not only declared that certain persons should no longer take part in election due to their dirty conduct, but was also clear about women participation in such election.

    He said: “We’re here to appreciate the governor for restoring peace to our town and creating a conducive atmosphere for the conduct of free, fair credible election that produced our monarch.

    “Ndiowu 1990 constitution is clear about all the issues those who came yesterday raised. I stand to be corrected, there’s no community in Anambra State where women are permitted to take part in selection of a traditional ruler.

    “Apart from the monarch being the custodian of people’s culture, it’s an abomination to involve women in an election that produces a traditional ruler. It has never happened anywhere.

    “Those people who were here yesterday (Monday) were terribly misinformed, misadvised and misguided. And the constitution they paraded was fake.

    “A lot of them are regretting their journey yesterday. Their presence was nullity as far as majority of Ndiowu is concerned.’’

    Also speaking, Woman President General of the town, Oby Okoli, said: “As women, we desire peace and progress for us, our children and children’s children in Ndiowu.’’

    Responding separately to both protesters, Secretary to State government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Dr Nwabufor Nwankwo, commended them for their peaceful and orderly conduct.

    They assured speedy response to the issues raised.

  • Fed Govt pegs housing deficit at 15m units

    Fed Govt pegs housing deficit at 15m units

    The National Housing Data Technical Committee, inaugurated by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has pegged Nigeria’s housing deficit for 2025 at 14.925 million housing units, underscoring the scale of the country’s housing challenge and the urgent need for data-driven interventions.

    Before now, operators in the sector have estimated the housing gap at over 20 million units.

    The data was presented by the Chairman of the National Housing Data Technical Committee and Director at Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) Dr. Taofeek Olatinwo, during a technical session at the 14th National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development.

    According to the presentation, recent analysis conducted under the National Housing Data Programme offers more scientific estimates compared to unverified figures touted over the last few years.

    The data, which focused on the number of persons per room as a standard for determining deficit, highlighted persistent supply gaps driven by rapid population growth, urbanisation pressures, limited access to long-term housing finance, land and title constraints, and inadequate housing supply across several regions.

    Housing Minister Ahmed Musa Dangiwa commended the committee for finally putting the issue of Nigeria’s housing data to rest. “One of the biggest gaps in our sector has been the absence of reliable, centralized, and actionable housing data. Without data, planning becomes guesswork; investment becomes speculative; and tracking progress becomes difficult,” he said.

    Earlier in his presentation, Dr. Olatinwo explained that the deficit estimates were derived from multiple validated data sources, including national household surveys, population and housing census data, and housing adequacy indices developed under international best practice frameworks.

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    “Reliable housing data is fundamental to solving Nigeria’s housing problem. Accurate measurement of the housing deficit allows government, lenders, developers, and investors to plan effectively, allocate resources properly, and design sustainable interventions that expand access to affordable housing,” he said.

    The presentation formed part of the broader work of the National Housing Data Technical Committee, a multi-agency platform inaugurated by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and coordinated by NMRC, in collaboration with National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), National Population Commission (NPC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Federal Housing Authority (FHA), and other key housing sector institutions.

    Under the programme, the Committee is leading efforts to establish the National Housing Data Centre, a central platform designed to aggregate, standardise, and disseminate housing and mortgage market data to support policy formulation, housing delivery planning, and long-term housing finance development.

    The new deficit figures reaffirm the scale of Nigeria’s housing challenge and strengthen the case for coordinated reforms in land administration, housing supply, infrastructure development, and mortgage finance expansion.

    The National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development serves as the highest intergovernmental policy forum on housing and urban development in Nigeria, bringing together federal and state governments to deliberate on sector priorities, reforms, and implementation strategies.

  • Dangote Cement unveils FairPlay for safety culture

    Dangote Cement unveils FairPlay for safety culture

    Dangote Cement Plc’s Ibese Plant in Ogun State has launched a Safety FairPlay Initiative to drive behavioural change and cultural shift towards safety conducts among its employees.

    The roll-out scheduled to be replicated at all the plants of Dangote Cement Plc marked a significant milestone in strengthening the Company’s safety culture.

    The pilot launch of the Group-wide FairPlay programme recorded impressive participation from both the management and employees, thus underscoring a shared commitment to safer work practices.

    The Safety FairPlay Initiative is designed to drive lasting behavioural and cultural change through an equitable and transparent framework that promotes safe conduct. Built on three core pillars—Recognition, Correction (Coaching) and Discipline—the initiative rewards positive safety behaviour, ensures consistency in addressing at-risk actions, and encourages open reporting of incidents, near-misses and errors.

    Speaking at the launch, DCP Technical Director, Anandam Duraisamy, emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative to the business and called on employees to champion a safety culture anchored on fairness, accountability, recognition, and continuous improvement.

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    Duraisamy noted that the Safety Fairplay marks a defining moment in the company’s journey toward building a workplace where safety is not just a policy, but a shared mindset—an everyday habit that defines who we are and how we work. We are here to launch an initiative that aims to transform not only what we do, but how we think, act, and respond when it comes to safety.

    He said: “Safety FairPlay is about building trust, consistency, and accountability in how we manage safety. When people know that safe behaviour is recognised, risky actions are fairly addressed, and everyone is treated equitably, safety becomes a shared responsibility and a true part of our culture.

    This initiative is about behavioural and cultural change. It recognises that true safety excellence goes beyond equipment, procedures, or compliance; it begins with people-our attitudes, our choices, and our willingness to look out for one another.

    Every incident prevented, every risk spotted, and every safe action taken strengthens our organisation. And that strength comes from you—from each member of our workforce embracing safety as a personal responsibility and a collective value.

    Also speaking, Ibese Plant Head of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Elvis Akalusi, commended DCP Management for driving the programme and applauded employees for their enthusiastic embrace of the initiative.

    He affirmed that the Safety FairPlay Initiative would be fully embedded into the Plant’s daily operations, with the full collaboration of all Heads of Departments.

    “This initiative will offer the tools, coaching, recognition, and accountability needed to help each of us make safer decisions. But its success depends on our shared commitment—our courage to consistently do the right thing, even when no one is watching.

    Let us approach this new chapter with open minds and a determination to improve. Let us build a culture where speaking up is encouraged, learning is continuous, and mistakes become opportunities to grow—not reasons for fear.”

    With the introduction of Safety FairPlay, Dangote Cement Ibese Plant further reinforces its position as a safety-driven operation, committed to safeguarding its people, assets, and long-term sustainability.