The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Police deny alleged brutality, faults circulating video

    Police deny alleged brutality, faults circulating video

    The Nigerian Police in Cross River State Police has refuted widespread claims alleging brutality by the law enforcement agency at the Cross River state capital.

    According to the police, the video currently circulating on social media alleging police brutality by personnel of the Operation Anti-Kidnapping Unit (popularly known as “Dragon”), is a false narrative.

    The Command  however,  clarifies that  the incident that occurred on 15 January 2026, at about 12:45 p.m., where a team of the Operation Anti-Kidnapping Squad, was on routine township patrol around the Ettagbor axis when they sighted a white Mercedes-Benz vehicle bearing a suspicious and improperly assigned registration number, which aroused their suspicion. And attempts to verify ownership, occupants and other checks have been twisted falsely.

    According to the police, “The team attempted to stop the vehicle to question the occupants and determine the car’s true ownership. However, the occupants refused to stop and instead drove into a popular telecommunications gadget complex known as “Tonimas,” located opposite the University of Calabar, with the patrol team following closely behind.

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    “Upon further questioning and an attempt to convey the vehicle and its occupants to the base for proper investigation, the suspect resisted lawful arrest and began to incite gadget vendors, students, and passers-by, falsely alleging that the Police were attempting to arrest and extort him unlawfully.

    “This action caused the situation to become tense. The team, observing the growing hostility, called for operational backup. Before the arrival of reinforcement, some members of the public became violent and pelted the officers with stones and sticks.”

    Information from the Police indicates that, upon the arrival of operatives from Operation Sting, Anti-Cultism, and Paramilitary Intervention (Operation Okowor), the suspect was eventually subdued and placed inside a patrol van. However, he jumped out of the vehicle and attempted to flee, violently resisting arrest. In the course of the struggle, his shirt was torn, and he also tore the uniform of one of the Anti-Kidnapping operatives.

  • Nwoko urges APC members to take party’s registration process seriously

    Nwoko urges APC members to take party’s registration process seriously

    The ongoing electronic membership registration and revalidation exercise of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presents an important moment for reflection and renewal within the party, Senator Ned Nwoko has stated.

    Senator Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, gave the advice via a political platform on Friday.

    He called on all APC members across the senatorial district and Delta State to act now, noting that a party that loses touch with its grassroots loses its soul.

    He said credible leadership begins with accurate records, active members, and transparent processes.

    According to Senator Nwoko, this exercise is how the party rebuilds trust, reinforces structure, and prepares for victory.

    He indicated that this is the moment to choose relevance over indifference, urging longstanding members who have carried the party through the years to ensure they are properly captured.

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    He also said new members who believe in the APC’s mission of national renewal and economic reform must step forward and formally take their place, stressing that history rewards participation, not hesitation. “Let us seize this moment, strengthen our base, and reaffirm the APC as a party organised to win and prepared to govern,” he stated.

    Senator Nwoko further said: “As a party, we must continuously strengthen our internal systems if we are to deliver on our promises to the Nigerian people.

    “Strong institutions, unity of purpose, and active citizen engagement remain essential to democratic growth and sustainable development.

    “I remain steadfast in my support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader APC leadership as we work collectively to consolidate democracy, deepen governance reforms, and advance meaningful development across Delta North and Nigeria.”

  • Pinnacle Oil and Gas unveils lubricant

    Pinnacle Oil and Gas unveils lubricant

    Leading downstream oil and gas firm Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, has announced the launch of its flagship fully synthetic lubricant product, PIBREUM SN-9000 5W-30, designed to deliver superior engine performance and protection.

    Officially introduced to the market in early January, PIBREUM SN-9000 5W-30 is an advanced fully synthetic formulation engineered to perform optimally across diverse driving conditions and terrains in Nigeria.

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    The product offers enhanced engine cleanliness, improved fuel efficiency, and superior protection against wear, even under extreme temperatures and heavy-duty use.

    Formulated with high-performance synthetic base oils and advanced additive technology, PIBREUM SN-9000 5W-30 is endorsed by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) for use nationwide.

    Speaking about the product, Mrs. Nnenna Mbaoma, Head of Sales and Marketing at Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, said the product was developed with quality, affordability, and accessibility in mind.

  • Enugu LG rallies behind APC, Tinubu as leaders flag off e-registration

    Enugu LG rallies behind APC, Tinubu as leaders flag off e-registration

    •Edeoga, Nnamani, others pledge massive membership drive

    Leaders and stakeholders of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State on Thursday intensified efforts to expand the membership base of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the party’s ongoing e-registration programme continued across the state.

    The exercise took place at Obibi Mgbuji community playground, where the LGA and ward-level flag-off took place amid a strong turnout of community elders, traditional leaders, women groups, youths and party faithful.

    Leading the exercise were the Executive Chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, Barr. Obiora Obeagu and the former Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 Enugu State election, Barr. Chijioke Edeoga, alongside other key stakeholders, formally registered into the APC.

    Speaking at the event, Edeoga described the e-registration as a critical mobilisation effort, stressing the need for stakeholders to galvanise grassroots support for the party.

    He said the exercise was aimed at strengthening backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah, noting that recent governance outcomes were already yielding visible benefits at the local government level.

    Edeoga also commended the APC for embracing a digital registration process, describing it as a step in the right direction.

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    Also lending his voice, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Chief Augustine Nnamani, said his participation underscored the growing acceptance of the APC in the state.

    He attributed his decision to what he described as the performance of President Tinubu, adding that mass registration would translate into electoral strength during future polls.

    In his remarks, Barr. Obeagu expressed satisfaction with the level of stakeholder participation, declaring that Isi-Uzo was firmly aligned with the current administration in the state.

    He urged residents to demonstrate their support by registering as APC members, insisting that the local government was on course to meet its ambitious target of 200,000 registrants.

    Obeagu further announced plans to reward wards that record the highest number of new registrations, noting that hard work would be recognised and encouraged.

    The State Coordinator of the APC e-registration programme, Chief Flavour Eze, explained that the visit to Isi-Uzo followed concerns over the initially low registration figures recorded in the area.

  • Fed Govt bans sand mining on River Niger, installs CCTV cameras on 2nd Niger Bridge

    Fed Govt bans sand mining on River Niger, installs CCTV cameras on 2nd Niger Bridge

    The Federal Government has announced a ban on mining of sand ten kilometer radius on River Niger as measures to protect the first and second Niger bridges.

    Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi disclosed this on Friday in Asaba during the commissioning of the second Niger bridge CCTV monitoring centre.

    He said the decision was taken by the Federal Executive Council as part of efforts to protect critical federal infrastructure across the country.

    According to him, tolling on the second Niger Bridge will not commence until all access roads at Anambra and Delta State sections are completed.

    He added that the CCTV monitoring centre was to ensure adequate security along the Federal highway.

    “The tollgate is ready but we won’t start tolling on the road until we complete the access roads and bypass roads that lead to the bridge.

    “The idea is that there will be no security checkpoints on the road, police and other security agencies will be at the CCTV monitoring centre and provide rapid response to emergencies within five minutes,” he added.

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    Umahi directed Delta Police Command to ensure implementation of the ban as well as arrest offenders.

    The Asagba of Asaba, Prof Epiphany Azinge commended the Federal Government for effectively completing the second Niger bridge and enumerated the socio economic benefits of the project.

    Chairman, Anambra State Council of Traditional Rulers and Igwe of Obosi, Chidubem Iweka said the opening of the bridge has reduced traffic on the first bridge and eased movement during and after the yuletide.

    Expressing optimism that the installation of the security camera would boost confidence of commuters plying the road, Iweka called for speedy completion of the access roads to the second Niger Bridge.

  • Nwifuru confirms rescue, reunification of trafficked teenage girls

    Nwifuru confirms rescue, reunification of trafficked teenage girls

    Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has confirmed that teenage girls from the state who were trafficked to Nnewi in Anambra State have been rescued and reunited with their families.

    Governor Nwifuru disclosed this at his Oferekpe country home during the celebration of Oferekpe Day, held at the community playground.

    The governor told Journalists that beyond rescuing and reuniting the girls with their parents, the state government is making arrangements to rehabilitate and empower them to become self-reliant.

    It would be recalled that a viral video circulated on social media showing about 25 teenage girls, aged between 13 and 16, who were trafficked to Anambra State, where they were allegedly involved in prostitution and other illicit activities.

    The brothel where they were kept was later exposed, leading to their rescue.

    Governor Nwifuru assured that his administration would not stand by and watch citizens of the state being trafficked within or outside the country for prostitution or sexual exploitation.

    “All the girls seen in the viral video who were trafficked to Anambra State have been brought back and reunited with their parents. They are currently living with their families, and we are working towards their rehabilitation.

    “We do not want to disclose our next line of action for now, but we are determined to clamp down on child and human trafficking to prevent a repeat of such unfortunate incidents,” he said.

    The governor also disclosed that academic activities have commenced at the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University, Oferekpe Agbaja, in Izzi Local Government Area, established by his administration.

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    According to him, about 200 students are currently undergoing their BSc programmes, adding that the institution is fully operational.

    “The ICT University is alive. Students have been admitted, and academic activities are ongoing. While addressing my people, I encouraged them to take advantage of the institution.

    “The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted approval for the smooth take-off of the university, and learning is already in progress,” Nwifuru stated.

    On efforts to curb drug abuse in the state, the governor noted that lack of education has significantly contributed to the menace. He assured that his administration is intensifying enlightenment campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of drug abuse.

    “We are bringing education closer to our people. Education helps individuals understand the dangers of drug abuse and why it should be avoided. We are committed to reducing drug abuse among our youths to the barest minimum,” he added.

  • Two police officers killed as gunmen attack patrol team in Enugu

    Two police officers killed as gunmen attack patrol team in Enugu

    At least two police officers attached to the Distress Response Squad (DRS) of the Enugu State Police Command were killed on Thursday night after gunmen attacked their patrol team in Enugu, the state capital.

    The incident occurred at about 8.00 p.m. along Agbani Road, in the Detective Police College (DEPO) junction.

    According to police sources, the assailants suddenly opened fire on the patrol vehicle without provocation while the officers were on duty along the street.

    The police operatives reportedly responded to the attack, leading to an exchange of gunfire that forced the assailants to flee with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.

    During the incident, the patrol vehicle was set ablaze, while two officers sustained severe gunshot wounds.

    They were rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention but were later confirmed dead by medical personnel.

    It was further gathered that the gunmen made away with AK-47 rifles and some ammunition belonging to the slain officers.

    Reacting to the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, ordered an intensified manhunt for the perpetrators, whom the police described as suspected IPOB/ESN-linked criminal elements.

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    He directed tactical and intelligence units of the Command to deploy all available resources and sustain the trail of the fleeing suspects to ensure their arrest and prosecution.

    In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the Command disclosed that a Lexus RX 330 SUV earlier snatched from a resident and used by the assailants during the attack has been recovered.

    The vehicle was said to bear multiple bullet holes from the exchange of gunfire.

    CP Giwa also appealed to members of the public with credible information that could aid the arrest of the suspects to promptly report to the nearest police station or contact the Command through available channels.

    He assured residents that the Enugu State Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice and that criminal elements do not undermine public safety in the state.

  • Tinubu congratulates Peregrino Kolawole Paul at 65

    Tinubu congratulates Peregrino Kolawole Paul at 65

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Mr Peregrino Kolawole Paul, an administrator, strategist and entrepreneur, on his 65th birthday, commending his decades of service and contributions to public life.

    ‎In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined members of the Peregrino family, friends and associates to celebrate the milestone, describing it as the culmination of years of dedication and impactful engagement in public service.

    ‎Tinubu praised Peregrino’s leadership as General Manager of the Lagos State Printing Corporation, where he said the celebrant has provided purposeful direction in repositioning the corporation for improved efficiency, competitiveness and growth.

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    ‎President Tinubu said Peregrino’s life journey reflects discipline, resilience and an enduring commitment to service, recalling his early professional years in the insurance sector and at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, as well as his entrepreneurial pursuits and long-standing involvement in grassroots politics.

    ‎The President also acknowledged Peregrino’s contributions to political development in Lagos State and the South-West since 1999, noting his role in strengthening party organisation and democratic participation in the region.

    ‎“As Peregrino celebrates his 65th birthday, President Tinubu wishes him good health, renewed strength, and more fulfilment in the years ahead,” the statement said.

  • Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Aliyu lays wreath, flags off distribution of food items to 500 widows

    Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Aliyu lays wreath, flags off distribution of food items to 500 widows

    Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has joined other dignitaries in the state to observe the symbolic wreath-laying ceremony marking the conclusion of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

    Other dignitaries who laid wreaths at the event include the Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga; the Chief Judge of Sokoto State, Justice Saidu Muhammad Sifawa; the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Ajose; the Commander, 119 Composite Group, Group Captain Gumut; the Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa; the State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Alhaji Aliyu Danchadi; and a representative of widows of fallen heroes, Jamila Gambo.

    Speaking to journalists shortly after the event, Governor Ahmed Aliyu refuted a viral video alleging that residents of Tidibale community were chased away by bandits from their village. He clarified that the individuals seen in the footage were temporarily relocated to Isa Local Government headquarters by the local council following rumours of a planned bandit attack.

    The Governor explained that the affected community members have since returned to their village, adding that security has been reinforced in the area.

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    He further warned against the politicisation of security issues, stressing the need for citizens to cooperate with the state government and security agencies in their collective efforts to ensure peace and safety across the state.

    Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Ajose, assured residents of Tidibale and surrounding communities of continued security presence, urging them to go about their normal lawful activities without fear.

    Major General Ajose also commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for approving the distribution of food items to widows of fallen heroes in the state, describing the initiative as the first of its kind.

    Out of the 500 bags of rice, along with cooking oil and salt procured by the state government, 50 were allocated to the barracks community, while 450 will be distributed to members of the Nigerian Legion across the 23 local government areas of the state.

  • After almost a year, Yobe University gets substantive Vice Chancellor

    After almost a year, Yobe University gets substantive Vice Chancellor

    The Governing Council of Yobe State University has announced the appointment of Professor Mohammed Bashir Tahir as the new substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.

    The Nation reports that Professor Bashir’s appointment is coming almost a year since Prof Mala Daura completed his tenure in February last year.

    The appointment of the new vice chancellor was made public by the chairman of the Governing Council, Bar.  Ahmed Mustapha Goniri, in a short statement yesterday.

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    The statement reads in part: “His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, CON, Chiroman Gujba, has approved the appointment of Professor Mohammed Bashir Tahir as the Substantive Vice-Chancellor of Yobe State University, Damaturu.

    “The appointment was approved following a recommendation by the Governing Council of the University at its extraordinary meeting held on 15th January 2026,” the statement said.

    The statement also gave a summary of the biography of the new vice-chancellor as “a Professor of General Surgery, a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons. Until his appointment, he is the Medical Director of the Ultra-Modern Police Hospital, Damaturu”.

    Professor Bashir will take over from Professor Bukar Jamri who has been acting in that capacity from February 12th, 2025.