The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Abuja

  • Osun communal war: FHA boss tasks NEMA to provide relief materials for displaced victims 

    Osun communal war: FHA boss tasks NEMA to provide relief materials for displaced victims 

    Following the recent communal clash between Ifon and Ilobu communities over a land dispute, Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Abuja, Mr. Oluremi Omowaiye, has urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide urgent relief for displaced residents in Osun State.

    The violent conflict, which later spread to Erin-Osun, claimed three lives, left 30 people with gunshot injuries, and displaced over 100,000 residents. Property worth more than N2 billion was also destroyed.

    Reacting to the incident, Omowaiye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed dismay that more than 72 hours after the violence erupted, there had been no significant relief effort from the Osun State Government.

    In a statement to journalists on Sunday, he condoled with families who lost loved ones and properties, describing the aftermath of the clash as devastating.

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    Omowaiye called for swift intervention to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities.

    According to him “Over 72-hour after, we can’t see anyone set up camp or provide any form of succor for those displaced in the violent clashes in Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun by the Osun State Government. 

    “These are people living in their various houses and having places of work till Thursday evening that the crises erupted and they have suddenly become displaced right in their own state. They should be treated better and I find it hard to believe that authorities directly concerned are not acting yet.

    Omowaiye pleaded with the Vice President, Kashim Shettima who surpevises National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to direct the agency to come around and provide relief materials for the victims. 

    He lamented that “These people are hanging around, sleeping in churches and mosques for those that could find, while others have been at sleeping at different spots along Osogbo/Ogbomoso road. 

    “I am also using this medium to call on ex governor and our political Leader HE Adegboyega Oyetola, to use his connections and goodwill to get immediate aid for these people.“

  • Police rescue 23 children from child trafficking syndicate in Abuja

    Police rescue 23 children from child trafficking syndicate in Abuja

    The Federal Captain Territory (FCT) Police Command has rescued 23 children from a suspected child trafficking syndicate. 

    The police said the syndicate was operating under the guise of an orphanage in Kubwa, Abuja.

    The suspect was arrested following credible intelligence on suspicious activities on March 20 2025 at Mother Deborah Orphanage.

    Police operatives from Kubwa Division swiftly stormed the location. 

    The operation, the police said, led to the rescue of a three-year-old child, suspected to have been stolen from Kaduna State. 

    Two suspects, including the orphanage owner, Ijeoma Andy, were arrested while efforts are ongoing to track down other accomplices.

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    According to a statement on Saturday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh: “In a major breakthrough in the fight against child trafficking and missing persons, the FCT Police Command has successfully rescued 23 children from a suspected child trafficking syndicate operating under the guise of an orphanage in Kubwa, Abuja.

    “Further investigations uncovered a shocking discovery of 22 additional children, aged between 2 and 14 years (14 females and 8 males), believed to be victims of child trafficking. When interrogated, Ijeoma Andy failed to provide a reasonable account of the children’s origins or how they ended up in her facility. The 22 rescued children have since been taken into protective care, where they are receiving the necessary attention.

    “The FCT Police Command assures residents that the Command will stop at nothing to dismantle criminal networks preying on innocent children and persons.

    “The FCT Police Command calls on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the Police through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653”.

  • POWA celebrates IWD in Lagos, Abuja

    POWA celebrates IWD in Lagos, Abuja

    The Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Lagos commands have celebrated women in security and law enforcement.

    They also celebrated the contributions of female spouses of security officers, noting the sacrifices they make and roles they play in nation building.

    In Lagos, the celebration, which was part of  the International Women’s Day, culminated in a march led by the Chairperson and wife of Commissioner of Police Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, Mrs. Oluwatoyin.

    The march, which started from the POWA Secretariat at Oduduwa Street, Ikeja GRA, went through Isaac John Street to Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way before terminating at the secretariat. Mrs Jimoh advised the women to support their spouses by being resourceful and not just sitting idly at home.

    She said POWA would engage some of the women in skills acquisition training to help to be financial independence to assist their husbands.

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    Similarly, the chairperson, FCT POWA, Mrs. Olufunmilola Disu, who hosted wives of officers and pupils from various police secondary schools in Abuja, urged women to keep making positive impacts.

    Mrs. Disu, who was represented by her deputy, Mrs. Veronica Iwodi, the wife of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, said: “To every woman breaking barriers, juggling responsibilities, and standing strong in the face of adversity- your strength is the foundation upon which families, communities, and nations are built.

    “In demanding professions like security and law enforcement, where the stakes are high and sacrifices are great, your resilience and dedication inspire generations. Keep pushing forward, knowing that your contributions are invaluable and your potential limitless.”

  • FG, Abuja expo launch first virtual interior, furniture exhibition

    FG, Abuja expo launch first virtual interior, furniture exhibition

    The federal government, in collaboration with the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo, has inaugurated its first-ever virtual Interior and Furniture Expo, a pioneering event designed to showcase industry innovations while boosting Nigeria’s digital economy.

    Project Coordinator Faisal Jafar Rafindadi described the maiden edition as a significant step in advancing interior design and furniture manufacturing through technology.

    Our correspondent gathered that the event is organized by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, alongside the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.

    “This virtual expo provides a unique platform for industry professionals, manufacturers, and enthusiasts to connect, network, and explore new possibilities,” Rafindadi stated.

    He emphasized the federal government’s commitment to its Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes digital technology as a driver of economic growth.

    The two-day event offers participants opportunities to engage with industry leaders, witness product demonstrations, and discover cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of interior design and furniture.

    Rafindadi also acknowledged the crucial support of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment in making the event a reality.

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    Also, Director of Mobilisation, Dr Kabir Mustapha, emphasised the importance of leveraging digital platforms to expand Nigeria’s economic opportunities.

    “As the first of its kind in Nigeria, this expo demonstrates our commitment to using technology to drive growth and development,” he said.

    “Attendees will be able to explore virtual exhibition booths, attend keynote sessions, participate in interactive workshops, and connect with fellow professionals and potential clients.”

    Dr Mustapha expressed appreciation for the event’s partners, including the Nigerian Association of Engineering Craftsmen under the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

    He also announced plans for transition of the expo into a physical format in the last quarter of the year, saying it would build on the success of the virtual edition.

    “This innovative approach will enable us to reach a wider audience, foster global connections, and provide a unique experience for all participants,” he said. 

  • Thugs invade The Nation property in Abuja

    Thugs invade The Nation property in Abuja

    No fewer than 10 thugs yesterday invaded The Nation property in Abuja.

    The Police prevented what could have resulted in fracas between the thugs and staff members of The Nation.

    The unknown persons were laying claim to a plot of land belonging to Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation, beside the printing press on Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja.

    According to the Regional Manager, North of The Nation, Samson Oyederan, the unknown persons invaded the land, claiming ownership.

    The two persons, who led others without disclosing their identity, said the land was bought by one Alhaji Aminu in 2012.

    While trying to prevent them from gaining access to the land, Oyederan said he alerted the police division in Trademore, Lugbe.

    Oyederan said statements had been written by both sides, and after several questioning, the Trademore Divisional Police Officer (DPO) released the two who led the invaders on bail, and asked them alongside The Nation staff members to report at the police station by 10 am today.

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    He pleaded with the police to do the needful to prevent an attack in the area.

    Oyederan explained further: “We woke up this morning and discovered that some people were trying to enter this plot of land.

    “I was informed by one of our security men and I instructed that they should not allow anybody to drop any sand or allow any vehicle into the premises. So, they brought another truck and at that point they did not allow them.

    “So, after that time, we were here when a pickup van came with some workers and they were trying to force their way into the land. I actually shouted at them that nobody would gain access into the land.’’

  • Abuja ECOWAS Marathon:  Expo begin I’ms at Eagles Square as runners pick kits  

    Abuja ECOWAS Marathon:  Expo begin I’ms at Eagles Square as runners pick kits  

     Registered runners for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon will start collecting their running kits today as the Marathon Expo begins at the Federal Secretariat Car Park, Eagles Square, Abuja.

    The ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon will hold next  Saturday, March 1, with two races: the half-marathon and the 5-kilometer fun race.

    The half marathon will start and finish at the ECOWAS Commission, while the 5 km will start at the Independence Bridge near Sahad Stores and also finish at the ECOWAS Commission.

    According to  Gabriel Okon,  the Race Director , running bibs and vests must be collected at the VIO Container Booth, Federal Secretariat Car Park, Eagle’s Square, Abuja, between  February 20  and 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

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    Okon also revealed that participants may only collect their running bibs upon presentation of valid proof of identification. However, participants wishing to have their running numbers collected on their behalf must provide the collector with an authority note, a copy of the completed entry form bearing their photograph, and a copy of their valid proof of identification.

    Okon said collectors must show proof of their identity to collect the running kits. He revealed that registration is still open to all runners worldwide till February 28.

    Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) can pick up physical forms at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Package A, Abuja, the FCT Sports Council and the Area Councils.

    Speaking on the ECOWAS race, Okon said: “As we are all aware, sport is a powerful tool for bringing people together, and this is no less the case in West Africa. Apart from integrating West Africans, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon also encourages us—especially residents of FCT, which hosts the ECOWAS Commission—to embrace the culture of walking, jogging, and running, which has immense health benefits.”

     “From its inaugural edition, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon has also been a powerful tool of youth empowerment and engagement; and it has had positive impacts on the FCT economy, especially the hospitality and allied industries and acts as a catalyst to boost tourism”.

  • Mob set ablaze one alleged ‘one-chance’ robber in Abuja

    Mob set ablaze one alleged ‘one-chance’ robber in Abuja

    One suspected ‘one-chance’ kingpin has been killed by a mob along the ever-busy Umaru Musa Yar’Adua expressway, Airport Road after he and his members robbed and pushed a female victim out of their moving Volkswagen vehicle.   

    The incident, which occurred on Saturday around 3 p.m., started when the suspects allegedly robbed a woman traveling from town to Kuje.

    According to an eyewitness, Kayode Ade, after dispossessing the woman of her belongings, the criminals forcefully pushed her out of the moving car.

    Ade told our correspondent that the woman narrowly escaped being crushed by another vehicle.

    He said: “It was like a movie. The vehicle behind them almost ran over the woman, but thank God, the driver managed to stop just in time.

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    “That same driver then started chasing the robbers while honking to alert other road users. As the pursuit continued, more motorists and bystanders joined in. Their escape attempt ended close to Dunamis Church when another motorist blocked their path as they tried to make a U-turn back to town”.

    The suspects, Ade said, immediately abandoned their vehicle and attempted to flee on foot, but the growing mob quickly overpowered one of them.

    According to the eyewitness, one of the suspects was intercepted first and beaten severely before being set ablaze.

    Meanwhile, the second suspect escaped.

    Ade said: “I went closer and saw that he was just sitting in the gutter. I started recording again, and people were asking him questions. He could not answer before he was set ablaze”.

    “While the interrogation continued, members of the mob who had initially assumed he was dead began gathering again. Within moments, the aggression resumed”.

    Ade said some security personnel passed with vehicles but refused to stop.

    He said: “Many bystanders, including the eyewitness, expressed frustration at the police’s failure to act.

    “I wasn’t even asking them to rescue him,” the eyewitness said. “At least they could have arrested him to get more information about their gang. These one-chance robbers are a serious menace. I’ve been a victim myself.”

    One-chance robberies remain a persistent menace in Abuja, with criminals posing as commercial drivers to lure, rob, and sometimes kill unsuspecting passengers.

    But, with the intervention of the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike the menace has reduced.

    All efforts to get the reaction of the FCT Police Public Relations officer, SP Josphine Adeh were futile as phone calls and messages sent to her phone were not responded to.

  • Police recover vehicle stolen at gunpoint in Abuja

    Police recover vehicle stolen at gunpoint in Abuja

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has recovered a black 2013 Toyota Camry with registration number YAB-479BG. 

    The car was stolen at gunpoint at Nipco Junction, Abuja.

    The police said the incident, which occurred on January 20, 2025, at approximately 10:00pm left the victims traumatized but unharmed. 

    According to a statement on Wednesday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh: “the development once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property. 

    “According to the report filed at Trademore Police Station, a young woman and her fiancé were driving home from Lighthouse Estate when they were intercepted by armed robbers in a blue Toyota Corolla. The assailants, brandishing firearms, fired warning shots into the air before ordering the occupants to exit the vehicle, which they subsequently commandeered.

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    “Upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Trademore Division immediately activated an emergency response. In collaboration with the Command’s control room, all police units, including patrol vehicles, checkpoints, entry and exit points within and around the FCT, were placed on high alert.

    “Demonstrating swift professionalism and leveraging advanced digital tracking technology, the stolen vehicle was traced to Zuba within hours of the robbery. Acting on precise intelligence, officers swiftly moved to the location and recovered the vehicle intact. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, who are being actively pursued by the Command’s tactical teams.

    “The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, commended the exceptional efforts of the Trademore Division and other officers involved in the operation. He emphasized the importance of installing digital tracking systems in vehicles to aid swift recovery in similar situations.

    “In his remarks, the Commissioner reiterated the Command’s resolve to ensure the safety of all residents within the FCT, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station. He further assured residents of the Command’s readiness to respond swiftly and decisively to criminal threats.

    “The FCT Police Command appreciates the cooperation of the public and urges everyone to take advantage of the following emergency and complaint response lines for timely assistance: 08061581938, 08032003913, 08028940883, 07057337653

    Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192, Public Complaint Bureau: 09022222352″.

  • JUST IN: Gunmen attack Abuja community, abduct five residents

    JUST IN: Gunmen attack Abuja community, abduct five residents

    Residents of Chikakore community in Kubwa within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja were thrown into confusion when gunmen stormed the community last Sunday evening and kidnapped five residents alongside a family.

    Sources told The Nation that about five armed men arrived at the Health Centre extension axis of Chikakore around 11pm.

    According to sources, the attackers targeted the homes of their victims, including Adesiyan Akinropo, a resident from the Southwestern part of Nigeria.

    The bandits kidnapped Akinropo, his wife, his son, and a visitor, as well as another neighbour, bringing the total number of abducted persons to five.

    Findings also revealed that the attack also left a woman severely injured, with a deep wound on her head inflicted by the attacker.

    She was rushed to the hospital, where she is presently receiving treatment.  

    It was learnt that the police operatives from the Byzahin division arrived at the scene an hour and half after the incident, but did not meet the gunmen.  

    A resident who pleaded anonymity said: “The bandits have resumed attacks in Chikakore. We need a police division here in this community. We have land and a five-bedroom apartment already built to accommodate the police but there is no deployment yet.

    “In the Sunday incident, the policemen came one and a half hours after the bandits had escaped with their victims”.

    Confirming the incident the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josphine Adeh said search and rescue operation aimed at securing the safe recovery of the abducted victims and apprehending the perpetrators of this criminal act has commenced.

    Adeh said: “On 27th January 2025, at about 1:00 A.M., the FCT Police Command received a distress call regarding a case of abduction and assault in the Chikakore community. FCT Police operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene.

    “Preliminary investigations revealed that seven unknown men, disguised as vigilante members and armed with machetes and sticks, attacked the residence of the victim. The suspects deceived him the Victim into opening his gate, after which they abducted him and three members of his family. A neighbor who attempted to intervene sustained injuries during the attack and was promptly rushed to Kubwa General Hospital for medical attention.

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    “The FCT Police Command has commenced a comprehensive search and rescue operation aimed at securing the safe recovery of the abducted victims and apprehending the perpetrators of this criminal act”.

    The FCT Police Command called on residents of the Chikakore community and the general public to remain calm and vigilant.

    She said any useful information that could assist the investigation and rescue efforts should be promptly reported to the police.

    “The FCT Police Command can be reached via the emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883. Residents can also report incidents through the Public Complaint Bureau (PCB) number: 09022222352”, Adeh added.

  • Abuja residents raise alarm over cracks in walls, compromised foundations

    Abuja residents raise alarm over cracks in walls, compromised foundations

    …seek Wike’s urgent intervention

    Some residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have raised concerns over reported cases of noticeable cracks in walls, compromised foundations, and other structural damages that pose serious safety hazards to their homes.

    Residents of Aso Garden Estate in Maitama (Nicon Junction) expressed fear since the commencement of construction works adjacent to their estate.

    In a petition written by Dr. Nurain Abayomi Mumuni on behalf of the Chairman of the Estate, the residents highlighted significant and continuous heavy vibrations from the construction activities.

    They stated that these vibrations have not only caused discomfort but have also raised serious concerns about the structural integrity of their properties.

    The petition, addressed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, laments that many residents have reported structural issues, including noticeable cracks in walls and compromised foundations, which could lead to severe safety risks.

    In a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, Mumuni called on Wike to intervene urgently.

    The letter, titled “Concern over ongoing construction works adjacent to Aso Garden Estate in Maitama (Nicon Junction) Abuja, FCT,” urged the minister to assess the construction’s impact on the estate and ensure that proper precautions and regulations are strictly adhered to.

    “I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing on behalf of the residents of Aso Garden Estate to express our deep concern and anxiety regarding the ongoing construction activities taking place adjacent to our estate.

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    “Since the commencement of this construction works, we have observed significant and continuous heavy vibrations that have not only caused discomfort but have also raised serious concerns about the structural integrity of our properties. Many residents have reported noticeable cracks in walls, compromised foundations, and other structural damage that could lead to serious safety hazards.

    “Unfortunately, this construction began without any prior notification or consultation with the residents of Aso Garden Estate. We believe that such important developments should involve the input and awareness of those who may be impacted directly. Our community has always valued cooperation and communication with authorities, and this lack of engagement is both concerning and disappointing.

    “Given the gravity of the situation, we kindly request your immediate intervention to address our concerns. We urge you to assess the construction’s impact on our estate and to ensure that proper precautions and regulations are upheld to protect our homes and well-being. It would be greatly appreciated if a meeting could be arranged between the relevant authorities, the construction management, and the residents to discuss these issues in detail.

    “Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter. We trust in your commitment to the well-being of all residents within the Federal Capital Territory and look forward to your prompt response”.