Nation
THE STATES
Kwara
Police in Kwara State have arrested five suspects in con
nection with severance of a human head allegedly for ritual purpose.
Among the suspects is a septuagenarian who is alleged to be a herbalist.
It was clamed that the planned ritual was meant to make one of the suspects (name with held) become a rich man.
The police said its team of detective acting on information, found the severed head with another of the suspects (name withheld also) in his residence at Igbonna in Oyun Local Government Area of the state.
They said confession of the suspect on interrogation led to the arrest of the others.
The suspect, during an interaction with newsmen at the police head quarters in Ilorin, however, claimed that he was innocent.
Edo
Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomole, on Tuesday sent
three names of commissioners designate to the Edo State House of Assembly for approval to replace the three commissioners who resigned last year.
The nominees, who are expected to be in charge of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, as well as that of Transport, are Anstem Ojezua, Dr. Cordelia Aiyowieren-Awize and Lucas Okojie respectively.
Three members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who were serving as commissioners in Oshiomole’s administration resigned their appointment in September last year over irreconciliable differences.
They are Vincent Akhere, who was in the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, Fedelis Oriafo, who was in the Ministry of Transport and Mrs. Sera Adetugboboh, who was in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. they had cited personal reasons for their resignation.
Bayelsa
Embattled contractor, Joseph Ajuwa, who is handling the
installation of the floodlights and electronic scoreboard at the Yenegoa Sport Complex, said the decision of the Bayelsa State Government to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to arrest him over the uncompleted project is an act of victimisation aimed at discrediting him.
Ajuwa, who is the Managing Director of Yarbek & Company, denied claims that the project was abandoned as alleged by the state government.
In an interview with The Tide’s source on Tuesday in Yenagoa, the contractor said there was an agreement between him and the state government on November 4, last year, that the manufacturer of the floodlights would take 10 to 14 weeks in France before shipment, which takes a maximum of 30 days.
The state government had alleged that the contractor abandoned that N450 million project since 2006, despite several appeals that funds collected to complete the work.
Consequently, the governor directed the sports ministry to invite the EFCC to arrest the contractor for breach of contract agreement.
Niger
Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has
cautioned the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of inherent danger of imposing candidates on Niger and during the fourthcoming 2011 general election.
He also advised the nation’s traditional rulers, as custodians of the peoples’ culture and tradition, on the need to be conscious of their actions and inactions in order not to send the wrong signals to their subjects of their roles in politics and the next years’ election.
Aliyu gave the warning at Agaie headquarters of Agaie Local Government Area of the state, during the distribution of vehicles and motorcycles to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) official in council areas within the Niger South Senatorial Zone.
He told the traditional rulers not to do anything that would be detrimental to their position but to act in compliance with the country’s constitution, which provides that they remain non-partisan.
Aliyu was responding to a comment by the Emir of Lapai, Umaru Bago, who said that with the presence of traditional rulers at the Agaie event, they were at liberty to attend similar functions put together by any other political party.
Lagos
Nigerians have been urged to make sacrifices to move the
nation forward.
The call was made by Venerable Igeni Isemede during the solemnisation of holy matrimony between Nkem Oyindamola Dike, daughter of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshall, Paul Dike and Ikechukwu Ebube Obianyor.
Ven. Isemede also said the nation could be improved if leaders eschewed corruption and other social vices, which he said, is “the bane of all developing countries”.
Rivers State Deputy Governor Engr. Tele Ikuru, represented Governor Chibike Rotimi Amaechi at the event, which took place at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
Ven. Isemede said “he regretted the attitude of some citizens, noting that such were detrimental to the progress and development of the country, urging such people to have a rethink of God’s will in their lives”.
He also urged citizens to make their ways right before God. Isemede further enjoined the couples to provide succour from the vissitides of life to their spouses, saying “You are the umbrella your spouse has from the troubles of this world and prayed for the sustenance of the godly virtues in families.
Abuja
The Federal Government has assured members of the dip
lomatic corps of its readiness to combat crime and unrest.
Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan gave the assurance recently when he hosted head of diplomatic missions and international organisations at his Aguda residence, Abuja.
Governors and Ministers also attended the dinner.
Jonathan said peace and security formed a key area which would receive the government’s attention.
He spoke on the December 25 botched terror attack by Umar Farouk Abdumuttatalab on a US plane, urging the diplomats to see the incident in its proper perspective.
Jonathan said “Nigerians are peace loving people and responsible members of the international community.
“This incident must, therefore, not become an excuse to single out Nigerians for undeserved profiling and the application of restrictive measures which unduely impinge on our dignity, freedom and fundamental rights”.
Anambra
The state House of Assembly and Executive of the Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo were at daggers drawn on Tuesday following indications that 12 of its members may be expelled for alleged anti-party activities.
Giving the indication, PDC Caretaker Committee Secretary, Tony Muobike, and its Publicity Secretary, Joseph Ofokansi, said the party is considering expelling the members who they claim are supporting Andy Uba, the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate.
They had already written to the lawmakers mandating them to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them, adding that the de-registration of Uba, Mrs Uche Ekwunife and Nicholas Ukachukwu of the LP, Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) and HDP from PDP has commenced at their respective ward levels.
Delta
Delta State House of Assembly has warned on the delay
in competing the Asaba International Airport and the new Government House.
Its committee on Finance and Appropriation also ordered stabilini Visionmi, the contractor handling the Asaba Township Stadium and its chairman, Wale Babalaki, to appear before the committee next week Tuesday.
Chairman of the committee, Daniel Mayuku, gave the order last Tuesday at the commencement of inspection of some mega projects across the state.
According to him, most of the projects ought to have been completed last year, particularly that of the Asaba Township Stadium for which the contractor has collected over 90% of the contract sum.
Abia
Demolition of illegal structures is billed to commence in
Aba and Umuahia in February, according to the Abia State Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Urban Planning, Emeka Nwachukwu.
The Commissioner said this in Umuahia recently while briefing newsmen on the activities of his ministry.
According to The Tide source, Nwachukwu said some of the building blocked drainages, while others, which did not comply with the town planning laws would also be affected in the exercise.
The commissioner explained that the essence of the demolition is to accommodate the lapses noticed in the planning of the two towns when the digital mapping of the two towns begins.
He noted that many landlords have vacated the town planning laws by using their buildings for purposes other than what is contained in their certificate of occupancy.
Nation
Bikers, Others Grace Burial Of Rivers Philanthropist
Bikers were among prominent dignitaries who recently attended the burial ceremony of late Mrs. Nimi Obata Grant Offor (née Lawson) in Omagwa Community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The burial service, held at the St. Martin’s Anglican Church field, attracted a large turnout of religious leaders, business executives, political figures, celebrities, bikers’ groups, traditional rulers and community members from different parts of Nigeria. Also present were the Bishop of the Anglican Province of the Niger Delta, Most Rev. Blessing Enyindah, and popular businessman and socialite, Obi Cubana, among other notable personalities.
The remains of Mrs Grant Offor, a respected professional, philanthropist and devout Christian, were laid to rest amid an elaborate and well-coordinated funeral ceremony that reflected her wide-reaching influence and the high regard in which she was held by family, associates and the larger community.
The ceremony drew public attention due to its unique logistics, as two helicopters were deployed. An air ambulance helicopter conveyed the casket to the church field, while another helicopter transported members of the deceased’s family from Abonnema to Omagwa Community.
Dignitaries and mourners gathered in large numbers to pay their final respects.
In an emotional tribute, High Chief Engr. Grant Offor, described his late wife as everything to him, stating that her passing had created a deep void in his life and in the lives of their children. He disclosed that he committed his time, resources and efforts in a bid to save her life, adding that if money or human effort alone could prevent death, she would still be alive.
Mrs. Nimi Obata Grant Offor was born on May 4, 1978, at the Ibiso Maternity Clinic, Port Harcourt, and passed away on November 15, 2025, after a prolonged illness that lasted nearly three years. She was born a twin and grew up in a family noted for service and leadership. Her father, the late Engr. Benoni Lawson, served as Managing Director of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA), while her mother, Mrs. Irene Lawson, is a nurse.
She attended Port Harcourt Primary School and International Secondary School (ISS) before proceeding to the University of Science and Technology (UST), Port Harcourt, and later the University of Port Harcourt, Choba, where she studied Accountancy and graduated with honours. She was widely known during her academic years for her discipline, focus and reserved lifestyle.
After completing her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, Mrs. Grant Offor began her professional career in the banking sector, including service with the defunct All States Trust Bank, and later worked in other professional capacities. She earned a reputation for integrity, diligence and ethical conduct.
She was married to Engr. Grant Offor for over 20 years, a union blessed with three children. As a wife and mother, she was described as deeply devoted to her family, instilling values of faith, patience, kindness and discipline. Her home was known among close associates as one built on prayer, love and godly counsel.
A committed Christian, Mrs. Grant Offor was known for her strong faith and love for gospel music, particularly songs of healing and deliverance. Even while receiving specialist medical care in the United Kingdom, she reportedly remained steadfast in her belief, trusting in God until her final moments.
Adding to the show of solidarity, the President of the Rivers State Chapter of the Pantas Female Bikers Group, Mr. White Timano, disclosed that High Chief Engr. Grant Offor is a major sponsor of Uyo Micah’s Carnival, one of the group’s major events. He said bikers and supporters travelled from Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta States to commiserate with the family and show support during the period of mourning.
Mr. Timano described death as inevitable and encouraged the family to remain strong, stressing that only God grants the grace required to endure such painful loss.
The church field was tastefully decorated, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere. The burial ceremony featured hymns, live music, scriptural exhortations, eulogies and tributes celebrating the life and legacy of Mrs. Nimi Obata Grant Offor. Messages from notable personalities highlighted her contributions to family life, philanthropy, professional service and community development.
On behalf of the family, High Chief Engr. Grant Offor expressed appreciation to all who stood by them throughout the period of mourning, thanking guests for their prayers, presence and support.
The burial ceremony stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mrs. Nimi Obata Grant Offor, whose life of service, faith and quiet generosity left a lasting impact on many across Rivers State, the Niger Delta and beyond.
Nation
Security Guard Missing After Fence Demolition In PH
Asecurity guard has been reported missing following the demolition of a fence at a property located at No. 19D, Golf Course Layout, Old Government Residential Area (GRA), Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The incident reportedly occurred late Sunday night at the disputed property said to be owned by Ozone Global.
Eyewitnesses revealed that a group of men, some of whom were dressed in what appeared to be naval uniforms, arrived at the premises on motorcycles and allegedly pulled down the fence surrounding the property.
During the incident, a security guard on duty, identified simply as Abubakar, was allegedly taken away by the group to an unknown destination.
A relative of the missing guard, Musa, said efforts to get immediate help, including alerting a nearby police point, proved abortive as the incident had already occurred before any intervention could be made.
“I escaped because I noticed them early, but my brother was taken away. Up till now, we don’t know where he is or how he is doing. We are appealing to the authorities to help locate him,” Musa said.
Meanwhile, one of the intermediaries involved in the land transaction, Mr. Chimezie Bright, alleged that the incident may be connected to an ongoing land dispute over the property.
Bright claimed that the land was purchased by Ozone Global from one late Mr Felix Orie and that documents from the Rivers State Ministry of Lands and Housing indicate that the land was allocated to Mr Orie.
He further alleged that another claimant to the land, Mr. Mac Oruche, had allegedly challenged the ownership and opposed development on the property, despite the matter being the subject of a court case.
According to Bright, tensions over the property had previously resulted in disagreements during attempts to fence the land.
“We carried out due diligence before the purchase, including verification at the Ministry of Lands. However, the dispute has persisted,” he said.
Bright expressed concern over the alleged involvement of uniformed personnel in a civil land dispute and called for a thorough investigation into the incident, particularly the whereabouts of the missing security guard.
As at the time of filing this report, Abubakar’s location had remained unknown.
Efforts to reach Mr. Mac Oruche for his reaction were unsuccessful, while the police are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
Nation
OIU Protests Arrest Of Witnesses In Okon Aku Crisis Probe
The apex socio-cultural and development association of the ancient Ohafia Kingdom, the Ohafia Improvement Union Incorporated (OIU) has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, expressing grave concern over the arrests of several individuals from the Okon Aku community who were cooperating with a state-constituted Panel of Inquiry investigating the recent communal crisis in the community located in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.
The union also called for the immediate release of those arrested.
In a letter dated February 6, 2026, and received at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, the union described the arrests as troubling and procedurally irregular, noting that the affected individuals had either testified or were preparing to testify before the government-sanctioned panel.
Those reportedly arrested include Udo Ukoha of Ndi Envoke; Okereke John, Udonsi Obin, Eteo Ayo, Idika I. Kalu, and John Ukwakwe of Ndi Owom; and Ukpabi Uche Idika of Ndi Ebin.
While emphasizing that it does not seek to prejudge the legal culpability of any individual, the OIU stressed that the timing, context, and manner of the arrests could undermine the credibility, independence, and integrity of the Panel of Inquiry.
“The arrest of individuals cooperating with an official inquiry poses a serious threat to the fact-finding process, creates fear among potential witnesses, and may discourage public participation,” the union stated, warning that such actions could obstruct efforts to uncover the root causes of the crisis.
The union further noted that panels of inquiry rely heavily on voluntary and truthful cooperation, and any action that instills fear in contributors risks eroding public confidence in the justice system, violating principles of fairness, transparency, and natural justice.
Consequently, the OIU urged the Office of the IGP to immediately review the circumstances surrounding the arrests, suspend any further actions perceived as targeting witnesses, and issue clear directives to guarantee the safety and freedom of all individuals participating in the inquiry.
The President General of Ohafia Improvement Union, Chief Prince Kalu Ikpemini, signed the petition, which was also copied to the Executive Governor of Abia State and the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, Umuahia.
The union reiterated that the Ohafia community desires lasting peace and reconciliation, which can only be achieved through a transparent, fair, and uncoerced investigation into the Okon Aku crisis.
The Okon Aku communal crisis erupted in early January 2026, prompting the Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State to immediately establish the Panel of Inquiry to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the conflict, with the aim of preventing future occurrences.
It is against this backdrop that the Ohafia Improvement Union has raised an alarm over the arrests, calling for the immediate release of those detained and emphasizing the need to protect witnesses rather than intimidate them.
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