Nation
THE STATES
Borno
Apparently on the heels of the assassination of the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) governorship candidate in Borno State, 19 northern governors Tuesday decried the increasing security threats in some parts of northern states, cautioning against the use of inflammatory campaign languages by some politicians.
The governors at a meeting presided by the governor of Niger State, Dr Babangida Aliyu also agreed to offer assistance to Plateau, Borno and Bauchi States following the increasing security challenges be failing the states.
In a communiqué at the end of the meeting, the governors after much deliberations on measures that would bring the crisis to an end identified security, poverty and youth restiveness as the major causes of the conflict in the region.
Accordingly, the governors resolved to promptly identify and address the causes of the conflicts which they said had been economically, religiously and politically motivated.
While agreeing to support the three affected states using various strategies that are beyond physical means as well as addressing the perceptions and misinformation perpetrated over time, the governors also maintained that they would take other measures in handling constitutional provisions to tackle security challenges.
Ekiti
Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs Funmilayo Olayinka, has expressed sadness over the destruction of 62 houses in the Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area of the state by rainstorm which ravaged the community recently.
Olayinka who was on an inspection visit to the community yesterday, however, promised that the Dr Kolayode Fayoemi led administration through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) would provide relief materials to the victims of the rainstorm to make the affected houses habitable again.
She revealed that the state government would make an official report to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and table a request for assistance for the victims.
Olayinka who stressed the need for people to plant more trees around houses to serve as wind breaks and prevent rainstorm from blowing off their roof tops also advised house builders and owners to ensure that roof tops are designed in such a way that can not be easily penetrated by storm.
The deputy governor, however, sympathised with the victims of the natural disaster and joined them to thank God that no casualty of any sort was recorded despite the enormity of the disaster.
FCT
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Josephine Anenih, has disclosed that the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) which has been a male university from inception would soon begin to admit female cadets to prepare them as officers of the Nigerian Army.
Anenih disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at the ‘Nigerian Women at 50 Reflections’ aimed at recognising the contributions of women to national development before and after independence.
She said this was made possible by the first female Rear Admiral in the Nigerian Navy, Itunu Hotonu, who was recently promoted after her feat as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Navy Post-Service Scheme.
Anenih also lauded female presidential aspirant, Mrs Sarah Jubril, who she said has given women the hope and confidence to aspire to reach the highest position in the country.
The Women Affairs Minister urged Nigerian women to vote for President Goodluck Jonathan during the April polls expressing hopes that he would grant women the glamoured 35% affirmative action.
Kebbi
The mother of the Senatorial candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) for Kebbi State, Hajiya Fatima Sadiq Yelwa, who was kidnapped at her residence in Yauri town about 10 days ago has been released.
Hajiya Yelwa, mother of Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, former Chief of Staff to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister was found during a search by the police detectives at a bush in the outskirts of Kontangora in Niger State.
State Police Commissioner, Alhaji Dalhatu Saa-d told journalists Tuesday, that Hajiya Yelwa was found in a bush by policemen and was returned to her family in Yauri.
The CPC senatorial candidate explained that though the kidnappers demanded for some money for the release of his mother, the family did not pay any ransom rather embarked on prayers after reporting the incident to the police.
Yelwa said “it is true that my mother has been returned this morning. We thank Almighty Allah for her safe release”.
The politician also thanked the security agents from both Kebbi and Niger States for ensuring the release of his mother by the hoodlums with her sustaining no injury.
Lagos
Lagos State Government has called for dialogue with the Dental and Medical Personnel, under the aegis of the Medical Guild, to resolve the ongoing doctor’s strike.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris who addressed reporters Wednesday, on the unions meeting with leaders described the strike action as unnecessary, stating that government was will and ready to address the issues raised by the doctors.
According to him ‘I had a meeting with the union yesterday and we have reviewed some of those areas and so far, the strike action is uncalled for’.
Idris said that under the new agreement, a highest-level consultant would earn about N700,000 monthly and a level 10 officer N173,927.33 pointing out that the government was considering other areas to improve doctors welfare.
The commission therefore urged the doctors to reconsider their demands for the 100 per cent implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for the hitch-free medical activities in the state.
“We are appealing again that they should call off the strike to reduce the suffering of the masses. A lot of people have expressed their displeasure over this strike and they have offered their hand of fellowship to us to ameliorate the suffering of the people”, the commissioner explained.
Nasarawa
Following the stoning of the convoy of President Goodluck Jonathan, the Police Service Commission had approved the request of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Hafiz Ringim, to transfer the Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, Wilfred Obute.
It was gathered that the pelting of the convoy was contrary to the security report hitherto sent by the Commissioner of Police to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
A top police source said that the Commissioner of Police (CP) had the itinerary of the president ahead of his arrival adding that he should have ensured a comprehensive protection of the Commander-In-Chief in any part of Nasarawa State including the Emir’s place.
While noting that the review of the president’s campaign visit to Nasarawa State showed some security laxity, the source revealed that the IGP’s request was tabled at the Police Service Commission and given approval stating however that the name of the new CP in Nasarawa State was yet to be forwarded.
Oyo
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has rejected 50 million additional litres of kerosene into the market through its subsidiary, the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company Limited (PPMC).
Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Ore and Ilorin and its environs are to enjoy 17.4 million litres as being pumped to Mosimi depot from Atlas Cove for onward supply to the areas.
The Group General Manager, Public Affairs Division, Dr Levi Ajuonuma, said measure was embarked upon to arrest the reported cases of the kerosene explosion and scarcity being experienced in some parts of the country.
Ajuonuma restated that aside the 17.4 million litres for Oyo and the other states, 18 million litres was loaded out of NIPCO for the Independent Marketers and 12.2 million litres out of capital oil for NNPC retail stations.
He said “I want to assure consumers of kerosene across the country that NNPC has injected more than enough of the product into the market and so, they should desist from panic buying”.
Plateau
Muslims in Plateau State have observed a one-day fasting and prayer to bring an end to the crisis rocking the state.
Complying with the directive Tuesday, as given by Plateau State Council of Ulamas, many restaurants especially within the Jos metropolis did not open for business until late in the evening and families made purchases the previous evening for their livelihood.
Secretary of the council, Barrister Lawal Ishag told newsmen the people of the state were observing the fast to sought for Allah’s intervention so that lasting peace will return to the state.
According to him “this fast has become necessary looking at the degenerated form of the state and its environs as this crisis is going on. It has gotten to the time when we have to seek for the intervention of Allah and I believe that the purpose will be achieved”.
Prayers were also observed at various mosques across the state including the Jos Central and Zuwiya Mosques where hundreds of Muslims gathered to participate in various sessions.
Sokoto
Sokoto State High Court presided by Justice Bello Abbas has again adjourned the case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Sokoto Governor, Attahirn Bafarawa, till February 28 to enable his counsel, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), respond to the application for severance.
This is coming as the Sokoto State High Court II presided by Justice Mohammed Binju adjourned till March 7, 2011 to enable the state government and Bafarawa settle their despite over pension of court.
Bafarawa had two months ago dragged Sokoto State governor, Aliyu Warmako, to the State High Court over non-payment of his pension totaling about N27 million.
Bafarawa and 15 others were arraigned by the EFCC over an alleged financial misappropriation and corrupt practices totaling N15 billion during his tenure as the governor of the state.
While the case came up yesterday for hearing, Fagbemi applied for adjournment through his representative, Barrister Suleiman Usman, saying he had another case before the Supreme Court in Abuja.
However, EFCC counsel, Adeniji Akintola (SAN) told the court that the case had suffered several adjournments at the instance of a single defendant since December, 21, 2009 when the case was filed.
Yobe
Over 20 people were feared dead on Monday when a Yobe Line bus and a Cross Country vehicle collided at Dagare on the Potiskum-Kari road in Yobe State.
The crash allegedly occurred when the drivers of the two vehicles on opposite direction rammed into each other at about 4.40 pm that day.
The impact from the collision led to the occupants of the Yobe Line bus burning beyond recognition.
An eye witness of the accident told journalists that the two vehicles at collision burst into flames leading to the loss of 20 passengers in the bus in his words” we heard a thunderous noise from the road and the villagers rushed to the scene with buckets of water to put off the fire from the vehicles. But the volunteers could not make any difference until the arrival of the firefighters from Potiskum, who rescued 10 passengers from the scene.
Sambo said the bus was burnt to ashes while the Cross Country vehicles was partly burnt to the drivers cabin.
Confirming the accident, the Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) at Potiskum Al Maigori said the mishap could have been avoided if the drivers had been cautious and shunned dangerous overtaking on the road.
He however, attributed the accident to the poor state of the roads in the south-east zone adding that cautious driving and compliance with traffic rules would help to avert the carnage on the highways.
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.
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.
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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