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THE STATES

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Adamawa

The Nigeria Inter-religious Council (NIREC), has been urged to work towards promoting religious tolerance among communities in the country.

Mr Bitrus Habzhi, the Chairman, Mubi South Local Government Council of Adamawa, made the call while inaugurating a 13-member committee of the local chapter of NIREC in Mubi on Saturday.

The chairman said the council should adopt effective campaign strategies to promote religious tolerance among the people.

Habzhi said the measure was imperative in order to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among various religious communities.

Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government has placed a ban on public display of political posters, banners and billboards.

This is contained in a statement issued recently and signed by Malam Sanusi Muhammed, Senior Special Assistant on Media Affairs to Gov. Isa Yuguda.

The statement stated that the ban became necessary because such displays were threatening security.

It said that any politician who wanted such displays could do so 20km away from the state capital as well as headquarters of the local government councils.

The statement, however, said that politicians could also display or paste such items in their residential areas and shops.

It stated that violators would be handed over for prosecution.

FCT

Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ABUCCIMA) says that lack of funds has continued to stall the development of its international trade fair complex in the FCT.

Mr Joe Wenegieme, the the Director-General of the chamber, made the observation in an interview with newsmen yesterday.

He said the development of the complex had remained impossible because it was capital Intensive.

Wenegieme solicited the support of the Federal Government and other development partners in the realisation of the organisation’s dream.

He said that several attempts by the chamber to collaborate with private developers had been futile due to lack of funds.

Gombe

The Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) says it is considering relocating communities in flood-prone areas to safer places.

Hajiya Zainab Idris, the Director of Administration and Finance in the agency, disclosed this to newsmen yesterday.

Idris said the measure was one of the proactive steps toward averting casualties in case of flood disaster this year.

She said that the entire state was prone to flooding but identified the most vulnerable areas to include Yamaltu-Deba, Balanga, Dukku, Nafada and Funakaye which are close to rivers.

“Our major problem is that the residents of such areas are always reluctant to leave.

“In the recent past, we tried to relocate the survivors of a flood disaster in Hinna village of Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area

Kaduna

Security operatives on Saturday cordoned off major streets connecting the Kaduna Township Stadium where Gov. Patrick Yakowa commenced his gubernatorial campaign.

A combined detachment of a special security outfit of the state code named “Operation Yaki” took over the streets.

Some of the streets that were closed to motorists were Bida road and Independence way which all led to Lugard Hall and stadium junction.

The security measures caused heavy traffic congestion within Kaduna metropolis as most motorists were forced to use only the Ahmadu Bello Way.

The traffic situation in the state was further worsened because of the Kaduna International Trade Fair that began on Saturday.

Kano

The Federal Government yesterday reiterated its commitment to ensuring adequate enforcement of laws and regulations on illegal trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora across the country.

Dr Ngeri Benebo, the Director-General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), gave the commitment in Kano.

Benebo spoke at the opening of the three-day national training workshop on the enforcement of the statndards of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(CITES).

CITES is an international agreement signed by 175 countries, including Nigeria, to protect trade in endangered species globally.

She said that adequate enforcement of the convention entailed training and development of the capacity of relevant agencies to check the illegal trade.

Lagos

President Goodluck Jonathan recently called for ethnic dilution in Nigeria to move the country forward.

Speaking in Lagos at the“ Celebration of Igbo unity, Culture and Transformation’’ organised by the Ohaneze Ndigbo and Aka Ikenga, Jonathan said that “all ethnic societies in Nigeria must become one to move forward.

“Even in the USA, people know where they come from, but that does not hinder their ambition,’’ he said.

He said that the occasion was very unique and should be entitled, “Nigeria, an ethnic society without border’’

Ogun

Ogun The PDP in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun, has urged its candidates for the next local government election to start campaigning by displaying posters of their programmes in their wards.

Chairman of the party in the area, Alhaji Razak Arowolo, said this was part of strategies to ensure victory in the election.

Arowolo gave the directive while addressing party members in Ijebu-Ode yesterday.

He expressed the belief that the ancient town is a strong hold of the PDP; hence the party should work hard to avoid losing to the opposition.

Ondo

Three men were yesterday arraigned in Akure on a two-count charge of conspiracy and murder.

The accused, Lemamu Habib (22), Rotimi Akadiri (34) Owagbemi Odimayo (24) and two others at large were alleged to have killed a 70-year-old man, Jayeola Abodunwa.

Police Prosecutor Insp Richard Salawu said the offence was committed on Dec. 21, 2010 at about 5 am at Owanikun Street, Ikun-Akoko, Ondo State.

The accused were alleged to have killed the septuagenarian by beating him and forcing him to drink poisonous substances.

Salawu informed the court that the case file had been sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice, and asked for an adjournment.

He urged the court to remand the accused in prison custody till the next adjournment.

The Chief Magistrate, Mr Zacckhaeus Egbunu, adjourned the case till May 20, and ordered that the accused be remanded in prison custody.

Plateau

The West of Mines Chief Magistrates’ Court Two in Jos yesterday Tuesday sentenced one Daniel Musaka and four others to eight months imprisonment each for causing public disturbance.

Chief Magistrate Talatu Gada, who handed down the judgment, declared that the convicts were also guilty of conspiracy, smoking hemp and belonging to a gang of thieves.

The convicts were, however, given the option of N2,000 fine each.

Gada, who said the court was convinced beyond reasonable doubt that the youths committed the offence, said the prosecution proved that the convicts actually committed the four charges against them.

Sokoto

The President of the Albino Foundation of Nigeria, Mr Jake Epele, says more than 600,000 persons living with skin pigmentation problem in the country suffer discrimination

Epele spoke to newsmen in Sokoto recently.

“Some families abandon newly born children with albinism. Due to this, an albino has a slim chance to make it in life with most parents reluctant to invest in the education of albino children, ” he said.

He said statistics indicated that more than 1.5 million Nigerian albinos were among the poorest, least educated and marginalised persons.

Epele said these persons were also the most susceptible to skin cancer due to frequent exposure of their skin to the sun.

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Cleric Preaches Love As Deputy Governor, Chief Judge Grace Wedding In PH

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The Presiding Bishop of Kingdom Life Gospel Ministries Outreach, Port Harcourt, Bishop Victor Uzosike, has described love as the bedrock of human existence, family stability and societal harmony, stressing that without love, nothing meaningful can thrive.

Bishop Uzosike made this assertion while speaking to journalists during the wedding ceremony of his daughter, Praise Uzosike, to Architect Chibuzor Akubueze on Saturday, December 20, 2025. The solemnisation was held at the Kingdom Life Gospel Ministries Outreach, Port Harcourt, and was attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.

According to the cleric, love is not only the foundation of relationships but also a powerful force that determines the success of individuals, families and communities.

“If you do not love a place, that place will not bless you. If you do not love your children, they will not be useful to you. If you do not love your family, your family will become a strange island to you. What you do not love, you do not have. Love is the key,” he said.

Reflecting on his family’s journey, Bishop Uzosike said God’s love had sustained them through seasons of challenges and triumphs, noting that unity had remained their greatest strength.

“We have stayed together as one family. God has shown us love in miraculous and mysterious ways, especially during difficult times,” he stated.

Describing the wedding as an amazing and beautiful experience, the bishop expressed appreciation for the show of love from his daughter’s friends, many of whom travelled from the United Kingdom and Ghana to attend the ceremony. He revealed that some of them personally paid for their flights and accommodation, which he described as a rare display of genuine friendship.

He also disclosed that his first daughter, who lives in Manchester, United Kingdom, with her husband, could not attend the wedding due to tight schedules, but noted that she remains happily married and fulfilled.

While thanking guests for honouring his family with their presence, prayers and goodwill, Bishop Uzosike said he felt proud and grateful to God.

“One of the greatest gifts God can give to a man is children who are sound in all ramifications. My children can see, hear, speak and walk. That alone is enough reason to be grateful,” he said.

He praised the bride, describing Praise as an exceptional achiever who had distinguished herself academically. According to him, she completed secondary school at 15, graduated with First Class honours at 19, and earned distinctions in her MBA as well as her first and second master’s degrees.

“For a long time, people believed that highly educated women may not marry early or at all. Today, Praise has proved otherwise. She has made her mother and me very proud,” he said, describing her as a rare gem.

Bishop Uzosike also expressed joy over his son-in-law, whom he described as God-fearing, disciplined and professionally sound.

“He is well brought up, passionate about God and morally upright. His parents did a great job. My wife, Pastor Esther, also did an excellent job,” he added.

The wedding ceremony attracted prominent personalities, including the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Odu; the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemeyie; and several senior clerics.

Bishop Fidelis Ugbong officiated the solemnisation, while Apostle Chika Onuzo delivered the sermon, identifying communication, sex and money as key factors that can strengthen or weaken marriages.

Prof. Ngozi Odu also prayed for the couple and paid glowing tributes, drawing admiration from attendees.

The reception, held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Port Harcourt, was equally colourful. Justice Matilda Ayemeyie proposed the toast, describing marriage as not always a bed of roses and emphasising patience, commitment and understanding.

The event was chaired by Chief Henry Nwabugo and attended by notable personalities, including retired Supreme Court Justice Mary Odili; Apostle David Zilly-Aggrey; Hon. Otunba Jumbo; Nze Best Anele; and Prof. Henry Ogiri, among others.

Guests were entertained with dance performances by the couple, while the parents’ outing added elegance to the celebration. The master of ceremonies, Ambassador Kingsley, kept the audience engaged with humour and interactive sessions.

Overall, the wedding was a remarkable blend of spirituality, culture and celebration, marked by love, joy and unforgettable moments.

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2027: APC Chieftain Predicts Tinubu’s Victory  …Says Bayelsa Stakeholders Supporting President en masse  … IPAC Knitted Together, Working In Synergy With His Office

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Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress(APC), in Bayelsa State and Special Adviser to the State Governor on Inter-Party Relations, Dr Jackson Ebi Suokiri has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would secure landslide win in the 2027 Presidential polls.

The Governor’s Aide stated this in Yenagoa, the state capital on Wednesday while fielding questions from newsmen against the backdrop of Tuesday’s pioneer Stakeholders meeting of the party convened by the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri as leader of the Party in the State upon his recent defection late last year.

He averred that Party stakeholders in the state were prepared to give the President the massive support needed to return elected, come 2027 following his sterling trajectory of performance and qualitative leadership prowess.

Dr Suokiri stressed that the reason for the governor’s swapping of party was in the best interest of the state, while also noting that the governor took the right decision as there was no need continuing with opposition politics even as the state has to align with the national government for rapid socioeconomic and political advantages for the state and its people.

“Governor Diri’s defection like you’ve personally heard him saying was for the best interest of our state, Bayelsa. When you’ve a President performing well at the national level and being very supportive to your state as a governor, I don’t think you’ve to be in an opposition party anymore, but rather align with the centre.

“Diri is a bridge builder. He is at peace with everybody and willing to work with all, irrespective of party affiliations or political differences for the interest of the state.

“As Stakeholders we’ve resolved to collectively work to return President Tinubu elected for second term in 2027. And you can see the Governor is not pressuring anybody or the structure of his former party, the PDP to defect like he has done.

“The PDP structure in the state is still intact, and for the APC, his new Party even as current leader in the State, he has been working with the structure and everybody he met on ground, hence you can see that the APC Caretaker Committee led by Dr. Dennis Otiotio has been maintained at the pioneer Stakeholders meeting convened by the Governor.

“But you must also know like you’ve seen and I’ve previously said that Governor Diri has outperformed expectations of Bayelsans in all sectors, be it economy, infrastructure, health, education, etc.”, he said.

Meanwhile, as against insinuations that some political parties were not working with the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Party Relations, the Governor’s Aide has revealed that as it were currently, all the 19 registered political parties with presence in the state are working in unity with his office as members of the Inter-party advisory council (IPAC).

“IPAC is working in unity with my office. Before the Governor’s defection the only party that wasn’t working with my office was the APC. But since after his formal defection, the APC and even those other parties that were either sympathetic to the APC, the governor’s new party or the PDP, his former Party are all now working together with my office as members of IPAC”, Suokiri added.

 

By Ariwera Ibibo-Howells, Yenagoa

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Firefighters battle New Year Day inferno in Abuja, several states

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Federal Fire Service FFS entered the New Year on full operational alert, tackling multiple fire outbreaks across the country from midnight into the early hours of January 1, 2026, in what officials described as one of the busiest festive-season deployments in recent years.
The intensified nationwide response followed a December 2025 directive issued by the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, who had ordered that no firefighter should proceed on leave throughout the holidays.
According to a statement by the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services of the FFS, DCF Paul Abraham, the no-leave policy proved critical as the Service moved swiftly to contain fires in several states.
The Federal Capital Territory FCT recorded its first fire incident of the year barely twenty-three minutes after midnight when flames erupted at Cake Hot Restaurant located within River Plate Park, Wuse, Abuja.
Abraham said fire crews from the Federal Fire Service and the FCT Fire Service arrived promptly and were able to stop the blaze before it could spread through the popular recreational centre.
While a section of the garden area was destroyed, no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded.
Officials said property worth an estimated ?1.5 billion was saved, although losses were placed at about ?500 million.
“Preliminary findings suggested that the fire was triggered by objects thrown during New Year celebrations, reinforcing long-standing warnings over the dangers posed by fireworks during the harmattan season”, the Service said.
The Controller General had repeatedly urged Nigerians to avoid fireworks, candles and open flames indoors, warning that the dry winds characteristic of the season allow fires to spread rapidly.
He also warned the public about electrical faults and power surges and advised that electrical appliances be switched off and unplugged when not in use or when occupants leave their homes, stressing that overloading sockets and extension boxes remains a significant cause of domestic fires.
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