Rep member reacts as soldiers allegedly torture young man to death in Benue community
The Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on National Inland Waterways, Ojotu Ojema, has condemned the alleged killing of a youth, Ernest Owoicho, by personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) deployed to Apa Local Government Area of Benue State. DAILY POST gathered that Owoicho was reportedly arrested by the military on Saturday,
Rep member reacts as soldiers allegedly torture young man to death in Benue community
The Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on National Inland Waterways, Ojotu Ojema, has condemned the alleged killing of a youth, Ernest Owoicho, by personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) deployed to Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
DAILY POST gathered that Owoicho was reportedly arrested by the military on Saturday, April 5, 2025, and died in custody in the early hours of Sunday, April 6.
Signs of torture were allegedly visible on his body, raising suspicions of abuse while in detention.
Ojema, who cut short his trip to Abuja upon hearing the news, visited the OPWS base in Ugbokpo, the LGA headquarters, to confirm the incident.
Speaking at the base, he described the death as “gruesome” and called for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute the culprits.
Ojema urged security agencies to uphold the law and human rights while assuring the deceased’s family of his support.
He also instructed that welfare checks be conducted on the two children left behind by the late Owoicho to determine how assistance can be extended to them.
While urging Apa residents, especially the youth, to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, he reiterated his commitment to seeking justice for his constituents.
“I have the mandate to stand, speak and defend the people of Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.
“There are several civil ways of investigating a case other than torture, more so that we are in the Democratic era. The gruesome murder of this young man is highly condemnable and culprits won’t go unpunished. In as much as I stand against any form of criminality, I can not accept the intimidation and unjustifiable killing of my people” Ojema was quoted as saying by his media aide, Olikita Ekani.
In tears, a relative of the deceased, Peter Ibrama, lamented the loss, describing Owoicho as a gentle and jovial young man. He said the family was shocked to receive only his corpse after his arrest.
Responding, the OPWS commander who declined to be named expressed regret over the death, stating that the unfortunate outcome of the investigation process was not intentional. He assured the federal lawmaker that an internal inquiry would be launched immediately and anyone found culpable would be held accountable.
Owoicho Ernest, an orphan, is survived by two young sons.
Rep member reacts as soldiers allegedly torture young man to death in Benue community
NHIA orders HMOs to approve treatment within one hour
The National Health Insurance Authority has implemented a new directive aimed at reducing delays in accessing healthcare services and enhancing patient care. It said the authorisation of care and issuance of authorisation codes by Health Management Organisations shall no longer exceed one hour from the time of requests by providers and healthcare facilities are to
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The National Health Insurance Authority has implemented a new directive aimed at reducing delays in accessing healthcare services and enhancing patient care. It said the authorisation of care and issuance of authorisation codes by Health Management Organisations shall no longer exceed one hour from the time of requests by providers and healthcare facilities are to
Police urge ‘Take it Back’ protesters to rethink action, cite security concerns
The Bauchi State Police Command has called on organisers of the planned nationwide protest by the “Take It Back Movement” to reconsider their schedule for today, Monday, April 7. The command cited potential threats to public safety and national image, especially as the date coincides with National Police Day. The Command, in a statement signed
Police urge ‘Take it Back’ protesters to rethink action, cite security concerns
The Bauchi State Police Command has called on organisers of the planned nationwide protest by the “Take It Back Movement” to reconsider their schedule for today, Monday, April 7.
The command cited potential threats to public safety and national image, especially as the date coincides with National Police Day.
The Command, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, reiterated the importance of peaceful assembly as enshrined in the constitution but criticized the timing of the protest as “untimely” and “potentially unpatriotic.”
According to the police, the organizers, however, failed to formally notify security agencies or request necessary coverage for the protests.
This, the Command said, raises serious security concerns, especially amid heightened tensions and the symbolic significance of the day meant to honor the sacrifices of Nigeria’s police officers.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to intensify patrols around potential flashpoints in anticipation of any unrest.
He warned that failure to comply with protocols for organizing public gatherings could lead to consequences for any disruptions to peace.
While the Command reaffirmed its respect for human rights and freedom of expression, it advised the protest organizers to engage in dialogue with relevant government institutions and submit detailed plans for any future demonstrations to ensure proper security arrangements.
The police also issued a public advisory to parents and guardians, urging them to prevent youth participation in activities that may threaten the state’s relative peace.
Residents were encouraged to go about their lawful activities and report any suspicious behavior via the Police Rescue Me app or emergency hotlines.
DAILY POST reports that the protest, which is set to hold in Bauchi and other major cities, is part of a broader campaign by the “Take It Back Movement” to demand governance reforms.
The Take It Back Movement group said the protest is against cyberbullying and the emergency declaration in Rivers State.
Police urge ‘Take it Back’ protesters to rethink action, cite security concerns
Bandits burn 11 vehicles, three shops in Zamfara attack
Bandits attacked Keta community in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, setting 11 vehicles and three shops ablaze. The attack, which occurred in broad daylight, also claimed the life of one person. The incident was revealed in a post by security analyst, Bakatsine on his official X handle on Sunday. According to him, the
Bandits burn 11 vehicles, three shops in Zamfara attack
Bandits attacked Keta community in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, setting 11 vehicles and three shops ablaze.
The attack, which occurred in broad daylight, also claimed the life of one person.
The incident was revealed in a post by security analyst, Bakatsine on his official X handle on Sunday.
According to him, the armed attackers stormed the community, unleashing destruction before fleeing.
“In broad daylight, bandits attacked Keta community in Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State, setting 11 vehicles and three shops ablaze. Tragically, one person lost his life,” Bakatsine wrote.
Bandits burn 11 vehicles, three shops in Zamfara attack
Shortlisted Kwara teachers to undergo mandatory drug test, sign six-year bond
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has announced that 1,800 shortlisted applicants for teaching appointments will undergo a mandatory drug test before their final recruitment. Additionally, successful candidates will be required to sign a six-year bond, preventing them from seeking transfers. The development was disclosed in a statement by TESCOM’s Chief Press Secretary, Sam
Shortlisted Kwara teachers to undergo mandatory drug test, sign six-year bond
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has announced that 1,800 shortlisted applicants for teaching appointments will undergo a mandatory drug test before their final recruitment.
Additionally, successful candidates will be required to sign a six-year bond, preventing them from seeking transfers.
The development was disclosed in a statement by TESCOM’s Chief Press Secretary, Sam Onile, who explained that the shortlisted applicants emerged from a rigorous screening process, including computer-based tests and interviews conducted over three months.
“The shortlisted comprises 790 (44%) for STEM subjects, 581 for core subjects, 370 for specialized subjects, and 59 for technical subjects,” Onile said.
“They will be assigned to senior secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of the state in line with the needs assessment of the commission.”
Onile urged all applicants who attended the interviews to check their status on the TESCOM portal.
He further explained that the drug test would be conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse, Prevention, and Control, Hon. Mukail Aileru.
“Those shortlisted will undergo a mandatory drug test to ascertain their suitability to teach children,” he stated. “The test will begin on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and end on Saturday, April 12, 2025.”
According to the statement, shortlisted candidates from Baruten, Edu, Kaiama, and Patigi will take the test on Wednesday, April 9; those from Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin on Thursday, April 10; Offa, Oke Ero, Oyun, and Moro on Friday, April 11; and applicants from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West on Saturday, April 12.
The commission emphasized that the drug test certificates would be sent directly to TESCOM by the NDLEA, preventing candidates from tampering with the results.
“The drug test certificates will be sent to the commission by the NDLEA as no candidate is allowed to access it on their own to curb altering,” the statement added.
Furthermore, successful applicants must sign a six-year bond, which Onile described as a policy measure to address the shortage of teachers in rural areas.
“Successful applicants will also sign a bond not to seek transfer for six years, a policy response to the dearth of teachers in rural areas,” he said.
Shortlisted candidates must also present medical certificates from state government hospitals and bring the original copies of their credentials for documentation. They will be required to submit photocopies for record-keeping, along with a handwritten letter accepting the job offer.
According to the statement, other conditions of service will be outlined during the documentation process.
Shortlisted Kwara teachers to undergo mandatory drug test, sign six-year bond
‘I made a mistake’ – Kebbi official apologises for false claims about LGBTQ groups in Northern states
The Permanent Secretary of Cabinet Affairs in Kebbi State, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, has publicly retracted an earlier statement he made about the existence of registered gay and lesbian groups in Sokoto and Kebbi States. He admitted that the claims were baseless. Kigo made the controversial remarks during a public lecture in Birnin Kebbi during Ramadan,
‘I made a mistake’ – Kebbi official apologises for false claims about LGBTQ groups in Northern states
The Permanent Secretary of Cabinet Affairs in Kebbi State, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, has publicly retracted an earlier statement he made about the existence of registered gay and lesbian groups in Sokoto and Kebbi States.
He admitted that the claims were baseless.
Kigo made the controversial remarks during a public lecture in Birnin Kebbi during Ramadan, where he cited inaccurate statistics regarding homosexuality and lesbianism.
Following public outcry and further investigation, it was determined that his claims lacked any factual foundation.
In response, the Kebbi State Government suspended Kigo and referred the matter to relevant religious authorities for further scrutiny.
The Kebbi State Council of Ulama summoned him for clarification, after which he admitted to fabricating the statistics.
At a press briefing organized by the Council in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday, Kigo formally withdrew his statement and issued an unreserved apology.
“I, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, acknowledge that I made a mistake and offended the sensibilities of Muslims in Sokoto, Kebbi, and beyond,” he said.
“I am deeply remorseful and seek forgiveness for the false statistics I presented. I urge anyone in possession of the offensive video clips to delete them permanently.”
The Chairman of the Council of Ulama, Sheikh Abdurrahman Isa Jega, confirmed Kigo’s admission and urged public figures to weigh their words carefully.
“Nasiru Abubakar Kigo is a member of our Council. He has admitted his error and apologized,” Sheikh Jega said.
“I appeal to all Ulama, clerics, students, and the general public to consider the consequences of their statements before speaking.
On behalf of the Council, I also tender an apology to the governments and people of Sokoto and Kebbi States, and to the entire Muslim Ummah.”
Also addressing the press, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Zakkat, Sadaqat and Waqf Board, Sheikh Umar Isa Magaji, stated that the Council had conducted a thorough investigation into the incident.
“The Council acted swiftly in line with Islamic principles.
According to the teachings of Umar bin Khattab (RA), a Muslim who makes a mistake must promptly correct it,” Sheikh Magaji said.
“Kigo’s statement affected not only Sokoto and Kebbi but the entire Muslim community. That’s why the Council presented him before the public to set the record straight.”
Trump calls on Europe to pay yearly reparations to US
United States of America President Donald Trump has called on Europe to pay yearly reparations to the US. He disclosed this in an interview video released recently by CNN. He hinted that his tariff announcement has attracted investment negotiations to the US. Trump, however, stressed that Europe needs to pay the US a lot of
Trump calls on Europe to pay yearly reparations to US
United States of America President Donald Trump has called on Europe to pay yearly reparations to the US.
He disclosed this in an interview video released recently by CNN.
He hinted that his tariff announcement has attracted investment negotiations to the US.
Trump, however, stressed that Europe needs to pay the US a lot of money yearly as reparations.
“We take their cars—Mercedes, Volkswagen, BMW. We take their millions of cars. They don’t take anything from us.
“We put a big tariff on Europe. They are coming to the table. They want to talk, but there’s no talk unless they pay us a lot of money on a yearly basis, number one for the present but also for the past,” he said.
This comes as Trump’s administration’s announcement on April 2, 2025, sparked a global trade war.
Trump’s administration announced a 25 percent tariff on all automobile imports, which became a major blow to European countries.
While leaders across the world have condemned Trump’s tariff, the administration has maintained that the decision was to close the imbalances in world trade.
Recall that Jaguar Land Rover, in a statement at the weekend, announced a plan to pause all shipments to the US.
Trump calls on Europe to pay yearly reparations to US
‘No to chaos,’ Northern youths disown planned nationwide protest
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has distanced itself from the planned nationwide protest tagged Take-It-Back, warning that such demonstrations could inflame tensions and destabilise the country. President of the group, Isah Abubakar, in a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, said while the council acknowledges the frustrations of many young Nigerians, it believes that
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The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has distanced itself from the planned nationwide protest tagged Take-It-Back, warning that such demonstrations could inflame tensions and destabilise the country. President of the group, Isah Abubakar, in a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, said while the council acknowledges the frustrations of many young Nigerians, it believes that
Emir Sanusi II: It was unnecessary – Peter Obi hails police for withdrawing invitation
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, has hailed the Nigeria Police Force for withdrawing the invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi. Obi said the invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation. DAILY POST reported that the Emir was earlier summoned over an alleged murder
Emir Sanusi II: It was unnecessary – Peter Obi hails police for withdrawing invitation
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, has hailed the Nigeria Police Force for withdrawing the invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi.
Obi said the invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.
DAILY POST reported that the Emir was earlier summoned over an alleged murder during last Sunday’s Sallah festivities in Kano.
The incident reportedly occurred after Sanusi returned home from Eid prayers.
He had gone to the Eid prayer ground on foot but returned to the palace riding a horse.
However, following public outcry against the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, withdrew the invitation extended to Sanusi.
Egbetokun has in turn directed the Kano State Command of the force to obtain Sanusi’s statement regarding the incident.
Reacting to the development, the former Anambra State Governor, in a post on his X handle on Monday, hailed the decision to withdraw the invitation.
Obi suggested that a decentralized approach to the matter would encourage peace and public trust.
He said: “I would like to commend the Nigeria Police Force for the wise and timely decision it took to withdraw the invitation extended to His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II. In light of the current tensions within our society, such an invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.
“There is a fully functional police command in Kano, with sufficient capacity to address such matters within the State. That is precisely why we have senior-ranking officers, including Commissioners of Police and Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), to handle issues of this nature appropriately at the state and zonal levels.
“Once again, I appreciate the decision to withdraw the invitation. A decentralized approach would encourage peace and public trust. -PO”
Emir Sanusi II: It was unnecessary – Peter Obi hails police for withdrawing invitation
Uromi killings: Security expert provides solution to growing tension in north, charges govt
There is deep sorrow and anger across Northern Nigeria following the horrific killing of 16 men in Uromi, Edo State, an incident that has left communities mourning and demanding justice. The victims, believed to be hunters, were reportedly lynched and set ablaze by a mob made up of community members and local vigilantes. Many are
Uromi killings: Security expert provides solution to growing tension in north, charges govt
There is deep sorrow and anger across Northern Nigeria following the horrific killing of 16 men in Uromi, Edo State, an incident that has left communities mourning and demanding justice.
The victims, believed to be hunters, were reportedly lynched and set ablaze by a mob made up of community members and local vigilantes.
Many are struggling to come to terms with the brutal loss of innocent lives, as calls grow louder for accountability and healing.
Hunters accused, beaten, and burned
According to survivors accounts, the men were traveling through Uromi when they were intercepted and found with firearms later confirmed to be licensed hunting rifles.
Despite explanations and pleas for mercy, they were accused of being criminals, violently beaten, and then set on fire, while bystanders watched without intervention.
Calls for justice amid threats of reprisal
In the aftermath, some members of the hunters’ community have issued strong warnings. They say that if the government fails to take swift action, reprisals may be inevitable.
Retired JTF commander says attack was preventable
Reacting to the tragedy, a retired Joint Task Force (JTF) commander in Kano, Dr. Isma’il Tanko Birnin Kudu who spoke to DAILY POST described the killings as “a heinous, dastardly act carried out against innocent commuters.”
He commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo for taking quick and necessary steps, including visiting Kano and relieving the state vigilante leader of his duties. However, he stressed that these actions, while commendable, must be followed by concrete justice mechanisms.
Prosecution of offenders is key to peace – Tanko
Tanko stressed the importance of public and transparent prosecution of those responsible for the mob killings.
“Only a true and public prosecution of those involved in the Uromi killings can halt the desire for revenge,” he said, stating that “Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done.”
Compensation for victims’ families
He also called on the government to compensate the families of the deceased hunters, saying, “These families deserve justice, closure, and financial support as a result of this loss.”
Apology to hunters’ association
Tanko emphasized that the Hunters Association of Nigeria is a registered and highly respected security support group recognized by authorities across the country.
“The Edo State government must publicly apologize to the families and to the Hunters Association of Nigeria, especially those in Kano,” he said.
According to him, “This association is not just a simple group; it is powerful and commands deep respect.”
Vigilante groups must be properly trained
Highlighting the need for professionalism in community security, Dr. Tanko urged the government to put retired military or paramilitary officers in charge of training vigilante groups.
“You can’t entrust security to untrained individuals,” he stated. “Security goes beyond the abilities of lay people—it requires structure, experience, and understanding of civil conduct.”
Hunters association issues firm warning
The Toronke Hunters Association in Birnin Kudu LGA of Kano State, through its leader Alhaji Musa Dogo, expressed outrage at the killings and warned of possible consequences if justice is not pursued.
“We will not let this killing slide. If the government buries this case, we will not keep silent,” he told reporters.
The hunters stressed that this is not a threat, but a promise.
As investigations continue, there are growing calls across the country for restraint, reconciliation, and justice.
Community leaders and security experts alike are urging authorities to act decisively to prevent the tragedy from escalating into a larger crisis.
Uromi killings: Security expert provides solution to growing tension in north, charges govt