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Bandits Kill 13 Worshipers During Morning Prayers in Katsina

Bandits Kill 13 Worshipers During Morning Prayers in Katsina

Francis Sardauna in Katsina 

No fewer than 13 people have been killed during morning prayers in Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the death of the worshipers in a statement on Tuesday.

Mu’azu, who did not mention the date of the incident, said it occurred when the criminal elements launched a reprisal on the community. 

He said: “The Katsina State Government today announced immediate security reinforcements and support measures following a tragic incident in the Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area, where 13 residents lost their lives during morning prayers.

“The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal element started shooting sporadically in the mosque.

“The attack was in retaliation for the community’s successful defence efforts two days earlier. The people of Unguwan Mantau decided to lay an ambush against the bandits and killed many of them. 

“They rescued victims taken from Ruwan Sanyi village, seized 3 motorcycles and 2 AK 47. The security agencies are now on the ground in Unguwan Muntau to restore normalcy.”

He, however, said the air component commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army and  Nigerian Police Force have been deployed to “clear those bandits because during the rainy season, bandits hide under the crops to perpetrate their evil acts”.

While reiterating the state government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating criminal elements from the state, Mu’azu said: “We are working towards bringing the bandits to book.”

He added: “As government, we salute the gallantry disposition of the people of Unguwar Mantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits and ensuring safety across our communities. 

“The state government extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the region.”

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B’Haram Founder’s Son Arrested, US, UK Hail Nigeria over Ansaru Leaders’ Capture

B’Haram Founder’s Son Arrested, US, UK Hail Nigeria over Ansaru Leaders’ Capture

•American mission unveils stricter visa requirements compelling applicants to disclose five years social media history

Chuks Okocha and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

In a wave of devastating onslaught against terrorism in the country and the sub-region, six suspected Boko Haram members, including a young man believed to be Muslim Mohammed Yusuf, the son of Boko Haram’s late founder, Mohammed Yusuf, have been arrested.

Authorities in Chad confirmed the arrest.

The latest development followed a week of stellar anti-terror breakthroughs as security forces in Nigeria and Chad struck heavy blows against extremist networks operating across the Lake Chad Basin, with ripple effects drawing in international partners.

This was as the Nigerian government has also announced the capture of two top leaders of the faction of Ansaru terrorist group – Mahmud Muhammad Usman, aka Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, known as Mallam Mamuda

However, impressed by the development, the United States and the United Kingdom have congratulated the country forwhat it described as a “significant forward step” in the fight against terrorism and extremism.

At the same time, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria unveiled stricter visa requirements, compelling Nigerian applicants to disclose all social media handles used within the last five years, citing global security priorities.

The arrest of Muslim Yusuf, known by the alias Abdrahman Mahamat Abdoulaye was first reported by a Nigerian intelligence source operating in the Lake Chad region.

The source said Yusuf, believed to be around 18 years old, was detained alongside five other alleged militants in N’Djamena by Chadian authorities during a counter-terror sweep.

Photos obtained after the arrests showed a slender young man in a blue tracksuit with a striking resemblance to his father, standing among older detainees.

Chadian police spokesman, Paul Manga, confirmed the arrest, saying the suspects were “bandits operating in the city” without legal documentation.

While police described them as Boko Haram members, Nigerian intelligence suggested that Yusuf’s cell was part of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a splinter group that broke away from Boko Haram in 2016 over ideological differences.

Yusuf, who was an infant when his father was killed in 2009 during a Nigerian military crackdown that left about 800 people dead, was also the younger brother of Habib Yusuf (alias Abu Mus’ab al-Barnawi), the current ISWAP leader.

A former Boko Haram lieutenant familiar with the group’s inner workings, but who has since renounced the movement, also confirmed the arrest, describing it as a “major symbolic victory” in the fight against insurgency in the region.

In a parallel development, the Nigerian government, had last week, announced the arrest of two notorious Ansaru commanders: Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda).

The duo, long wanted for their roles in high-profile kidnappings and attacks across the northwest, were captured in a security operation praised by both Abuja and Washington.

The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria lauded the arrests in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “We commend the Nigerian Government and security forces on the successful arrest of wanted Ansaru leaders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda). This is a significant forward in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and extremism.”

In the same breath, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, also on X described the feat as “an extraordinary and very significant success. A major step forward in the fight against terrorism.

“Congratulations to the security agencies and officers involved under the leadership of NSA Ribadu,” added the UK Permanent Representative to ECOWAS.

The arrests marked one of the most high-profile successes against Ansaru in recent years, a group that has maintained ties with al-Qaeda and has been responsible for multiple kidnappings of foreigners and attacks on Nigerian security forces.

Amid the global spotlight on counter-terror operations, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, however, rolled out a new visa directive requiring all applicants to disclose their social media usernames and handles from the past five years.

In a statement, the Mission said applicants must enter the details on the DS-160 visa application form and certify their accuracy before submission.

“Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future visas,” the U.S. Mission warned.

The measure, according to U.S. officials, was part of enhanced screening mechanisms designed to protect national security and prevent extremists from exploiting immigration loopholes.

A security expert, Dr Bashir Uji, held the view that the twin arrests of Boko Haram’s founder’s son in Chad and Ansaru leaders in Nigeria underscored growing international collaboration against terrorism in West Africa.

While many Nigerians thought the developments were rare moments of relief, Uji warned that though the arrests dealt symbolic and operational blows to insurgent networks, the groups retained the capacity to regroup and launch retaliatory strikes.

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Tinubu, Atiku, Bago, David Mark Rejoice with Ex-military Leader, IBB at 84

Tinubu, Atiku, Bago, David Mark Rejoice with Ex-military Leader, IBB at 84

President says Babangida’s 8-year rule impacted Nigeria positively 

Jonathan visits IBB, declares he will continue to be relevant

Ex-leader voice of moderation in Nigeria, says Idris 

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna

President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago and ex-Senate President, David Mark, yesterday felicitated former Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd) as he clocked 84 on August 17, 2025.

In the same vein, former President Goodluck Jonathan for the second time in three weeks, yesterday visited Babangida at his Minna hilltop mansion in Niger state, declaring that the former Nigerian military leader will continue to be relevant in the scheme of things.

But Tinubu, in a release issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, rejoiced with the family, friends, and associates of the former military leader whose eight years of rule, he said, greatly impacted Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.

He celebrated Babangida’s distinguished military career, which included serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, Commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and Chief of Army Staff.

The President noted IBB’s stewardship to the country, saying his military administration will be remembered for its massive investment in infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, and the reforms that liberalised the Nigerian economy.

The former military leader, he recalled, also established the State Security Service (SSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others.

Tinubu also highlighted Babangida’s role in creating states and relocating the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja. While thanking him for his sacrifice and leadership, the President prayed to God to grant the former military leader more years and renewed strength.

Besides, former Vice President, Atiku, in his tribute said that  IBB’s life was worthy of celebration as 84 years is a milestone in the journey of life, and in every aspect of his journey, noting that the former military President distinguished himself remarkably.

”As General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, former military President of Nigeria celebrates his 84th birthday anniversary, it’s my honour and privilege to join millions of Nigerians to felicitate with him and his family on this special occasion. 

”It’s difficult to write about Nigeria’s journey to progress and development without a mention of the role that he played in shaping the destiny of Nigeria. In terms of national infrastructure,  his legacy is still standing tall despite the passage of time. He gave Nigeria visionary and purposeful leadership. The foundation he laid is worthy of emulation. Babangida is widely respected because of his humble leadership style. 

”As one of those Nigerians privileged to know him closely enough, let me say without any fear of contradictions that it’s impossible to interact with him without being instantly inspired by his erudition, intelligence, and amazing wisdom. 

”His magnanimity and understanding of our national diversity is one of his finest virtues. In fact, even his stubborn critics may automatically change their perception of him once they have the opportunity to meet him. This is a widely held testimony about IBB,” Atiku stated.

According to the former vice president, Babangida’s understanding of Nigeria’s diversity is one of the reasons why he is held in high esteem, explaining that the massive attendance at the recent launch of his memoirs in Abuja was a revelation about how he is respected by Nigerians. 

”IBB is a household name in Nigeria, and this may not be unconnected with the impact of his leadership. Rarely do I come across a public figure with such broad-based national respectability. 

”No wonder he is perceived as a phenomenon in Nigeria and beyond. He is a military man with democratic disposition, and this is one of the great virtues that define him. Paying tribute to a remarkable leader like IBB is one of the hardest tasks because one may ultimately run out of adjectives to do justice to his shining virtues. 

“The former military President’s recruitment of Nigeria’s best and finest to implement his administration’s policies stands him out as a visionary leader. Ethnic and religious bigotry and bias are alien to his nature. This is one of the finest virtues for which he is widely respected. His commitment to our unity is laudable. Indeed, he is a nation builder. 

”I wish to put on record that IBB is a bold and decisive leader who never hesitated to take difficult decisions. Moreover, he never hesitated to take responsibility for difficult decisions. He didn’t sacrifice his subordinates for his own mistakes. At every point Nigeria faced challenges to its unity and survival, he didn’t hesitate to be part of the efforts to find solutions to those challenges. 

”As one of those who have been inspired by his visionary leadership, I am proud to recall his efforts towards African stability and unity. His role in bringing peace and stability to Liberia is well noted. IBB is respected by AU and ECOWAS leaders on account of his contributions to the stability of Africa. His role in bringing the apartheid system in South Africa to an end is no less remarkable. 

”As IBB marks this remarkable journey of life, may God continue to bless his life with good health and grant him more years in good health and vitality in the service of Nigeria and humanity.”, the former vice president stated.

Also yesterday, Niger State Governor, Bago,  in the message signed on his behalf by Bologi Ibrahim, his Chief Press Secretary, said Babangida has dedicated most of  his life to serving  the country.

 “General Babangida has demonstrated bravery and patriotism in ensuring the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria during and after his active service”

Bago also said that the launch of the IBB presidential library, named after his late wife, Dr. Maryam Babangida, was a clear indication of his commitment to preserving rich history and promoting education, which will benefit Niger State, Nigeria, and beyond.

He maintained that the elder statesman had written his name in the sands of time through the numerous policies and programmes implemented when he was the Head of State.

In his tributes, National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, described  Babangida as “a patriot who believes firmly in the sanctity of one united and indivisible Nigeria.”

He said: “Today is not merely to mark the passage of time, but to celebrate the extraordinary life of a soldier, a patriot, and a statesman who, at 84, stands as a living monument to courage, service, and honour. From the day he first donned the nation’s uniform, General Babangida embodied the creed of duty before self.”

He noted that Babangida’s career, marked by discipline and distinction, spanned decades of national service; defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, safeguarding her unity, and mentoring generations of officers who went on to lead with the same integrity he exemplified.

The former Senate President, in a statement by his Media Aide, Paul Mumeh, recalled Babangida’s stewardship during his years of service: “In the barracks and on the battlefield, he was resolute. In the corridors of policy and leadership, he was wise. His voice carried the weight of experience, yet it was always tempered with humility,” he stressed.

Mark further remarked that those privileged to serve under Babangida remember not only his tactical brilliance but also his humanity as a leader who could command with firmness yet inspire with compassion.

He added that even in retirement, Babangida has never withdrawn from service to the nation, stressing that instead, he has remained a moral compass in public discourse and an elder statesman whose counsel is sought across political divides.

“His patriotism was never about the uniform alone, but about a lifelong commitment to the ideals for which he once risked everything. At 84, his medals may have faded in shine, but his legacy gleams brighter than ever,” Mark stated.

In addition, former President Goodluck Jonathan for the second time in three weeks yesterday visited one of his predecessors, Babangida, at his Minna hill top mansion  in Niger state. The visit, according to Jonathan, was to felicitate with Babangida on his 84th birthday.

Jonathan, after the visit held behind closed doors said Babangida stands out as one  committed leader that wants the best for this country.

“He did his best for this country, he did his best as a military head of state.  That is why till today his house is like some sort of Mecca. People come here regularly. That tells you a lot about the character of IBB,” he said.

Jonathan added that Babangida “takes Nigeria, the whole country as his own”, adding that “he is not a sectional leader as his friends cut across the entire country”.

The former President, who was accompanied by a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain,  Segun Sowunmi, among others, also submitted that Babangida ” is one person that we will continue to celebrate”.

In the same vein, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris,  described  Babangida as someone who has continued to stand as a voice of wisdom, moderation, and guidance in the nation’s collective journey towards peace, unity and sustainable development.

Idris made the portrayal yesterday in a congratulatory message on the 84th birthday of the statesman, who was the head of a military junta from 1985 to 1993.

The minister said  Babangida is an enduring statesman whose life and service remain etched in Nigeria’s political history, adding he derived great joy to congratulate former Military President on his 84th birthday.

“As he marks this milestone, we celebrate not just his years, but also his immense contributions to the evolution of modern Nigeria, particularly through his championing of political and economic reforms. His legacy of service, courage, and vision continues to inspire leaders and citizens alike.

“At 84, General Babangida remains a vast reservoir of knowledge and experience, inspiring successive generations with his clarity of thought and depth of understanding.

“I pray that Almighty God grants him many more years in good health, strength, and fulfillment. May this new chapter of his life be marked by peace, joy, and the continued affection of a grateful nation that holds him in high esteem,” Idris said.

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Isyaku Ibrahim Dies at 88

Isyaku Ibrahim Dies at 88

Prominent business tycoon and politician, Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim, is dead.

He died in the early hours of Saturday at a private hospital in Abuja.
He was aged 88.

The late Ibrahim was one of the founding leaders of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and close associate of Second Republic Nigerian President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari. He nominated Shehu Shagari as the NPN presidential flagbearer, as leader of the Plateau delegates.

He was one of the founding fathers and financier of the Peoples Democratic Party, and was the campaign manager of the late former Vice President Alex Ekwueme, when he vied for the PDP presidential ticket against then President Olusegun Obasanjo at the party’s primaries in 2003.
He was the founder of the Mighty Jets Football club of Jos in the 70s and the first Nigerian to hire a foreign coach from Brazil to manage the club.

Details later….

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• August 13, 2025
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Breaking: Terrorist Kingpin Abubakar Abba, Flown to Abuja

Breaking: Terrorist Kingpin Abubakar Abba, Flown to Abuja

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Niger state Governor Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago has confirmed the arrest of a terrorist Kingpin Abubakar Abba.

Abubakar Abba until his arrest was the leader of the dreaded Mahmuda terrorist organisation which operated in the Borgu local government area of the state and part of Kwara state.

Governor Bago said the terrorist leader was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Security DSS in Wawa town.

A statement by Bologi Ibrahim, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bago, on his facebook page said the terrorist was apprehended without a shot being fired.

“Yes, it is true. I can confirm that the leader of Mahmuda, which is one of the most dangerous terror groups in West Africa, Abubakar Abba, has been arrested by the DSS,” Bologi Ibrahim apparently quoting Governor Bago posted on the page.
.
Ibrahim continued that, “He ( Abba) was apprehended alive through an intelligence-led operation by the DSS.”

“This is a huge victory for us as a people and as a government, and President Tinubu deserves commendation for this cheering news” he submitted

“Abba’s arrest demonstrates the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to truly ending insecurity and promoting the well-being of Nigerians.” Bologi said in the statement

The governor according to his spokesman, also commented on appointments by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating: “Look at the appointments in the security services, especially the DSS. It takes a tremendous degree of intelligence and competence to without firing a single shot, capture a high-profile terrorist like Abba. Where there is a will, they say, there is a way. Mr. President has consistently shown that willpower. That’s why we are recording such successes”.

Bago promised that the Niger State government will continue to collaborate with the federal government and security agencies to ensure that terrorism is halted in the country.

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Court Discharges Ibom Air Passenger Amid New Developments

Court Discharges Ibom Air Passenger Amid New Developments

An Ikeja Magistrates’ Court has discharged Miss Comfort Emmanson of unruly behaviour and assault charges brought against her by the police.

Magistrate Olanrewaju Salami, on August 11, remanded Emmanson in a correctional centre for allegedly assaulting flight crew onboard an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos.

At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, Salami discharged Emmason following the withdrawal of the five-count charge brought against her by the police.

The prosecutor, Inspector Oluwabunmi Adeitan, informed the court of new developments warranting the case withdrawal and submitted an application, which the court accepted. (NAN)

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• August 9, 2025
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Former PDP National Chairman, Audu Ogbeh, is Dead

Former PDP National Chairman, Audu Ogbeh, is Dead

Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and ex- Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, is dead.

He died on Saturday at 78.

Announcing his death in a statement on Saturday morning, his family said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather; Chief Audu Ogbeh. He passed away on the 9th of August 2025 at the fulfilled age of 78.

“He departed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, service, and dedication to our nation and community. We are comforted by the many lives he touched and the example he set.

“Details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. We thank friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their prayers and support during this time. We will appreciate some privacy at this time while we mourn the loss of our patriarch.”

Details later…

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NCAA Suspends Valujet Pilots over Safety Breach

NCAA Suspends Valujet Pilots over Safety Breach

Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the pilots of a Nigerian carrier ValuJet, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co- pilot, First officer Ivan Oloba, after receiving reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by the pilots at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (Domestic Terminal) yesterday.

In a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, NCAA said that preliminary information indicated that the pilots in question commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.
“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness.

“Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co- pilot, First officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect,” the statement said.
NCAA maintained that the suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.

“The Authorty hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety”, NCAA added.

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Buoyed By Portfolio Investments, CapitalImportation Improves to $5.64 Billion in Q1

Buoyed By Portfolio Investments, CapitalImportation Improves to $5.64 Billion in Q1

•Only five states attracted investments as FCT displaces Lagos

James Emejoin Abuja

The country’s total capital importation stock increased by 10.86 per cent to $5.64 billion in the first quarter of the year (Q1 2025) compared to $5.08 billion in the preceding quarter, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said yesterday.

Capital importation also recorded 67.12 per cent increase when compared to $3.37 billion in Q1 2024.

According to the Capital Importation report for the period under review, portfolio investment accounted for 92.25 per cent or $5.20 billion 4.61 million, followed by Other Investment class with 5.52 per cent or $311.17 million.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) recorded the least with inflows, contributing 2.24 per cent or $126.29 million of total capital importation.

The United Kingdom (UK) topped the capital importation chart with $3.68 billion, representing 65.26 per cent of the total liquidity inflows go the period.

This was followed by the Republic of South Africa with $501.29 million (8.88 per cent) and Mauritius with $394.51 million (6.99 per cent).

According to the NBS, only five states of the federation recorded capital inflows for the quarter under review.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja remained the top destination for foreign capital , accounting for $3.04 billion (54.11 per cent) of the total importation.

Lagos followed with $2.56 billion (45.44 per cent), and Ogun with $7.95 million (0.14 per cent).

Others were Oyo and Kaduna with $7.81 million and $4.06 million respectively.

According to the statistical agency, the banking sector recorded the highest inflow with $3.12 billion, representing 55.44 per cent of total capital imported in Q1.

This was followed by the financing sector, valued $2.09 billion (37.18 per cent), and production/manufacturing sector with $129.92 million (2.30 per cent).

Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited received the highest capital importation with $2.10 billion (37.29 per cent), followed by Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc with $1.39 billion (24.78 per cent) and Citibank Nigeria Limited $1.05 billion (18.66 per cent).

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