In a candid revelation shedding light on the persistent scourge of banditry in Katsina State, Governor Dikko Radda has pointed fingers at a nexus of complicity involving security personnel, government officials, and criminal elements, branding the crisis as a lucrative "business venture."

In an exclusive interview with Channels Television on Friday, May 3, Governor Radda voiced his concerns, highlighting the nefarious collaboration that has allowed banditry to thrive unchecked, lamenting its transformation into a profitable enterprise.

"Now it has turned out to be a business venture. A business venture for the criminals, some people who are in government; and some people who are in security outfits, and some people who are responsible for the day-to-day activities of their people," Governor Radda asserted, underscoring the complex web of interests perpetuating the crisis.

The governor's remarks underscore the multifaceted challenges facing efforts to curb banditry, with systemic corruption and collusion exacerbating the security crisis in the region.

Amidst these revelations, Governor Radda emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive measures to dismantle the networks facilitating banditry, stressing the imperative of addressing root causes and holding complicit individuals accountable.

According to Governor Radda, the insidious grip of banditry extends its reach through the exploitation of vulnerable youths, who are enticed into criminal activities with meager sums as low as N500.

As Katsina State grapples with the escalating menace of banditry, Governor Dikko Radda's candid disclosure underscores the pressing imperative for concerted action to dismantle the networks of collusion and corruption fueling the crisis, while addressing the socio-economic grievances driving vulnerable youths into the clutches of criminal syndicates.

In a devastating incident that has shocked the community, a Nigerian woman known as Roseline has tragically lost her life after reportedly being pushed into a large pot of boiling ground pepper and tomatoes by her friends in Delta State.

Confirmation of the incident came from activist Comrade Israel Joe, who took to Facebook on Friday, May 3, 2024, to share the heartbreaking news. Joe revealed that Roseline, affectionately called Rozzy, succumbed to her injuries on Friday, April 26, after battling for survival for two weeks in a hospital in Warri.

Details emerged that prior to the incident, Roseline had joined her friends on a catering job in Sapele, despite feeling tensions among them. Joe stated that Roseline confided in him about feeling ostracized by her friends but still chose to accompany them on the trip.

Expressing outrage, Joe demanded justice for Roseline, condemning the perpetrators and pledging to hold them accountable for their actions.

In his emotional Facebook post, Joe recounted the harrowing circumstances of Roseline's death, describing how she suffered severe burns and endured agonizing pain before ultimately succumbing to her injuries. He criticized the lack of action from authorities, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.

Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding her death, Joe lamented the lack of recognition and dignity afforded to Roseline in her final moments, revealing that she was buried without any ceremony or acknowledgment from her community.

The activist emphasized the importance of justice for Roseline, asserting that her death should not be disregarded or forgotten. He called for accountability and vowed to continue advocating on her behalf until those responsible are brought to justice.

The community mourns the loss of Roseline, a young woman whose life was cut short in a senseless and horrific manner. As calls for justice echo through the streets of Delta, the memory of Roseline serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and protection for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. #Justice4Rosy #RestInPeace

In a heartwarming display of familial love and tradition, former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, beamed with pride as he escorted his daughter, Yewande Fashola, down the aisle in a lavish wedding ceremony held over the weekend.

The picturesque event, which took place at the prestigious Civic Centre in Lagos, witnessed the union of Yewande, a successful entrepreneur, and her beloved groom, Tunde Ogunleye, amidst a gathering of esteemed guests, dignitaries, and well-wishers.

Adorned in resplendent attire, Yewande radiated elegance in a breathtaking gown intricately designed with lace and embellishments, while her groom, Tunde, exuded sophistication in a tailored suit that complemented his bride's ensemble perfectly.

As the melodious strains of a live orchestra filled the air, the proud father, Babatunde Fashola, affectionately known as "BRF" by his admirers, walked his daughter down the aisle, a cherished moment captured by the flashing lights of cameras and the adoring gazes of attendees.

The guest list boasted an array of notable figures from the political, business, and entertainment spheres, with luminaries such as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and renowned Nollywood personalities gracing the occasion to celebrate the union of the couple.

Amidst the splendor of floral arrangements and exquisite décor, guests were treated to a sumptuous banquet featuring a delectable array of culinary delights and beverages, setting the stage for an evening of joyous celebration and merriment.

In his speech, the beaming father of the bride, Babatunde Fashola, expressed profound happiness and blessings for the newlyweds, emphasizing the importance of love, unity, and mutual respect in their journey together as husband and wife.

The wedding festivities culminated in a dazzling display of fireworks that illuminated the night sky, symbolizing the bright future that awaits Yewande and Tunde as they embark on their marital bliss.

As the celebrations drew to a close, guests departed with hearts full of joy and memories to cherish, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the newlywed couple, Yewande and Tunde Ogunleye.

Tinuade Sanda, the former managing director and CEO of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), has been ousted from her position after being accused of falsely claiming degrees from prestigious universities, TheCable reports.

Sanda, who assumed the role of managing director of Eko Disco in March 2022, was relieved of her duties in April 2024 following an internal investigation within the company.

The decision to terminate Sanda's employment was made public on March 25 by Dere Otubu, chairman of the board of directors at Eko Disco, who cited a directive from the Nigerian Electricity Distribution Commission (NERC). Sanda was recalled to the parent company, West Power and Gas (WPG) Limited, alongside other WPG staff members.

In alignment with the decision of the EKEDC board of directors, WPG, the parent company of Eko Disco, also announced Sanda's dismissal.

A letter addressed to Sanda from WPG read: “We hereby advise you that your services are no longer required and accordingly your employment with WPG Ltd is hereby terminated effective April 17, 2024, in accordance with clause 10.2 of the Contract. WPG Ltd is obligated to pay you three months salary in lieu of notice and hereby advise you that the due amounts have been credited to your account.”

Contrary to her claims, investigations revealed discrepancies in Sanda's educational background. Initially, she had stated on her LinkedIn profile that she possessed a Bachelor’s degree in applied science (BASc) from Harvard Business School and an MBA in Strategic Planning from the University of Edinburgh.

In a recent legal development, a Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has ruled in favor of Pastor Oyinmiebi Biribena and his wife, Pastor Beatrice Biribena, in a case brought against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court awarded the sum of N10 million as damages against the EFCC for unlawfully declaring the plaintiffs wanted without a valid court order.

The court, presided over by Justice Dashen, delivered the judgment in response to a suit filed by the Biribenas seeking the enforcement of their fundamental human rights against the EFCC. The court declared the EFCC's actions unjustified, unlawful, and unconstitutional, particularly concerning the publication on June 8, 2022, declaring the couple wanted.

Furthermore, Justice Dashen ordered EFCC to issue a public apology to the Biribenas for the unlawful publication and restrained the agency from inviting, harassing, arresting, or detaining the plaintiffs pending the determination of another suit involving Bliss Multinational Perfections Limited and others versus EFCC.

In a related case between Bliss Multinational Perfections Limited and Oyinmiebi Biribena versus EFCC, the court made several declarations against EFCC's actions. It ruled that disputes arising from transactions with the Baraza Multipurpose Cooperative Society cannot be reported to security agencies without first involving the registrar and director of the Bureau of Cooperative Societies of Bayelsa State. Additionally, the court held that EFCC has no jurisdiction over disputes arising from civil transactions within cooperative societies.

The court also declared EFCC's seizure and sealing of properties belonging to Bliss Multinational Perfections Limited and Oyinmiebi Biribena as wrongful and unlawful. It further restrained EFCC from freezing the bank accounts of Biribena over disputes related to civil transactions without proper recourse to regulatory authorities.

However, while the plaintiffs had requested N100 million in damages, the court awarded N10 million as exemplary damages against EFCC. This ruling underscores the importance of due process and adherence to legal procedures in law enforcement activities.

In a startling revelation, authorities in Lagos State have uncovered a network of makeshift apartments beneath the Dolphin Estate Bridge, Ikoyi, on Lagos Island, where tenants were reportedly paying N250,000 per annum for accommodation.

According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, a total of 86 partitioned rooms, varying in size from 10x10 to 12x10, were discovered beneath the bridge. These rooms, along with a container used for illicit activities, were promptly removed by the enforcement team of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.

Wahab took to X.com to share this information, accompanied by videos documenting the eviction and dismantling of structures beneath the bridge.

"A total number of 86 rooms, partitioned into 10x10 and 12x10, and a container used for different illegal activities were discovered under the Dolphin Estate Bridge," Wahab wrote.

Meanwhile, Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, a Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed the eviction of squatters from beneath the bridge. Rotimi-Akodu highlighted the environmental violations and illegal settlement that prompted the eviction, which was carried out by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly known as KAI.

"Squatters dwelling under the bridge leading from inward Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi were evicted today Tuesday, 30th of April, 2024 by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps LAGESC (aka KAI)," Rotimi-Akodu stated.

He further disclosed that 23 individuals were arrested during the eviction process, emphasizing that the law would be enforced to address such violations.

The discovery of the makeshift apartments beneath the bridge underscores the challenges of housing and urban development in Lagos, raising concerns about safety, sanitation, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations in the city.

VIDEO: 86 rooms where tenants paid N250,000 a year found under Lagos bridge

Lagos State's Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on Wednesday said the government discovered 86 partitioned rooms, sized 10x10 and 12x10, under the Dolphin Estate Bridge,… pic.twitter.com/cNq7Q0OuE2

— Punch Newspapers (@MobilePunch) May 1, 2024

In a heartwarming announcement, former Big Brother Naija reality show contestant, Chioma Ndubueze, affectionately known as Chomzy, has joyfully welcomed a baby boy with her husband.

The ecstatic husband took to his Instagram page to share the delightful news with their followers, expressing gratitude for the blessing bestowed upon their family.

“This is the best news and the best way to start this month. It has been an amazing journey with my QUEEN @thechomzy. God has done it again; it’s a baby BOY,” he penned in his post.

Expressing profound gratitude, he continued, “Thank you, JESUS, for answering all my prayers. My wife just gave birth to a bouncing baby BOY. God has been so faithful, and, of course, I have every reason to thank Him.”

The announcement marks a significant milestone for the couple, whose union was celebrated in a joyous wedding ceremony held in December 2023.

“All our sorrows and sadness have turned to joy. I feel my father is back again. Please join me in thanking this BIG GOD; He is really so faithful and has never let me and my family down. We are so grateful, LORD. I LOVE YOU FOREVER, MY QUEEN @thechomzy,” the husband expressed, overflowing with love and appreciation.

The arrival of their newborn son brings immeasurable joy and marks a new chapter in their journey as a family, eliciting warm wishes and congratulations from well-wishers and fans alike.

Renowned Nigerian singer, Flavour, has made a bold declaration on the 'X' platform, asserting that he does not view himself as being in competition with any of his peers within the music industry.

The "Agba Baller" maestro emphasized his unique standing and prowess in the music scene, distinguishing himself from ongoing tensions between fellow artists.

Amidst the backdrop of industry rivalries, notably between Davido and Wizkid, which sparked online debates involving other musicians like Kizz Daniel and Tekno, Flavour remained notably silent.

However, seizing the moment to address the matter, Flavour underscored his confidence in his abilities, particularly highlighting his stellar live performances and consistent release of hit tracks.

In a statement shared on his account, he boldly proclaimed, "You were born yesterday if you don’t know I’m in a league of my own. I no dey in competition with anybody. Where you wan start? Hit songs? Live performance? Find me for different genres I dey. Nna puta nu."

Flavour's stance reflects a commitment to individuality and artistic excellence, setting himself apart from the fray of industry politics and ensuring his music speaks volumes for itself.

Renowned Nigerian actress, Sarah Martins, has issued a heartfelt plea to married men, urging them to prioritize intimacy with their wives to prevent emotional disconnect and potential infidelity.

In a candid message shared on her social media platform, Martins emphasized the importance of maintaining emotional and physical closeness in marital relationships. She highlighted the distressing reality faced by some women who feel neglected and unfulfilled in their marriages.

"Some women are going through a lot in their marriages... Some men can sleep with 20 different women in a day but find it difficult to touch their own wives," Martins expressed, pointing out the stark contrast in behavior.

The actress reminded men of the commitment they made to their wives and encouraged them to reflect on the changes that may have occurred in their relationships over time. She advocated for a return to the foundation of friendship and affection that initially brought couples together, even if the intensity of romantic love has waned.

Martins empathized with married women who resort to alternative means of satisfaction, such as intimacy aids, due to the lack of attention and care from their husbands. She urged men to recognize the importance of nurturing their marital bonds and to refrain from neglecting their spouses' emotional and physical needs.

"Dear men, your wives need attention and care too," Martins implored. "Touch your wife today, remind her you're still the man she fell in love with before another man begins to reap the rewards of your investment."

The actress's poignant message serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of intimacy and emotional connection in sustaining healthy and fulfilling marriages, resonating with couples navigating the complexities of modern relationships.

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In a distressing incident, a 75-year-old man identified as Nwankwo Nweke has been apprehended for allegedly assaulting an 8-year-old girl in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.

The suspect, a barber from Isi Agu in Awka South local government area, reportedly confessed to the crime, attributing his actions to temptation. He pleaded for leniency and pledged to exhibit good behavior if granted pardon by the state government.

The victim's parents, Mr. John and Mrs. Ogochukwu Ugwuanyi, recounted the harrowing ordeal, stating that they sent their daughter on an errand to a nearby shop around 7 pm. Upon her return, they discovered that some items were missing and instructed her to go back to the shop. However, when she failed to return, they initiated a frantic search.

Unbeknownst to them, the suspect, who was their neighbor, had taken the girl to his house and instructed her not to respond when called. He eventually pushed her out of his room after believing that the search had ended.

Upon the girl's return home, her parents questioned her about the incident. She disclosed that the suspect had enticed her to his house with the promise of mangoes.

Mr. and Mrs. Ugwuanyi promptly involved law enforcement authorities and took their daughter to the hospital for medical examination.

This disturbing incident highlights the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the welfare of children and underscores the need for swift action against perpetrators of such heinous acts. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure that justice is served and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The Yobe State Police Command has apprehended Sani Musa, a phone snatcher accused of stabbing a 24-year-old woman, Sheba Simon, in Damaturu, the state capital.

According to reports, Ms. Simon, a salesgirl, was attacked by the suspect while on her way home from work on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Musa allegedly assaulted her with a jackknife and stole her cellphone during the incident.

In a statement issued by DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the spokesperson of the command, it was disclosed that the suspect confessed to the crime following his arrest on Wednesday, May 1.

"The Command Police Response Unit (Haba Maza), in a joint intelligence-led operation with the State Intelligent Department and personnel of C Divisional Police Headquarters, apprehended One Sani Musa, AKA 'Regis Oga Soja,' aged 22 years old of Nayi Nawa ward, Damaturu," the statement read.

"On 30th April 2024 at about 23:30hrs, the culprit was apprehended with the snatched cellphone, Itel A663LC / MTN Sim Card, and assorted charms, unequivocally confessing to the commission of the crime during police interrogation."

Expressing relief at the successful operation, Commissioner of Police, CP Garba Ahmed, commended the effectiveness and timeliness of the arrest. He urged officers to maintain vigilance and ensure that Yobe State becomes an inhospitable environment for criminals.

The Commissioner also thanked community members for their steadfast support in combating crime and emphasized the importance of collective efforts in ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with proactive measures being implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. The command has called for continued cooperation from the public in this endeavor.

In a cautionary tale shared on social media, a Nigerian man identified as @Elmatardorr recounted his disappointing experience with a fellow Nigerian that led to the termination of his employment as a manager in a UK-based company. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the pitfalls of misplaced trust in professional settings.

According to @Elmatardorr's account, he applied for a managerial position at a company in the UK and impressed the interviewer during the selection process. Despite expressing reservations about his limited industry experience, the interviewer agreed to give him a trial period.

The Nigerian man proceeded to undergo training at another branch of the company, under the guidance of a fellow Nigerian who spoke the same dialect. Initially, their relationship appeared promising until @Elmatardorr's colleague questioned his suitability for the role after scrutinizing his LinkedIn profile.

From that point on, @Elmatardorr described his experience as fraught with difficulties, with his colleague failing to provide the necessary support and treating him more like a casual worker than a manager-in-training.

Ultimately, the Nigerian colleague conveyed a negative assessment of @Elmatardorr's performance to the hiring manager, leading to the termination of his employment prospects with the company.

This incident underscores the importance of exercising caution and discernment in professional relationships, particularly when navigating unfamiliar environments. It serves as a reminder to individuals to remain vigilant and to trust but verify, especially in matters as crucial as employment opportunities in foreign countries.

Check out his full narration below …

Despite warnings of a potential explosion, several residents risked their lives to scoop petrol from a fallen tanker along the Benin-Agbor Road in Edo State. The incident unfolded at Okhuaihe Hill, near the Divisional Police office, on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, when a tanker carrying 33,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) toppled as the driver attempted to navigate the hills.

Eyewitnesses recounted how people rushed to the scene to collect the spilled petroleum product, disregarding the cautionary advice of law enforcement officers.

Confirming the incident, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, issued a statement emphasizing the dangers posed by such actions. He revealed that Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye, had issued warnings for residents to steer clear of the area.

"The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a lone motor accident today, Wednesday, 1st May 2024, at about 15:30hrs along Benin-Agbor Road by Ukhuaihe Hills around the River involving one Mack Truck conveying 33,000 litres of PMS with the inscriptions 'Petrol Con Oil' on it," the statement read.

Describing the accident scene, Nwabuzor highlighted the driver's loss of control while attempting to ascend the hills, resulting in the tanker overturning. He noted the significant risk posed by individuals engaging in the unauthorized collection of petroleum products.

In response to the incident, Commissioner Adegboye called upon the fire service and media outlets to raise awareness about the dangers of scooping petrol. He urged parents and guardians to caution their children against engaging in such hazardous activities to prevent potential loss of life due to fire outbreaks.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with disregarding safety precautions and underscores the need for continued public education on the risks of handling flammable substances.

The victim of the tragic sword attack in London's Hainault district has been identified as 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin, the youngest child of a respected Nigerian family known for their devout church attendance.

The attack, carried out by a man wielding what appeared to be a Samurai-type sword, occurred shortly before 7:00 am (0600 GMT). Authorities swiftly apprehended a 36-year-old suspect using Taser stun weapons, who is now in custody. Police have clarified that the incident is not believed to be terror-related.

Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell of London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that all five victims, including two police officers and two members of the public, were taken to hospital. While the injuries sustained by the officers were described as "significant," they are not believed to be life-threatening.




“It’s with great sadness that one of those injured in this incident… has died from their injuries,” Bell informed reporters at the scene. “He was taken to hospital after being stabbed and sadly died a short while after.”

King Charles III expressed shock at the stabbings and commended the bravery of emergency services, particularly acknowledging the tragic loss of the young victim's life, according to Buckingham Palace.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the violence, emphasizing that such acts have no place on the streets. He extended gratitude to emergency services and praised the bravery of police officers.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror as the suspect, clad in a yellow jumper, roamed the streets with the weapon. Residents recounted moments of fear and desperation as they sought refuge while police attempted to apprehend the assailant.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed devastation over the incident and assured close coordination with the city police commissioner. The Mayor praised the courage of law enforcement and emergency responders.

Knife crime has been a persistent challenge in London, with official statistics indicating a 20 percent increase in such offenses in 2023. Despite efforts to address the issue, knife crime remains a significant concern for authorities in the British capital and across England and Wales.

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, has underscored the significance of social media as a pressing national security concern, highlighting the potential threats posed by its negative use.

Addressing stakeholders in Abuja, Ribadu emphasized that the misuse of social media platforms constitutes both local and global security threats, necessitating a proactive response from defense, security, and response agencies.

Ribadu directed media managers within these agencies to adopt a revised approach in engaging with the public and combating disinformation propagated by adversaries of the nation. He stressed the importance of the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee being strategic and proactive in managing national security communication.

"In light of the worrying trend of social media being exploited to sow division between citizens and governments, spokespersons within the security sector must address this issue urgently," Ribadu stated.

Identifying fake news, misinformation, and disinformation as significant threats to national security and public engagement, Ribadu warned of the adept use of social media platforms by individuals seeking to manipulate public opinion for their gain.

"The adept use of social media platforms by those aiming to influence public opinion against citizens is a global and local threat, demanding immediate attention as a national security priority," he remarked.

Ribadu emphasized the urgency for preparedness and proactivity in managing strategic national security communication, underscoring the pivotal role of spokespersons in this endeavor.

As Nigeria confronts the challenges posed by social media, Ribadu's call for vigilance underscores the imperative of adapting to the evolving landscape of communication to safeguard national security interests.

Ilebaye Odiniya, winner of Big Brother Naija All Stars, has expressed her heartfelt appreciation to Multichoice, the organizers of the popular reality show, for the pivotal role they played in her life.

In a special message of gratitude, the reality star acknowledged the significance of Multichoice's support, describing it as a profound privilege. She highlighted the transformative impact that Big Brother Naija had on her journey to stardom, crediting it as a catalyst for her success.

Speaking about her fashion sense, Odiniya revealed that she draws inspiration from Gen Z Baddie, an influential figure in contemporary fashion. Emphasizing her individuality, she asserted herself as her own fashion icon, reflecting a sense of confidence and self-assurance.

“My outfit is inspired by Gen Z Baddie. I am my own fashion icon. Grateful to God for using Big Brother to make me the Star that I am. It’s a really good privilege,” she remarked.

Odiniya's sentiments underscore the profound impact of reality television in shaping the lives and careers of aspiring individuals, while also highlighting the role of influential brands like Multichoice in providing platforms for talent to thrive.

A coordinated operation involving troops from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has resulted in the death of Abu Huzeifa, a senior commander of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organization in the Sahel region.

Prior to his demise, Huzeifa had a bounty of $5 million placed on his head, reflecting his significance within the ranks of ISIS. He was implicated in numerous high-profile attacks, including a 2017 raid that claimed the lives of four US soldiers and several troops from Niger.

The operation that led to Huzeifa's death occurred on Sunday in the Northern town of Indelimane, situated in the Menaka region. Mali state TV hailed the operation as a triumph over a "bane of evil," emphasizing its significance in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have all borne the brunt of relentless attacks by jihadist militants, prompting a concerted effort to combat the threat. In recent times, these countries have forged closer ties with Russia while distancing themselves from Western allies, such as the United States.

Embracing Russian military assistance, the countries have expelled troops from other nations, signaling a shift in their strategic partnerships.

Huzeifa, also known as Higgo, hailed from Morocco and served as a commander in ISIS's self-styled Sahel Province. The United States government had identified him as a key figure wanted in connection with the 2017 attack on a US Special Forces team in Niger, resulting in the deaths of four American and four Nigerien soldiers.

In an unprecedented move, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has taken on the role of Commissioner for Lands in the state, appointing himself to the position during the inauguration ceremony of 24 newly appointed commissioners at the Government House in Owerri.

The unexpected announcement came on Tuesday, April 30, sending shockwaves through the political landscape of the state. Governor Uzodimma justified his decision, stating that it was a proactive measure aimed at preventing a recurrence of past controversies.

During his address, the governor referenced a previous commissioner who was entangled in contentious land deals towards the end of his tenure. Uzodimma emphasized the need for greater oversight and accountability in the management of land affairs, hence his personal assumption of the role.

This move marks a significant departure from traditional practices, as governors typically delegate such responsibilities to appointed officials. However, Governor Uzodimma's decision underscores his commitment to transparency and efficiency in governance.

The governor's decision has sparked mixed reactions among political observers and stakeholders in the state. While some commend his hands-on approach to governance, others express concerns about the concentration of power in the executive office.

As Governor Uzodimma steps into his new role, all eyes will be on the measures he implements to reform the state's land administration and ensure accountability in land transactions.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command announced on Tuesday the apprehension of four suspected cultists accused of terrorizing the Eket local government area and its surroundings.

In a statement released to journalists by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John, the suspects were identified as Godwin Adam, Isaac Bassey, Emmanuel Hanson Isong, and the alleged ringleader Victor Usoro Eyire, also known as 'Tender'.

According to the statement, Eyire, who hails from Iseyiridua Village in Eket LGA, had been on the police's wanted list prior to his arrest. The suspects, who confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity, were apprehended in Eket LGA following actionable intelligence.

The Police Commissioner, CP Waheed Ayilara, reportedly issued a directive to the Divisional Police Officer of Eket Division, SP Felix Ekpoudom, to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure their prosecution in response to complaints about inter-confraternity clashes in the area.

"On April 9, 2024, at approximately 4:45 pm, operatives of Eket Division acted on credible information and arrested Godwin Adam, Isaac Samuel Bassey, and Emmanuel Hanson Isong," the statement reads.

"The suspects confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity and are also suspected to be involved in the murder of one Kufre Usoro, alias Promzy, who was reportedly a member of the Klanz Cult group and was murdered on April 4, 2024," it continued.

Furthermore, on April 25, 2024, the Eket Divisional Police Officer, acting on gathered intelligence, mobilized operatives and arrested Victor Usoro Eyire, alias Tender, who had been a wanted figure for his alleged role as a ring leader in terrorizing the Eket/Etinan/Ekparakwa Axis.

During the operation, law enforcement recovered an English Pump Action Rifle, a Short Machine Gun (SMG), a locally made revolver pistol, eleven rounds of 9mm ammunition, and four live cartridges from the suspects' operational base at Ikot Oku Ikono Village, Uyo L.G.A.

Efforts are underway to apprehend other fleeing gang members and recover any additional weapons. The Police Command assured the public of its unwavering commitment to eliminating criminal elements from the state.

Raphael Moses, a 32-year-old businessman, finds himself behind bars after an Upper Customary Court in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, remanded him in a correctional facility on charges of defiling an eight-year-old girl.

According to a report by *The Daily Sentinel*, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) brought the accusations against Moses, alleging him of defilement.

The court heard that Catherine Denis, the mother of the victim, reported the incident to the NSCDC headquarters in Kafanchan on April 22. Marcus Audu, the NSCDC Prosecutor, detailed that Moses allegedly lured the young girl into his room before committing the act.

Audu informed the court that Moses was apprehended by concerned neighbors who swiftly transported him to the Salama segxwal Assault Referral Centre.

The accused's actions, as outlined by Audu, are said to have contravened Section 259 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law.

Presiding over the case, Judge Michael Bawa refused to accept Moses' plea. Instead, he ordered that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

The court adjourned the proceedings until May 19 to await guidance from the DPP on further legal actions.