Nigeria Police disburses N22.98bn to families of fallen officers

 The Nigeria Police Force has disbursed a total of N22,978,602,488.25 billion to 8,311 families of fallen officers who died between 2018 to 2024 as part of its welfare package in the country.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, said the latest disbursement, which took place on May 23, 2025, saw 1,235 families receive N2,855,181,796.55.

The statement explained that the disbursement coverd insurance policies for the years 2018-2019, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 2023-2024.

The IGP stated that the Force is deeply committed to the welfare of police officers and will continually honor the legacies of the fallen officers, as no compensation can truly replace a lost life.

According to him, “This initiative is significant in clearing long-standing arrears of death benefit claims.

“The Nigeria Police Force is built on the pillars of service, integrity, and sacrifice.”

Egbetokun further stated, “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to institutionalizing a responsive welfare towards a future where no Next-of-Kin would be left in uncertainty.”

Another petroleum tanker falls in Oyo

 Another petroleum tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petroleum, has fallen in Oyo State.

DAILY POST gathered that the incident occurred along the Ibadan-Oyo Expressway on Friday.

It was learnt that the INVECO trailer with registration number MA 183 SA Katsina, swerved off the road and fell by the road side.

Chairman of Oyo State Fire Service, Hon Maroof Akinwande confirmed the development in a statement made available to DAILY POST Saturday morning.

He said, “The fire incident was reported at exactly 11:45hrs on Friday 23rd May 2025. The agency’s officers led by ACFS Tijani Bamidele promptly deployed to the scene of the incident.

Over 20 Benue LGs under siege – BEDA

 The Benue Democratic Ambassadors (BEDA) have raised alarm over a surge of violent attacks by armed herdsmen across Benue State, warning that over 20 of the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are currently under siege by these invaders.

Addressing the media in Makurdi, BEDA’s National President, Mr. Daniel Pila, lamented the worsening security situation, accusing the government of failing to take effective measures to protect the state and its citizens from the deadly rampage of the herdsmen.

Pila expressed particular concern over a recent attack on Aondona, the hometown of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Reverend Wilfred Anagbe.

The assault, which claimed numerous lives, occurred just days after Bishop Anagbe spoke before the United States House of Representatives’ Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa.

During the hearing in the US, the Bishop detailed the plight of Christians in Nigeria and the escalating violence in Benue, urging the American government to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

BEDA, a coalition comprising professionals from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, described the attack on Aondona as especially disturbing.

They highlighted that Aondona lies near Raav, a location where the state governor has proposed establishing a cattle ranch, and emphasized the significance of the Bishop’s connection to the area.

“Bishop Anagbe recently addressed the global community on the killings of Christians, particularly in Central Nigeria, a speech that has provoked threats against him,” the group stated.

“We call on the Federal Government to thoroughly investigate the killings in Benue, especially the attack on Catholic priest Reverend Father Atongo and the wider assault on the faithful,” it added.

While criticizing Governor Hyacinth Alia for inadequate action against insecurity, BEDA appealed to all stakeholders to put aside political differences and unite in restoring peace to the state.

“Benue is effectively under siege; no part of the state is safe, including the capital, Makurdi. From Otukpo to Agatu, Gwer-West to Kwande, Makurdi to Ukum, Gwer-East to Katsina-Ala, and Guma to Logo, armed herdsmen have taken control of at least 20 of the 23 LGAs.

“Our people have nowhere safe to turn,” the statement said.

On the state government’s developmental efforts, BEDA also expressed disappointment, accusing the Governor of abandoning all initiated projects.

They cited stalled road works including Ishaya Bakut, Iyorchia Ayu, and Vaatia College roads, noting that Makurdi has become “painfully dirty.”

Responding to the allegations, Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, dismissed BEDA’s claims as baseless.

He stated, “Previously, people closed their businesses early out of fear due to insecurity. Today, people stay longer to conduct their commercial activities, which reflects the current security improvements in Benue State.”

Kula added that the Governor had recently flagged off 16 urban road projects in the state capital, completed them, and awarded contracts for 20 more.

“Several infrastructural projects are ongoing across the state. Teachers in Benue are motivated, and schools now provide a conducive environment for learning thanks to significant improvements in educational facilities,” he said.

Katsina notorious bandit Ɗan Guntu captured by security forces

 A notorious bandit popularly known as Dan Guntu has been captured.

This was disclosed in a post accompanied by a video by security analyst, Bakatsine on X on Saturday.

“Notorious bandit Ɗan Guntu has been captured. Shockingly, he targeted Fulani peaceful and God-fearing people just for being upright citizens,” Bakatsine wrote.

In the video, Ɗan Guntu confessed to being the leader of a group of bandits operating in the forest of Madam.

He also revealed the existence of another faction within the same forest, known as the Ibrahim group.

Authorities are yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest as of the time of filing this report.

Katsina notorious bandit Ɗan Guntu captured by security forces

Oil theft: Nigerian military destroyed 27 illegal refining sites in May

 The Defence Headquarters says troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 27 illegal refining sites in May 2025.

This was contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Kangye, the troops also foiled oil theft worth over N31.4 million, including seizure of 77,530 litres of stolen crude oil, 10,340 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, AGO, 2,700 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene, DPK, and 1,240 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS.

Kangye said other items recovered include outboard engines, pipes, pumping machines, drilling machines, horses, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and nine vehicles.

“Troops of Operation Delta Safe sustained operational tempo against crude oil thieves and other criminals in the Niger Delta.

“Additionally, they discovered and destroyed 21 crude oil cooking ovens, 34 dugout pits, 13 boats, one barge, one tug boat,40 storage tanks, and nine drums.

“Furthermore, 27 oil thieves and other criminals were arrested while assorted arms and ammunition were also recovered,” he said.

The defense spokesman further stated that the troops also undertook anti-kidnapping and anti-criminality operations on June 1, in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta.

He reiterated that three criminals were arrested, while some weapons and ammunition as well as mobile phones, laptops, television sets, and vehicle from them during the operations.

According to him, the troops also apprehended 13 suspected vandals/criminals in Sapele, Aniocha North and Ugheli Local Government Areas of Delta as well as Degema and Ekeremor Local Government Areas of Rivers and Bayelsa.

Benue people killing, rustling our cattle – Miyetti Allah raises alarm

 The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) on Sunday raised concerns over alleged intimidation, cattle rustling and threats to life in several communities across the state.

In a joint statement issued in Makurdi, the association’s Chairman and Secretary, Ardo Risku and Ibrahim Galma, respectively, disclosed that one of their members, Sanni Hassan, was killed last Tuesday at North Bank, Makurdi, by suspected Tiv youths.

They further claimed that a total of 1,185 cows and 54 sheep were rustled between mid-May and June 2 in Agatu and Guma LGAs. Of that number, the police were said to have recovered 162 cows.

Parts of the statement read: “In the middle of May, 2025, 150 cows belonging to Umar Rabiu and another 130 cows of another herder were rustled in Agatu LGA of Benue State.

“Recently, a total number of 905 cows and 54 sheep belonging to Abubakar Abdullahi, Babangida Hassan, Samaila Baba and Sanni Hassan were rustled on June 2, 2025, close to Yogbo community in Guma LGA of Benue State.

“Benue State Police Command intercepted the rustlers and recovered 162 cows, of which 33 were injured, leaving 743 cows and 54 sheep unrecovered.”

Miyetti Allah added that when the owners of the recovered cows went to Makurdi last Tuesday to retrieve them, “they were attacked along the expressway close to Laafia garage in North Bank by suspected Tiv youths, leading to the death of Sanni Hassan”.

The association called on the Benue State government, the Police Command, and other security agencies to investigate and apprehend the killers of their member and those responsible for the rustling. They also urged the government to assist affected members and the family of the deceased.

When contacted, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin James, acknowledged the incident and confirmed that security agencies were investigating.

“We received such reports that the police is investigating the matter, I urge the MACBAN to be patient until the outcome of the police investigation,” he said.

Also speaking, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the development but did not give exact figures.

“It is true, the command has recovered some cows from rustlers and has received report of the killing of their member at North Bank,” she stated.

She urged those involved in cattle rustling to desist to prevent further tension in the state and assured that the police would ensure that culprits are brought to justice.

Bandits abduct Catholic priest, nine others, kill one in Borno

 A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina and nine others have been abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists along Gwoza-Limankara Road in Borno State.

A source told Leadership in Maiduguri that one other person was murdered during the attack.

The source added that Rev. Afina, the project coordinator of a Christian non – governmental organisation was returning from Mubi with two members of staff of the NGO in a vehicle when the terrorists ambushed them on the Gwoza-Limankara Road.

The terrorists killed one of the staff on the spot, while they forcefully took the priest and nine others, while some scampered for safety.

The family of the priest have confirmed that the terrorists had allowed Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina to speak with them, confirming his abduction, however, there has been nothing further since.

They also said the gunmen have not asked for ransom at the moment.

A senior official of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Borno State has also confirmed the kidnapping and murder of one of his staff.

Bandits abduct Catholic priest, nine others, kill one in Borno

Bandits attack Zamfara mosque during night prayer

 Heavily armed men have reportedly attacked worshippers during Isha (night prayers) at Dole Moriki village, Moriki District of Zurmi Local Government Area.

One person has been confirmed killed and two others injured during the attack that sent shock through the community.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Saturday when a group of armed bandits invaded the village and opened fire on Muslim worshippers observing Isha prayers in a local mosque.

“One person was confirmed dead at the scene, while two others sustained varying degrees of injuries as the bandits shot sporadically at worshippers during the prayer session,” Zagazola said.

Reports said security forces have been deployed to the area as normalcy slowly returns after the dreaded night attack.

The injured victims and the deceased were taken to General Hospital Moriki, where the wounded are currently receiving treatment. The corpse was later released to relatives for burial, according to Islamic rites.

Bassa and Bokkos bleed before the world opens its eyes

 This is not Afghanistan. This is not Pakistan. This is not even war-torn Palestine. This is happening right now in Bassa , Plateau State 

The killers no longer hide in the shadows. They strike in broad daylight. They slaughter innocent people without fear, without consequence, without mercy. Not a single arrest. Not one trial. No justice. Nothing.

How long will Bassa and Bokkos bleed before the world opens its eyes? How many more bodies must fall before someone takes a stand?

Are we condemned to be eternal mourners while the butchers walk free?

Are we only to cry, and never to act?

This is not just a local tragedy, it’s a national shame.

 Where is the outrage? Where is the justice? Where is the humanity?

BEFORE WE FORGET – THIS IS FACTUAL HISTORY

 BEFORE WE FORGET – THIS IS FACTUAL HISTORY

When Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola and Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, conspired to politically annihilate Chief Obafemi Awolowo, it was Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, Premier of Eastern Nigeria, who boldly stood on the side of justice and principle.

As Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka records in his memoir, “You Must Set Forth at Dawn”, Dr. Okpara did not just sympathize—he acted. He provided financial and political support to Awolowo’s camp, reabsorbed Prof. Sam Aluko and other loyalists dismissed from the University of Ife into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and sent Mazi Ukonu and the Eastern Nigeria Broadcasting Service to broadcast the authentic results of the Western Region election from Awolowo’s Ibadan residence, directly challenging the state-sponsored electoral fraud.

In an extraordinary gesture of solidarity, Okpara appointed Mrs. Hannah Awolowo, the wife of the imprisoned leader, as Honorary Minister in the Eastern Nigerian Government—equipping her with a Mercedes Benz, chauffeur, and full ministerial privileges. This was not just symbolic—it was an open declaration of interregional support and respect.

Equally important was the role of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik), then President of Nigeria. When Northern leaders sought to transfer Awolowo to a remote prison in the North—where his safety would be uncertain—Zik exercised his presidential authority to ensure that Awolowo was instead sent to prison in Eastern Nigeria, where he was treated with dignity and humanity, against the wishes of the Sardauna and Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa.

This interethnic solidarity was not accidental. It formed part of the broader United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA) — a coalition of progressive forces led by the NCNC and the Action Group, which resisted Northern domination and championed democratic ideals.

During this alliance, Dr. Okpara courageously entered Ibadan — despite being declared persona non grata by Akintola — to campaign for the Awolowo faction. His reception by the people was so electrifying and defiant of Northern hegemony that he was affectionately nicknamed “M.I. Power” by the Western Press.

These actions by Eastern leaders — Dr. Okpara, Dr. Azikiwe, and others — represent one of the noblest chapters in Nigerian political history: a moment when ethnicity bowed to justice, and regional differences were set aside in pursuit of a united democratic front.

It is essential that these truths be remembered — not distorted or forgotten. Let no one, out of ignorance or bigotry, erase the fact that it was the East — it was the Igbos — who stood with Awolowo when others sought to silence him.

Let us teach history as it happened, not as some would like it rewritten.