Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Former Gov. Ugwuanyi lauds Nigerian Army for sacrifice to sustain security, peace

    Former Gov. Ugwuanyi lauds Nigerian Army for sacrifice to sustain security, peace

    Former Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has lauded the Nigerian Army for its sacrifice to sustain security and peace throughout the entire country.

    Ugwuanyi, who is also a senate confirmed ambassadorial-nominee, gave the commendation during the West African Social Activities (WASA) of 103 Battalion of the Nigerian Army held at its Awkwunanaw Barracks, Enugu.

    He urged soldiers to continue to be loyal and steadfast in their service to the nation, while obeying constituted authorities.

    According to him, I will urge you to keep it up as the Nigerian Army, especially the 103 Battalion, has done well in the outgoing year.

    “You should not rest on your oars as you push to totally stamp out insecurity in the country especially within Enugu State.

    “I also urge our families here to give our gallant soldiers all the needed support by maintaining a peaceful and progressive homes.

    “The civil authorities will continue to support the Nigerian Army to ensure continual successes in all its operations,” he said.

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Oluremi Fadairo, commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for the support to the Division and her formations.

    Fadairo, who was represented by Brig.-Gen. Saka Jimoh, Chief of Staff of the Division, assured Nigerians of the allegiance of soldiers within the Division to constituted authorities and their duties.

    Speaking, the Chairman of Oji River LGA in Enugu State, Mr Greg Anyaegbudike, said that the Nigerian Army had ensured safety within Oji River council area and worked in collaboration with other security agencies and council authority.

    “The Nigerian Army patrols, intelligence sharing and joint working environment with other security agencies have greatly improved security; thus, making Oji River council area the safest council area in Enugu State,” Anyaegbudike said.

    Earlier, the Commanding Officer (Main), 103 Battalion, Lt.-Col. Waheed Shittu, said that WASA was meant to foster closer bonding, friendship and interaction of families within the barracks community.

    Shittu, who was represented by the Commanding Officer (Rear), 103 Battalion, Maj. Buhari Abdulrahman, said that the event showcases the rich culture and heritage of the Nigerian Army and signaled the end of a successful operational year.

    The event featured awards to exceptionally performed soldiers in the outgoing year as well as display of various cultural dances, cuisines, tug-of-war, lowering of the flag and lighting of the bonfire among others.

  • Federal Polytechnic Ayede and Ogbomoso First Group Launch Skills Growth Partnership

    Federal Polytechnic Ayede and Ogbomoso First Group Launch Skills Growth Partnership

     

     

    By Aliyu Mofoluwaso Raheem

    The Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ogbomoso First Community Initiative. This landmark partnership was formalized today to enhance the skills development and entrepreneurship opportunities for youths within the community.

    Otunba Bayo Babatunde, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ogbomoso First Community Initiative, highlighted that the group was established in 2009 with a mission to prioritize Ogbomoso’s development agenda. Under his leadership, the organization has made significant contributions, including the distribution of thousands of exercise books to secondary school students across Ogbomoso. Additionally, the group has empowered numerous indigent individuals by providing essential equipment such as sewing machines, motorcycles, hairdressing kits, and other vocational tools.

    The President of the group, Architect Sakiru Suara, emphasized the importance of combining education with practical skills in today’s competitive world. He encouraged trainees and users of the Centre’s facilities to enhance their academic qualifications with skills acquisition, thereby creating multiple streams of income to secure their futures. Architect Suara also shared a personal anecdote on how the trade of his father, a bricklayer, inspired his own success.

    Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, commended the unwavering dedication of Ogbomoso indigenes toward the progress of the polytechnic. He specifically acknowledged Architect Suara as a cornerstone in the institution’s early development, notably through his facilitation of the administrative building at the Iresaapa campus. The Rector further urged the community to lead lives that serve as exemplary models for others. He also announced upcoming projects facilitated by Professor Jide Ajao, a distinguished indigene and local government representative, which will further benefit the Polytechnic.

    Mr. Christopher Owojori, Director of the Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, represented by Mrs. Kafayat Olawumi Bulala, outlined that the initial programme conducted in partnership with Ogbomoso First is aimed at indigenes of Ogbomoso and surrounding areas. Eligible candidates have been screened and approved by the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) under the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) initiative. Each trainee receives a monthly stipend, and the Centre is supported financially to run the programme over a six-month period.

    The MoU, which is valid for two years, was signed by representatives of both parties to formalize this collaborative effort.

    In his closing remarks, Mr. Dejo Oyelowo, a retired Commissioner of Police, announced that the two best-performing trainees at the conclusion of the programme will receive additional support and equipment to further their entrepreneurial ventures.

    Ogbomoso First Community Initiative Team at the Event:

    – Architect Sakiru Suara, President
    – Otunba Bayo Babatunde, Chairman Board of Trustees
    – Engr. Akinloye Oyekola, Board Member
    – Commissioner Dejo Oyelowo (Retired)
    – Chief Bayo Eegunbiyi, Membership Secretary

    Federal Polytechnic Ayede Management Team at the Event:

    – Dr. Azeez Olasunkanmi Ojo, Deputy Rector
    – Dr. Samuel Oguniyi, Polytechnic Librarian
    – Mr. Akin Odesola, Registrar represented by Deputy Registrar, Mr. G.K. Olantinwo, among others.

    This partnership marks a significant step toward empowering youths through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship, thereby fostering sustainable development in Oyo State and beyond under the visionary leadership of Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, FNSE.

  • Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    The Chief Imam of Giginya Barrack Jumuat Mosque Sokoto, Maj. Tanimu Hamisu, has called on Nigerians to pray for fallen heroes in view of their sacrifices to the nation.

    Hamisu who is the Acting Deputy Director of Islamic Affairs of 8 Division of Nigerian Army Sokoto made the call in his sermon at special Jumuat prayer marking 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) on Friday in Sokoto.

    He stressed that fallen heroes have made sacrifices their lives for the nation’s unity, progress and peaceful coexistence which deserved to be remembered and recognized at all times.

    He also highlighted the importance of supporting their families particularly widows and orphans in Army formations.

    The Chief Imam quoted Qur’anic verses and prophetic traditions that recognize men who died at the battle field for safeguarding their communities and nations.

    He encouraged men in service to consider their positions as opportunity to serve the nation stressing that persons who died gallantly protecting territory against all forms of infidels have special positions in the hereafter.

    He stressed the need for individuals and groups to support fallen heroes families inculcate moral values, proper child upbringing, and other issues to foster productive living.

    The Deputy Director cautioned people against supporting terrorists, bandits and other criminals describing informants as the same perpetrators of evils.

    The event witnessed distribution of food to Barrack community and the needy.

  • Ede Indigenes Hail Hon. Lukman Afolabi @50, Describe him as – Friend of the Poor

    Ede Indigenes Hail Hon. Lukman Afolabi @50, Describe him as – Friend of the Poor

     

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Ede (Osun) Flowerbudnews: Indigenes of the ancient town of Ede at home and in diaspora have rejoiced with the Chairman, Ede South Local Government, Alhaji Lukuman Afolabi on his 50th birthday anniversary.

    Flowerbudnews reports that Hon. Afolabi, fondly called ” Abere Soose” by Ede people, supporters and well-wishers across Osun State, was variously described as a grassroot politician who ”is highly accessible to the people, and as ”a friend of the poor and the downtrodden.”

    In a message of felicitation, members of Ede Descendants Union, Northern Youths, commended Hon. Lukman Afolabi for his
    ”continuous support for youth empowerment and community progress.”

    The youths wrote
    ‘:The leadership and entire members of the Ede Descendants Union, Northern Youth heartily congratulate the Chairman, Ede South Local Government, Alhaji Lukuman Afolabi (ABERE SOOSE) on the joyful celebration of his 50th birthday anniversary.

    At 50, you stand as a symbol of maturity, wisdom, humility, and purposeful leadership. Your commitment to the growth, unity, and development of Ede ND Osun state at large, as well as your continuous support for youth empowerment and community progress, are worthy of commendation.

    This golden jubilee marks not just the celebration of age, but a celebration of a life dedicated to service, integrity, and positive impact.

    We pray that Almighty Allah grants you long life, sound health, renewed strength, and greater achievements in all your endeavours.

    Once again, congratulations on this remarkable milestone. May the years ahead be filled with peace, success, and greater accomplishments.

    In another message, members of the *Igba Otun Dee Team Loyalists for Good Governance,” led by *Hon. Hammed Adebayo*, celebrated Hon. Afolabi, describing him as ”an exceptional and kind-hearted leader’:

    The Team congratulated him as ‘:- the *Constitutional Victory 001 of Ede South Local Government*, *Hon. Lukman Afolabi Aberesose* — on the occasion of his 50th birthday anniversary.

    They wrote:

    Indeed, you (Hon. Afolabi) are a God-sent servant to humanity, always ready to serve with a heart for the less privileged. Being a true leader is divine, and you have proven that through your humility, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to the people.

    You’ve made leadership approachable and meaningful through kindness and impactful service, especially in reducing poverty and uplifting lives at the grassroots.

    *Igba Otun Dee Team* appreciates your unwavering support and guidance. May Almighty Allah restore your full mandate in peace and crown all your efforts with lasting success.

    *Once again, congratulations to our legendary leader!* We celebrate you today and always.

    Another appreciative citizen wrote:
    Hon lukman Abere soose @50..
    Happy birthday to 001 Ede South LG, Alanu awon mekunu, may ALLAH tahala grant you long life to witness more on earth with good and sound health and wellness 👏👏👏 congratulations 🎉🎉🎉🎉 (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • Oborevwori Attends Nwabue Burial

    Oborevwori Attends Nwabue Burial

     

    ​The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday attended the funeral service of the late Mrs. Eunice Nnenwa Nwabue, mother-in-law to a former Secretary to the Government of Delta State, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay.

    ​The service took place at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Oka Ichi, Anambra State.

    ​Governor Oborevwori was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D.

    ​In attendance were Hon. Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads); Prince Johnson Erijo, Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba; and Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, along with his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Fidelia Ighrakpata.

    ​Also at the event were Chief Dele Ezeoba, Engr. Gabriel Amuchi, Olorogun Fred Majemite, Mr. Sam Ogiri, and Sir Patrick Ferife, among other personalities.

    ​In his sermon, Rt. Revd. Justus Nwaefili urged Christians to remain focused and believe that life is a divine gift. He reminded the congregation that there is a time for everything in life and that they should dedicate their lives to serving God and humanity.

    ​According to Revd. Nwaefili, the late Mrs. Eunice Nnenwa Nwabue was “a woman who lived a full and meaningful life, experiencing both joyful and challenging moments with grace.”

    ​”Her life was not defined merely by the length of her years, but by the love she shared, the values she upheld, and the positive impact she made on those around her,” he said.

    ​Mama was praised for her selfless devotion to her children, whom she raised with patience, prayer, discipline, and sacrifice.

    The cleric admonished the children and grandchildren to remain united in both grief and gratitude.

  • Chigbo, Realnews Publisher, Loses Elder Sister to Kidnappers in Abuja

    Chigbo, Realnews Publisher, Loses Elder Sister to Kidnappers in Abuja

     

     

    The Chigbo family has announced the death of Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo, an Abuja-based lawyer at the hands of still-to-be-identified kidnappers in the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory on Monday, 5th January 2026.

    Barrister Nwamaka was the elder sister of Dr Maureen Chigbo, Editor/Publisher of Nigeria’s pioneer online  Realnews Magazine.

    According to a statement by the family, Nwamaka, before her abduction, was on the phone with Anthonia, another sister who briefly interrupted the call to attend to a client.

    “When Anthonia reverted, Nwamaka’s phone was still live, with her distress cry heard in the background before the phone suddenly went dead and unreachable,” the statement added.

    “Anthonia alerted her elder sister, Maureen Chigbo, and other family members, who called the lawyer’s number repeatedly to reach her or her abductors to no avail,” the statement continued, adding that: “When a call finally went through, a male voice rained curses in English and Hausa language, saying: “Thunder fire you there, send three million Naira or else we will kill her.”

    According to the statement, the captors gave no further details and abruptly terminated subsequent calls.

    The family contacted the police, who sprang into action, assuring that they were tracking the kidnappers, who were said to be “in motion and would likely drop the lawyer off once they might have collected the ransom,”  the statement further said.

    “The kidnappers never initiated any calls, and when Nwamaka’s family members reached them through her phone for clarification on how the ransom would be paid, they only heard the lawyer screaming in pain, “I am dying. …save me, please send the money, I am dying,” before the phone finally went dead again,” the statement added.

    While making frantic efforts for Nwamaka’s rescue, the family said, they were informed on Tuesday, 6th January, that “a lady had been found in a critical condition and taken to an Abuja specialist hospital.”

    According to the statement, Maureen “immediately took a flight from Lagos to Abuja and on reaching the hospital, saw her sister’s lifeless body in the mortuary with bruises, swollen eyes and a cracked skull, all signs of a tortured death.”

    The Chigbo family has met with the Police authorities, who assured them that the case was under investigation and that the culprits would be apprehended, the statement added.

    Nwamaka was a former Treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja, a member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, and the Global Association of Female Lawyers, GAFA. She had also served as President of the Catholic Lawyers Association, Abuja Branch.

    A devout Catholic, Nwamaka authored a book on Infant Jesus, and until her death, was the vice president of the Infant Jesus Association, and a member of the Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Group.

    According to the statement, her family has expressed its “gratitude to the Police for their efforts and cooperation so far, and urges the force to ensure that justice is served in Nwamaka’s case.”

    The family also thanked “Nwamaka’s friends, colleagues and well-wishers for their support and prayers,” the statement said, adding that her funeral arrangements “will be announced as soon as possible.”##

  • Kwankwaso  Holds Strategic Meeting with NNPP Key Support Groups

    Kwankwaso  Holds Strategic Meeting with NNPP Key Support Groups

     

    Amidst intense political turmoil and widespread speculation that Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, is on the verge of a monumental defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), the National Leader of the NNPP, and its Presidential Candidate in the last election, hosted a strategic meeting with key support groups in a clear display of strength and unity.

    According to a post made by Saifullahi Hassan, the Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Presidential Candidate from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of the just concluded General Election, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, reported that the meeting, which included delegations from the influential ‘Yan Sharada youth group led by Abubakar Sharada, the Women Farmers Association under Haman Shehu Sararin Gezawa, and the Kare Mutunci group led by Abdul Turaki, framing the gathering as a solidarity visit, with the groups reiterating their complete support for the Kwankwasiyya movement and unwavering loyalty to its leader.

    It was gathered that the strategic meeting between the former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and key support groups of the Kwankwasiyya Movement was widely interpreted as a direct response to the escalating rumors surrounding Governor Yusuf’s potential exit from the NNPP, a defection that would represent a catastrophic blow to the party, stripping it of its only governorship seat and significantly weakening Kwankwaso’s political capital.

     

    Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, is on the verge of a monumental defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), the National Leader of the NNPP, and its Presidential Candidate in the last election, hosted a strategic meeting with key support groups in a clear display of strength and unity.

    According to a post made by Saifullahi Hassan, the Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Presidential Candidate from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of the just concluded General Election, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, reported that the meeting, which included delegations from the influential ‘Yan Sharada youth group led by Abubakar Sharada, the Women Farmers Association under Haman Shehu Sararin Gezawa, and the Kare Mutunci group led by Abdul Turaki, framing the gathering as a solidarity visit, with the groups reiterating their complete support for the Kwankwasiyya movement and unwavering loyalty to its leader.

    It was gathered that the strategic meeting between the former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and key support groups of the Kwankwasiyya Movement was widely interpreted as a direct response to the escalating rumors surrounding Governor Yusuf’s potential exit from the NNPP, a defection that would represent a catastrophic blow to the party, stripping it of its only governorship seat and significantly weakening Kwankwaso’s political capital.

     

  • Morocco 2025: Eagles, Fennecs Clash In Marrakech Pick of Last-8

    Morocco 2025: Eagles, Fennecs Clash In Marrakech Pick of Last-8

     

     

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    Saturday’s third quarter-final of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) remains the pick of the last-8 clashes as Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Fennecs of Algeria clash for the 23rd time at senior level.

    Their first encounter was at the 2nd All-Africa Games in Lagos 55 years ago.

    According to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), games between both teams over the past five-and-a-half decades have been laced with thrills and frills, shocking scorelines, drama, end-game flips, stunning comebacks, awesome performances by star players, and a bit of infamy.

    The encounter in Marrakech will be the 10th time that both countries will clash in Africa’s biggest football championship, with Nigeria having won only three of the previous nine duels. Algeria have won four, and the other two have ended in stalemates.

    One stalemate was the infamous clash of Bouake in 1984, when both teams were suspected to have ‘reached an accord’ to play a scoreless draw in order for both teams to qualify to the semi-finals, and get Cup holders Ghana eliminated.

    Nigeria defeated Algeria to win their first AFCON trophy on home soil in 1980, and 10 years later, Algeria defeated Nigeria to win their first AFCON on home soil!

    Marrakechi, Morocco’s fourth largest city, is set to host a massive showdown that will create its own story as a chapter in the book of one of African football’s greatest rivalries.

    FIFA World Cup Do-Me-I -Do-You

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (10 October 1981): The highest-stakes confrontations between Nigeria and Algeria have been in FIFA World Cup qualifying series, starting with the shocking defeat of then reigning African champions Nigeria by the Fennecs in Lagos in October 1981.

    Before the match, a couple of decisions by the NFA (including an increase in match ticket prices) did not go down well with the players. A couple of retired players were brought back to the team, creating discontent and disharmony. Algeria ran away with a 2-0 win, both goals scored in the first half.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (30 October 1981): In Constantine three weeks later, not much could be rescued. The Eagles lost 1-2 and crashed out of the race.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (03 July 1993):Visitors Algeria raced to an early lead through striker Abdelhafid Tasfaout, but Nigeria clawed their way back starting with Jay Jay Okocha’s free-kick, and an imperious Rashidi Yekini display, to win 4-1.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (08 Oct 1993):Algeria fought hard to stop Nigeria’s bid for a first-ever FIFA World Cup ticket, but failed. Finidi George’s first-half goal was enough for a 1-1 finish and Nigeria’s ticket to USA 1994 was assured.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (03 July 2004):Joseph Yobo rose above everyone else at the far post to score Nigeria’s only goal in Abuja in a 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (04 Sep 2005):Nigeria needed to win to stabilize their campaign, and in the event, ran the Fennecs off the park on a cold night in Oran. Obafemi Martins (a brace), John Utaka, Christian Obodo, and Ayo Makinwa were the scorers as the Eagles won 5-2.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (12 Nov 2016):Algeria arrived in Uyo thinking they would go back with the three points, but the relentless Super Eagles claimed a terrific 3-1 win, with a memorable performance by Victor Moses.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (10 Nov 2017):Nigeria had already qualified for the FIFA World Cup before this match, but it was still a well-contested game in Constantine that ended 1-1. The result was overturned after Nigeria was found to have fielded an ineligible player, and Algeria declared 3-0 winners.

    AFCON Blocades

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (22 Mar 1980):Two goals by Olusegun Odegbami, one by Mudashiru Lawal, and Nigeria lifted the AFCON trophy for the first time. The venue was the National Stadium, Surulere, and the match was attended by President Shehu Shagari and a number of cabinet ministers.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (10 Mar 1982):Defending champions Nigeria took the lead through Emmanuel Osigwe, but the Fennecs rallied back with an equalizer late in the first half, and then scored early in the second period to achieve victory.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (11 Mar 1984):The match referee had to give both teams a yellow card as they made no genuine attempt to score, with fans believing they had ‘reached an accord’ to settle for a scoreless draw and progress to the last 4 at the expense of Cup holders Ghana. It ended 0-0, and both made it to the semi-finals, where Nigeria edged out Egypt on a penalty shootout, and Algeria lost to eventual winners Cameroon.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (23 Mar 1988):Sam Okwaraji’s shot was deflected into the net for Nigeria’s goal before Algeria equalized. Nigeria finished with 10 men following Ademola Adeshina’s red card, but went on to win the match in a sudden-death penalty shootout.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (02 March 1990): Hosts Algeria got their biggest-ever win over Nigeria in the opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations finals. The goals came from Rabah Madjer and teammates, before Emma Okocha pulled one back for Nigeria.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (16 Mar 1990):Two weeks later, Algeria lifted their first AFCON title following a 1-0 over Nigeria in the final, Cherif Oudjani making hay with a long-range shot that beat goalkeeper Alloy Agu.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (21 Jan 2002):Nigeria had the upper hand all through, and picked the maximum three points at the 26 March Stadium in Bamako thanks to a goal by Julius Aghahowa.

    NIGERIA VS ALGERIA (30 Jan 2010):Nigeria again won by the odd goal in the third-place match of the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Angola, following a goal by Obinna Nsofor after excellent work by Nwankwo Kanu.

    ALGERIA VS NIGERIA (14 Jul 2019): Riyad Mahrez was the hero as the Super Eagles fell 1-2 in a tumultuous Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match at the Cairo International Stadium.

  • Kidnappers kill Abuja-based lawyer, Princess Chigbo — Family

    Kidnappers kill Abuja-based lawyer, Princess Chigbo — Family

     

     

    The Chigbo family has announced the death of one of its prominent members and an Abuja-based lawyer, Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo, who was killed by kidnappers.

    The Publisher of Realnews Magazine and a former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Dr Maureen Chigbo, announced this in a statement.

    She explained that the incident that led to the death of the lawyer occurred in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Monday.

    In the detailed statement on Thursday, Dr. Chigbo wrote:

    The family of Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo, an Abuja-based lawyer, is saddened to announce her brutal death at the hands of still-to-be-identified kidnappers in the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory on Monday, 5th January 2026.

    Before her abduction, Barrister Nwamaka was on the phone with her sister Anthonia, who briefly interrupted the call to attend to a client. When she reverted, the barrister’s phone was still live, and Anthonia could hear her sister’s distress cry before the phone suddenly went dead and unreachable.

    Anthonia alerted her elder sister, Maureen Chigbo, and other family members, who called the lawyer’s number repeatedly to reach her or her abductors to no avail.

    When a call finally went through, a male voice rained curses in English and Hausa language, saying: “Thunder fire you there, send three million Naira or else we will kill her.” The captors gave no further details and abruptly terminated subsequent calls.

    Barrister Nwamaka’s family later tried to contact the Police Public Relations Officer (FCT Police Command) and left a text message on her phone. They were referred to two police complaint numbers.

    The family equally sent a distress text and WhatsApp message to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and also contacted the FCT Police Commissioner, who immediately linked them up to the Commander of the Scorpion Squad, in charge of kidnapping in Abuja.

    The Commander later called to inform the family that the police were tracking the kidnappers, who were said to be “in motion and would likely drop the lawyer off once they might have collected the ransom.”

    The kidnappers never initiated any calls, and when Nwamaka’s family members reached them through her phone for clarification on how the ransom would be paid, they only heard the lawyer screaming in pain, “I am dying. …save me, please send the money, I am dying,” before the phone finally went dead again.

    The family maintained contact with the Police Commander throughout Monday night to follow up on the rescue operation.

    At 4am on Tuesday, 6th January, when Maureen called the Commander, he expressed surprise that the lawyer had not called or returned home. He then promised to escalate the rescue operation.

    The Commander later called to inform the family that “a lady had been found in a critical condition” and taken to an Abuja specialist hospital. He requested that Nwamaka’s picture be sent for identification purposes.

    Maureen immediately took a flight from Lagos to Abuja and on reaching the hospital, saw her sister’s lifeless body in the mortuary with bruises, swollen eyes and a cracked skull, all signs of a tortured death.

    The Chigbo family has met with the Police authorities, who assured them that the case was under investigation and that the culprits would be apprehended.

    Nwamaka was an active member and former treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja, member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (IFWL),

    FIDA and Global Association of Female Lawyers (GAFA). She was a former President of Catholic Lawyers Association, Abuja.

    An ardent Catholic, Nwamaka authored a book on Infant Jesus, and until death was the vice president of the Infant Jesus Association, and member of the Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Group among other religious groups.

    The family expresses its gratitude to the Police for their efforts and cooperation so far, and urges the force to ensure that justice is served in Nwamaka’s case.

    The family also wishes to thank Nwamaka’s friends, colleagues and well-wishers for their support and prayers. Her funeral arrangements will be announced as soon as possible.

    Maureen Chigbo

    For and on behalf of the Family.