Category: General News

By Mohammed Baba Busu

No fewer than 600 indigent persons in Bida and surrounding communities in Niger on Thursday, benefited from a free medical outreach organised by the Etsu Yahaya Abubakar Foundation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outreach featured free cataract surgeries and medical consultations for patients suffering from various eye-related ailments.

The exercise was organised by the foundation established by the Etsu Nupe, Alh. Yahaya Abubakar, Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers in collaboration with the Near Foundation Abuja and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Bida.

Speaking during the inauguration of the outreach in Bida, Abubakar, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the foundation, said the initiative was informed by the increasing number of people suffering from sight-related challenges in the community.

He described healthcare as a critical component of human development and reiterated the foundation’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of vulnerable persons, particularly those unable to afford medical treatment.

The royal father said the foundation would continue to strengthen partnerships with relevant organisations and stakeholders to expand access to quality healthcare services and alleviate the sufferings of the people.

According to him, the gesture reflects his commitment to humanitarian service, community development and the promotion of healthy living among the populace.

He added that restoring the sight of affected persons would not only improve their health conditions, but also restore hope, dignity and economic productivity among beneficiaries and their families.

Also speaking, Alh. Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, the Managing Director of the National Hydro Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) pledged the organisation’s commitment to community development and improved healthcare delivery.

Sadiq-Yelwa stressed the need for strategic collaboration between the commission and the Etsu Yahaya Abubakar Foundation to enhance the provision of quality healthcare services to rural communities.

He commended the Etsu Nupe for his foresight, compassion and sustained efforts toward improving the living conditions of the people, describing the royal father as a symbol of peace, unity and humanitarian service.

The N-HYPPADEC boss assured that the commission would continue to support programmes capable of positively impacting the lives of the people, especially in the areas of health, education and youth empowerment.

In his remarks, Dr Murtala Bagana, the Niger State Commissioner for Health, commended the foundation for complementing the efforts of the state government toward improving access to quality healthcare services.

Bagana described the initiative as timely and impactful, particularly at a period when many vulnerable persons were facing challenges accessing specialised medical care.

He noted that the outreach aligned with the state government’s commitment to ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare delivery for all citizens.

The commissioner urged well-meaning individuals, organisations and development partners to emulate the gesture by supporting programmes aimed at improving the health and welfare of the people.

In their separate remarks, the Vice Chairperson of Bida Local Government Council, Hajiya Hawawu Adamu, the Secretary of the Etsu Yahaya Abubakar Foundation, Alhaji Musa Ladan, and health officials involved in the exercise, acknowledged the increasing prevalence of eye-related problems within the community.

They called for collective efforts among government institutions, traditional authorities, development partners and philanthropists to address the growing healthcare challenges confronting rural dwellers.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Etsu Yahaya Abubakar Foundation and its partners for the intervention, noting that the free medical outreach had restored hope to many families.

Gov. Mbah Charges Professionals On Ethical Conduct

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ohaa Confirms Tanker Fire Incident In Enugu, Says No Life Lost

 

The Enugu State Fire Service has confirmed a fuel-ladened tanker accident and its explosion at the Ugwu-Onyeama axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.

 

The state’s Chief Fire Officer, Engr Okwudili Ohaa, who gave the confirmation on Wednesday in Enugu, noted that “no life was lost in the incident”.

 

Ohaa, who is also a Director, Enugu State Fire Service, noted that the incident happened at about 10 p.m. on Tuesday before the personnel of Enugu State Fire Service rushed to extinguish the raging inferno and get it under control.

 

 

According to him, we were able to extinguish the fire after sometime; and thereby, rescued the entire vegetation and nearby Iva Valley community.

 

“Today, normal traffic flow has returned in that axis of the expressway,” he said.

 

He revealed that the driver of the tanker and his “motor-boy”, who sustained injuries, were immediately taken to a nearby hospital by officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

He noted that it was a lone accident involving only the fuel-ladened tanker.

 

Ohaa added that the tanker lost control and plunged into a valley at the Ugwu-Onyeama axis Enugu–Onitsha Expressway before bursting into huge flames.

 

IBEDC Staff Abducted in Ogun, Company Engages Security Agencies.

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‎By Adewale Owoade.
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‎The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has confirmed the abduction of two of its staff members in Ogun State.
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‎In a press statement issued, the company disclosed that the incident occurred on April 29, 2026, within its Ogun region, sparking concern over the safety of its personnel.
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‎IBEDC expressed deep worry over the development, noting that its thoughts are with the affected workers and their families during the difficult period.
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‎The company stated that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted staff. It added that it is also maintaining active engagement with the families of the victims, providing necessary support.
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‎While assuring the public of ongoing efforts to resolve the situation, IBEDC said it could not release further details due to the sensitive nature of the incident.
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‎The management appealed for understanding and restraint as efforts continue to prioritise the safety and well-being of those involved.
‎The company, however, pledged to provide updates as events unfold.

2027: Jigawa NextGen Alliance Pressures Nakudu to Declare for Governorship
… Cites Experience and Integrity

The Jigawa State NextGen Alliance, under the leadership of Comrade MA Abdullahi, has formally called on Distinguished Senator Sabo Mohammed Nakudu, CON, to declare his intention to contest for the governorship of Jigawa State under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections.

The group described Senator Nakudu as a tested and trusted leader whose wealth of experience in business, legislation, and public service uniquely qualifies him to lead Jigawa at this critical time. According to the Alliance, his long-standing commitment to the state dating back to his 2003 governorship bid under the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) demonstrates both consistency and a genuine passion for service.

They noted that his recent decision to join the ADC is a welcome development, expressing appreciation for his responsiveness to calls from stakeholders and supporters across the state. The group further congratulated Senator Nakudu and the ADC leadership at both state and national levels on their victory at the Supreme Court, describing it as a significant milestone for the party’s stability and progress.

Highlighting his achievements, the Alliance pointed to Senator Nakudu’s impactful tenure in the National Assembly, particularly his leadership roles in the petroleum sector, as well as his contributions to economic growth through decades of successful business ventures. They emphasized that such a blend of experience is essential for driving sustainable development and good governance in Jigawa State.

The Alliance concluded that the time is ripe for Senator Nakudu to step forward once again and offer himself for leadership under the ADC platform, expressing confidence that his candidacy would inspire hope and deliver purposeful governance for the people of Jigawa State.

IHRO condemns extra-judicial killing of Mene Ogidi, lauds I-G for swift action

The International Human Rights Observatory (IHRO) has strongly condemned the extra-judicial killing of Mr Mene Ogidi, allegedly carried out by some unprofessional police officers in Delta State.

The Country Director of the IHRO, Ambassador Chimbo Obieze, on Friday in Enugu while interacting with journalists, also commended the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olatunji Disu, swift action on the matter.

Obieze noted that the incident had sparked widespread international outrage and concern about human rights abuses within law enforcement agencies in the country.

 

According to him, that very sad and unfortunate incident is a blatant violation of human rights and a tragic abuse of power.

The country director reaffirmed the Observatory”s commitment to holding law enforcement agencies accountable and ensuring justice for victims of police brutality.

“We stand with the Ogidi family in their time of grief and demand that all those responsible for this horrific act be brought to justice.

“This is a reminder of the urgent need for reform within law enforcement agencies to prevent future occurrences of such brutality,” he said.

 

Obieze said that IHRO also expressed appreciation for the swift response of the I-G, who immediately launched an investigation into the matter.

He said, “The I-G swift actions demonstrated his commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the incident.

“We commend the I-G for his quick action in initiating an investigation. This is a positive step towards ensuring that police officers act within the boundaries of the law and respect the rights of citizens.”

 

 

The country director called for a thorough and transparent investigation, as well as the implementation of reforms to ensure that incidents of extra-judicial killings and police brutality are eradicated from the Nigeria Police.

“IHRO also pledges to continue monitoring the case and providing support to the Ogidi family as they seek justice,” he added.

Workers

By Hajara Leman

Gombe, May 1, 2026,

Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has commended workers for their dedication and contributions to the development of the state.

Yahaya said this on Saturday in a message to mark the 2026 May Day celebration, by his media aide, Ismaila Misili.

He described workers as the driving force of government and a key part of his administration’s vision for a more prosperous state.

“Today, we honour the resilience, commitment and hard work of our workers. Your efforts remain the foundation of the progress we are seeing across the state,” he said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fair pay and improve workers’ welfare, adding that Gombe was among the first states to implement the national minimum wage.

The governor said the state government ensured regular payment of salaries, pensions and other entitlements in spite of economic challenges.

“We are also working to clear all outstanding gratuities owed to retirees at both state and local government levels.

“We have made steady progress in improving working conditions across public institutions. Our aim is to protect the health, dignity and productivity of every worker,” he said.

Yahaya said that his administration has approved full implementation of the new national minimum wage for local government employees, including staff of the 11 local government councils, Local Education Authorities (LEAs) and primary healthcare workers with effect from May 2026.

“This clears the remaining 43 per cent balance, bringing implementation to 100 per cent.”

He assured that his administration would continue to place workers at the centre of its policies while promoting fairness, excellence and good governance.

While commending the role of the organised labour in maintaining peace in the workplace, Yahaya described their cooperation as vital to the feat achieved.

He urged workers to be committed in spite of the current economic challenges, and called for unity and shared responsibility.

“Our workers are central to service delivery and economic growth. I urge you to stay dedicated, while we continue to ensure your efforts are recognised and fairly rewarded,” he said.

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Kwara LG decries alleged unfair treatment in upgrading of traditional rulers

 

By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus

Moro Local Government Area of Kwara, has decried the unfair treatment by the state government in the neglect of the upgrading of their traditional rulers.

 

President of Moro Descendants Development Union (MODDU), Prof. Reuben Akano, made the call while briefing newsmen on Wednesday in Moro.

 

Akano said it was unjust and unfair for Kwara government to consistently exclude the local government from all grading, re-grading and upgrading of traditional institutions and rulers from 2003 till date.

 

He said the Kwara State Edict under which Moro Local Government Area is forced into the ‘Emirate’ is contrary to and against the wishes of the people, as it negates the constitutional provisions of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

”In the last two months, 65 monarchs in the Kwara South Senatorial District have been graded and upgraded into various classes.

 

“Moro LG falls into Kwara North Senatorial District which comprises of Baruten, Edu, Kiama, Moro and Patigi local governments.

 

“It is disheartening that of these five local governments, only Moro Local government area does not have a graded Chief and its own traditional council at present.

 

”The other local governments who were also co-opted into an Emirate are already enjoying grading and elevation of their traditional institutions and rulers, why is Moro different,” The president asked.

 

He appealed to the state government to ensure a just and equitable relationship among the 16 local government areas in the state by correcting the ungodly imbalance and anomalies to prevent negative experiences witnessed in other places.

 

“Moro people deserve their inalienable freedom and right to self-determination as a local government area.

 

“The unity of the state is very impressive and should be paramount to the well being of all irrespective of status, religious, sectional and socio-political backgrounds.

 

”We appeal to Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to kindly reconsider our rewened appeal to extend the gestures with which he treated the traditional rulers of Kwara South to the traditional rulers of Moro Local Government,” Akano said.

 

He further appealed to the state government to uphold the judgement obtained in favour of the Oba of Jebba on Jan. 29, 2014 as delivered by Justice Hannah Ajayi.

 

The union unanimously called for the restoration and upgrading of Ohoro of Shao and Oba of Jebba to their pre-1984 of 3rd Class status and First Class Status respectively.

 

They also sought the immediate recognition and grading of the traditional rulers in Moro Local Government Areas in the state.