Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Bandits have abducted several motorists, including former SUBEB chairman, Mohammed Bawa Niworu, Niger State Independent Electoral Commissioner Ahmed Mohammed, his driver, and other passengers along the Mokwa-New Bussa road in Mashegu LGA.

The attack, which occurred Monday evening near the Ibbi National Park, saw armed men block the road and seize victims from multiple vehicles, including three commercial Sharon buses carrying traders from New Bussa market.

A Sharon driver who plies the route daily told our reporter that three Sharon vehicles with their passengers, who were traders returning from New Bussa weekly market, were taken to an unknown destination during the incident.

When contacted, the Niger State Command Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, saying that a Police patrol vehicle was damaged with gunshots in the process, adding that they abducted some passengers along the road from about three vehicles.

According to him, the police command has mobilised more tactical teams with other security agencies, and vigilante members trailing the suspected kidnappers with a view to rescuing the abducted victims and possible arrest of the hoodlums.

Nigeria’s justice sector took a bold step last week, toward reform as stakeholders gathered in Maiduguri, Borno State, for a two-day retreat on strengthening justice delivery through technology, innovation, and coordinated reform.

Convened by the Federal Ministry of Justice under Attorney-General Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the forum brought together key justice institutions, policymakers, and legal experts.

Discussions centred on deploying digital tools to reduce case backlogs, improve transparency, and make the system more accessible, especially for vulnerable groups.

With Borno’s post-insurgency rebuilding efforts as backdrop, participants emphasised collaboration, accountability, and innovation as critical drivers for a faster, fairer, and people-centred justice system

Held under the theme: ‘Strengthening Justice Sector Service Delivery through Technology, Innovation, and Coordinated Reform,’ the event brought together the heads of Nigeria’s most critical justice institutions.

For many participants, the retreat was more than a meeting – it was a turning point, a crucible where old silos gave way to a collective vision of a digital, transparent, and citizen-friendly justice system.

Fagbemi: Future of justice lies in technology

Fagbemi left no doubt about the scale of ambition.

‘The future of justice in Nigeria is intrinsically linked to its embrace of technology,’ he declared. ‘The methods of achieving justice must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.

‘Our citizens expect services that are not only fair but also efficient, transparent, and accessible.’

Fagbemi argued that technology is no longer optional but central to justice delivery.

From digital case management and artificial intelligence in legal research to online access to legal services, he said, innovations offer a unique chance to tackle the judiciary’s biggest challenges – case backlogs, delays, and limited access to justice.

But he issued a caution: technology alone is not sufficient.

‘It must be embedded within a coordinated reform agenda that fosters collaboration, accountability, and innovation across the sector,’ he said.

Breaking the silo mentality

The AGF stressed that a fragmented approach to justice was no longer tenable.

‘The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Legal Aid Council, the Human Rights Commission, the Law Reform Commission, the Nigerian Copyright Commission – all these institutions carry noble responsibilities, but too often they work in isolation,’ he said.

He urged participants to dismantle silos and build a justice ecosystem where institutions complement rather than duplicate each other.

‘Together, they form a constellation of institutions whose combined light must guide our nation toward fairness, efficiency, and trust in the rule of law,’ he said.

Institutions at the heart of reform

The retreat highlighted the roles of different institutions in the reform drive.

NDLEA: for its battle against drug abuse and trafficking.

NAPTIP: for defending the most vulnerable, particularly victims of human trafficking.

Legal Aid Council: for ensuring access to justice for the poor.

NHRC: for standing as the conscience of Nigeria’s democracy.

Nigerian Law School and NIALS: for shaping the next generation of lawyers.

Law Reform Commission: for keeping laws relevant to changing realities.

Copyright Commission: for safeguarding intellectual property.

Regional Centre for Arbitration: for aligning Nigeria with global best practices.

By placing all these institutions on the same platform, the AGF made clear that reform must be collaborative, comprehensive, and citizen-focused.

Jedy-Agba: Coordinated reform is non-negotiable

Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, echoed the AGF’s message, insisting that ‘true transformation requires coordinated reform across the entire justice sector.’

She described the retreat’s agenda – including cluster sessions informed by a pre-retreat survey – as deliberately designed to move beyond rhetoric to practical solutions.

‘The collective desire for an efficient, accessible, and equitable justice system is a powerful force that now has a clear-eyed strategy to guide it,’ she said.

The symbolism of holding the retreat in Borno State was not lost on her.

A region scarred by insurgency, Borno provided a powerful backdrop for conversations about justice as an instrument of healing and rebuilding.

Zulum: Technology is a necessity

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State delivered a sobering keynote, tying justice reform to the realities of insurgency, terrorism, and community rebuilding.

‘In the aftermath of tragic events such as the recent terrorist attack in Darul Jamal, citizens now demand a faster, more transparent, and more accountable justice system,’ Zulum said.

‘These expectations cannot be achieved using outdated tools or fragmented systems. Technology must be embraced not as a luxury, but as a necessity.’

Zulum highlighted how digital tools had already transformed Borno’s justice system: enabling virtual court sittings, improving prison decongestion, and expanding access to legal aid in hard-to-reach communities.

But like the AGF, he warned that technology alone is not enough.

‘We need innovations not only in ICT gadgets but in mindsets, procedures, and leadership approach,’ he said.

‘Justice must serve as a foundation for healing, rebuilding trust, and restoring the social contract.’

Shittu: Bridging the rural-urban justice divide

In one of the retreat’s most thought-provoking papers, Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN) addressed the theme: ‘Strengthening Justice in Nigeria: Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide.’

He argued that despite constitutional guarantees, many rural Nigerians remain effectively cut off from justice. The barriers, he said, are both structural and systemic:

Geographical limitations: Courts and legal institutions are concentrated in urban centres. Farmers and traders often face prohibitively costly and time-consuming journeys to access justice.

Poverty and economic exclusion: High litigation costs, including lawyers’ and filing fees, keep justice out of reach for the poor.

Illiteracy and lack of awareness: Many Nigerians cannot read or write, making it impossible to understand legal documents or enforce rights.

Weak institutions and corruption: Delays, inefficiencies, and corruption erode public trust and deny justice in practice.

‘Justice delayed is not only justice denied; in rural Nigeria, it is justice abandoned,’ Dr. Shittu warned.

Using technology to close the gap

Despite these challenges, Dr. Shittu pointed to Nigeria’s high mobile penetration as a unique opportunity. He recommended:

E-filing and digital case management to reduce delays.

Mobile and USSD platforms to allow citizens to lodge complaints, seek legal aid, and receive updates without internet access.

Community radio, SMS alerts, and local-language broadcasts to spread legal awareness.

Beyond technology, he urged a community-based approach, including mobile courts, grassroots legal clinics, and ADR mechanisms led by trained traditional leaders.

‘By formalising local dispute-resolution systems while embedding human rights standards, Nigeria can create a hybrid justice model that is both accessible and legitimate,’ he said.

Ngige: Legal education must catch up

Another critical intervention came from Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN), Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, who spoke on ‘Innovations in Legal Education: Preparing Lawyers for the Digital Age.’

He noted the law school’s chronic underfunding, energy insecurity, and shortage of ICT-trained personnel as obstacles to modernising legal training. ‘Funds meant for technology are wasted on diesel to power campuses,’ he lamented.

Ngige called for:

Improved funding to modernise infrastructure.

Strengthened ICT training for students and faculty.

Ethical guidelines for using AI, robotics, and blockchain in legal practice.

Stronger collaboration between Nigerian and foreign law schools.

Continuous professional training for lawyers and judges through the NBA.

‘Though digital tools have transformed legal practice, caution must remain the watchword,’ he said. ‘A right infusion of governance and ethics is essential.’

Innovation, ethics as pillars of reform

Two papers emphasised innovation and ethics as pillars of reform.

Shamsudeen Hammed, representing NITDA’s DG/CEO, presented ‘Design Thinking for Collaborative Problem-Solving in Justice Sector Reforms: Lessons from the UAE.’

He argued that traditional, rigid approaches often fail in complex justice challenges.

Instead, Design Thinking-human-centred, empathetic, and iterative-should place citizens at the core of reforms.

Drawing from the UAE, he stressed treating citizens as customers, using pilots that ‘fail fast and learn faster,’ and adopting KPIs like backlog reduction and user satisfaction. Leaders were urged to prototype, empathise with users, and collaborate across silos.

Prof. Olanrewaju Onadeko (SAN), in his paper ‘Guardians of Justice: Prosecutors at the Intersection of Ethics, Professionalism and Human Rights,’ underscored prosecutors’ vital role in justice delivery.

He highlighted their duty to balance accountability with fairness and human rights while upholding ethics and professionalism.

He recommended adopting a prosecutorial code of conduct, strengthening adherence to professional guidelines, and ensuring prosecutors receive adequate security given the dangers of their work.

Together, the papers called for a justice system that is innovative, ethical, and people-centred-anchored on technology, empathy, and professionalism.

Toward a citizen-centred justice system

Across the sessions, a consensus emerged: justice reform is not just a technical matter but a moral imperative.

For Fagbemi, technology must be wedded to accountability and collaboration.

For Jedy-Agba, reform must be coordinated. For Zulum, justice is central to peace and healing.

For Shittu, inclusivity is non-negotiable. For Ngige, legal education must keep pace with innovation.

Each voice added to the same conclusion: Nigeria must embrace a whole-of-society approach where institutions, communities, and citizens together redefine justice for the 21st century.

The Maiduguri retreat may go down as a watershed moment for Nigeria’s justice sector.

For the first time, the heads of institutions came together not only to identify problems but to agree on a shared roadmap.

The message was clear: technology and innovation, guided by reform and accountability, are the levers by which justice in Nigeria can be transformed.

If the commitments made in Maiduguri are sustained, Nigerians may yet witness a justice system that is faster, fairer, more transparent, and, above all, accessible to every citizen, whether in the bustling streets of Lagos or the remote villages of Borno.

LeBron James said Monday he had not decided when to retire from basketball as he prepares to become the first player in NBA history to play a 23rd season in the league.

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar told reporters at a media day that he is ‘excited’ by the prospect of another season in the league alongside Luka Doncic and a bolstered roster.

James will turn 41 in December and plans to savour every minute of the tail-end of a glittering career that has straddled three different decades.

But the four-time NBA champion and all-time points scorer says he has no idea of when he will retire.

‘I’m excited about today, I’m excited about the opportunity to be able to play the game that I love for another season,’ James told reporters. ‘Whatever the journey lays out this year, I’m super-invested because I don’t know when the end is. It’s a lot sooner than later.

‘I’m just super-appreciative of the fact that I come up here to do another media day and talk to you guys.’

James, who averaged 24.4 points per game last season, said his love for basketball – and hunger to keep improving – remained undimmed.

‘The thing still pushing me is the fact that my love for the game is still high, and the love of the process is even higher,’ he said.

‘It’s that simple – me training and working my body and trying to get my body as close to 100% as possible every year, it’s a beautiful thing for me.The NBA season is a roller coaster. But no matter the good, the bad, ugly, I still love that process.

‘For me personally, I love to play the game, I love to play at a high level. Age is kind of just a number. Not many guys at my age, especially going to year 23, is able to play a level like that. I try not to take it for granted.’

Last season, the Lakers sent shockwaves around the NBA after signing Luka Doncic in a stunning trade with the Dallas Mavericks.

James said the prospect of playing with the Slovenian star after a full training camp – instead of learning on the fly last year – was another motivating force for his 23rd season.

‘The motivation to play alongside him every night, that’s super motivating,’ James said. ‘That’s gonna train my body for every night I go out there and try to be the best player I can for him. We gonna bounce that off one another.’

In addition to a full training camp alongside Doncic, James is also relishing the prospect of starting the new season with a squad that has been bolstered by the arrival of veteran guard Marcus Smart and centre Deandre Ayton.

‘I’m excited about getting to work, and I’m excited to see what we can do,’ James said.

In crisis situations, there are Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). These are hapless victims of whatever crisis befell their communities and forced them to leave; they are usually the responsibility of government to care for till peace returns to their troubled homesteads and they get resettled back. Not so with Failed Doomsday Displaced Persons (FDDPs). These are people who chose to believe a lie and self-dislocated their own lives – not because of external aggression but from inner delusion. Anyone in this category cannot hope for government to rehabilitate them. They are on their own.

It is one week now since the failed prediction of a date for the biblical ‘rapture,’ and those taken in are ruing their self-dispossession in gullible anticipation of an escape from the earth. Rapture is an end-time event by which believers in the Christian faith expect to be supernaturally translocated from the terrestrial plane ahead of a coming period of intense suffering, known as the Tribulation, by those left behind. This event in biblical narrative will mark the second coming of Jesus Christ.

South African preacher, Pastor Joshua Mhlakela, recently gained worldwide attention after he claimed Jesus appeared to him in a vision and said he would return during the Jewish Feast of Trumpets, also known as Rosh Hashanah, which held between 22nd and 24th September. ‘The rapture is upon us, whether you are ready or not, the rapture will happen in 14 days from now,’ Mhlakela had told a YouTube channel, adding: ‘I’m a billion percent sure that we are going to see the Lord, the rapture is going to happen. I don’t know how to assure you, but I give you a billion percent that it is going to happen. The date of the 23rd, which is going to be the rapture of the church, is irrefutable and final.’

On the day predicted by Mhlakela, videos showed hundreds of people gathered in woods, waiting to be taken up. The preacher himself went live online, joined by some followers, declaring with confidence that the rapture was imminent. After several hours passed without anything happening, Mhlakela said, ‘I wonder how God works this out. What I know is that it will happen within these two days, but I cannot tell how He arranges the minutes and the seconds, because at any moment something could happen.’ He urged his followers to be patient and hopeful.

Those who believed Mhlakela had taken steps to sign out from planet earth. Social media platforms were flooded with videos from devastated persons who were so convinced doomsday was coming they resigned their jobs and gave away prized possessions. Tilahun Desalegn, an Australian, shared a clip of his car being towed away, saying: ‘I won’t need her beyond September, because I’m going home.’ Kingsalem Igwe, a self-identified Nigerian prophet, said in a video shared on TikTok: ‘I’m here with all humility to apologise to everyone. I only believed a man who claimed Jesus told him.’ Others were seen sobbing over the failed prediction, lamenting that they now had to go back to work. Well, they’re in good time to wake up to the smell of coffee!

The NetClan Initiative has achieved another significant milestone in its quest to promote gender inclusion in technology with the graduation of its second cohort of the Ladies in Network Engineering (LINE) programme, where the majority of participants became Cisco Certified Network Associates (CCNA).

Founded by Abigail Jeffiah and Theodore Chukwudi, the initiative aims to provide opportunities for aspiring network engineers, particularly women, to establish careers in a field often overshadowed by software development and cybersecurity.

‘There was no platform where network engineers could motivate each other to upskill,’ Jeffiah explained.

‘We observed more individuals leaving network engineering for other fields, creating a gap, because at the end of the day, every organization requires a network engineer. That is why we started NetClan-to build that missing community.’

According to Jeffiah, the initiative has steadily grown, with over 30 women sponsored for certification exams since its inception. In the recently concluded cohort, more than 20 participants received full sponsorship, while others were provided vouchers covering up to 50 percent of their exam fees.

‘Seeing another set of students graduate means a lot to me personally,’ she said.

‘This initiative is dear to my heart because, as a female network engineer, I was often the only woman in technical workshops. Now, more women are embracing the field, and we are changing the narrative.’

For Emmanuel Samuel, one of the instructors, the achievement of the cohort reflects the power of mentorship and inclusivity.

‘This milestone is highly significant because it signifies the growing inclusion of women in a field traditionally dominated by men,’ he noted.

‘Seeing a majority of women succeed as CCNA holders demonstrates that, with the right support and opportunities, women can thrive in technology.’

Graduates of the program also attested to its impact. Network Security Engineer Odoh Ifunanya JaneFrances described her experience as transformative.

‘I joined because I wanted to understand the underlying operations of networking, especially after failing a job interview,’ she said.

‘Through this program, I gained more than I expected, and it played a key role in helping me land my first job. My advice to aspiring students is that joining NetClan might be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make in your career.’

Other facilitators highlighted the distinct contributions of women in the cohort. Ketcha Karen, a network and network security engineer, praised the collaboration and openness that defined the class.

‘The women demonstrated remarkable teamwork, consistency, and confidence,’ she observed.

‘When women publicly share their achievements, it inspires others to join and assures them they won’t be isolated. That sense of belonging can break barriers in tech.’

Mayaki Ujeh Emmanuel, a network operations engineer, explained that his teaching approach for the second cohort went beyond theory, emphasizing real-world application. ‘Networking is more than configuration and labs. I pushed the ladies to also understand sales, which exposes beginners to different technologies,’ he said.

‘We also gave group projects to build teamwork because, in reality, they will always have to work with others.’

On the value of CCNA, he added: ‘Though it is entry-level, CCNA amplifies knowledge in networking and is highly recognized across the IT industry.’

Mentorship was another key pillar of the program. Olumayowa Akinkuehinmi, one of the mentors, described it as a fulfilling experience.

‘Watching mentees grow from curiosity to earning certifications like the CCNA and building confidence in tech has been rewarding,’ he said.

‘My advice to the next generation is to stay curious, keep learning, and focus on real-world problem-solving-that’s where the opportunities lie.’

Looking ahead, NetClan plans to expand its offerings beyond the LINE program. Theodore Chukwudi revealed that Cohort 3 will maintain its intensive training format but the organization is also working toward establishing a NetClan Institute to provide more intensive training on cybersecurity, cloud technologies, and artificial intelligence.

‘We are also introducing the NetClan Community, where engineers can specialize in subfields like wireless networking, programmability, and DevOps,’ as shared by Theodore

‘Through partnerships with Cisco Networking Academy, we hope to run bootcamps, competitions, and workshops that showcase the importance of network engineering.’

Despite the numerous challenges posed by limited resources, Chukwudi emphasized that the primary focus continues to be on making a significant impact rather than merely counting numbers.

‘We are not driven by social media posts but by actionable and measurable results,’ He stressed.

A popular preacher, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has congratulated Nigerians and President Bola Tinubu on the 65th independence anniversary.

He called on Nigerians to always make necessary sacrifices that would help the country to attain greatness.

Olu-Alo, who is the planter of of CAC Adamimogo, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain World-wide, also congratulated Ekiti people and Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the 24th year of the creation of Ekiti State.

The cleric in his goodwill message by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Deji Ogunbusuyi, said Nigeria remained one indivisible entity despite the political and ethnic forces differences of its people, urging Nigerians to continually pray and make concerted efforts to ensure the nation’s upliftment.

Olu-Alo, who described Nigerians as resilient people, said all hands must be on deck in building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation, adding that citizens must eschew divisive tendencies at this time that we need to stand and live together as brothers.

He urged all Nigerians to participate actively and constructively in the process of nation-building for the country to get over all her challenges.

While congratulating Ekiti people on the 29th anniversary of the creation of the State, he said a better and well-developed State should remain paramount in the hearts of the citizens.

‘I therefore call on the Ekitis, both at home and abroad, to support and join hands with the government in repositioning the state and ensure its all-round development of the State.

‘The task of rebuilding and repositioning the state is a collective effort and through our cooperation, a truly prosperous state would be built and we shall put it firmly on the path of honour and irreversible development,’ he stated.

He urged the people not to relent in praying for the both administrations to be able to make life better for the people.

The preacher appealed to all political parties and residents of Ekiti state to conduct themselves peacefully in their forthcoming parties governorship primary elections.

In a separate statement, the cleric also congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja on his recent coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Prophet Olu-Alo, who is founder of Adamimogo FM Nigeria and the owner of Adamimogo 105:1 FM, Ibadan in Oyo State and others in Southwest, said the momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the history of Ibadan’s traditional institution.

While also rejoicing with the monarch on his birthday celebration, the cleric said: ‘Your ascension to the throne is a testament to your leadership qualities and dedication to the well-being of your people. As a former Governor of Oyo State, you have demonstrated exceptional governance skills, and your experience will undoubtedly shape your reign as Olubadan.

‘I pray God will grant you wisdom and knowledge to lead and guide the people as well as giving you sound health as you embark on this new chapter. May your reign be marked by peace, prosperity, and the continued growth of Ibadanland’.

The Lagos State government has arrested five persons over illegal dredging and land reclamation on the Lekki shoreline.

It also sealed multiple sites in a sweeping enforcement executed by a joint ministerial task force.

The task force comprising the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and the Lands Bureau, targeted ongoing infractions along the Lagos Lagoon.

Leading the exercise, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, announced the sealing of a property at 13A, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, over illegal reclamation and unapproved extension of its fence. He described the defiance of the owners, who allegedly ignored previous government warnings, as an act of ‘legendary audacity.’

‘This property has been sealed several times since last year, yet the owners continue construction and social activities. Today, we have returned with other ministries to enforce the law,’ Alebiosu said.

He said the culprits would be prosecuted, adding that they risk forfeiting the illegally reclaimed land.

Commissioner for Physical Planning, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, said while the owner originally presented plans for 1,200 square metres, the reclaimed area had expanded to over 8,000 square metres.

The Chairman Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, has felicitated President Bola Tinubu, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians as the nation marks her 65 years of in independence.

Asadu, the traditional ruler of Edem Ani Ogugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, also felicitated with Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and the good people of Enugu State.

The traditional ruler conveyed his felicitations in a statement to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.

Asadu, also known as the Ogadagidi of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, extolled the unwavering spirit of Nigerians whose sacrifices and dedication continue to sustain the nation’s unity and progress.

He also hailed the courage of Nigeria’s founding fathers and celebrated the resilience and diversity that characterised the strength of the nation.

Asadu, who is the immediate past Chairman of South East Traditional Rulers, commended the ongoing efforts to reposition the economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster national renewal.

He urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain steadfast in love for the country, united in purpose, and committed to the shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Asadu, who is member Board of Trustee Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (Nigeria Chapter), prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and protection for President Tinubu, Governor Mbah and others at the corridors of power, as they steer the affairs of the nation and called for continued peace, equity, and development across all parts of Nigeria.

‘On behalf of Enugu State Traditional Rulers and the good people of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to His Excellencies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Peter Mbah, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our beloved country attained the priceless gift of sovereignty, setting us on a journey of unity, peace, and progress.

‘Today, as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we pay tribute to the resilience, industry, and enduring spirit of the Nigerian people whose sacrifices and hopes continue to drive our nation forward.

‘I commend the dedication to national renewal, economic transformation, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. These efforts reflect a commitment to the Nigeria of our dreams, one where equity, justice, and prosperity are shared by all.”

According to him, the anniversary is a solemn reminder that the task of nation-building belongs to every Nigerian.

‘Let us therefore remain steadfast in love for our country, united in purpose, and unwavering in our collective resolve to overcome current challenges and secure a brighter future for generations yet unborn.

‘May the Almighty God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, guide our leaders, and grant us lasting unity and prosperity.

‘Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!’ Asadu said.

The Abuja Youths Forum has expressed grief over the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, an anchor with Arise TV, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery at her Katampe residence in the early hours of September 29.

In a statement signed by its president, Comrade Ayuba Danladi, the group described her death as a tragic loss and urged authorities to intensify efforts in addressing insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The forum stressed that the incident highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures across Abuja, adding that if such crimes could occur in Katampe, residents in other parts of the city may be at greater risk.

It called on President Bola Tinubu and the FCT administration to prioritize security and ensure that criminal elements are swiftly apprehended.

The group also extended heartfelt condolences to Maduagwu’s family and the Arise News team, urging law enforcement agencies to bring her killers to justice without delay.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and look beyond present challenges as the nation celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In his goodwill message on Tuesday, Abbas said Nigeria’s journey through a chequered history points to a brighter future of unity and prosperity.

He noted that the country is richly blessed with human and natural resources and called for collective efforts, regardless of religious, ethnic, or political differences, to build ‘a nation of our dreams.’

The Speaker expressed confidence that with the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria remains on the right path to reclaiming its position as Africa’s biggest economy.

While acknowledging current security and socio-economic challenges, Abbas urged Nigerians to remain steadfast, prayerful, and patriotic.

He assured that the 10th House of Representatives will continue to deliver accountable leadership, good governance, and dividends of democracy, especially to grassroots communities.

Abbas wished all Nigerians a happy Independence Anniversary.