The convoy of the Secretary to the Plateau State Government, Mr. Samuel Jatau, narrowly escaped an ambush by suspected terrorists on Sunday in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.

The terrorists, believed to be planning fresh attacks on local communities, laid an ambush near Hurti community in the Monguna district.

The SSG was on a visit to Bokkos, which had been severely impacted by gunmen attacks the previous Wednesday.

As the convoy approached, the terrorists fired shots at the vehicle, prompting the security detail to return fire.

The attackers, overwhelmed by superior firepower, retreated into the nearby bush and surrounding mountains.

Our correspondent, who witnessed the incident, saw armed terrorists fleeing into the mountains after the skirmish.

Following the ambush, the SSG condemned the attack, describing it as an act of impunity and calling on the Federal Government to address the security concerns in the affected communities.

“I lack words to express my sorrow and anger. We just tested what these communities are feeling. We were almost ambushed. I was looking at my phone in the car when I suddenly heard gunshots. When I looked up, I saw two young men running into the bush, armed with guns,” the SSG said.

Describing the devastation in the area, Jatau continued, “We saw the destruction firsthand. Over 40 people were killed, homes were destroyed, and entire livelihoods were wiped out. The terrorists looted essential goods like 26 bags of potatoes worth N80,000 each from one home. These are peasant farmers; how do they recover from this? We must do better than this as a country.”

The SSG also highlighted the need for increased security in the region, which he said was a major concern for the state government.

“The Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, has directed that we bring relief materials to the affected communities and look at long-term solutions. We also need more security forces to ensure the safety of our people. While we appreciate the efforts of our security agencies, there is still much more to be done.”

In his remarks, the Village Head of Hurti, Maren Arondong, and the District Head of Monguna, Alo Raymond, expressed gratitude to the state government for the relief materials but voiced concerns over the persistent attacks that had left many residents displaced.

They called on the Federal Government to step in and prevent further attacks on their communities.

Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, assured that the Federal Government was actively addressing the recent security breaches in Bokkos LGA.

Ribadu made the remarks on Sunday during an operational visit to Plateau State at the headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos.

Ribadu explained that he was in Plateau following a directive from President Bola Tinubu to restore peace to the affected communities.

He commended the timely response of the security agencies in curbing the situation.

“We will ensure that all those arrested in connection with the recent attacks are brought to justice. The Federal Government is committed to improving security in the region, and we will not tolerate impunity,” Ribadu said.

He added that under President Tinubu’s administration, over 2,000 terrorists had been prosecuted or are facing prosecution.

Ribadu also urged Plateau residents to prioritise peace and unity, emphasising that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and not violence.

He praised the efforts of Governor Caleb Mutfwang in maintaining peace and promised that security measures would continue to improve in the state.

The NSA was briefed on the current security situation by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, and the Commander of Operation Safe Haven during his visit.

As the federal and state governments continue to address the security challenges in Plateau, residents are hopeful that further steps will be taken to prevent more attacks and restore lasting peace to the region.

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, has hailed the Nigeria Police Force for withdrawing the invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi.

Obi said the invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.

DAILY POST reported that the Emir was earlier summoned over an alleged murder during last Sunday’s Sallah festivities in Kano.

The incident reportedly occurred after Sanusi returned home from Eid prayers.

He had gone to the Eid prayer ground on foot but returned to the palace riding a horse.

However, following public outcry against the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, withdrew the invitation extended to Sanusi.

Egbetokun has in turn directed the Kano State Command of the force to obtain Sanusi’s statement regarding the incident.

Reacting to the development, the former Anambra State Governor, in a post on his X handle on Monday, hailed the decision to withdraw the invitation.

Obi suggested that a decentralized approach to the matter would encourage peace and public trust.

He said: “I would like to commend the Nigeria Police Force for the wise and timely decision it took to withdraw the invitation extended to His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II. In light of the current tensions within our society, such an invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.

“There is a fully functional police command in Kano, with sufficient capacity to address such matters within the State. That is precisely why we have senior-ranking officers, including Commissioners of Police and Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), to handle issues of this nature appropriately at the state and zonal levels.

“Once again, I appreciate the decision to withdraw the invitation. A decentralized approach would encourage peace and public trust. -PO”

The House of Representatives has issued a reminder to Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), emphasizing that he lacks the constitutional authority to make laws or draft a budget for the oil-rich state.

Naija News reports that the House’s stance follows Ibas’s announcement of plans to prepare a new budget after the declaration of a state of emergency in the state in March.

In an interview with Punch on Sunday, the Deputy Spokesman for the House, Philip Agbese, clarified that the Sole Administrator does not have the mandate to perform legislative functions under the current circumstances.

“The Sole Administrator does not have the authority to carry out the National Assembly’s function of making laws under the current circumstances.

“The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, is consulting with the leadership of the House to establish a committee to oversee the administrator’s activities and ensure that the interests of Rivers State are represented,” Agbese said.

Agbese further explained that the House of Representatives had already communicated their position on the administrator’s appointment and mandate to President Bola Tinubu.

He warned that if the Sole Administrator oversteps his constitutional boundaries, the House would take necessary actions, including the possibility of a vote of no confidence, to ensure adherence to the rule of law.

The political situation in Rivers State, stemming from a crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, prompted President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in March. This move resulted in the suspension of the governor and the state legislature for an initial period of six months.

In place of Governor Fubara, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator. Last week, Ibas revealed his intention to formulate a new budget to manage the state’s affairs for the next six months.

While hosting a delegation of the Rivers State National Assembly caucus, Ibas reiterated his commitment to the people of the state and outlined his plan for the new budget.

He said, “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.”

Ibas emphasized that the new budget would focus on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay,” he added.

The Sole Administrator stressed that the budget would be transparent, inclusive, and expedited to improve the lives of the citizens. He also assured that the process would not lose any more time in making the necessary investments in the state’s future.

The Department of State Services (DSS) in Osun State has reportedly summoned the Organising Secretary of the state chapter of the Take It Back (TIB) Movement,

Olasunkanmi Mary Oluwatosin, for questioning regarding the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for April 7.

Naija News reports that the Take-It-Back Movement has firmly stated that it will proceed with the planned protest on Monday, which aims to highlight what they perceive as the “authoritarianism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, violations of human rights, and the improper application of the Cybercrime Act.”

This protest is titled “Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Suppression of Free Speech.”

According to SaharaReporters, a DSS official named Akin reached out to Oluwatosin through a WhatsApp message, requesting her presence at the DSS office in Osogbo, the state capital.

Oluwatosin informed journalists late Sunday evening that a DSS agent had contacted her on Saturday to inquire about the details of the protest.

She also mentioned that she received a call from an unknown number on Sunday, asking her to come to the DSS office for a “chat.”

When she inquired about the purpose of the invitation, the caller reportedly indicated that it was merely for a “conversation.”

“One DSS official called me yesterday and asked for details about our protest tomorrow, but I told her I wasn’t in town and knew nothing about the protest.

“Another number called me this evening, saying they wanted to see me in their office. When I asked why, the person said they just wanted to chat, but I told them I wasn’t in town,” she said.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the TIB Movement, Sanyaolu Juwon, was said to have attempted to contact the DSS officer via WhatsApp, but the message remained undelivered at the time this report was filed

“Hello Mr. Akin. My name is Sanyaolu Juwon. I am the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement. One of our comrades called me from Osun that you have been harassing and intimidating her. I’d like to remind you that the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed. You are advised to please desist from this,” Juwon reportedly wrote to the secret police.

A former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has revealed that a long list of politicians are set to join the party ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.

Adebayo disclosed that the SDP is in talks with several politicians and is ready to welcome them all ahead of the 2027 elections.

Naija News reports the former presidential candidate specifically identified the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as well as his colleague in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, as part of the prominent names currently in discussion with the SDP and expected to join the party soon.

“People are joining my party, and we are welcoming them. You can see how active I am in welcoming them. The only little issue we have with some of them is to change the culture where if you have not been in an environment where rules are taken seriously.

“Some of them are doing some Boy Scouts, black market operations, we are dealing with that. But we welcome them into the party. All these people you have mentioned, El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, even former Governor Peter Obi are coming. A lot of people are coming, and we will welcome them,” the SDP chieftain said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.

Asked by the anchor to clarify his statement on Obi, Adebayo emphasized that the former Anambra State Governor is in talks to join the SDP.

He also emphasized the readiness of the party to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

“Supposedly, until somebody joins, we don’t know. But people have told me, and the Financial Secretary (SDP) has also informed me, that they are talking. So we will welcome everybody.

“Surely, when we come in, and we don’t become a tower of Babel; if we come in, follow the rules and allow one person to emerge transparently, clearly, without cheating, without criminality the way we did our convention in 2022, people applauded us transparently, no court case, no crisis, no allegations.

“If they can stick to our culture and follow the way we do in the SDP and produce a good alternative to Nigerians, we are going to manifestly defeat the APC and retire President Tinubu to Lagos or wherever he chooses in Nigeria,” he said.

Naija News reports that despite talks of an opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have shut down rumours of dumping their current political parties.

The Labour Party (LP) has raised an alarm over what it describes as an alleged plot by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to storm its national secretariat in Abuja with hired thugs, in collaboration with factions of the party.

The LP’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, made the claim in a statement issued on Sunday.

The statement alleges that the NLC was working alongside the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC) and the National Transition Committee (NTC) to carry out the planned invasion.

According to the statement, the planned action—allegedly funded by the Abia State government and an unnamed party leader—is expected to begin on Monday, April 7.

Ibrahim warned that the attempt would involve the forceful entry into party offices, the theft of sensitive documents, and the vandalization of party property.

The statement reads in part: “It has come to the knowledge of the leadership of the LP that the NLC is mobilising its members, hired thugs and miscreants… to invade the National Secretariat of our party.”

The LP accused the NLC of overstepping its bounds as a labour union by allegedly interfering in partisan political matters, which it said contravenes the legal framework establishing the congress.

The party referred to the April 5 Supreme Court ruling, insisting it affirmed that party leadership matters are internal affairs to be handled by political parties themselves.

“There is nowhere in the judgment that gave the NLC or any caretaker committee the authority to take over the leadership of the Labour Party,” the statement added.

The party reaffirmed that Barrister Julius Abure remains the duly elected National Chairman, having emerged from the March 2024 national convention.

It also called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS), to intervene and prevent any breach of peace in the Federal Capital Territory.

• Chelsea, Juventus  step up chase for Nigerian ace

Real Madrid are reportedly considering making a move for Napoli forward Victor Osimhen during this summer’s transfer window.

The Nigeria international has been in excellent form on loan at Galatasaray during the 2024-25 campaign, scoring 28 times and registering five assists in 32 appearances in all competitions.

Osimhen, as it stands, will return to Napoli this summer, but he is widely expected to leave the Italian giants on a permanent basis, with a number of clubs believed to be interested in his signature.

Manchester United continue to be heavily linked with the 26-year-old, who has scored 76 goals and registered 12 assists in 133 appearances for Napoli in all competitions since his arrival from Lille in 2020.

However, according to Fichajes, there is also interest from Real Madrid, with Los Blancos considering making a move for the Nigerian during this summer’s transfer window.

The report claimed  that Real Madrid view Osimhen as a possible replacement for Vinicius Junior, as the Brazilian continues to be linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, Juventus are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Napoli forward Victor Osimhen ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to TEAMtalk, the 26-year-old has also emerged as a priority target for the struggling Serie A giants.

It’s understood Juventus will face serious competition from several Premier League clubs, along with those in the Saudi Pro League.

The Nigeria international has been in electric form in Turkey, scoring 28 goals and providing five assists in his 32 games across all competitions

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has been in London this past.

It’s been suggested that Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has been England to meet with Chelsea and Manchester United about the future of Osimhen, according to  Il Mattino.

Osimhen’s contract with Napoli carries a €75m buyout clause, which can be triggered this summer.

Juventus are also interested, though Napoli would prefer to see Osimhen not return to Serie A.

Chelsea failed in an attempt for Osimhen in January and will try again as they seek a new centre-forward signing. United are also interested, though must sell before buying this summer.

• Group to hit streets kicking against anti-cyber security law, Rivers emergency, others
• ‘Action subversive on Police National Day’

A showdown is likely today between the police and a group of protesters in Lagos, Abuja and some other capital cities, such as Ibadan and Port Harcourt.

A massive deployment of security men is expected across the country.

The police warned that it would not take kindly to a protest it described as “potential unrest or confrontation” planned by the “Take it Back Movement”.

It described the action as that of “subversive elements” acting on the pretence of economic hardship.

The Take it Back Movement group said the protest is against cyberbullying and the emergency declaration in Rivers State.

It added that it opposes the “illegal” extension of tenure for Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

The group said its members would converge under the bridge in Ikeja, Lagos, the frontage of the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt and Iwo Road in Ibadan.

While the police cautioned against the protest, which it described as sabotage having fallen on National Police Day, one of the organisers, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a politician, insisted last night that the protest would go on.

Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner, said: “The Nigeria Police Force acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful protest.

“However, given the significance of April 7 as National Police Day, we urge the organisers to reconsider the timing of their planned demonstration.

“This is a day of national reflection and recognition for the force, and it is important that the occasion is not overshadowed by potential unrest or confrontation.

“In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horns by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day.

“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is, however, questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.

“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organisers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.”

The police spokesman added that the National Police Day event would host high-profile dignitaries from within and outside the country, including foreign Inspector-Generals of Police and diplomats.

Sowore said there was no going back. Rather, he insisted it was the police that should reconsider their programme.

He said: “Regardless, tomorrow’s (today) protest must go on across Nigeria. Nothing can stop the movement of the people!”

‘Protest is subversive’

The Lagos Police Command also issued a similar warning in a statement by its Deputy Commissioner Tijani O. Fatai.

It said: “Intelligence report at the Command disposal reveals a plan by some subversive groups parading themselves as Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other misguided anti-government forces, to incite nationwide protest on 7th April 2025 aimed at drawing the attention of the government to their perceived prevailing high cost of living and free speech suppression.

“Furthermore, the groups have flooded the social media platforms with narrations geared towards winning public sympathy, discrediting the government and galvanising support for the protest.

“Experience has shown that criminals may want to seize the opportunity of the protest to cause mayhem, particularly to launch attacks on government facilities and opposition leaders to disrupt socio-economic activities in the state, amongst others.

“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has ordered security measures to be beefed up around critical installations and other strategic locations across the state in order to forestall any untoward development before, during and after the proposed protest.

“This is to ensure all law-abiding citizens go about their normal business throughout the period unhindered; to ensure free flow of traffic in the state throughout the period of the protest; to ensure the security of lives and property in the state before, during and after the protest.

“Forces available: Manpower for this operation will be drawn from the Department of Operations, Ikeja; State Criminal and Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID), Yaba; Area Command Headquarters, Rapid Response Squad, Alausa; Task Force, Oshodi; PMF 2 Keffi; 20/22 PMF Ikeja; 23 Keffi; 43 Lion Building; 49 PMF Epe; 63 PMF Ikorodu; Counter Terrorism Unit Base 2, Special Protection Unit Bases 2, 16, 17 Lagos, and Anti Bomb Disposal Base 23, Lagos.”

Nigerian filmmaker cum author, Oreofe Williams, privy to the controversy between Nollywood actress, Lizzy Anjorin and Nigerian singer, Tope Alabi, has said the latter and her team refused to perform at the surprise birthday of the movie star because they were not given the endeared privilege of a choice by conscience concerning the contract.

Lizzy’s fan club had collaborated with her husband to surprise her with a performance by Tope Alabi, whom they said she loved dearly.

However, the gospel singer and her husband, Soji Alabi, arrived at Lizzy’s clothing store in Lagos but declined to perform after realising they were to perform for the movie star.

Reacting, Lizzy Anjorin, in a video via her social media page, berated Tope for refusing to perform after she was paid ₦4 million, stressing she would not ruin the singer’s brand, which her husband built on an empty stomach.

The thespian recalled Tope Alabi’s issue with Prophet Ajanaku and how the world rejected her, but she supported her.

Clarifying the issue, Willimas, in a statement titled: “Concerning Evang. Tope Alabi and Lizzy Anjorin’s Birthday Surprise: An Unfortunate Conundrum”, explained that the sum of ₦2.5 million was paid to the Alabis and not the figures reported online.

He further noted that the cost value for the surprise performance was reduced by 70% because Soji Alabi considered his intervention.

The filmmaker questioned why the celebrant’s identity was hidden, noting the Alabis were angry after the discovery as they felt deceived.

He said, “Some weeks ago, a filmmaker contacted me because he needed Evang. Tope Alabi. The filmmaker told me that he wanted to surprise ‘someone he cherishes a lot’. No name was mentioned and I assumed it could be his wife or anybody.

“This conjecture is not far-fetched as he did create an impression that he was personally funding the surprise. No impression was given that it was a joint contribution by any team. Of course, I would not have doubted him because I’m not unaware that this filmmaker is rich enough to fund the surprise.

“I contacted Uncle Soji Alabi and after that, released his number to the filmmaker. It was supposed to be the birthday surprise of a public figure and I still marvel till tomorrow about why her name was conspicuously hidden by the filmmaker who contacted me.

“Uncle Soji informed me that day would be very busy and I pleaded with him to attend having considered any possibility for a rescheduling. He also mentioned the amount was low for a birthday surprise but I prevailed on Uncle Soji and he eventually honoured my plea to receive the agreed amount (after giving a 70% price reduction due to my intervention). However, the requirement of N2.5m was met for the birthday ‘SURPRISE’. Nonetheless, the identity remained hidden until they got to the venue.

“The main question is: Why was the celebrant’s identity hidden? And for what reason?

“It was at this moment I received a call from Uncle Soji who had already made up his mind to leave the venue. Sincerely speaking, I would never have spent the next 15 seconds there if I was in his position. Nobody loves to be manipulated. I can tell you authoritatively that he is the President of Gospel Vibes and he takes decisions.

“He told me on phone he was leaving. I also wondered why someone would keep a public figure anonymous even for me whose name he used to have such an access to the Alabis and reduce the amount to be paid.

“The reason they returned the money and left was not particularly because of the celebrant or anyone around the venue as I have read in some articles. They felt deceived and were not given the endeared privilege of a choice by conscience.

“Ministers Soji and Tope Alabi and their team have, on several occasions, honoured christians and moslems, as their fans cut across multiple languages and religions.

“Please note the sum received was N2.5m which was paid to the Alabis in three tranches and NOT N3.5m. The inflated price published by some writers is erroneous. The Alabis made an instant refund of N2.5m. I had to request for the payment receipts from the Alabis because I feel quite bitter about such manipulations and the grievous mob misinterpretations given to it.

“It is expedient to note that Integrity, transparency and accountability will always serve as the bedrocks to sustain healthy business relationships. You don’t ask a singer to ‘surprise’ a public-figure only to keep the celebrant anonymous and eventually ‘surprise’ the ‘surpriser’ at the venue. You will be more surprised!”

The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission has shorlisted 1,800 applicants for teaching appointments in the state.

This is contained in a statement issued by the commission’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Sam Onile, made available to newsmen in Ilorin.

Onile said that the shortlisted applicants emerged from a screening, which included computer-based test, and interviews spanning over three months.

”The shortlisted comprises 790 (44%) for STEM subjects; 581 for core subjects; 370 for specialised subjects; and 59 for technical subjects. 

”They will be assigned to senior secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of the state in line with the needs assessment of the commission,” he said.

Onile advised applicants who appeared for the interviews to check their status on the portal, adding “those shortlisted will undergo a mandatory drug test to ascertain their suitability to teach children.

”The drug test will be carried out by the NDLEA and will be coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Aileru.

”The test will begin on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and end on Saturday April 12, 2025. Shortlisted candidates from Baruten, Edu, Kaiama, and Patigi are slated for Wednesday.

“Those from Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin will be tested on Thursday, April 10; Offa, Oke Ero, Oyun, and Moro are slated for Friday, April 11, while the candidates from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West are to have theirs on Saturday.

“The drug test certificates will be sent to the commission by the NDLEA as no candidate is allowed to access it on their own to curb altering,” he said.

The official said that successful applicants would also sign a bond not to seek transfer for six years, a policy response to the dearth of teachers in rural areas.

“Shortlisted applicants are to also come with medical certificates from any state government hospital as well as the original copies of their credentials for documentation, during which they will be required to drop photocopies of same for record purposes.

“They will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer, while other conditions of service will be spelt out during the documentation process,” Onile added.

(NAN)