Suspected cultists have reportedly killed four people, including a soldier, in North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State.

The attacks occurred on Thursday and Friday nights, with eyewitnesses linking the incidents to ongoing clashes between rival cult groups in the area.

Nura Umar, Chairman of the vigilante group Operation Shara, confirmed the killings and stated that the victims, including two young men, were not cultists but fell victim to the rampage.

He added that a suspected cultist was also killed in his home on Thursday.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the cult activities but reported only one civilian casualty. Police spokesperson Catherine Anene assured that additional operatives had been deployed to the area to restore order.

Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address at the African Business Forum held at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, USA.

The event, which has been a platform for discussions on Africa’s progress for over 30 years, brought together over 500 students, many of them from Nigeria and other parts of Africa, to engage in deep conversations about the continent’s future.

Wharton, known as America’s oldest business school, has long been a hub for intellectual dialogue and innovation.

This year’s forum centred on the role young Africans can play in building a prosperous Africa and how the next generation can tackle the continent’s long-standing challenges.

Peter Obi, drawing from his wealth of experience in business and public service, shared insights on leadership, resilience, and community engagement.

During his address, Obi made mention of the immense potential of Africa, emphasizing that the continent is blessed with abundant natural and human resources.

However, he lamented that this potential has often been squandered due to poor leadership and systemic failures over the years.

Speaking directly to the young African students in attendance, Obi stressed that they hold the key to rewriting the continent’s narrative.

He reflects on his journey, from his early days in the trading world to his achievements in corporate life and public service.

He acknowledged the hurdles he faced but underlined the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles.

Obi states that his experiences taught him the value of resilience and the need to stay committed to one’s goals, regardless of challenges.

Obi also spoke about the importance of leveraging knowledge and education for societal transformation.

As someone who has studied at top global institutions, including Harvard and the London School of Economics, he emphasizes that true fulfilment comes not just from personal success but from using one’s skills and knowledge to improve the lives of others.

He urges the students to engage with their communities at the grassroots level, arguing that meaningful change must start from the bottom up.

Former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed deep gratitude to a host of dignitaries, religious leaders, and well-wishers who attended a grand wedding walima held last night.

The event, graced by prominent political and community figures, was a moment of celebration and unity as families and friends came together to mark the joyous occasion.

Kwankwaso, in a statement on his X handle, extended his appreciation to His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the current Governor of Kano State, and his team for their presence and support.

He also acknowledged the attendance of distinguished former governors, including Senator Bukola Saraki, former Senate President and Governor of Kwara State; Chief Celestine Omehia, former Governor of Rivers State; Chief Lucky Igbinedion, former Governor of Edo State; Chief Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State; Chief Achike Udenwa, former Governor of Imo State; Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, former Governor of Kwara State; Alhaji Isa Yuguda, former Governor of Bauchi State; Senator Abdulaziz Yari, former Governor of Zamfara State; and Senator Adamu Aliero, former Governor of Kebbi State.

The gathering also saw the presence of revered religious scholars and other notable leaders, reflecting the event’s significance as a unifying moment for Nigeria’s diverse cultural and political communities.

Kwankwaso, alongside Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, a prominent businessman and community leader, jointly hosted the walima, which served as a reflection of their shared commitment to fostering goodwill and togetherness.

In his remarks, Kwankwaso offered prayers for all attendees, wishing them safe travels back to their destinations.

He highlighted the importance of such gatherings in building bonds and strengthening relationships across Nigeria’s multifaceted society.

He expressed his joy and gratitude, noting that the presence of such esteemed personalities added grandeur and meaning to the occasion.