In a tragic turn of events, bandits have kidnapped the village head of Ungwan Babangida, Babangida Sojiji, along with 14 others in Kauru Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

The incident occurred on Thursday night when heavily armed attackers stormed Ungwan Babangida Village, firing sporadically before abducting their victims.

The youth leader of Dokan Karji, Aminu Khalid, confirmed the attack over the weekend, stating that the victims included three women and nine men. Two of the abducted individuals were laborers from Jigawa State and Ikara LGA of Kaduna State.

This kidnapping follows closely on the heels of another incident in the same LGA, where bandits abducted four farmers in Libere community on Wednesday, intensifying fears among residents.

Khalid emphasized the dire situation facing Kauru communities, calling for urgent military intervention.

“Federal Government and security operatives must intensify efforts to cripple the activities of these criminals who have made life difficult for villagers,” he said. He highlighted how many breadwinners have been killed, leaving communities in distress.

Despite the challenges, Khalid commended local vigilante groups for their resilience and constant efforts to thwart banditry, noting their success in foiling multiple kidnapping attempts.

The people of Kauru LGA now await decisive action from the government to restore peace and security to their region.

Joe Igbokwe, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has strongly criticized Nigerian singer Davido for his recent remarks about Nigeria’s economy.

During an appearance on an American podcast, Davido warned U.S. citizens against moving to Nigeria, claiming that the country’s economy was in “shambles” and not a suitable destination for relocation.

Igbokwe, who is known for his outspoken views on national issues, expressed his disappointment with Davido’s comments, which he believes are damaging to the country’s reputation.

In a post on his Facebook page, Igbokwe, who considers Davido his in-law, stated that the singer’s success was largely built on the opportunities Nigeria provided him.

He urged Davido to retract his statement, emphasizing that the country had played a significant role in shaping his career and making him the star he is today.

“My in-law Davido has made me sad by telling the world in America that Nigeria’s economy is in shambles.

This is very sad,” Igbokwe wrote. “I will advise him to retract the statement ASAP. Nigeria made Davido. QED!!!”

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki.

The committee is tasked with auditing the state’s assets and liabilities as part of efforts to promote transparency and ensure good governance.

Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, revealed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin City.

He noted that the committee members would officially begin their work on Tuesday, November 26, when they will be inaugurated.

The committee is chaired by Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua serving as the deputy chairman and Frank Edebor as the secretary.

Other notable members include Prince Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, and Taiwo Akerele, alongside Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie.

Also, Fredrick Unopah, Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Mrs. Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.

Additionally, the governor emphasized that the committee’s work is essential for setting Edo State on a path of sustainable development and responsible leadership.

According to the statement, the previous administration under Godwin Obaseki had failed to provide a comprehensive database of the state’s assets and liabilities, despite repeated demands for accountability.

The limited information presented by the Obaseki administration, according to Governor Okpebholo, left many critical questions unanswered regarding the management of public resources.

Governor Okpebholo noted that this move aligns with his campaign pledge to promote probity, accountability, and transparency in governance.

The committee, he said, consists of esteemed individuals from Edo State, and have expertise and commitment to the state’s progress.

Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the chairman of the committee, is expected to lead the team in conducting a thorough examination of the state’s resources, financial obligations, and the overall state of affairs inherited from the previous administration.