News
Nigerian Army Rescues Corps Member and Six Others from Kidnappers in Benue

Troops from the 401 Special Forces Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector One, successfully rescued a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) along with six other victims from kidnappers in Tse-Annaka, located on the Wukari/Zaki-Biam road in the Ukum local government area of Benue State.
The corps member, identified as 29-year-old Samuel Muekara, a law graduate, was among those freed. The operation also liberated several others who had been kidnapped at various times in the same area.
The additional victims include 32-year-old Anaelechi Bob, 28-year-old Ayuba Luka, 30-year-old Ibrahim Umar, 48-year-old Rabiu Muhammad, 17-year-old Buhari Ahmadu Saleh, and 47-year-old Blessing Ayuba.
A security officer, who preferred to remain anonymous, disclosed that the bandits wreaking havoc in the Sankara region were known by names such as “Full Fire,” Ayongo, Chen, and their group.
These bandits are reportedly linked to the notorious criminal kingpin Terwase Akwaza, also known as Gana, who was infamous in Benue.
According to the officer, the local communities are aware of the identities of these armed bandits but remain silent due to fear of retribution.
He emphasized that security should be a joint effort, urging residents to provide vital information to the military and other security forces to help apprehend these criminals.
Several rescued victims spoke about their harrowing experiences at the military camp in Zaki-Biam.
They recounted being held hostage for several days before the military’s intervention. Some of them described how they were taken to nearby villages, including Chito, Adamawa, Atereyange, Ututu, and Pevkyaa, where the armed bandits established their hideouts.
These bandits have made kidnapping a lucrative business, executing their crimes brazenly during the day without concern for repercussions.
Victims reported that bandit families often visited the hideouts, bringing food to the captives.
Despite witnessing the ongoing violence, local residents felt powerless to speak out for fear of their safety.
One victim, Rabiu Muhammad, shared a particularly tragic story: he had come to pay a ransom for his cousin Ibrahim Umar but was himself captured in the process.
Another victim, Blessing Ayuba, revealed that she was abducted while attempting to secure her son, Luka Ayuba’s release.
In a shocking turn of events, Samuel Muekara, the rescued corps member, revealed that the families of the seven victims had collectively raised over N20 million to pay ransom, alongside other valuable items worth millions.
Despite these efforts, they remained captives until the military’s decisive rescue operation liberated them from their dire situation.
The stories of these victims highlight the ongoing struggle against banditry in the region, emphasizing the need for community involvement in ensuring safety and security.
Their harrowing experiences serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many in areas plagued by violence and crime.
News
Tinubu Says His Tough Economic Reforms Are Now Helping Nigeria’s Economy Grow

President Bola Tinubu has claimed that his government’s economic reforms are beginning to bear fruit. Speaking at the APC National Summit held at the State House banquet hall in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu defended his administration’s decisions and insisted that the ruling party has not failed Nigerians. “Two years ago, we set out on a journey powered by hope and a strong belief in this country. We made a promise to tackle Nigeria’s problems directly and rebuild the trust of our people,” he said.
The president expressed confidence that the economic policies introduced since May 2023 are taking effect. He noted that the removal of fuel subsidies was a tough but necessary decision meant to steer the country toward a better future. “We took the bold step to end the subsidy, and we did it for the good of the country. Good things don’t come easy,” Tinubu added.
Since taking office, his administration has introduced a wave of economic reforms, including floating the naira and slashing fuel subsidies—moves which both the government and international bodies say were essential to fix Nigeria’s struggling economy.
However, these changes have been deeply felt by everyday Nigerians, many of whom are battling an intense cost-of-living crisis. With inflation soaring and economic growth sluggish, the World Bank estimates that nearly half of Nigeria’s population lived in poverty in 2024. Similarly, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently pointed out that while the reforms may be important in the long run, they are yet to make a real difference in the lives of ordinary citizens.
News
APC Governors Say They Support Tinubu for Second Term and Will Make Sure He Wins in 2027

The Progressive Governors’ Forum has pledged full support to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office. Speaking at the APC National Summit in Abuja, the forum’s chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, urged his fellow governors to take firm control of politics in their states and work to secure victories for the party across all levels.
Uzodimma emphasized that a united and active effort by APC governors will pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also acknowledged the public backing Tinubu has received from APC governors in the North, calling it a strong step toward solidifying the president’s position as the party’s next flag bearer.
According to him, APC governors must promote federal government policies and dominate their political spaces to ensure success in the next general elections. Uzodimma closed his remarks by formally calling on the summit to adopt the position of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in endorsing Tinubu for a second term and committing to deliver that mandate.
Business
Dangote Drops Petrol Price Again as New Rates Start Across Nigeria

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again slashed the pump price of petrol across Nigeria, offering some relief to consumers. The new price now falls between N875 and N905 per litre, reflecting a N15 drop. This update was shared on the refinery’s official social media page on Thursday.
According to Dangote, the price cut affects major fuel distributors working with the refinery, including MRS, Ardova, Heyden, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. With this change, Lagos residents will now buy petrol at N875 per litre. Those in the South-South and South-East regions will pay N905, while the South-West sees a new rate of N885.
In the North-West and central parts of the country, it’s N895, and the North-East will also pay N905. Dangote added that their petrol and diesel are not only high-quality but also designed to support engine efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
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