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.

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.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warmly welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria on his first official visit.

The visit is significant as it marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has stepped on Nigerian soil since 2007, signaling a renewed commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Tinubu shared the news through his official X handle, expressing excitement about the historic occasion.

He described the visit as an opportunity to expand the strategic partnership between Nigeria and India and strengthen collaboration in vital areas such as trade, technology, energy, and education.

“I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country in 17 years.

Our discussions will aim to broaden our strategic partnership and foster cooperation in critical sectors.

Welcome to Nigeria, PM Modi,” Tinubu stated.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Abuja early on Sunday with his delegation, where he was met with enthusiasm from Nigerian officials and citizens alike.

Modi’s visit highlights India’s ongoing efforts to enhance relations with African countries, particularly Nigeria, which is one of India’s most important trade and investment partners on the continent.

The visit sets the stage for high-level discussions between the two leaders, focusing on strengthening economic ties.

India is one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, with significant investments in the oil and gas sector.

However, this visit aims to expand their partnership into emerging areas like renewable energy, digital technology, and infrastructure development.

Both leaders are expected to deliberate on ways to enhance education and healthcare collaboration.

Nigeria, with its young and dynamic population, presents an ideal partner for India, a country known for its advancements in technology, medicine, and skill development.