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Fafam press, Gboko, Gboko (2026)

25/08/2026

COAS commissions new officers’ quarters in Kaduna, pledges improved welfare for troops

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned newly completed blocks of flats for officers at Ribadu Cantonment in Kaduna State, as part of efforts to improve the welfare and living conditions of Nigerian Army personnel and their families.

Shaibu commissioned the facilities on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, reaffirming the Army leadership’s commitment to tackling accommodation challenges across its formations and units.

According to a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the accommodation project was initiated and constructed under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, during his tenure as Chief of Army Staff.

Anele said the project was part of sustained efforts to address accommodation shortages and enhance the wellbeing of personnel serving in the Nigerian Army.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Shaibu commended Oluyede for his foresight and commitment to providing quality infrastructure for military personnel.

The COAS said decent accommodation remained a critical component of personnel welfare, stressing that improved living conditions would boost the morale of officers and soldiers and enhance their effectiveness in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

He assured personnel that Army Headquarters would continue to invest in infrastructure across formations and units to reduce the accommodation deficit and improve the quality of life of soldiers and their families.

After commissioning the new facilities, Shaibu inspected ongoing construction of additional accommodation for soldiers within Ribadu Cantonment.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of work, while directing the engineers and contractors handling the projects to maintain the required standards and complete the facilities within approved timelines.

The Army Chief further reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to prioritising personnel welfare, infrastructure development and training as key pillars of operational effectiveness and institutional resilience.

He urged beneficiaries of the new accommodation to properly maintain the facilities and uphold high standards of discipline, professionalism and dedication to duty.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

VDM Urges Security Agencies to Tackle ‘Unknown Gunmen’ Proactively

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

Social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has called on Nigerian security agencies to adopt a more proactive approach in tackling kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across the country.

VDM made the call on Tuesday while speaking at the 2026 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The activist spoke on the topic, “Known Gun Men,” during a panel session attended by the Inspector-General of Police and other security officials.

Expressing concern over the continued insecurity across the country, VDM questioned the effectiveness of security checkpoints on major highways, particularly in areas where kidnappings still occur despite the presence of security personnel.

He alleged that security agencies had information about some individuals involved in criminal activities but were not doing enough to prevent attacks or apprehend the perpetrators.

“You people know where these people are. You people know these ‘unknown gunmen’. But nothing is happening,” he said.

VDM also criticised the continued use of the term “unknown gunmen”, arguing that those responsible for criminal activities should be identified and held accountable.

“There are no unknown gunmen anywhere. The military men are the unknown gunmen, the Immigration, the Customs — they are the unknown gunmen. Nobody else,” he said.

He questioned how effective police checkpoints along major highways, including the Lagos-Abuja and Lokoja routes, have been in preventing kidnappings.

According to him, criminals could potentially obtain information about travellers and use such information to identify and target victims.

The activist also raised concerns over the impact of insecurity on the judiciary, citing the reported abduction of a judge travelling from Sokoto who was kidnapped in Kebbi State on July 26 and released about a week later.

“This is not the topic of ‘if I may, my Lord’, because a lot of your lords are being kidnapped,” VDM said.

Speaking about his personal experiences with insecurity, VDM described himself as a “first respondent” at some scenes of violence across the country.

He said he was present at Yelwata following a deadly attack and also witnessed the aftermath of other violent incidents, including attacks in Borno State.

“I have seen blood and seen people burnt alive,” he said.

On the Yelwata killings, VDM described the incident as a retaliatory attack following the killing of a Fulani man.

He also criticised the Nigerian media for what he described as inadequate coverage of violent attacks and their consequences.

Explaining his presence at the NBA conference, VDM said he was not invited to lecture lawyers on legal matters but to share his experiences regarding insecurity.

“I am not here to teach you the law. I am here to share an experience,” he said.

He maintained that insecurity was no longer only a security concern but an issue affecting judges, lawyers, professionals and ordinary Nigerians across the country.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Alleged Extortion: FCT Police Identify Officers in Viral Video

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has identified the officers featured in a viral video allegedly showing police personnel extorting ₦40,000 from a resident along the Wuye-Utako Road in Abuja.

The Command said the officers have been taken into custody as investigations into the allegation continue.

The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

According to Adeh, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, ordered an immediate investigation after the video surfaced on social media.

She said the complainant has also been invited to the FCT Police Command Headquarters to make an official statement that would assist the investigation and possible disciplinary proceedings.

“The officers depicted in the video have been identified and are in custody, while the Command also invites the complainant to the FCT Police Command Headquarters to tender his statement regarding the incident to aid disciplinary action,” Adeh said.

The police spokesperson urged the complainant to contact the Command through the Public Relations Officer on 07038979348 or 08180382808.

Adeh stressed that the FCT Police Command would not tolerate extortion, abuse of authority, misconduct or any form of unprofessional behaviour by its personnel.

She added that any officer found culpable after investigation would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action in line with existing laws and regulations.

The Command also encouraged residents to report cases of police misconduct and provide relevant information that could assist ongoing investigations.

The FCT Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, professionalism and respect for the rights of residents across the Federal Capital Territory.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Edo Assembly Impeaches Suspended Speaker Agbebaku, Orders Return of Government Property

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Edo State House of Assembly has formally impeached its suspended Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, eight days after a leadership crisis erupted over his position.

Agbebaku, who represents Owan West Constituency 1, was removed from office during plenary on Monday, August 24, 2026.

The impeachment motion was moved by the Majority Leader, Sunny Ojiezele, and seconded by the lawmaker representing Etsako Central, Ahmed Waziri.

The new Speaker of the Assembly, Yekini Idaiye, who represents Akoko-Edo 1, said the decision was backed by 17 members of the House.

According to Idaiye, the Assembly converted Agbebaku’s indefinite suspension into a full impeachment because there was no formally documented resignation letter from the former Speaker.

The clarification followed earlier reports that Agbebaku had resigned from the position on August 17.

Idaiye said the Assembly had now formally established impeachment as the official basis for the termination of Agbebaku’s tenure.

Agbebaku ordered to return government property

The new Speaker also directed the impeached lawmaker to return all government property in his possession.

Idaiye warned that security agencies could be invited to enforce the directive if Agbebaku failed to comply.

The development brings a new phase to the leadership crisis that has unsettled the Edo State House of Assembly, with the lawmakers now recognising Idaiye as Speaker.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Police Rescue Three Kidnap Victims, Recover Stolen Lexus, Fi****ms in Enugu

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Enugu State Police Command has rescued three victims of abduction and recovered a stolen Lexus RX350, fi****ms and ammunition following a swift response to a carjacking and kidnapping incident in the state.

The operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Sub-Unit of the Violent Crime Response Unit, with support from members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and other community members.

The command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.

According to him, the police received credible intelligence at about 1:30am on August 18, 2026, while officers were on crime-prevention patrol along the Port Harcourt Expressway in Enugu.

The intelligence concerned the carjacking and abduction of occupants of a Lexus RX350 by armed hoodlums within the Independence Layout area.

Ndukwe said the operatives immediately launched a pursuit of the suspects, who drove towards Hillview Road in Independence Layout.

Upon reaching the area, the suspects reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fi****ms before fleeing into the surrounding area.

The three victims were subsequently rescued unharmed and taken to safety with the assistance of members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and other residents.

Police recover fi****ms, ammunition

Items recovered from the scene included the victims’ Lexus RX350, a locally fabricated Beretta-like pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm live ammunition, a locally made cut-to-size firearm and one live cartridge.

The police also recovered a pair of hand gloves, a ski mask and a mobile phone allegedly abandoned by the fleeing suspects.

The command said investigations have been intensified, while a manhunt has been launched to identify and arrest the suspects.

The police are also working to recover additional exhibits and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

CP commends operatives, residents

The Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, commended the police operatives, members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and vigilant residents for their swift and coordinated response.

Giwa reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led and community-supported operations against kidnapping, armed robbery, car snatching and other violent crimes in the state.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide the police with timely and credible information that could assist in preventing and investigating criminal activities.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

PDP Urges Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Justice and Unity at Maulud

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on Nigerians to draw lessons from the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) by promoting peace, justice, tolerance and peaceful coexistence across the country.

The opposition party made the call in a Maulud message issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Jungudo, as Muslims in Nigeria and around the world commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet.

The PDP said the Maulud celebration provides an opportunity for Muslims and Nigerians generally to reflect on the values demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad, including compassion, honesty, justice and love for humanity.

According to the party, these values remain relevant to the challenges facing Nigeria and should guide both citizens and leaders in their efforts to build a united and prosperous nation.

“Maulud Nabi is a significant occasion for Muslims to reflect on the life, teachings and exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), whose message of peace, justice, compassion, honesty and love for humanity continues to inspire generations,” the statement said.

PDP calls for national unity

The party urged Nigerians to use the occasion to strengthen national unity and promote mutual respect among citizens regardless of their religious, ethnic or political differences.

It called for greater tolerance and peaceful coexistence at a time when the country continues to face security challenges, political tensions and social divisions.

“At this special time, the PDP urges Nigerians to draw from these timeless virtues by promoting unity, tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” the party said.

The PDP also urged Nigerians to pray for peace and stability across the country and seek divine guidance for political leaders and public office holders at all levels.

The party said Nigerian leaders need wisdom and courage to discharge their responsibilities in ways that promote justice, equity and good governance.

“The party also calls on Nigerians to offer prayers for peace and stability in our country, and for divine guidance for our leaders at all levels as they discharge their responsibilities to the people,” the statement added.

The PDP prayed for the acceptance of Nigerians’ prayers and the continued strengthening of their faith, expressing hope for a Nigeria where justice, equity and good governance prevail.

The opposition party concluded by wishing Muslims across Nigeria and beyond a peaceful and spiritually rewarding Maulud Nabi celebration.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Tinubu Inherited Economy in Shambles, Akpabio Says

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited a troubled economy in 2023 but has recorded enough achievements to seek Nigerians’ support ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akpabio claimed that 27 states were unable to pay workers’ salaries and pensions when Tinubu assumed office, arguing that the situation had since improved under the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government.

The Senate President made the remarks on Monday when members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions, TETFund and NELFund, led by its Chairman, Senator Dandutse Mohammed, paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, disclosed the remarks in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to Akpabio, the Tinubu administration has introduced new approaches to economic management and has achievements to present to Nigerians during the 2027 election campaigns.

He said the administration would highlight its record in areas including the economy, agriculture, security, education and fiscal policy.

“The current President has done a lot for Nigerians. He met an economy in shambles. When he came in, 27 states could not pay salaries and pensions, but today, the story has changed because of his reengineering and thinking out of the box,” Akpabio said.

He expressed confidence that Tinubu would secure a second term in 2027, saying Nigerians would assess the records of the administration and its political opponents during the election.

Akpabio also criticised the opposition, arguing that some of its members were aware of the achievements of the Tinubu administration but would not acknowledge them because of their political position.

Akpabio defends National Assembly

The Senate President also defended the performance of the 10th National Assembly under his leadership, saying the Senate had passed legislation aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

He said the National Assembly would continue to collaborate with the executive arm of government to deliver more benefits to citizens.

Akpabio also praised members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions, TETFund and NELFund for continuing their legislative and oversight responsibilities during the annual recess.

He urged lawmakers who may not return to the 11th Senate to remain committed to the APC and Tinubu administration.

The Senate President assured them that their loyalty and contributions to the party and government would be recognised.

TETFund, NELFund activities

Earlier, Senator Dandutse Mohammed said the committee’s visit was part of its constitutional responsibilities and an opportunity to pay homage to the Senate President.

Mohammed said the committee was also in Akwa Ibom for sensitisation and oversight activities concerning infrastructure projects executed through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

He said Nigerian parents and students were benefiting from interventions by TETFund and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), stressing that education remained central to national development.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

London Court Confirms Poco Lee’s Appearance in Assault Case on September 15

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

The Snaresbrook Crown Court in London has confirmed that popular Nigerian dancer and hypeman, Iweh Pascal Odinaka, popularly known as Poco Lee, is expected to appear before the court in connection with an assault allegation.

The court confirmed the development in correspondence with a Nigerian media outlet on Tuesday.

The inquiry followed reports concerning an alleged sexual assault involving the entertainer.

According to the court’s Admin Team Lead, James Baker, the case has been officially listed for plea and trial preparation on September 15, 2026.

Baker, however, said the court would not release the exact time and courtroom details until the day before the hearing.

He said the hearing would be open to members of the public.

“OFFICIAL. Good afternoon. I can confirm that this case is currently listed at Snaresbrook Crown Court for plea and trial preparation on the 15th September 2026,” Baker stated.

“Criminal Court hearings are open to the public. Precise times and courtroom information will not be available until the day before the hearing.”

Poco Lee reportedly on remand

The latest confirmation comes after the founder of the Community of Nigerians in the United Kingdom, Benjamin Kuti, popularly known as Oluomo of Derby, said Poco Lee was currently being held on remand in a UK prison.

Kuti had said the dancer was scheduled to appear before the Snaresbrook Crown Court in September.

According to him, he became aware of the development through his involvement in court proceedings and his support for Nigerians facing legal matters in the United Kingdom.

“I can confirm that the reports are true. Poco Lee is currently on remand in a UK prison. His next court date is scheduled for the second week of September, when he is expected to have a plea hearing,” Kuti said.

He explained that a plea hearing typically provides an opportunity for an accused person to indicate whether they plead guilty or not guilty to the allegations.

Kuti also said he intended to attend the proceedings in support of members of the Nigerian community in the UK.

The court’s latest correspondence has now confirmed that the case is listed for plea and trial preparation on September 15.

The allegations against Poco Lee remain allegations, and the court proceedings will determine the outcome of the case.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Alia Approves Three Military Units, Donates 30 Motorcycles to Boost Security in Sankera

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has approved the deployment of three operational military units to the Sankera axis of the state as part of measures to strengthen security and protect residents.

The affected areas comprise Katsina-Ala, Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.

Governor Alia also announced the donation of 30 motorcycles to security agencies operating in the area to enhance patrols and enable faster response to security emergencies.

The governor made the announcement on Monday in Katsina-Ala during a town hall meeting with stakeholders from the Sankera political bloc.

Alia said the military units would be stationed in Agu in Katsina-Ala, Anyiin in Logo and Azendeshi in Ukum.

The governor’s announcement came as part of his statewide thank-you tour following his emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 Benue governorship election.

During the tour, Alia has been meeting with APC stakeholders across the state’s 11 federal constituencies to appreciate party members for supporting his emergence at the party’s governorship primary.

New dam project planned

Speaking on infrastructure and development, Governor Alia also disclosed plans to construct a new dam with a projected capacity of 460 megawatts.

According to the governor, the project is expected to provide water and support electricity generation, with potential benefits for communities across the state.

Alia speaks on ranching

The governor also addressed concerns over ranching in Benue, assuring residents that his administration would not establish any ranch without the consent of the people.

He said the state government would continue to engage communities and stakeholders before taking decisions on matters affecting their land and livelihoods.

The governor’s latest security measures come as authorities continue efforts to improve the safety of communities in Sankera and other parts of Benue State.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

25/08/2026

Seven Killed, Two Injured in Multiple Crash on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

By: Fafam Press
August 25, 2026

Seven people have been killed and two others injured in a multiple road crash involving three vehicles around Kara on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.

The fatal accident occurred at about 12:03am on Monday and involved a white HOWO CNG/CIMC ENRIC truck, a white MACK trailer and a Mitsubishi Canter with registration number JJJ920YA.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun State Sector Command, confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Superintendent Route Commander Afolabi Odunsi.

According to the FRSC, all nine people involved in the crash were male.

The agency said its Ibafo Outpost Command received information about the accident at about 12:04am and arrived at the scene approximately five minutes later.

“Preliminary information indicates that nine persons, all male, were involved in the crash. Sadly, seven persons were killed, while two persons sustained injuries,” the statement said.

The FRSC classified the incident as a fatal multiple road traffic crash and identified excessive speed as the probable cause, pending further investigation.

Victims evacuated

The bodies of the deceased were evacuated from the scene by the Ogun State Ambulance Service, while the two injured victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment.

The FRSC said the vehicles involved were handed over to the Motor Traffic Division of the Nigeria Police Force, Ibafo, for further investigation and necessary action.

The Ogun State Sector Commander, Corps Commander Oludare Ogunjobi, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.

Ogunjobi urged motorists, especially drivers of articulated vehicles, to avoid excessive speeding, maintain safe following distances and remain vigilant while driving.

He also cautioned motorists against careless night driving, noting that poor visibility and fatigue could increase the risk of road crashes.

“Motorists, particularly drivers of articulated vehicles, should avoid excessive speed, maintain safe following distances and remain vigilant at all times,” he said.

Fafam Press
Reporting for Africa
Informing Nigeria

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