Citizen Television, Office No. 22 Uptown Plaza Beside Makurdi International Market, George Akume Way, Makurdi (2025)

29/10/2025

Sule vs Gundu: Prof. Zacharys Gundu’s Legal Team Challenges Court’s Jurisdiction

The legal team representing Professor Zacharys Anger Gundu has filed a Motion on Notice at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, seeking the dismissal or striking out of the suit instituted against him by the Government of Nasarawa State and Governor Abdullahi A. Sule.

The motion, filed on Tuesday by Professor Sebastine Hon, SAN, on behalf of Prof. Gundu, challenges the jurisdiction of the court and describes the case as an abuse of judicial process.

In the motion filed in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/3554/2025, the defence is asking the court to strike out paragraphs 10–12 and 16–35 of the Claimants’ Statement of Claim for disclosing no reasonable cause of action in favour of the first claimant — the Government of Nasarawa State — and for being frivolous, vexatious, and constituting an abuse of process.

The defendant further seeks an order dismissing or striking out the entire suit for want of jurisdiction and any other order the court may deem fit.

In an affidavit deposed to by Martin Luter Akawe, Chief Litigation Secretary at S.T. Hon (SAN) & Co., the defence argued that the writ of summons filed by the claimants failed to comply with court rules. The affidavit also stated that nothing in the originating processes suggested that the first claimant, the Government of Nasarawa State, was defamed by Prof. Gundu.

According to the motion, the reliefs sought in the statement of claim were made jointly by the claimants, even though the alleged defamatory statements mentioned only Governor Sule and not the Nasarawa State Government. The motion further argued that “Nasarawa State,” as defined by the Constitution, is not synonymous with “Government of Nasarawa State,” and that joining the two claimants in a single suit amounts to a legal irregularity.

“The combination of a Plaintiff/Claimant who has a cause of action with another Plaintiff/Claimant who has no cause of action and the claiming of reliefs in that suit for their joint benefit is unknown to law,” the motion read in part, adding that such action constitutes an abuse of court process.

The case, which pits the Nasarawa State Government and its Governor against Prof. Zacharys Gundu, stems from alleged defamatory remarks reportedly made by the defendant. The defence team maintains that the inclusion of the state government as a co-claimant renders the suit incompetent and unsustainable in law.

The court is expected to fix a date for hearing the motion.

29/10/2025

Benue, Enugu Police Strengthen Collaboration to Tackle Cross-Border Crimes

The Commissioners of Police for Benue and Enugu States, CP Emenari Ifeanyi Innocent, PhD, and CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, have agreed to deepen operational collaboration to address rising cross-border security challenges affecting both states.

The decision was reached during a strategic operational meeting held in Benue State on Tuesday, October 29, 2025. The meeting brought together senior operational officers from both commands to review security threats and strengthen joint responses.

According to a joint statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officers of both Commands, SP Daniel Ndukwe and DSP Edet Udeme, the Commissioners identified infiltration by criminal elements and their collaboration with unscrupulous residents in border communities as key drivers of interstate crimes.

To curb the trend, both Commands resolved to enhance intelligence sharing, conduct coordinated operations, and jointly deploy resources to tackle violent crimes, particularly in border areas.

The renewed synergy will focus on Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Local Government Areas in Benue State, and Igbo-Eze North, Isi-Uzo, and Udenu LGAs in Enugu State.

The statement noted that the meeting will be held regularly to sustain the momentum and ensure consistent joint operations.

It also recalled recent successful collaborations between the two Commands, which led to the arrest of cross-border criminal suspects, rescue of kidnapped victims, and recovery of stolen vehicles, laptops, and mobile phones.

Both Commissioners reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and security across the border communities and urged residents to support the police with timely and credible information.

29/10/2025

Timipre Sylva Linked to Alleged Coup Financing as Security Operatives Raid His Abuja Home

Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, has been implicated in an alleged plot to forcefully overthrow the government.

According to two intelligence officers, Sylva was fingered as one of the financiers of the suspected coup attempt after a Managing Director of a government agency was arrested for allegedly transferring a huge sum of money to him.

Investigators reportedly believe that the funds were meant to finance the planned coup. The arrest of the MD is said to have provided critical leads that prompted further security operations.

On Saturday, Sylva’s Abuja residence was reportedly raided by a team of investigators and military operatives. During the operation, his younger brother, Paga Sylva—who serves as his Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs—was arrested along with his driver.

While security agencies have remained tight-lipped about the details of the investigation, the development has stirred significant concern in political and security circles, given Sylva’s prominent political profile and past ministerial role.

As of the time of filing this report, neither Sylva nor his aides have issued any public statement regarding the allegations or the raid on his home.

29/10/2025

Alia Appoints Interim Management Committee for Lobi Stars FC

Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has approved the appointment of an Interim Management Committee to oversee the affairs of Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi.

The new management team, announced on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, will administer the club pending a full restructuring process aimed at repositioning Lobi Stars for greater competitiveness and administrative stability.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, the committee is chaired by Terver Ikya, with Uja Emmanuel as Media Director, Harry Yachi as Technical Director, Terzungwe Chugh serving as Administrative and Board Secretary (representing the Ministry of Sports), and Barr. Owocho Adejoh Ogiri as Member.

Governor Alia directed the committee to immediately register the club for the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, emphasizing the need for unity and focus as the team works toward reclaiming its place in top-flight football.

He cautioned against any form of distraction and urged the new management to collaborate closely to restore Lobi Stars’ winning culture and reestablish the club as a source of pride for Benue State.

29/10/2025

National Assembly Proposes Creation of Additional Local Governments in Benue

A bill seeking to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to allow for the creation of additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benue State has passed Second Reading in the House of Representatives.

The bill, recorded as HB2527, is sponsored by Rep. David Ogewu of the Oju/Obi Federal Constituency (APC). It was first read on October 14, 2025, and came up for second reading on Tuesday, October 28, where it scaled through after extensive debate on its general principles.

Moving the motion for the bill’s second reading, Rep. Ogewu said the proposed amendment would enhance grassroots governance by bringing government closer to the people. He noted that Benue, with its vast landmass and growing population, requires more local councils for equitable development and efficient administration.

The motion was seconded by Rt. Hon. Chinedu Ogar, representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, who supported the initiative as a step toward deepening democracy and improving service delivery in rural communities.

Rep. Ogewu expressed optimism that once passed into law, the bill would pave the way for the creation of additional LGAs in Benue, particularly within his constituency.

He also recalled that at the close of his second term in 2007, Senator George Akume, then Governor of Benue State, had made similar but unsuccessful efforts to create more local government areas to enhance administrative efficiency.

The bill has now been referred to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative action.

29/10/2025

BREAKING!!! Donald Trump Is The White Version Of Idi Amin Of Uganda - Wole Soyinka Says After He Was Banned From Visiting USA

28/10/2025

Terrorists Threaten to Bomb National Assembly — House Committee Chair Warns

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Internal Security, Hon. Garba Muhammad, has raised alarm over a reported threat by terrorists to bomb the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

Hon. Muhammad disclosed this during a security assessment briefing, revealing that the National Assembly has in recent times experienced a disturbing surge in security breaches, including theft, vandalism, and unauthorized infiltration.

He described the situation as worrisome and called for urgent and comprehensive measures to reinforce the security architecture of the complex. According to him, proactive steps must be taken to safeguard lawmakers, staff, and visitors within the parliamentary environment.

“The National Assembly is a symbol of our democracy and governance. Any threat to it is a threat to the stability of the nation,” Muhammad warned.

He urged relevant security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration to forestall any potential attack.

The revelation has sparked fresh concern over the safety of Nigeria’s key government institutions amid rising insecurity across the country.

28/10/2025

“This Is the Vision I Had for Benue” — Tarzoor Hails Gov Alia's Development Strides

Former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly and one-time governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Terhemen Tarzoor, has openly expressed his admiration and support for the administration of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, describing the Governor’s leadership as the true realization of the vision he once had for Benue State.

Dr. Tarzoor made the declaration on Monday, October 27, 2025, during a World Press Conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House, Makurdi, where he called on citizens to unite behind the Governor’s ongoing development drive.

According to him, the transformation currently taking place across the state reflects the same aspirations he championed during his time in public office and as a former gubernatorial candidate.

“Today, I find immense joy and reassurance in seeing those same aspirations reflected so vividly in the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia,” Tarzoor said.

He commended Governor Alia for what he described as “visible transformation, renewed hope, and palpable satisfaction” among the people, noting that such outcomes demonstrate sincerity, accountability, and a clear sense of purpose in governance.

The former Speaker praised the administration’s achievements in infrastructure development, urban renewal, economic diversification, and workers’ welfare, emphasizing that the prudent management of state resources and the quality of ongoing road projects are restoring public confidence in government.

In recognition of these milestones, Dr. Tarzoor pledged his full allegiance to Governor Alia and went further to endorse him for a second term in office.

“I wish to express my profound appreciation to Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for his exemplary stewardship and to affirm my total and unwavering support for his administration. In light of these achievements, I wholeheartedly endorse Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for a second term as Governor of Benue State,” he declared.

Dr. Tarzoor, who also served as Nigeria’s Ambassador, addressed recent speculations about his political future, clarifying that while consultations were ongoing, he had not yet declared his intention to contest for the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

He further pledged to contribute his “voice, resources, and experience” to ensure that Governor Alia’s policies and projects continue to transform the state.

Earlier in the event, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, Chairman of the NUJ Benue State Council, welcomed Dr. Tarzoor and lauded his longstanding service to the state, describing him as a “seasoned statesman with a deep commitment to public good.”

Comrade Ugber reaffirmed the media’s dedication to fairness, professionalism, and objectivity, stressing that democracy flourishes only when the press remains free and responsible.

“We believe that democracy thrives best where there is a free, vibrant, and responsible press—one that informs, educates, and holds power to account,” the NUJ Chairman said.

He also appealed to Dr. Tarzoor to assist the union with a Direct Ray Digital Image (DI) machine to enhance its operational capacity and professionalism.

27/10/2025

Benue at the Center of NAPTIP’s Crackdown as 26 Children Rescued, 300 Feared Trafficked

In what authorities describe as one of Nigeria’s largest child trafficking crackdowns in recent years, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested a 60-year-old prominent figure linked to the Orphanage Owners Umbrella Body of Nigeria for allegedly running a vast child trafficking and illegal adoption network.

The suspect, who also heads the globally recognized Civil Society Organisation, National Council of Child’s Right Advocates of Nigeria (NACRAN), based in Benue State, was taken into custody after a months-long investigation that has rattled the child welfare community.

Officials said operatives from NAPTIP’s Makurdi Command rescued 26 children during the operation, but investigations suggest that as many as 300 children may have been trafficked and sold across Benue, Enugu, Lagos, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). A manhunt is ongoing to trace the remaining 274 victims.

In addition to the main suspect, NAPTIP arrested a 34-year-old woman alleged to be an accomplice, as well as two orphanage operators from the FCT and Nasarawa, after several of the trafficked children were traced to their facilities.

The investigation began on May 1, 2025, after a distraught father reported that his four-year-old son had been handed over by the boy’s grandmother to a non-governmental organisation without his consent. When he sought the return of his child, he was allegedly told he would not be allowed to see him for three years.

That report led NAPTIP to uncover a sophisticated trafficking ring operating under a deceptive initiative called the “Back to School Project.” The scheme targeted impoverished families in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, including communities such as Daudu, Yelwata, and Ngban, by promising to educate and care for their children.

Many parents and community leaders were persuaded to release their children under false pretenses, some signing misleading consent forms while others gave verbal permission, expecting their children to return after three years. Instead, children aged between one and thirteen years were transported to orphanages in Abuja, Nasarawa, Enugu, and Lagos—where they were allegedly sold for between ₦1 million and ₦3 million under the guise of legal adoption.

Investigators identified several facilities used as holding centers, including one at Kaigini, Kubwa Expressway (Abuja); another in Masaka Area 1, Mararaba (by Abaca Road); and one more behind the International Market, Mararaba.

One complainant told NAPTIP he paid ₦2.8 million for an adoption, plus ₦100,000 in consultancy fees to a member of the syndicate. Authorities also revealed that some rescued children had their names and identities changed, complicating efforts to reunite them with their families.

NAPTIP Director-General Binta Adamu Bello, OON, described the findings as “unbelievable and mind-boggling,” warning that the issue of child trafficking through orphanages has become a national crisis.

“It is painful that some unpatriotic elements with recognised entities and status now use their social class to deceive vulnerable people in crisis-prone communities, traffic their children, and sell them to desperate parents in the name of adoption. This is unacceptable,” Bello said.

She reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to dismantling all forms of child exploitation and promised that those responsible would “face the full wrath of the law.”

The arrests come just weeks after Bello warned of rising corruption among orphanage operators and directed state ministries of women’s affairs to strengthen oversight of childcare institutions nationwide.

NAPTIP has urged families who suspect their children may have been trafficked to come forward with information to help identify and rescue the remaining victims, as the agency expands its national clampdown on illegal orphanages and child trafficking networks.

27/10/2025

Army Arrests Suspect Who Attacked Kadarko Village Head, Stole Motorcycle

The Nigerian Army has arrested a man identified as Aondohemba Tsetim from the Anum community in Kadarko for allegedly attacking the Village Head of Kadarko and stealing his motorcycle.

According to reports, the incident occurred last week, after which the suspect fled the community, prompting a manhunt by security operatives.

Tsetim was reportedly apprehended earlier today following a coordinated search operation carried out by military personnel in the area.

Security sources confirmed that the suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution.

Residents of Kadarko have expressed relief over the arrest, commending the swift response of the Nigerian Army in tracking down the suspect and restoring calm to the community.

Authorities have assured the public that justice will be served, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in the area.

26/10/2025

Benue’s Ayilla Patrick Shines with Perfect 5.0 CGPA at Afe Babalola University

Ayilla Patrick Ayilla, from Gwer East local government area of Benue State has written his name in gold after graduating from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) with a First Class Degree in Engineering and a rare perfect 5.0 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) a feat few have ever achieved.

Ayilla’s academic journey stands as a story of grit, grace, and unyielding faith. Far from home and familiar faces, he overcame culture shock, demanding coursework, and the pressures of balancing academics with entrepreneurship. Through it all, he remained steadfast, driven by discipline, determination, and divine guidance.

Reflecting on his achievement, Ayilla said, “The last mile is always the hardest,” recalling the sleepless nights and sacrifices that paved his way to success.

Beyond his academic brilliance, Ayilla also distinguished himself as General Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers Students’ Affiliate (NICESA) and made notable contributions during his internship through hands-on participation in real-world engineering projects.

His outstanding performance has not only brought pride to his family and community but also serves as an inspiration to young Nigerians that hard work, focus, and faith can break any barrier.

As family, friends, and mentors celebrate his well-deserved success, Ayilla’s story shines as a powerful reminder that greatness often springs from humble beginnings — and with resilience, the sky is never the limit.

26/10/2025

Body of Young Girl Found Mutilated in Otukpo

Residents of Otukpo Local Government Area in Benue State were thrown into shock following the discovery of the lifeless body of a young girl inside a culvert near the Otukpo rice mill.

The Ocho-Otukpo, Chief John Eyimonye, said the body appeared to have been dumped several days before it was discovered. He revealed that some of the victim’s organs were reportedly removed, fueling strong suspicion of ritual killing.

Chief Eyimonye condemned the gruesome act and described it as barbaric and inhuman. He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to uncover those behind the killing and bring them to justice.

The traditional ruler also cautioned youths against indulging in acts capable of destroying their future, particularly the rising trend of seeking wealth through dubious means. He emphasized that the “get-rich-quick” syndrome is destroying the moral fabric of society and must be discouraged.

At the time of filing this report, authorities were yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while investigations into the matter are said to be ongoing.

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