₦airaland Forum

By Safiyat Muhammed

A young man believed to be Muslim Mohammed Yusuf, the son of Boko Haram’s late founder, has been arrested in Chad along with five other suspected jihadists, The Bureau News has gathered.

According to security sources in the Lake Chad region, the 18-year-old was allegedly heading a jihadist cell linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) — a faction that emerged after splitting from Boko Haram over ideological differences.

The suspects were detained during a security operation carried out by Chadian authorities in N’Djamena.

Photographs obtained by AFP reportedly show a slim young man in a blue tracksuit — bearing a strong resemblance to the late Boko Haram founder Mohammed Yusuf — standing among five older detainees.

Although Chadian police confirmed the arrest of six terror suspects, they declined to officially identify him as the son of the former Boko Haram leader.

A Nigerian intelligence officer based in the Lake Chad region told AFP that reports from the field identified the group’s leader as Muslim Yusuf.

“The team was headed by Muslim, the youngest son of the late Boko Haram founder,” the officer said.

Sources explained that the young Yusuf was still a baby when his father was killed in a Nigerian military crackdown in 2009, during which over 800 people were reported dead.

He is also believed to be the younger brother of ISWAP leader Habib Yusuf, better known as Abu Mus’ab Al-Barnawi, who has been a major figure in the Lake Chad insurgency.

A former lieutenant of Mohammed Yusuf, who has since left the group but remains familiar with its inner workings, also confirmed the arrest, pointing out that six men were captured during the operation.

“He and the team were arrested by Chadian security. They are six in number,” he said.

Chadian police spokesman Paul Manga told reporters in N’Djamena that those arrested were “bandits who operate in the city… undocumented and members of Boko Haram.”

The arrest comes just days after the Nigerian Government confirmed the capture of notorious Boko Haram commander Abu Baraa and his deputy Mallam Mamuda in a separate counter-terrorism operation.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-son-of-boko-haram-founder-arrested-in-chad-the-bureau-news/

By Amanabo Ocholi | Ilorin

Hundreds of residents in Kwara South have reportedly abandoned their ancestral homes following an alarming surge in kidnapping incidents, especially in Ifelodun Local Government Area, The Bureau News has learned.

Communities such as Sabe, Ologomo, Alabe, and Babanla are among the worst hit, with families leaving in large numbers after repeated attacks by suspected armed bandits turned everyday life into a constant struggle for survival.

A resident identified as Ganiyu Babatunde, who spoke to The Bureau News in an emotional video, appealed to the Kwara State Government to urgently intervene, warning that people are being forced to flee their ancestral lands.

“We are begging the Kwara State Government to come to our aid. People are leaving their homes with their belongings. Communities that used to be peaceful are no longer peaceful,” he lamented.

At the Oke-Ode garage, dozens of families — including women and children — were seen waiting for vehicles and even trucks to transport them to safer locations. Some residents reported that even Dangote trucks and motorcycles were being used to evacuate people and their belongings.

The rising wave of abductions has also forced many locals to abandon their farms and small businesses as fear spreads rapidly across the area.

“If we abandon our ancestral homes, strangers may take over. Even now, we have no vehicles left here; they’ve all gone to other villages to pick up people,” another fleeing resident told The Bureau News.

Deepening Insecurity Raises Concerns

The latest incidents come on the heels of multiple attacks in other parts of Kwara State, including Edu Local Government Area, where gunmen have repeatedly struck villages such as Lataworo, Gada, Kokodoko, and Gamalegi in recent weeks.

Although the exact number of kidnapped victims in the most recent attacks remains unclear, residents say the frequency and intensity of the kidnappings have left many communities deserted and helpless.

Local residents are urging the Kwara State Government and security agencies to deploy more personnel and take stronger action to curb the growing level of insecurity.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-kwara-south-residents-flee-kidnappings-the-bureau-news/

By Emmanuel Odekina Iyede | Abuja | Nigeria

When most people picture Jesus Christ, the image that comes to mind has been formed not by the Bible, archaeology, or cultural memory—but by Renaissance art. Pale skin, light brown hair, European facial structure. It’s an image so widespread that it’s rarely questioned. Yet once you begin to peel back the layers of history and culture, an entirely different picture begins to emerge—one grounded in evidence, tradition and ancestry.

Let’s start with the simplest truth of all: Jesus was born in Nazareth, a Galilean town populated by Middle Eastern Jews. These were not European settlers. Their skin tones ranged from dark olive to deep brown, their hair tightly curled, their facial structure distinctly African-Semitic. You cannot place Jesus in that environment and end up with a portrait that resembles a northern European.

But geography is just the starting point. What happens when you trace the genealogy? Jesus was a direct descendant of Jacob, through King David, down to King Solomon. These were men rooted in an African-Semite bloodline. King Solomon himself wrote in Song of Songs 1:5, “I am black, and beautiful, O daughters of Jerusalem.” In the same scripture, he describes his beloved as being “dark as the tents of Kedar.” These were not metaphors—they were literal descriptions of skin tone. If Solomon, great-great-grandfather of Jesus, proudly referenced his blackness, how could a descendant from the same lineage suddenly become light-skinned?

Many people use Revelation 1:14–15 to argue this point even further: “His head and hairs were white like wool… and his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace.” The phrase “white like wool” has long triggered the fire in African communities because “wool” is a perfect synonym for afro-textured hair. Combine that with the mention of “burnt brass” and an image forms—a black man with tightly curled hair and skin toned like bronze darkened in a furnace.

Skeptics often push back by calling these verses symbolic. True, Revelation is full of symbolism. But even symbolic language must draw from familiar imagery. A vision must be rooted in something the readers recognize. You cannot use “burnt brass” to describe holiness unless burnt brass was already a familiar reality.

Portraits and icons provide even stronger empirical evidence. Go back to the earliest Ethiopian and Coptic Christian art and you’ll see Christ and his mother Mary painted with deep brown skin and Nubian features. These are not modern reinterpretations—they go back to the 4th and 5th centuries. Even today, the Black Madonna and Child is venerated across Eastern Europe, especially in Poland and Montenegro. These are not fringe depictions; they’ve stood at the center of liturgy for centuries.

And then there’s the forgotten jewel: the “Black Gospel Window,” created in 1878 in Rhode Island. This stained glass masterpiece shows a visibly dark-skinned Jesus standing among women in Jerusalem. Historians confirm the dark skin was intentional and original—unchanged by weathering or artistic retouching. At a time when many churches in America were still segregated, an artist dared to present a Christ closer to historical accuracy. Why? Because local oral traditions and early anthologies pointed in that direction.

Even more recent historical reconstructions lend credibility to this argument. In 2015, forensic anthropologists and Israeli archaeologists collaborated to create a facial model of a typical first-century Galilean man. The result? Wide nose, dark brown skin, coarse curly hair, and a strong jaw—nothing like the familiar light-skinned images we grew up with. That model shook the academic world, not because it was radical, but because it seemed painfully accurate.

Allow me to add a personal anecdote. In a remote community in northern Nigeria, a priest, Pastor Abel Damina portrays Mary and Jesus Christ as dark-skinned Mary holding a black baby Jesus at the front of the church. At first, members of the congregation were uneasy, even offended. “This is not how we’ve seen Him,” one man protested. But after a quiet moment of reflection, an elderly woman ha a deep thought and said, “This looks more like our sons. Perhaps we have been closer to Him all along than we ever knew.” Surprisingly, tears followed. The image wasn’t removed from their minds. Today it is the first thing some Christians imagine—and the one thing they refuse to replace. It didn’t divide the community; it gave them ownership of the divine story.

The same awakening is happening in other parts of the world. In Edinburgh, a Black math teacher named Michael Ogidi stepped into the role of Jesus in a major Easter drama. The audience didn’t just watch a performance—they wrestled with centuries of inherited imagery. And by the end, many said it was the most powerful representation they had ever seen. “For the first time,” one audience member said, “Jesus didn’t feel distant.”

The deeper point is clear: representation doesn’t dilute the Gospel—it strengthens it. The story of Jesus does not belong to one race. But if we are looking for empirical truth, historical integrity, and cultural accuracy, then Jesus being a Black man makes far more sense than the Eurocentric version we’ve been fed.

And this isn’t about rewriting history to fit an agenda. It’s about reclaiming what was lost through centuries of colonial interpretation and artistic manipulation. It is about telling young African Christians that their identity is not an afterthought in the divine narrative—but right at the center of it.

Look at the lines, the art, the archaeology and the scriptures:

A Jewish lineage rooted in black African bloodlines.

Archaeological reconstructions showing Black Semitic features.

Bible verses describing skin like “burnt brass” and hair like “wool.”

Ancient African and Eastern European iconography depicting Christ and Mary as Black.

Cultural artifacts like the Black Gospel Window affirming this representation long before our modern debates.

Community experiences today proving how powerful this truth still is.

Taken together, the evidence is not just convincing—it is overwhelming.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/jesus-was-a-blackman-groomed-in-africa-for-years-nigeria-news-today-the-bureau-news/

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of two kidnapped victims following a coordinated operation involving police officers, local vigilantes and hunters in the Ribah district of Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.

According to a statement made available to The Bureau News by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Nafiu Abubakar, the rescue operation took place on Friday, around Dankade village, after the security team engaged heavily-armed bandits in a prolonged gun duel.

The victims — Tukur Bello (26) of Kembawa village, Augie LGA (Kebbi State) and Isyaka Abubakar (25) of Budun village, Gummi LGA (Zamfara State) — were reportedly kidnapped on 9 August 2025 while grazing their cattle in Gairi forest, Zamfara State.

Both men were rescued unharmed and have since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation before being reunited with their families.

Commissioner Applauds Security Operatives

The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, commended the determination, resilience and professionalism displayed by the Divisional Police Officer in Ribah and his team.

The Commissioner encouraged other DPOs to emulate the Ribah Division by conducting aggressive patrols and visibility policing along highways and forest areas in order to curb banditry and other criminal activities.

He also reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kebbi State.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-kebbi-police-rescue-two-kidnapped-victims-the-bureau-news/

A tense scene unfolded on Saturday at Ozolua Model Primary School in Iguobazuwa East Ward, Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, as angry voters confronted a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agent accused of withholding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) during the ongoing by-election.

According to eyewitnesses, the unnamed party agent allegedly collected voters’ PVCs during the registration exercise but refused to return them when the time came to vote.

One of the affected voters explained to The Bureau News that the agent had initially mobilised residents for registration and collected their cards “to help them,” but later declined to release them — apparently because many of the voters intended to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Omosede Igbinedion.

He said the agent “suddenly refused to return the cards when he realised we were planning to vote for the APC candidate.”

The confrontation drew a large crowd and nearly turned violent before police officers arrived to calm tensions and restore order at the polling station.

The incident reflects the high level of tension surrounding the Edo by-election, with many voters insisting on their right to freely choose their preferred candidate.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-edo-by-election-pdp-agent-withheld-pvcs-the-bureau-news/

A journalist and editor with the popular Rariya Hausa online newspaper, Sani Ahmed, has reportedly been abducted by unknown gunmen while travelling from Abuja to Kaduna State, The Bureau News has gathered.

According to information obtained exclusively by The Bureau News, Ahmed left Abuja around 8:00 pm on Thursday to attend a programme in Kaduna. At exactly 10:00 pm, he sent out an emergency message indicating that he had been kidnapped. Since then, no further communication has been received, and his current whereabouts are still unknown.

Comrade Yahaya Abdullahi, a member of the Take-It-Back Movement who confirmed the incident, said Ahmed had mentioned earlier in the week that he would be travelling to Kaduna for the event.

“He left Abuja yesterday evening heading to Kaduna for a programme. Unfortunately, the only thing we heard from him was a message saying he had been kidnapped. Since that time till now, we haven’t heard from him,” Abdullahi told Sahara Reporters.

Growing Concerns over Abuja–Kaduna Road Security

This incident is the latest in a series of abductions along the Abuja–Kaduna expressway, a route that has become notorious for bandit attacks and kidnappings in recent years.

Only a few days earlier, five persons were killed and two others kidnapped in Kaduna State, despite the launch of Governor Uba Sani’s “Kaduna Peace Model”, which promised to deliver sustainable peace and security across the state.

Witnesses reported that the attacks occurred in multiple areas, including Giwa, Galadimawa, and Millennium City districts.

In Nasarawan Fatika (Giwa LGA), three men — Alhaji Sagir, Mallam Hassan, and Muhammad — were killed when bandits stormed the village in the early hours of Monday. According to Muhammadu Sani, a resident of Giwa, the victims were all family breadwinners, leaving behind dozens of dependants struggling to cope amidst the current economic hardship.

Later on the same day, Badamasi Sani was shot dead on his farm in Galadimawa, while several of his cattle were reportedly left with bullet wounds.

In another attack in the Keke area of Millennium City (Chikun LGA), Malam Ibrahim Danjuma was killed, while his son and another relative were kidnapped.
Danjuma’s wife sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Call for Stronger Measures

The abduction of Sani Ahmed and the renewed wave of killings have raised new questions about the effectiveness of the Kaduna Peace Model, with residents urging the government and security agencies to adopt stronger and more proactive measures.

As of the time of filing this report, The Bureau News has not received any update regarding Ahmed’s safety, and his family and colleagues continue to appeal for urgent intervention.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-journalist-sani-ahmed-abducted-the-bureau-news/

By Safiyat Muhammed | Abuja | Nigeria

The latest update from The Bureau News shows that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) — which tracks the average change in prices paid by consumers for goods and services — rose to 125.9 in July 2025, according to new data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

This represents a 2.5-point increase from the 123.4 recorded in June 2025.

However, despite the rise in the CPI, Nigeria’s year-on-year headline inflation rate actually eased slightly to 21.88% in July, down from 22.22% in June. In simple terms, this means that although prices are still rising, they are rising more slowly than they were the previous month.

On a month-on-month basis (which compares prices between June and July), inflation stood at 1.99%, up from 1.68% in June — indicating a moderate rise in the general price level.

Urban vs Rural Inflation

According to the NBS, urban inflation in July 2025 came in at 22.01% (year-on-year), down sharply from 35.77% in July 2024.

Rural inflation stood at 21.08%, also lower than 31.26% in July 2024.

In month-on-month terms, urban inflation actually declined to 1.86% (from 2.11% in June), while rural inflation rose to 2.30%, compared to 0.63% in June.

The twelve-month average inflation rate for urban areas was 27.04%, while rural areas recorded 23.84% in July 2025.

Food Inflation Slows Down

One of the most encouraging signs in the report is the slowdown in food inflation — a key concern for many Nigerians.

Year-on-year food inflation: 22.74% (down from 39.53% in July 2024)

Month-on-month food inflation: 3.12% (slightly down from 3.25% in June 2025)

12-month average: 26.97%, lower than the previous 36.36%

According to the NBS, this slowdown is mainly because prices of key food items — including vegetable oil, beans, local rice, maize, flour, sorghum, wheat flour and millet — recorded lower increases than in previous months.

Core Inflation and State-by-State Breakdown

The core inflation rate (which excludes volatile items like food and energy) dropped to 21.33% year-on-year in July, compared to 27.47% in July 2024.
On a month-on-month basis, it also declined to 0.97% from 2.46% in June.

States with the highest year-on-year food inflation:

Borno: 55.56%

Osun: 29.10%

Ebonyi: 29.06%

States with the lowest:

Katsina: 6.61%

Adamawa: 9.90%

Zamfara: 14.72%

Month-on-month food inflation highest in:

Borno (10.89%)

Kano (10.86%)

Sokoto (7.43%)

Lowest in:

Bauchi (0.26%)

Katsina (0.30%)

Anambra (0.37%)

For overall (all-items) inflation, Borno (34.52%), Niger (27.18%), and Benue (25.73%) recorded the highest year-on-year figures, while Yobe (11.43%), Zamfara (12.75%) and Katsina (15.64%) recorded the lowest.

The NBS emphasised that the inflation figures were collected across all 36 states and the FCT, and reflect Nigeria’s continued efforts to stabilise the economy in the face of global and domestic challenges.

https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-july-2025-inflation-report-the-bureau-news/

In a troubling development tracked by The Bureau News, the ever-busy Abuja–Lokoja highway has been completely locked down on both sides after angry tanker drivers blocked the lanes in protest against alleged extortion from police and security personnel manning the road.

The protest began earlier in the day when several tanker drivers decided they could no longer cope with what they described as “constant and excessive financial demands” by officers at the numerous checkpoints along the highway. As of press time, traffic has been trapped for hours, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded under the scorching sun.

A trailer driver who spoke to The Bureau News on condition of anonymity revealed that security operatives collect as much as ₦5,000 at each checkpoint before allowing vehicles to pass — a practice the drivers say has become unbearable and unsustainable.

“Imagine paying five thousand naira at each checkpoint. Sometimes there are more than six checkpoints before Lokoja. We can’t keep doing this,” he said.

Suitably frustrated, the drivers parked their vehicles directly on the road, blocking the passage of traffic coming from both Abuja and Lokoja. Their protest immediately caused a massive tailback stretching for several kilometres.

Passengers caught in the gridlock said they have remained stuck for several hours with no official statement from the government or the security agencies involved. One passenger, simply identified as James, told The Bureau News that travellers are becoming increasingly worried as the gridlock lingers.

“We have been here for hours, and people are already scared of continuing the journey once it gets dark. These roads are not safe at night because of kidnappers and bandits,” he said with visible concern.

As of the time of filing this report, The Bureau News can confirm that some motorists have started turning back either to Lokoja or Abuja in an effort to avoid being trapped through the night.

Several road users and commuters are calling on the Federal Government and security authorities to urgently intervene, restore free flow of traffic, and address the issue of alleged extortion — which has long been a sensitive topic on major Nigerian highways.

Growing Fear as Night Approaches and Gridlock Expands

Observers on the scene have expressed fears that if the situation is not resolved quickly, the gridlock could spill deep into the night, increasing risks of robbery and kidnapping along the corridor.
The Abuja–Lokoja road serves as a major gateway connecting the Federal Capital Territory to the North Central and Southern regions of the country.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/abuja-lokoja-highway-shutdown-tanker-protest-nigeria-news-today-the-bureau-news/

The Federal Government has commenced the revitalisation of Nigeria’s grazing reserves with the formal inauguration of the National Pasture Planting Exercise at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), The Bureau News reports.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the initiative as a major milestone toward sustainable livestock development, environmental conservation and peaceful pastoral practices nationwide.

According to the minister, pasture planting forms a vital part of the administration’s renewed strategy to modernise livestock production and reposition the sector for better productivity.

“We urge herders to adopt modern livestock management techniques. This will help reduce farmer-herder conflicts, improve milk production and strengthen national food security,” Maiha said.

He appealed to all stakeholders to support the programme to ensure its success.

Reviving Grazing Reserves for Food Security

Also speaking at the event, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, expressed confidence that the revitalisation of grazing reserves within the territory will foster peaceful coexistence among communities.

She noted that the project is a special government intervention designed to boost agricultural output and promote food security in the FCT and across the country.

The National Pasture Planting Exercise is part of the National Livestock Transformation Plan, which seeks to introduce climate-resilient pasture, reduce conflict and build a modern and sustainable livestock sector.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-fg-begins-pasture-planting-grazing-reserves/

By Amanabo Ocholi

ILORIN — The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a veterinary hospital, animal boarding facility, and vaccines supply centre in Kwara State, as part of efforts to curb animal diseases and improve livestock health across Nigeria, The Bureau News reports.

The development was announced by the Minister of Livestock, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during the presentation of Geospatial Mapping results for the Kwara Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project.

Represented by Richard Mbaram, the Minister described the initiative as a “historic step” in resolving recurring farmer-herder conflicts, noting that it forms part of the 2019–2028 National Livestock Transformation Plan aimed at modernising livestock production nationwide.

Kwara Governor Pledges Support

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by his Special Adviser Alhaji Saadu Salahudeen, received the mapping report and commended the stakeholders—including Bayero University Kano and other partners—for their dedication and professionalism.

The governor urged traditional rulers, security agencies and development partners to support the findings, which revealed:

1. major land use changes,

2. encroachment of grazing corridors, and

3. shortages of water points.

He stressed the importance of climate-resilient livestock infrastructure to sustain peace and boost agricultural productivity.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-fg-approves-veterinary-hospital-kwara/

PDP Faces Internal Debate on 2027 Presidential Candidates as Zoning Committee is Inaugurated.

With the 2027 presidential election just around the corner, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Executive Committee (NEC) are at odds over the prospect of former President Goodluck Jonathan and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi rejoining the party.

The disagreement comes as the party prepares to officially inaugurate both the National Working Committee Zoning Committee and the 2027 Election Zoning Committee today (Thursday) in Abuja.

While some senior members of the National Working Committee, who are also part of the NEC, have raised concerns about the possible return of Jonathan—who left the party at a critical juncture—and Obi, whose defection to the Labour Party was a significant blow to the PDP's 2023 electoral chances, others within the NEC have voiced their support for their potential return. These members believe that the party must remain open to all possibilities in its quest for electoral success.

However, the majority agree that the PDP already has a robust pool of credible candidates, such as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who are well-qualified to lead the party in 2027.

Sources within the PDP leadership confirmed to The Bureau News that no official outreach has been made to Jonathan or Obi as of yet. It was clarified that any moves to engage with these former party figures are being made by individuals, not by the party itself.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, reassured the public that the party’s Zoning Committee would be inaugurated as planned, with a broad and qualified selection of potential presidential candidates already available.

In response, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, asserted that regardless of the candidate chosen by the PDP, President Bola Tinubu's victory in the 2027 election remains a certainty for the ruling party.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/2027-pdp-unveils-zoning-panel-dismisses-gej-obi-talks/

By Aliyu Usman | Birnin Kebbi

In Nigeria News Today, The Bureau News reports that a major leadership shake-up has rocked the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State, as the party suspended its State Chairman, Engr. Sufiyanu Bala, his deputy Junaidu Muhammed Mudi, and Secretary Hauwa U. Muhammed.

The announcement was made in Birnin Kebbi by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Jamilu Muhammed, who accused the Sufiyanu-led leadership of taking unilateral decisions and conducting official activities without the approval of the state executive committee.

“We address you today to announce the immediate suspension of Sufiyanu Bala, his deputy, and Secretary Hauwa U. Muhammed from the party with immediate effect,” Jamilu declared.

He further alleged that the suspended officials had facilitated the domination of Abuja-based politicians, a move resisted by the founding members of ADC in Kebbi.

“We will not, after tailoring the party to its present status, allow Abuja politicians to dominate it,” he added.

According to Jamilu, the decision was reached at an extraordinary meeting of stakeholders and loyal party members who have supported the ADC long before the arrival of what he called “Abuja impostors.”

The party has appointed Abdulrazaq Abubakar Isah Iko as Interim Chairman and Adamu Aliyu as Interim Secretary pending the next congress.

The ADC warned the suspended members to stop parading themselves as party officials and to cease any public or personal activities in the name of the party. The statement also condemned political gatherings organized by the suspended members, noting that such activities violate the Electoral Act.

The party urged INEC and other relevant authorities to take action against law violators, while reaffirming that genuine members remain valid and active under the new interim leadership in Kebbi State.

Source:

By Safiyat Muhammed | Lagos

In Nigeria News Today, The Bureau News reports that Naija Feminists Media has strongly condemned the alleged assault, sexual humiliation, and discriminatory punishment of Comfort Emmason, a passenger on an Ibom Air flight.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, August 11, during an altercation on board. According to the advocacy group, Comfort was forcibly disembarked from the aircraft after an air hostess allegedly tore her blouse, leaving her breasts exposed.

“A person believed to be an Ibom Air employee filmed the incident and posted it online, turning the assault into an act of digital sexual abuse,” the group claimed, stressing that the harm was both prolonged and amplified.

Naija Feminists Media further alleged that the assault amounted to gender-based violence, targeting Comfort “because she is a woman and using her body as a tool for humiliation.”

The group also criticised her remand at Kirikiri Prison and the imposition of an indefinite domestic and international flight ban, calling the punishment “excessive, unjust, and discriminatory.”

They pointed to a recent incident involving popular musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, who allegedly assaulted an airline staff member but did not face a comparable sanction, describing the contrast as evidence of selective justice.

The organisation urged Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to:

1. Hold Ibom Air accountable.

2. Investigate the incident thoroughly.

3. Prosecute those responsible for both the physical assault and the video leak.

4. Lift the flight ban on Comfort.

Meanwhile, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced a lifetime “No Fly” ban on Comfort Emmason, preventing her from boarding any domestic or international flight.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-naija-feminists-condemns-assault-flight-ban-ibom-air/

By Andrew Haruna | Lagos | Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested the founder and General Overseer of The Turn of Mercy Church, Adefolusho Olasele, also known as Abbas Ajakaiye, over his alleged involvement in multiple large-scale shipments of cannabis from Ghana to Nigeria.

The cleric, who had reportedly been on the run for months, was apprehended on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at his church in Okun Ajah, Lekki, Lagos.

According to NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, operatives had monitored the church premises and moved in to arrest Olasele immediately after he concluded his Sunday service.

“Prophet Adefolusho was arrested at his church located in Okun Ajah, Ogombo Road, Lekki area of Lagos on Sunday, 3rd August 2025 by NDLEA officers who waited for him to conclude the Sunday service before moving in,” the statement read.

The NDLEA said the pastor fled to Ghana in June to evade arrest after being linked to two major cannabis seizures — 200kg recovered at Okun Ajah Beach on June 4, and 700kg found in his delivery van on July 6.

Babafemi disclosed that the suspect confessed to transporting the illicit consignments via waterways from Ghana.

The Bureau News gathered that investigations are ongoing, and Olasele may face multiple charges under Nigeria’s drug enforcement laws.

This arrest reaffirms the NDLEA’s renewed crackdown on cross-border drug trafficking networks, a move aligned with Nigeria’s broader national security strategy.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/ndlea-arrests-lagos-pastor-drug-trafficking-nigeria-news-today/

LithiumSupplier:
Like they will now have access to see account statements of companies or what?

It means that everything about Nigeria's tax system is now digitalized.

And the process streamlined.

By Andrew Haruna | Abuja |

The Federal Government has officially commenced the rollout of the Electronic Fiscal System (EFS) to modernise Nigeria’s tax administration, curb evasion, and enhance transparency in revenue collection, The Bureau News reports.

According to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the EFS, which features an electronic invoicing platform called the Merchant-Buyer Model (MBM), went live on August 1, 2025, following a successful pilot phase that began in November 2024.

“MTN Nigeria became the first taxpayer to transmit live electronic invoices to the FIRS, officially ushering in the e-invoicing regime,” the agency stated. “Huawei Nigeria and IHS Nigeria have also completed test transmissions and are set to go live in the coming days.”

Large Companies Targeted First

The first phase of the EFS targets large companies with annual turnovers of ₦5 billion and above, offering taxpayers a faster, more transparent compliance process while providing FIRS with real-time transaction visibility.

At least 1,000 companies—20% of the 5,000 eligible—have already onboarded. The deadline for the remaining firms to integrate with the FIRS MBM platform has been extended from August 1 to November 1, 2025 to accommodate genuine operational challenges.

Support & Collaboration

In partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the FIRS has integrated service providers into the ecosystem as system integrators and access point providers to assist with onboarding and e-invoice transmission.

The phased rollout will see medium-sized and emerging businesses onboarded after the large taxpayer category. This initiative aligns with global best practices and supports the Federal Government’s broader goals under the Nigeria Revenue Services Reform Act.

Reform Agenda Under President Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritised tightening Nigeria’s tax net through sweeping reforms. His Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, led by Taiwo Oyedele, is tasked with eliminating multiple taxes, improving coordination, and plugging loopholes.

From January 2026, four new laws—including the Nigeria Tax Act and Tax Administration Act—will take effect, mandating digital registration, beneficial ownership disclosure, and stricter reporting rules to expose hidden income and curb aggressive tax avoidance.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-fg-rolls-out-electronic-fiscal-system-to-modernise-tax-administration/

By Andrew Haruna | Abuja | Nigeria |

The Bureau News reports that Christians in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa are facing an unprecedented wave of violent attacks from Islamic State-linked militants, with global human rights organizations warning that the crisis could destabilize the region.

Last week, the White House and the U.S. State Department vowed to work closely on strategies to stop the killings after the United Nations confirmed that 49 Christians were hacked to death on July 27 while attending prayers in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Authorities blamed the attack on the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamist militant group affiliated with Islamic State DRC.

In Nigeria, the violence has been equally devastating. On July 14, 27 Christians were killed in Bindi Ta-hoss village, Plateau State, by suspected Fulani militants. Survivors described harrowing scenes. “I advised my family to seek refuge in the church… I lost my wife and second daughter in the attack; they were burned alive,” said eyewitness Solomon Sunday.

Local youth leader D’Young Mangut, who helped recover bodies, told The Bureau News, “People are being killed like chickens, and nothing is being done.”

“It is part of a longstanding process of violent Islamization,”
— John Eibner, President of Christian Solidarity International

A Widening Crisis in Nigeria and Beyond

Christian Solidarity International estimates that over 165 Christians have been killed in Plateau State alone in the past four months. Similar massacres have been reported in Mozambique and Congo, signaling a regional crisis.

The Open Doors charity warns that jihadist violence has killed 150,000 people across sub-Saharan Africa in the past decade, displacing over 16 million Christians from their homes and farmland. “The crisis is potentially existential for the future peace and stability of several nations in the region,” said Henrietta Blyth, CEO of Open Doors U.K. and Ireland.

In Nigeria, Islamic State West Africa, Boko Haram, and Fulani militant groups have been accused of working to forcibly Islamize the country. Bishop Wilfred Anagbe told The Bureau News that the violence is increasingly carried out “with the backing of officials who fail to hold perpetrators accountable.”

Human rights lawyer Jabez Musa says over 64 communities in Plateau State have been seized by militants. “Only Christians are targeted, they’re killed, displaced, and their lands are taken over,” he said.

Open Doors and other advocacy groups are calling on African governments to ensure justice, restoration, and protection for affected communities.

For many survivors, patience is wearing thin. “We are tired of condolences and statements. What we need is real security, not sympathy,” one grieving Nigerian relative told The Bureau News.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/nigeria-news-today-christians-face-rising-attacks-sub-saharan-africa/

Kano – By Suleiman Ahmad | Kano | Nigeria

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has hailed the massive defection of opposition members from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Ganduje’s home base of Dawakin Tofa constituency.

The high-profile political shift took place at the Government House, Kano, where prominent politicians and their supporters pledged allegiance to the NNPP. Governor Yusuf, visibly pleased, said the defections were proof of his administration’s impactful policies over the last two years.

“Dawakin Tofa is a crucial local government in our struggle, and I am the happiest person for this massive defection from the APC to the NNPP,” Governor Yusuf stated, thanking NNPP National Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for his support.

The Governor recalled his 2023 campaign tour across all 44 local government areas, where he promised to deliver dividends of democracy to every part of the state. In Dawakin Tofa, he noted recent achievements such as the completion of the long-abandoned five-kilometer road project and plans for a new school.

He assured the decampees of full integration into the party without discrimination, cautioning against intimidation and pledging more development projects.

Governor Yusuf also announced a policy change for the Dawanau International Market, converting it into an agency with a Managing Director and board for more efficient operations. Additionally, he commended the Dawakin Tofa Local Government Chairman, Hon. Anas Danmaliki, for internally generating ₦500 million and completing projects in 15 primary schools while sponsoring over 1,000 students in tertiary institutions.

NNPP State Chairman, Hon. Hashim Dungurawa, congratulated the new members and expressed confidence in the party’s future.

“God willing, just as Gwale supported you in 2023, Dawakin Tofa will do even better,” Dungurawa said.

With the 2027 general elections in sight, Governor Yusuf revealed plans for a statewide familiarization tour to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/mass-defection-ganduje-constituency-governor-yusuf-welcomes-new-nnpp-members-nigeria-news-today/

By Henry Ovie | Lagos | Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria – Security operatives in Lagos have launched an active manhunt for two women, Adeola Adebogun and Yetunde Biodun, who are reportedly wanted in connection with an alleged same-sex relationship, assault, and evidence tampering.

According to a statement obtained by The Bureau News from law enforcement sources, the incident allegedly took place at Adeola’s residence on 2 Alhaja Sekinat Street, Fadeyi, where the duo was reportedly discovered in a compromising situation by a concerned resident, Mr. Olumide Oni.

Resident Allegedly Assaulted While Attempting to Record

Police reports indicate that Mr. Oni attempted to record the scene with his mobile phone, which allegedly prompted a physical confrontation with the women. He claimed that during the scuffle, they assaulted him, damaged his phone, and disposed of it in a dumpster to destroy evidence.

"The altercation resulted in injuries to the complainant," a police officer familiar with the case confirmed to The Bureau News.

The women were invited for questioning in April 2025, after which charges of assault, stealing, evidence destruction, and refusing lawful arrest were filed.

Defendants Granted Bail, Fail to Appear in Court

While Adeola and Yetunde were initially granted bail following their arraignment, authorities said the pair have failed to appear in court since then. Their absence has now prompted security agencies to declare them wanted and intensify efforts to locate and apprehend them.

Lagos State Police Command assured the public that the search is ongoing and called for information from the public that could lead to their arrest.

Legal Implications and Public Concern

This case has sparked discussions around privacy, legal boundaries in personal conduct, and human rights, especially within the framework of Nigeria’s legal stance on same-sex relationships.

The Bureau News will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as police investigations continue.

By Abdullahi Tukur

In a significant move to support workers and their families, Governor Nasiru Idris of Kebbi State has approved ₦1.14 billion for the payment of gratuities and death benefits to 445 contract staff across the state.

This was disclosed in an official statement released by Rashidu Muhammad-Bala, Director at the Office of the Head of Service, and made available to The Bureau News in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday.

A Commitment to Welfare and Inclusion

According to the statement, the payment aligns with Governor Idris’ commitment to good governance, fairness, and streamlining the civil service through structured reforms. It reflects the administration’s dedication to recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who have served the state under contract appointments.

The Bureau News confirms that the decision is part of a broader strategy to promote transparency and accountability in public administration in Kebbi State.

Kebbi Government Emphasizes Unity

The statement also reassured all non-indigene staff that the current administration is inclusive and committed to serving all residents of Kebbi, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

“The government of Comrade Nasiru Idris is for everyone,” the statement emphasized, underscoring a message of unity in public service delivery.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/gov-idris-approves-n1bn-benefits-kebbi-civil-service-nigeria-news-today/

By Andrew Haruna | The Bureau News

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a two-week ultimatum to fleet operators, transport union leaders, heavy-duty vehicle associations, and tricycle operators in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to comply with existing traffic regulations—or face intensified enforcement.

The warning came from FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, during a strategic meeting with major transport stakeholders in Abuja.

“We are adopting new strategies to address the excesses of motorists who flout traffic laws, especially across the six area councils,” Theman stated.

According to the sector commander, the FRSC in Abuja is collaborating with the judiciary to increase the number of magistrates and extend court sitting days to swiftly prosecute traffic offenders.

Community Service to Replace Fines

In a significant policy shift, Theman revealed that the Corps will prioritize community service penalties over conventional fines. This, he explained, follows internal research that shows that paying fines alone has failed to deter repeat offenders.

“Many motorists in the FCT treat traffic fines as a routine expense. That culture must end,” he told The Bureau News.

To support this change, the Corps is working in partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service and other security agencies to manage logistics and mobile court sessions. These courts will ensure judgments are enforced immediately.

Road Users Must Support Ongoing Reforms

Felix Theman appealed to motorists to support the government’s efforts to improve transportation, pointing out that billions have been invested in road rehabilitation and construction projects across the territory.

“The government is working to make roads safer and more efficient. We urge drivers to reciprocate by respecting traffic laws,” he said.

The FRSC Abuja Command will also continue its sensitization campaigns across worship centers, markets, and public institutions, to educate the public on the importance of road discipline.

Tackling Alcohol Sales in Motor Parks

The Sector Commander also touched on another rising concern—the sale of alcohol in motor parks. He confirmed that the Corps is in talks with relevant authorities to introduce measures that will restrict or eliminate the sale of alcoholic beverages in these areas.

“No one should be allowed to operate commercial vehicles under the influence. We must act now before more lives are lost,” he added.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/frsc-ultimatum-traffic-enforcement-abuja-the-bureau-news-nigeria-news-today/

By The Bureau News

In a major financial milestone, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has signed a $1.35 billion loan agreement to support Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) as part of a $4 billion syndicated facility aimed at refinancing the Dangote Refinery project, The Bureau News reports.

The announcement, made on August 4, 2025, reaffirms Africa’s ability to mobilize internal financing for transformative projects. The syndicated loan ranks among the largest in African financial history, targeting the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Complex — the largest single-train refinery in the world with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.

“With this landmark deal, we once again demonstrate that Africa's development can only be meaningfully financed from within,”
— Professor Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank

The facility is expected to ease operational expenditures and boost DIL’s balance sheet as the company scales its footprint in Nigeria and across the continent.

Since the refinery began operations in February 2024, Afreximbank has provided crucial financing solutions to support both crude supply and refined product distribution. This continued partnership underscores Afreximbank’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s industrialization, energy security, and intra-African trade.

“This refinancing strengthens our balance sheet and accelerates the refinery’s supply of high-quality refined petroleum products across Africa,”
— Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Limited

The Bureau News reports that Afreximbank’s $1.35 billion share represents the largest contribution among participating institutions. The deal attracted top-tier African and international banks, signaling strong investor confidence in Africa’s industrial transformation.

A Strategic Win for Africa’s Energy Landscape

The funding will allow Dangote Refinery to continue delivering refined petroleum products to both the Nigerian market and international buyers, reducing Africa’s dependence on imported fuel.

Professor Oramah added that the support from Afreximbank highlights a shift toward self-reliance in Africa’s economic transformation, reinforcing the continent’s drive for energy sovereignty and sustainable growth.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/afreximbank-dangote-refinery-financing-nigeria-news-today/

By Bon Peters | Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Area II Command, Onne Port in Rivers State has intercepted 16 containers loaded with contraband goods valued at over N20.5 billion. The seizure includes a large cache of illicit pharmaceutical products concealed among legitimate goods.

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, made the announcement during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, commending the collaboration between Customs and the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

According to information made available to The Bureau Newspaper, "Eleven out of the 16 containers were found to contain dangerous pharmaceutical drugs such as codeine syrup, tramadol, and other unapproved substances hidden within consumer goods like ceiling fans, tomato paste, and vehicle parts," said CGC Adeniyi.

Seized Items and Value

According to CGC Adeniyi, the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizures stands at N20,549,998,200. The seized drugs include:

1,301,000 bottles of Codeine Syrup (100ml each)

9.3 million tablets of Really Extra Diclofenac

12.6 million tablets of Royal Tapentadol/Tramadol (225mg)

3.5 million tablets of Trodol (5mg)

210,000 tablets of Hyergra (200mg)

717,360 tablets of Bisoveu

2.2 million tablets of Bassuka (50mg)

These pharmaceuticals were strategically hidden among items such as plumbing materials, vehicle parts, and household items to evade detection.

Collaboration, Enforcement, and Impact

The CGC emphasized the role of joint operations and intelligence sharing between Customs and sister agencies including NAFDAC, NDLEA, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Navy. He said these partnerships, guided by Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), have helped to dismantle smuggling syndicates.

"This seizure is a direct result of strategic enforcement and inter-agency collaboration. We are determined to block all illicit trade routes and protect Nigeria from threats to national health and economic stability," he noted.

The health implications of such unregulated drugs include addiction, poor medical outcomes, and organized crime proliferation, the CGC added.

Official Handover to NAFDAC

The seized containers were officially handed over to Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, during the event.

Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, Controller of the Onne Command, thanked the CGC for his support, noting that the success was made possible through the commitment to collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The high-profile event had in attendance top Customs officials including:

ACG SK Dangladima (Zonal Coordinator, Zone C)

ACG T Bomodi (E, I, and I)

Comptroller BA Balogun (FOU Zone C)

Comptroller CC Dim (Eastern Marine Command)

Comptroller YM Hashim (Area 1)

Other agencies represented were the NDLEA, Immigration, Police, Navy, and key maritime stakeholders including ANLCA, NAGAFF, APFFLON, and terminal operators.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/business/nigeria-customs-onne-command-intercepts-16-containers-of-contraband-worth-over-n20-5-billion/

The Bureau News | Washington, D.C.

The administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will once again withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), citing concerns over what it described as the agency’s “divisive cultural agenda” and continued bias against Israel.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, White House Deputy Spokesperson Anna Kelly said the decision was made in alignment with the “America First” foreign policy doctrine.

“President Donald Trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO – which supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November,” Kelly said.

“This president will always put America first and ensure our country’s membership in all international organizations aligns with our national interests.”

Strong Support From Israel

The move was welcomed by Israeli officials, who have long criticized UNESCO for what they perceive as anti-Israel bias.

Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon applauded the decision, describing it as a bold assertion of moral clarity in international diplomacy.

“The U.S. continues to demonstrate moral clarity… and makes it clear that it is unwilling to support entities that promote hatred, historical revisionism, and political divisiveness,” Danon said.

Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa'ar, also praised the decision, saying it was a necessary step toward ensuring fairness for Israel within the U.N. system.

“Singling out Israel and politicization by member states must end, in this and all professional U.N. agencies,” he said.

Criticism of UNESCO’s Direction

According to State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, the administration sees no further value in continued participation with UNESCO.

“UNESCO’s focus on globalist agendas, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, is out of step with our America First policy,” Bruce said. “Their 2011 decision to admit the ‘State of Palestine’ as a full member has only encouraged anti-Israel rhetoric.”

Trump had initially withdrawn the U.S. from UNESCO in October 2017, a decision reversed by President Joe Biden in 2023. The recent move, however, reinforces the Trump administration’s long-standing position that the organization has not meaningfully addressed earlier concerns.

Ongoing Tensions With the U.N.

The U.S. withdrawal also comes amid rising friction between the Trump administration and the wider U.N. body. Recent actions by the U.S.- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation have drawn criticism from international entities, while U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has openly voiced concerns over American cuts to foreign aid, warning of “devastating” consequences for vulnerable global populations.

As the Trump administration continues to chart its foreign policy, this renewed break with UNESCO underscores its intent to distance itself from what it sees as biased or ideologically driven international bodies.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/politics/trump-pulls-u-s-out-of-unesco-over-alleged-anti-israel-bias-and-woke-agenda/

Senator Natasha H. Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central Senatorial District has officially notified the Inspector-General of Police of her intention to resume legislative duties at the National Assembly following a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her suspension. This move comes despite an earlier caution from the Nigerian Senate urging her not to resume.

In a letter dated July 21, 2025, and acknowledged by the police the same day, Senator Natasha cited the judgment in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/543/2024, which declared her suspension from the Senate as unlawful and in violation of Section 63 of the Nigerian Constitution. The court’s decision ordered that the Senate recall her to resume her constitutional role as the elected representative of the people of Kogi Central.

The senator, who also serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs and Vice Chairman of the Committee on Steel, emphasized the urgency of restoring her police security details. She expressed concern over the security risks associated with high-profile political roles and noted that the absence of official protection would hinder her duties.

“I respectfully request the immediate restoration of my official security detail,” Senator Natasha wrote, “This is vital to ensure my safety as I resume work and continue to carry out my constitutional responsibilities without hindrance.”

She attached a certified true copy of the Federal High Court judgment to her request and urged the IGP to act promptly and uphold the rule of law.

This latest development adds a dramatic twist to the ongoing face-off between Senator Natasha and the leadership of the National Assembly, raising fresh questions about internal party dynamics and judicial compliance in Nigeria's democratic institutions.

For now, all eyes remain on the Senate and the Nigeria Police Force as the nation awaits their next line of action.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/politics/sen-natasha-defies-senate-warning-writes-igp-to-resume-duties-demands-security-restoration/

By Andrew Haruna | Port Harcourt

In a major crackdown on oil theft and economic sabotage, troops of the Nigerian Army's 6 Division have arrested 62 suspects, dismantled 14 illegal refining sites, and seized over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products across parts of the Niger Delta between July 14 and 20, 2025, The Bureau Newspaper reports.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, who said the operations were carried out in conjunction with other security agencies across Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states.

Illegal Refining Sites Deactivated in Rivers

In Ahoada West LGA of Rivers State, troops uncovered six illegal refining sites near an abandoned wellhead in Joinkrama 4. They destroyed six large ovens, reservoirs, and receivers containing about 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

Troops also recovered a generator set, welding machine, and other equipment from the site.

At Obiafor in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA), more illegal refining camps were shut down. Soldiers found three dug-out pits, two of which held over 5,700 litres of stolen crude oil, while the third contained an unquantified volume of AGO. Two boats filled with ten sacks of condensates were also intercepted along the riverside.

Interceptions in Ikwerre and Bayelsa

In Elele Town, Ikwerre LGA, troops stopped a Sienna vehicle without a registration number, loaded with 32 sacks of AGO totaling 1,920 litres. Nearby, they uncovered an illegal connection point and a dug-out pit containing 1,200 litres of condensates.

Recovered from the area were three 150-meter hoses, eight metal drums, and multiple refining ovens.

Meanwhile, in Biseni, Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa, the Army deactivated four illegal refining sites and four dug-out pits, confiscating over 10,000 litres of AGO and dismantling five cooking ovens used in the illegal refining process.

Arrests in Delta, Continued Operations in Akwa Ibom

Following a tip-off in Delta State, troops stormed Gana Road in Sapele LGA from Javel Sharp Sand Waterside and apprehended two suspects with two boats loaded with 30 cellophane bags containing over 1,500 litres of refined AGO.

In Akwa Ibom State, soldiers maintained heavy presence in vulnerable areas, effectively disrupting the operations of oil thieves and criminal elements.

GOC Commends Troops

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended his men for their efforts and urged them to sustain the tempo to prevent saboteurs from regrouping.

“These achievements show our commitment to protecting Nigeria’s resources. Our troops will continue to dominate the operational environment,” he said.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/crime/nigerian-forces-seizes-350000-litres-of-stolen-fuel-shut-down-14-illegal-refineries/

By Safiyat Muhammed | Abuja

According to The Bureau Newspaper, the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has announced the disbursement of ₦1.82 trillion to the federal, state, and local governments for the month of June 2025, marking a notable increase from the ₦1.65 trillion distributed in May.

The update was disclosed in a statement by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), following FAAC's July 2025 meeting in Abuja.

The total revenue distributed includes:

₦1.01 trillion in statutory revenue

₦631.51 billion from value-added tax (VAT)

₦29.17 billion from the electronic money transfer levy (EMTL)

₦38.84 billion from exchange difference

₦100 billion as augmentation from non-mineral revenue

Breakdown of Allocation:

Federal Government: ₦645.38 billion

State Governments: ₦607.42 billion

Local Governments: ₦444.85 billion

Oil-producing states: ₦120.76 billion (13% derivation)

For the ₦1.01 trillion statutory revenue alone, the federal government received ₦474.46 billion, while states got ₦240.65 billion.

The VAT pool of ₦631.51 billion was distributed as follows:

Federal Government: ₦19.14 billion

States: ₦9.71 billion

Local Governments: ₦7.48 billion

Oil-producing states (13% derivation): ₦2.50 billion

From the ₦100 billion augmentation fund, the federal government received ₦52.68 billion, the states ₦26.72 billion, and the local governments ₦20.60 billion.

FAAC noted that revenue from Company Income Tax (CIT), Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), and EMTL all saw significant increases during the month.

However, gross VAT revenue declined to ₦678.17 billion in June, falling by ₦64.65 billion from the ₦742.82 billion recorded in May.

Despite the higher revenue, deductions for the cost of collection stood at ₦162.79 billion, and total transfers, interventions, refunds, and savings accounted for ₦2.25 trillion.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/politics/faac-shares-n1-82-trillion-among-fg-states-lgas-for-june-2025/

Attn: Mynd44

By Andrew Haruna | Jos

RIYOM, PLATEAU — Grief and panic have gripped communities in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State after a wave of coordinated attacks by suspected gunmen left at least three people dead and several others injured.

According to local reports, two Christian worshippers were ambushed and shot dead on Sunday in Gwon village shortly after attending a church service. The victims, who were on an evangelism outreach, were caught unaware by the attackers who opened fire without warning.

Confirming the tragic incident, Solomon Dalyop, National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, told The Bureau News that the attackers stormed the area, firing sporadically until security forces arrived.

“They shot two people dead in cold blood. The situation could have been worse, but the Military Taskforce and local vigilantes eventually repelled them,” Dalyop said.

He expressed outrage over the unrelenting violence in Riyom and criticized the inadequate security presence, which he believes gives attackers the freedom to operate.

“While we were still burying the victims in Gwon village, another man was killed between Fan and Shonong. Then not long after, another round of gunfire erupted in Rim community,” Dalyop added.

He also accused the attackers—described as Fulani militia and their hired mercenaries—of invading the Jol community, where they allegedly destroyed crops and farmlands. Residents say the gunmen had earlier issued threats, vowing to return, which they reportedly did with heavy arms and open fire.

A day earlier, another attack was reported near Hawan Kibo along the Jos–Abuja highway, where one person was shot and critically injured.

Dalyop described the violence as systematic and relentless: “The people of Riyom are under siege. These attacks are deliberate and well-coordinated. The invaders come in large numbers, over a hundred of them, armed and organized.”

At the time of filing this report, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, DSP Alabo Alfred, could not be reached as his mobile line was switched off. However, sources within the Command confirmed that reinforcements had been sent to the troubled areas to restore peace.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/crime/terror-in-plateau-gunmen-kill-three-injure-several-in-riyom-attacks/

According to The Bureau Newspaper, Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, has approved the payment of N2.185 billion as entitlements to former councillors who served across the state between 2004 and 2024.

Governor Idris gave the directive on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Kebbi State Councillors’ Forum at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi. He ordered that part payment be made immediately by Friday, with instructions for the full balance to be cleared before the end of July.

This decisive action has been hailed as a landmark gesture by the beneficiaries, many of whom had long given up hope of receiving what was due to them. Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Forum, Alhaji Bello Gulumbe, expressed profound gratitude to the governor for fulfilling a promise that past administrations failed to honour.

He stated: “This is a significant moment for us. The governor has shown leadership, compassion, and commitment to justice. All former councillors in the state now stand solidly behind him to ensure the success of his administration.”

This move by Governor Idris is expected to boost political morale at the grassroots and set a new precedent for recognizing the contributions of former public officeholders in Nigeria.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/latest-nigerian-news/ex-councillors-in-kebbi-state-to-receive-2-18-billion-as-entitlement/

Abuja, Nigeria – The Bureau Newspaper | In a major crackdown on infrastructure sabotage, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, has arrested sixteen suspects linked to vandalism, theft, and illegal mining across several locations in Abuja.

The arrests, according to a statement released by the Corps, were carried out by the CNAI Tactical Squad during a series of late-night intelligence-led operations. Items recovered from the suspects included armoured cables, transformer fuses, air conditioners, wires, diggers, and other public utility components.

Zero Tolerance for Sabotage – Commandant Odumosu

FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, who confirmed the arrests, stated that the NSCDC would no longer tolerate the destruction of public infrastructure, warning perpetrators to desist or face the full weight of the law.

“These assets are not just for aesthetics; they are crucial to the daily functioning of the Federal Capital Territory. We must protect them at all costs,” Odumosu emphasized.

He condemned the rising incidents of vandalism targeting essential public infrastructure and reiterated the Corps’ commitment to ensuring security across the nation’s capital.

Community Involvement is Key

Commandant Odumosu further urged residents of Abuja to partner with the NSCDC by providing timely intelligence and reporting suspicious activity. He assured the public that all reports would be treated with the utmost confidentiality and acted upon swiftly.

“We call on all law-abiding residents to support our mission. Intelligence from the public is critical in flushing out criminal elements and securing national assets,” he added.

Ongoing Investigations and Prosecution

The NSCDC confirmed that all sixteen suspects are currently undergoing profiling and interrogation. Upon conclusion of investigations, they will be charged to court for prosecution in line with existing laws governing vandalism, theft, and environmental crimes.

The latest operation signals a renewed effort by the FCT Command to clamp down on economic saboteurs, especially those targeting power infrastructure, public property, and mining zones in the nation's capital.

Source: https://thebureau.com.ng/news-updates-in-nigeria-today/crime/nscdc-arrests-16-for-vandalism-theft-and-illegal-mining-in-abuja/