Igbogo Joins APC, Reaffirms His Unflinching Support For Gov. Alia

... Commends Alia for his remarkable governance 

By Terfa Naswem 

Hon. Engr. Japheth Terlumum Igbogo has joined the All Progressives Congress, APC at his council ward, Mbawar in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday, 12th April, 2025.

Hon. Igbogo made it lucid that his penchant for the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia as a result of his people-oriented governance rekindled his political trajectory to join APC and contribute his quarter in support of Alia for the development of Benue State.

He eulogized Mbawar APC Exco members for their inexorable support for Alia and APC which has repositioned the party at ward level and made it incumbent for the loyalty of the people to the party to redouble.

Coming in as a neophyte in politics, he expressed his alacrity to imbibe the progressive values that are linchpin for the development and sustainability of APC and has made himself available for the community in order to foster unprecedented development for the good people of Mbawar, Konshisha and Benue State at large.

Mbawar APC Chairman, Hon. Jacob Aondona Ishu expressed his satisfaction with Hon. Igbogo's presentation and accepted him into APC at the ward level in Mbawar.

He described Igbogo as a munificent person who is touched by the plight of his people in Konshisha and has given numerous support to ameliorate their suffering.

He admonished him to remain steadfast in his faith in the government of Alia that is determined to fight against elements that impinge the development of the state.

Chairman of Konshisha Local Government Council, Hon. Moses Terfa Chikyaa, represented by the Legal Adviser to Council, Barr. Jam Amos Teryila extolled Igbogo for his prudence and probity which has evinced enormous excitement from his community and beyond.

He expressed his happiness for having Igbogo joined APC to contribute in precluding plethora of activities that have the tenacity of undermining Alia's administration, and assured him of their support at all times.

In their separate speeches, Hon. Mbaukaan, Council of Mbawar; Hon. Ioranongu Austin, Secretary, Mbawar APC; Hon. Comfort Agula, Women Leader, Mbawar APC; Elder Saakura Ibu, Elder Terhemba Tarzaa and Atsem Ashaa commended Igbogo for joining APC and assured him of their support to work together with him to complement the good work of Gov. Alia

Yaji Appreciates God For Saving His Life

... Encourages people to draw closer to God

By Terfa Naswem 

The President-General, Kunav United Development Association (KUDA), Deacon Emmanuel Tor Yaji and his beloved wife Deaconess Yaji were in the euphoria of praises to the indelible God for His protection over their lives, especially Deacon Yaji.

In a Thanksgiving Mass and reception in his honour organised by Mbaduku Development Association (MDA), Gboko Branch at St. John the Baptist Cathedral and St John Secondary School premises Gboko, Benue State respectively held on Sunday, 6th April, 2025, he extolled the Almighty God for saving him from the hands of dreaded Kidnappers. He said it was a very terrible experience that would have ended his life if not the protection of God Almighty.

He encouraged all those at the occasion to draw closer to God because only Him can save us in our darkest moments like He saved him from the hands of kidnappers.

He commanded the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Chairman of Vandeikya LGA and all those that God used to contribute in one way or the other for his injury-free rescue.

The Chairman of the occasion HE Aci Robert Terlumum Akpenpuun (from Nigerian Embassy Abidjam Cote D'Ivoire) commended Yaji for contributing significantly to his speedily progress in his career as his current position is a true manifestation of his prayers upon his life.

The guest speaker, Pharm. Peter Chieshe, Director-General Agro-Industrial Processing and Economic Transformation Bureau (BNAGRO),  Benue State poured spurious encomium on Yaji for his prudent and progressive leadership when he was the President-General of MDA and also as the current President-General of KUDA. He appealed to him to rekindle the hope of others by expanding his threshold of impact.

The President-General of Jemgbagh Development Association, Prince Yandev Amaabai gave an insight of his longstanding relationship with Yaji, hence his presence at the occasion despite his extremely tight schedule. He assured KUDA in Gboko that he will always be there for them anytime his attention is needed.

Ter-Kunav II His Royal Highness Chief Joseph Nyiyongo Achiaku through his representative appreciated Yaji for being a worthy Kunav son who has placed the interest and wellbeing of others above his'. He said God Almighty will continue to direct him on the path of purposeful leadership which will navigate KUDA to unprecedented development.

The Chairman, Mbaduku Development Association, Gboko Branch Terhemba Ihom commended Yaji for his remarkable footprint he left as former President-General of MDA. He appreciated all those who honoured their invitation by attending the occasion or reaching out in one way or the other.

The occasion was attended by some dignitaries and traditional rulers.

Exco members of Mbaduku Development Association, Gboko Branch include:

Chairman, Ihom Terhemba; Vice Chairman, Tyongun Joseph Doki; Secretary, Moti Samuel; Assistant Secretary, Ningir Emmanuel T; Treasurer, Apaa Emmanuel; Financial Secretary, Ndual Emmanuel Terseer; Welfare Officer, Awa Monica; Patron, Sir James Kuraun (Maj.) Rtd, KSM; Patron, Chief Christopher Ayashagba.

BREAKING NEWS: Joint Task Force Foils Kidnapping, Arrests Fulani Rape Suspects In Odugbo, Benue State

In a daring operation, the Joint Task Force (JTF) in APA Local Government of Benue State has successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt and arrested Fulani rape suspects in Odugbo. This remarkable feat was achieved through a collaborative effort between the men of the MOPOL 80 SQUADRON and the Nigerian Army, with the support of the Chief Security Officer of the Local Government, Comrade Adam Ogwola Ochega, Executive Chairman of APA Local Government.

The operation, which was facilitated by Ochega's commitment to social issues and his daily assurance of safety for all citizens of APA Local Government, resulted in the rescue of a rape victim and the apprehension of the perpetrators. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the joint patrol efforts and the dedication of the security operatives in maintaining law and order in the area.

Ochega's leadership has been instrumental in intensifying the focus on social issues in the local government. His daily assurance of safety has sent a strong message to the citizens of APA Local Government, reassuring them of his administration's commitment to protecting lives and properties.

The Council Boss has commended the collective effort of every community in APA and the security agents who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this operation. He acknowledged the crucial role played by the Nigerian Police Force in the arrest and prosecution of the suspects, highlighting the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local communities.

The suspects have been transferred from the APA division to the state CID for further investigation and prosecution. This swift action demonstrates the commitment of the authorities to ensuring justice is served and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

As the Chairman of APA Local Government, Ochega has assured the citizens of his continuous response to security issues, emphasizing his administration's dedication to addressing the concerns of the people. This operation serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the joint efforts between security agencies, local governments, and communities in maintaining peace and security in the region.

Signed;

Comr. Ogili Ogili,CPS to Apa LGA chairman.

Independent National Electoral Commission

Press Release 

Outcome Of The Review Of Signatures/Thumbprints Of The Petitioners For The  Recall Of The Senator Representing Kogi Central Senatorial District

 

The Commission held its regular weekly meeting today, Thursday 3rd April 2025. Among other issues, the meeting considered and approved the report of its physical count of the signatures/thumbprints forwarded with the petition for the recall of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, in line with Clause 2(b) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024.

 

The Commission had assured Nigerians that it would handle the matter with fairness to the parties involved and in line with the provisions of the law and our Regulations and Guidelines. First, we ensured that the petitioners complied with the requirements for the submission of the petition. Secondly, we notified the member sought to be recalled in writing, copied the presiding officer of the Senate and simultaneously published the notice on our website. Thirdly, we informed Nigerians that the next step would be to carefully ascertain the number of signatures/thumbprints to ensure that the petition complies with the requirement of the law. This exercise has now been completed.

 

For emphasis, a petition for the recall of a Senator must comply with the provision of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which requires the signatures of more than one-half of the registered voters in the constituency. The total number of registered voters in the Kogi Central Senatorial District is 474,554. More than one-half of this figure (i.e. 50%+1) is 237,277+1 which is at least 237,278 voters.

 

Across the 902 Polling Units in 57 Registration Areas and five Local Government Areas that make up the Senatorial District, the Commission ascertained 208,132 signatures/thumbprints from the submission made by the petitioners. This translates to 43.86% of the registered voters which falls short of the constitutional requirement by 29,146 signatories.

 

Consequently, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution. Therefore, no further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator.

 

In line with the provision of Clause 2(d) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024, the Commission has issued a Public Notice to that effect which is also copied to the presiding officer of the Senate.

 

The Public Notice, along with a  summary of the review of the signatures/thumbprints of the petitioners, which are disaggregated by Local Government Areas, are available on our website and social media platforms for public information.

 

Sam Olumekun mni

National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee

Thursday 3rd April 2025

Benue Links Nigeria Limited Backs Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Anti-Corruption Campaign

By Johnson Ehi Daniel

As part of the 3rd National Sensitization and Awareness Campaign against Corruption 2025, Benue Links Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption in support of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).

During the campaign visit to the Benue Links headquarters and bus terminal in Makurdi on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, the company's General Manager, Comrade Alexander Aondohemba Fanafa KSM, MNIM, welcomed the delegation led by ACG A.A. Adesokan, Zonal Comptroller of Zone H (Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, and Taraba States), and CIS A.A. Wanogo Esq., Benue State Comptroller of Immigration.

Speaking at the event, Comrade Fanafa commended the NIS for its efforts in promoting transparency and noted that Benue Links has fully embraced the anti-corruption drive in line with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption. He highlighted several initiatives aimed at ensuring fairness and accountability in the company, including, the establishment of an ICT Unit to train staff in preparation for a fully automated system, designed to enhance transparency and efficiency

He further emphasized that, given Governor Alia’s commitment to transforming the transport sector and Benue Links, the company’s management remains dedicated to prudent resource management and ethical service delivery.

In their remarks, CIS A.A. Wanogo Esq. and Ese 1 Charles Ifeanyi, representative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) both stressed the importance of eliminating corruption in Nigeria and encouraged citizens to uphold integrity.

The campaign featured public sensitization for passengers and visitors on the dangers of corruption, accompanied by drumming and funfair. The event was attended by representatives of the Benue State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Security Service (DSS), the EFCC, academia, and members of the press.

Johnson Ehi Daniel is Information Officer,

Benue Links Nigeria Limited

Aondoakaa Felicitates Prof Steve Ugbah On His 70th Birthday

By Iortyer Eric

Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Denen Aondoakaa, has congratulated the Commissioner for Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission in charge of Benue State, His Excellency, Amb. Prof. Steve Torkuma Ugbah, on the occasion of his Septuagenarian birthday.

In a goodwill message, the Special Adviser described the celebrant as an "academician cum political expert" who use his life careers to impact positively into humanity both at home and in diaspora.

He added that, the renowned Professor is an integral player in the Fr Alia led administration's rebuilding of the Benue State putrefactional condition left behind since the ignition of the Nigerian modern democracy in 1999.

He called on the former Governorship flag bearer under the platform of Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN), Ugbah, to continue to support Fr Alia's massive transformation Policies and Programmes and also to use his new office at Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, to elevate Benue State on the chart of higher income to enhance the speed of rapid development in the Rev. Gentlemen's era.

While wishing seasoned foreign based academician happy returns in good faith and prosperity, the Bureau Boss, also enjoined all the Benue Masses, Nigeria and the world to turn up en-mass to celebrate this worthy son of Benue State.

Iortyer Eric is the Media & Publicity Aide to the SA on BLGCA, Benue State.

Wike's Honorary PhD in Law; Honor To Whom It Is Due

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The road to the ancient town of Calabar, Cross River State came back to life aside going for Tinapa, but this time around Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the workaholic and indefatigable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, was honored with a Honorary Doctorate degree in law PhD,( Honoris Causa), the profession he built his life career .

As early as Saturday morning , 22nd March , 2025 , dignataries from all walks of life within and outside the shores of the country trooped into Calabar , the capital of Cross River State.

Even though, some dignataries had arrived few days earlier to enable them book for accommodation among many others to honor the man who deserve a great honor , the Minister of FCT,  Nyesom Ezenwo Wike and his large retinue of entourage and dignataries touched down on the day of the event , owing to tight schedule officially .

Fully prepared for the auspicious event along with his friends, aides , appointees friends and well wishers , the FCT Minister was full of life for the singular honor been bestowed on him by the second generation University, The University of Calabar.

Wike, according to the University management was honored for his multiple contributions lately to nations development, the University and his strides during the eight years tenure as Governor of Rivers state, among many humanitarian gesture, social , political and economic contributions to both Rivers, FCT and Nigeria at large .

While appreciating the honor done him by the University of Calabar, particularly the consideration as one of the first cabinet Minister of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , under the Renewed Hope Agenda to be confered with such a unique award in recent times.

He used the opportunity to thank the management, staff and students of the University of Calabar for the honor, which included the  Chancellor of the institution and Emir of Kano , Dr Aminu Ado Bayero MNI.

He said the singular honor will be an opportunity provided for him to do more for the country, humanity and government and people of the country, particularly at this critical time of our national development.

While saying he will be encouraged and emboldened by the honor done to him by the University of Calabar , with the conferment of the Honorary Doctorate degree (PhD) in Law, stating that "good turn deserve another ."

The Minister maintained that his contributions to all facets of national development will be unwavering, particularly at this critical time when the country is confronted with leadership crises and desiring dedicated Nigerians to man similar sensitive and critical offices.

He used the opportunity to thank Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving him the opportunity to serve the country under his administration of Renewed Hope Agenda and his determination to deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians .

He further stated ...

"Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister,  Nyesom Wike,  has hailed the unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,  to the advancement of higher education in the country, saying "The Renewed Hope Agenda has injected new life into our university system through landmark Interventions that are transforming the landscape of tertiary education."

"The Minister, who spoke at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), after he was conferred with the university's Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law, during its 50th anniversary and 37th convocation ceremony,  said the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided the needed financial relief for students and ensured that no willing mind is denied access to quality education due to financial constraints."

"According to a statement by the Minister's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media,  Lere Olayinka, he listed other interventions of the President in the higher education sector to include the Students Start-up Innovation and Entrepreneurship Grant, which he said has empowered young minds to translate knowledge into impactful enterprises, and removal of universities from the Intergrated Payroll Information System (IPPIS)."

"The FCT Minister noted that removal of universities from the IPPIS has restored financial autonomy to the institutions and enabled them to function with greater efficiency. "

"Furthermore,  the kind approval for the domiciliation of TETFund Research Funds within the respective institutions has equally strengthened the capacity for groundbreaking research and innovation."

"These bold and forward-thinking policies are undoubtedly positioning Nigeria's university system to meet the demands of the 21st century," he said.

"Expressing his appreciation to the UNICAL authorities for finding him worthy of the Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law,  the FCT Minister said, the honour was a charge to him to remain steadfast in his contributions to national development, upholding ideals of excellence and service as an inspiration to the next generation. "

Wike said; "As I proudly accept this honorary doctorate, I do so with renewed vigor to contribute even more meaningful to the advancement of education,  good governance and national development. "

"I am deeply humbled and honoured by this recognition.  The University of Calabar has written my name in its golden records,  and I embrace this moment with great responsibility."

Highlights of the occasion included the conferment and decoration of the Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike with the Honorary Doctorate Degree PhD in Law by the management of the institution presided over by the Chancellor and Emir of Kano , Dr Aminu Ado Bayero MNI.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on [email protected].

SSAP-SDGs Felicitates With Muslims On Eid-el-Fitr, Calls For Unity And Sustainable Development

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement released in Abuja in her behalf by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, the SSAP-SDGs emphasized the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time for gratitude, reflection, and unity. She highlighted the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, which define the season and align with the principles of sustainable development.

"Eid-el-Fitr is not only a period of celebration but also a moment for renewed commitment to building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable society where no one is left behind. The teachings of Ramadan inspire us to uphold peace, unity, and selflessness. These are values that are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," she stated.

Princess Orelope-Adefulire called on Nigerians to use the occasion to promote harmony, foster mutual understanding, and work together in addressing socio-economic challenges. She reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerating progress on key SDGs targets, including poverty eradication, access to quality education, gender equality, and economic empowerment.

"As we mark this joyous occasion, let us remember those in need and extend kindness to the less privileged. Together, through collective action and a shared vision, we can advance sustainable development and create a better future for all," she added.

The SSAP-SDGs concluded by wishing all Muslims a peaceful and blessed Eid celebration, urging them to continue embodying the virtues of Ramadan in their daily lives.