Month: June 2026

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Joseph Maren Peace Foundation Holds Retreat for Peace Volunteers in Jos North and Jos South

Members of the Joseph Maren Peace Foundation from Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas on Saturday, June 6, 2026, gathered for a peace volunteers’ retreat at the Emmanuel Ovorgba Center, Rayfield, Jos, aimed at strengthening grassroots peacebuilding efforts across communities affected by conflict.

Speaking during the retreat, the National Director of the foundation, Rev. Prof. Joseph Maren Sampson, said the event brought together volunteers actively engaged in community reconciliation, conflict resolution, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence. He noted that the retreat focused on the theme, “The Power of Forgiveness and Reconciliation,” emphasizing its importance as a tool for restoring harmony and fostering lasting peace in communities that have experienced crises and violence.

Rev. Prof. Joseph Maren Sampson emphasized that reconciliation and forgiveness are essential tools for healing communities affected by conflict. He explained that true reconciliation is modeled after God’s reconciliation with humanity through Jesus Christ. According to him, peace is not merely the absence of war or tension but a state of wholeness and right relationships with God, fellow humans, and creation. He stressed that forgiveness helps victims release resentment and find healing in Christ. However, forgiveness does not minimize wrongdoing or remove accountability. He urged peace volunteers to promote forgiveness and reconciliation as vital steps toward lasting peace and community restoration.

Rev. Yaknan Labar, a member of the Joseph Maren Peace Foundation in Jos South, said the retreat highlighted the critical role of forgiveness and reconciliation in resolving community conflicts. He noted that many conflicts persist because people are unwilling to forgive, making reconciliation difficult. According to him, participants learned practical approaches to fostering forgiveness and unity in communities. He expressed confidence that applying these lessons would contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious society in the future.

Maria Michael Akusu, Coordinator of the Joseph Maren Peace Foundation in Jos South LGA, described the retreat as an eye-opening experience that provided practical solutions to challenges faced by peace volunteers in the field. She said the training clarified areas that had previously caused confusion and equipped participants with a better understanding of how to carry out their work effectively. Akusu expressed confidence that the lessons learned would help address existing gaps and strengthen peacebuilding efforts in their communities.

The retreat ended with a renewed commitment by participants to apply the lessons learned in their respective communities. The volunteers pledged to intensify efforts toward promoting forgiveness, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence, expressing optimism that the knowledge gained would strengthen grassroots peacebuilding initiatives and contribute to reducing conflicts across Jos North, Jos South, and other vulnerable communities in Plateau State.

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ADC Primaries – Jude Dakur’s Campaign Team Urges Supporters to Remain Calm

The campaign team of an aspirant in the governorship primary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Plateau State, Hon. Jude Dakur, has called on his supporters and party faithful to remain calm and orderly following the outcome of the party’s primary election.

The call was contained in a statement signed by the Director-General of the campaign organisation, Rengkat Bakpet, and made available to journalists in Jos.

The campaign team acknowledged concerns expressed by supporters following the conduct and outcome of the primary but urged them to refrain from actions capable of undermining the unity of the party.

According to the statement, the campaign had already activated the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanism by lodging an appeal against the outcome of the primary election.

The team recalled that the outcome of the governorship primary election was rejected by Hon. Jude Dakur and his supporters, following which a petition was submitted to the party’s Appeal Panel for review.

“Having formally lodged our grievances before the appropriate organ of the party, we wish to call on all supporters of the Plateau Faith Project to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while awaiting the decision of the Appeal Panel.

“We urge our supporters not to be discouraged or distracted by the outcome of the primary election where results were allocated to an aspirant without elections taken place in some LGAs.

The appeal process has been activated, and we remain confident that the panel will carefully consider the issues raised and deliver its verdict in the interest of justice, fairness and party unity,” the statement said.

The campaign team expressed confidence that the appropriate appeal panel of the party would diligently review all issues raised and take a fair decision in line with the party’s constitution and guideline

“We have confidence in the leadership of the party and the established mechanisms for addressing grievances arising from the primary election. There is no cause for alarm,” the statement added.

The campaign organisation further urged members and supporters to avoid inflammatory comments, speculation and actions capable of creating division within the party.

It reiterated Hon. Jude Dakur’s commitment to democratic principles and internal party processes, stressing that the appeal was being pursued through legitimate channels.

The statement also called on ADC faithful across Plateau State to remain united and focused on the broader objective of strengthening the party ahead of future electoral contest.

The campaign team assured supporters that they would be kept informed of developments as the appeal process progresses.

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Jerry Jallo Unveils ‘Creative Godfather’ Identity, Marks New Chapter in Creative Leadership

Renowned Nigerian creative director, media strategist, storyteller, and producer, Jerry Jallo has officially unveiled a new professional identity known as “Creative Godfather,” a title he says reflects years of mentoring, connecting, and nurturing talent within the creative industry.

With over 17 years of experience spanning film, photography, design, theatre, branding, music, communications, exhibitions, and live events, Jallo’s latest unveiling is being described as more than a personal brand statement. It represents a transition from being solely a creator to becoming a cultivator of creative excellence.

According to Jallo, the title “Creative Godfather” is not a claim of superiority but an acknowledgment of his evolution and the role he has increasingly played in helping creatives discover, refine, and execute their ideas. He noted that the identity embodies a commitment to deeper innovation, originality, and the continuous growth of the creative ecosystem.

Having started his creative journey professionally at just 15 years old, Jallo credits mentors such as Wale Adesanya and practical experiences in production environments, training programs, and church communities for shaping his foundation in the industry.

For years, Jallo has operated largely behind the scenes, contributing to productions, cultural initiatives, media campaigns, exhibitions, theatre projects, and major events. The public unveiling of “Creative Godfather” now places a spotlight on a role many within the industry say he has already been fulfilling.

The project itself was executed through collaboration with several creatives, reinforcing Jallo’s belief that leadership in the creative industry is about bringing people together rather than working alone. Contributors to the unveiling included Satuna Peter, David Alao, Madung Gyang, and David Thomas, among others.

Throughout his career, Jallo has served as a creative director on initiatives involving Enchanting Plateau and Experience Plateau, while also making his mark in theatre through the creation and direction of the acclaimed Monologues of Debauchery series. He is also known for producing landmark events, including the viral Funeral Service – Death of Self (FSDS) Concert.

Beyond individual projects, Jallo has been involved in several creative ventures, including Aweytu’s Creative Vineyard, Blacc Urban Studios, and 300 Empire Enterprises.

Looking ahead, Jallo says the unveiling signals the beginning of a new chapter focused on strengthening creative communities, developing platforms for emerging talents, fostering collaborations, and using storytelling as a tool for cultural transformation and development.

“The goal remains simple,” he said. “Create exceptional work, build meaningful relationships, and leave the creative ecosystem stronger than it was found.”

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Emir Advocates Self-Defence, Urges Communities to Buy Arms Against Bandits

The Emir of Argungu in Kebbi State, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, has called on residents to pool resources and acquire weapons to defend their communities against escalating attacks by bandits and jihadist groups in parts of northwestern Nigeria.

Speaking during a meeting with local chiefs, the traditional ruler expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the region, stating that government security agencies appear overwhelmed by the scale of the threat. He urged communities to take proactive measures to safeguard their lives and property.

According to a video of the meeting seen by AFP, Mera advised community leaders to organize and purchase arms for self-defence, stressing that residents must be prepared to protect their homes from criminal attacks, even at great personal risk.

Kebbi State has witnessed sporadic violence linked to armed bandit groups and the Lakurawa jihadist faction, whose activities have contributed to worsening insecurity across the region. Bandits are known for kidnapping travellers, raiding villages, abducting residents, looting homes, and setting communities ablaze.

The Emir’s remarks come amid growing frustration among rural communities affected by persistent attacks. In several northern states, residents have formed vigilante groups to counter banditry, although some of these groups have faced allegations of extrajudicial killings, prompting state governments to replace them with officially recognized community protection personnel.

Mera’s call echoes similar appeals made by influential northern leaders in recent years. Former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari had in 2021 urged residents in vulnerable communities to acquire weapons for self-defence, while the Emir of Zamfara, Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad, previously advocated for citizens to be allowed to bear arms to protect themselves against bandit attacks.

The Argungu Emir remains one of Kebbi State’s most prominent traditional rulers, renowned for overseeing the internationally recognized Argungu Fishing Festival, a UNESCO-listed cultural event that has long attracted visitors from across the world.

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Assembly Rerun – Mikang APC lawyers back Timdi Nkat, urge NWC to uphold mandate

The Lawyers Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Mikang Local Government Area of Plateau State has called on the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and the National Working Committee (NWC) to respect the wishes of party members by upholding the emergence of Hon. Timdi Nkat as the duly elected candidate for the Mikang State Constituency seat in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

The forum said the call became necessary following repeated electoral exercises that, according to them, consistently produced the same outcome in favour of Nkat.

In a statement signed by Barr. Chasel Drenkat on behalf of the forum, the group said the rerun election was conducted after controversies surrounding the initial primary, leading to cancellations in some wards over alleged irregularities, violence, intimidation and over-voting.

It explained that a supplementary election was subsequently ordered in affected areas, including Piapung A, Piapung B, Tunkus and Lalin wards, though only two wards were eventually able to fully participate due to disruptions.

The forum alleged that in Piapung, electoral officials and security personnel were attacked by suspected thugs, disrupting the process and leaving some persons injured.

Despite the challenges, the group maintained that Hon. Timdi Nkat emerged victorious in the rerun exercise, describing his victory as a confirmation of the outcome of earlier polls and the clear choice of party members in Mikang.

According to the forum, the results of three separate electoral exercises showed a consistent pattern reflecting the will of the people.

The stakeholders also argued that the emergence of Nkat reflects a long-standing demand for fairness, equity and balanced political representation among the four districts of Mikang Local Government Area.

They noted that Garkawa District remains the only district yet to produce a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly since the creation of Mikang over two decades ago, describing the development as a source of political imbalance.

The forum commended electoral officials, security agencies and party administrators for what it described as their professionalism and courage in managing a tense electoral process.

It also expressed confidence in the leadership of the APC National Chairman, describing him as a democrat committed to internal party stability.

The group urged the NWC to uphold the mandate freely given to Hon. Timdi Nkat, insisting that respecting the outcome would strengthen internal democracy, promote unity and reinforce public confidence in the party.

They reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC and pledged support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and the party leadership ahead of future elections.

The forum added that history would favour leaders who uphold justice and protect the will of the people.

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Police Arrest INEC Official, Question Wike’s Aide Over Alleged Voter Data Leak

The Nigeria Police Force has launched an investigation into the alleged unauthorized access and dissemination of sensitive voter information from the database of the Independent National Electoral Commission, leading to the arrest of an electoral officer and the interrogation of a media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Sources within the police confirmed on Wednesday that operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) are probing allegations of database abuse, cyber-related offenses, and the unlawful disclosure of classified electoral records.

As part of the ongoing investigation, an INEC official, whose identity has not been made public, has been taken into custody. Meanwhile, Lere Olayinka, spokesperson to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, was reportedly questioned by investigators on Tuesday at the Police Headquarters in Abuja.

The investigation was triggered by a petition said to have been submitted on behalf of INEC, alleging criminal conspiracy, cyber intimidation, and the unauthorized release of confidential electoral documents.

The controversy emerged after Olayinka shared screenshots on social media allegedly containing details of a voter registration transfer involving actor-turned-politician Emeka Ike from Imo State to the Federal Capital Territory.

The disclosure came amid debates over Ike’s eligibility to contest a House of Representatives seat in the FCT following his criticism of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election process. The screenshots quickly generated public reactions, with many Nigerians questioning how the information was obtained and suggesting that it could only have originated from INEC’s restricted voter registration database.

Reacting to the incident, INEC on Tuesday dismissed reports that its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) database had been hacked. The commission maintained that the information was exposed through the misuse of valid internal access credentials by an authorized official rather than through a cybersecurity breach.

Preliminary findings indicate that the detained electoral officer allegedly contacted Olayinka through Facebook Messenger before forwarding voter registration documents via WhatsApp. The documents were reportedly intended to demonstrate that Emeka Ike’s voter transfer application had been initiated but was yet to receive final approval.

During questioning, Olayinka reportedly told investigators that he had no prior relationship with the INEC officer and was unaware that the documents provided to him were classified. He also maintained that the official never informed him that the information was confidential or restricted.

In a related development, the Department of State Services has commenced a separate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disclosure of the voter information.

Authorities are reportedly weighing possible charges against both the INEC official and Olayinka, including criminal conspiracy, cyber-related offenses, unlawful disclosure of classified information, and conduct deemed capable of causing a breach of public peace.

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Mikang APC Stakeholders Laud Yilwatda, Mutfwang for Transparent State Assembly Rerun Primary

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Mikang Local Government Area have expressed profound gratitude to the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for providing a transparent and democratic platform that enabled party members to freely determine their preferred candidate in the just-concluded Mikang State Assembly rerun primary election.

The stakeholders noted that the conduct of the rerun reaffirmed the commitment of the party leadership to internal democracy and gave the people of Mikang the opportunity to make their voices heard through a credible electoral process.

They described the exercise as a significant demonstration of democratic principles and a clear indication that the APC remains a party that respects the wishes of its members.

The stakeholders also commended the Returning Officer and members of the electoral committee for their courage, professionalism and commitment to fairness throughout the exercise. They particularly praised the committee for standing firm in the face of challenges and ensuring that the integrity of the process was not compromised.

Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and former Member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. George Daika, said the rerun reflected the true spirit of democracy where party members were given the freedom to choose their preferred flag bearer without interference. He commended the national chairman for being a true democrat.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Plateau State Civil Service Commission, Professor Paul Wai, expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for creating an atmosphere that allowed the people of Mikang to freely participate in the process.

He noted that the successful conduct of the rerun has deepened the confidence of party members and reinforced public trust in the APC as a party committed to fairness, inclusion and democratic values.

The stakeholders equally appreciated APC leaders, party officials, security agencies and party faithful across Mikang for their maturity and commitment to peace throughout the exercise. While acknowledging the challenges experienced in some areas, they commended party members for placing the overall interest of the party and the democratic process above personal considerations.

They equally appealed to the APC National Chairman, Governor Mutfwang, and the leadership of the party to ensure that the outcome of the rerun is upheld. They urged all those entrusted with that responsibility to protect the integrity of the exercise and allow the will of the people to prevail.

According to the stakeholders, preserving the sanctity of the mandate freely given by APC members in Mikang will not only strengthen the party ahead of future elections but also deepen public confidence in democratic institutions and processes.

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FG Ends Controversial Three-Month Pre-Retirement Leave Policy for Civil Servants

The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately stop the practice of placing civil servants on a mandatory three-month pre-retirement leave, stating that such a provision does not exist in the Public Service Rules (PSR).

The directive was conveyed in a circular dated May 13, 2026, signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, and addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, heads of government agencies, service chiefs, and other senior public officials.

According to the circular, some MDAs have been incorrectly interpreting Public Service Rule 120243 by treating the mandatory three-month retirement notice period as a leave period, requiring officers to vacate their positions before their official retirement date.

The Office of the Head of Civil Service noted that the misinterpretation has persisted despite the clear provisions of the Public Service Rules.

“It has come to the attention of this Office that some Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have continued to treat the three-month notice period preceding retirement as a mandatory leave period, contrary to the provisions of the extant Public Service Rules,” the circular stated.

The government explained that under Rule 120243, officers intending to retire are only required to provide a three-month notice before their retirement date. During the first month of the notice period, retiring officers are expected to attend a mandatory pre-retirement workshop or seminar approved by their MDA.

The remaining two months are intended for officers to regularise their service records, pension documentation, and other retirement-related matters to ensure the smooth processing of their benefits.

The circular clarified that the three-month notice requirement does not constitute a leave entitlement and does not prevent officers from carrying out their official duties during the period.

Consequently, all MDAs have been instructed to discontinue the practice of compelling retiring officers to leave their posts based on what the government described as a non-existent provision. Retiring officers are expected to continue performing their official responsibilities throughout the notice period unless otherwise approved.

The government also directed agencies to facilitate participation in approved pre-retirement programmes and ensure the timely processing of retirement records, pension documents, and other entitlements.

Permanent secretaries, directors-general, executive secretaries, chairpersons of statutory agencies, and chief executive officers have been mandated to ensure strict compliance with the directive and circulate it to all staff across the federal public service.

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Two Residents Killed, Several Injured as Soldiers, Masqueraders Clash in Kogi Community

At least two residents lost their lives and several others sustained injuries following a violent clash between soldiers and participants of the Echane Masquerade Festival in Ogaminana, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has sparked concerns across the state and led the Kogi State Government to suspend the annual cultural festival throughout Ebiraland.

According to eyewitness accounts, the crisis began when two soldiers, reportedly dressed in civilian attire, were allegedly attacked by some masqueraders participating in the festival procession. The soldiers were said to have left the scene and later returned with additional military personnel, resulting in a confrontation that quickly escalated.

Residents claimed that gunshots were fired during the ensuing clash, causing panic as people fled for safety. Some members of the community were also reported to have responded by throwing stones at the soldiers.

Among those killed was a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator identified as Omeiza, who was reportedly inside his kiosk when he was struck by a stray bullet. He was later confirmed dead.

Another victim was said to have been sitting inside his residence when he sustained gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he reportedly died after being rushed to a hospital.

Some witnesses suggested that the incident may have involved off-duty soldiers who had returned home to participate in the festival and reacted after learning that fellow soldiers had allegedly been assaulted by masqueraders in the Inorere area of Ogaminana.

Community leaders, including members of the Adavi Peace Committee and local cultural organizations, reportedly attempted to mediate and restore calm, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Sources further alleged that the soldiers involved sought reinforcement from their operational base in Okene. Upon arrival, the security personnel allegedly opened fire, leading to casualties among innocent bystanders and injuries to several others.

Residents have called on the state government and relevant security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident, ensure accountability, and prevent a recurrence of such violence.

Efforts to obtain an official response from the Kogi State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Oyiza Saliu, were not returned at the time of filing this report.

In response to the unrest, the Kogi State Government announced the immediate suspension of the Echane Festival across Ebiraland.

The decision was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who said security intelligence indicated that activities associated with the festival could pose a threat to public safety and trigger further disturbances in parts of Kogi Central.

While recognizing the cultural significance of the festival in preserving the heritage of the Ebira people, the government stressed that the protection of lives and property remains paramount.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo subsequently directed the immediate halt of all festival-related activities and instructed security agencies to enforce compliance throughout the affected communities.

The government also warned that individuals or groups who organize, participate in, or promote activities connected to the suspended festival would face sanctions in accordance with the law.

It further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and residents to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace and preventing further breakdown of law and order.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding citizens and preserving the peace and stability of Kogi State.