Category: News

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17-Year-Old Boy Plucks Sister’s Eyes For Money Ritual

A 17-year-old boy has been arrested in Bauchi for allegedly removing his sister’s eyes for the purpose of money ritual, according to the Bauchi State Police Command.

The suspect, Auwalu Mohammad, elder brother to the victim, Rukayya Mohammad, reportedly committed the crime on October 17 in Ganjuwa Local Government Area of the state.

Police statement said that its investigation’s findings revealed that the girl, Rukayya Muhammad, lost her two eyes “permanently after her elder brother, Auwalu Muhammad, removed both of her eyes for a money ritual in a desperate attempt to gain wealth. The incident occurred in Wailo town, located in the Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.”

According to the command’s spokesperson, Ahmed Wakil, the victim’s father disclosed that the suspect (Auwalu) lured his sister, who shared the same parents, into the bush, where he brutally attacked her and forcefully plucked her eyes.

“Unfortunately, a medical doctor (eye specialist) at the hospital confirmed that the young girl will never regain her vision for the rest of her life.

“During interrogation, the suspects voluntarily confessed to the crime. Investigation is ongoing to uncover the motive behind their heinous act and to bring all individuals connected to justice.”

In connection with the crime, the police said that it has arrested the following suspects: Auwal Dahiru, 17 years of Bayan Dutse, Wailo, Kubi Ward, Ganjuwa LGA; Mohammed Rabiu, 19 years; Saleh Ibrahim, 20 years; Nasiru Muhammad of Soro town, Ganjuwa LGA; Hassan Garba of Soro town, Ganjuwa LGA; and Garba Dahiru, 43 years of Soro town.

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PLASMIDA Initiative Equipped Plateau Youths with Financial and Digital Skills, Banking Links for  Businesses – Says DG

Jos, Plateau State – The Director-General of the Plateau State Agency for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (PLASMIDA), Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, highlighting the agency’s recent youth training program, said it is part of a broader initiative to equip Plateau youths with the skills and resources needed for sustainable business growth.

Speaking on the graduation of 450 youths selected from the 17 local government areas of the state, Wuyep described the program as a milestone for participants, emphasizing the focus on financial literacy and digital skills. “We exposed them to models that are very relevant for business success,” he said, noting that the training aimed to help young entrepreneurs navigate challenges in the business world.

Wuyep stressed that the program was not limited to providing theoretical knowledge. He explained that participants were guided in developing bankable business plans and linked with financial institutions, including FCMB, to ensure access to affordable financing for scaling their businesses. “This category of trainees is not for nano-businesses with simple grants,” he said. “They have developed business plans which they will present to banks, ensuring sustainability and scalability.”

The initiative, organized by the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) in collaboration with the Plateau Youth Council (PYC), held its closing ceremony on October 15, 2025, at Eliel Centre, Jos. Themed “Plateau Youths Mastering Financial Literacy and Digital Skills for Business,” the program was supported by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) and FCMB.

The DG also highlighted the agency’s broader efforts in human capital development, stating that PLASMIDA has organized similar trainings for other clusters and groups across the state. He said the agency continues to run coaching, mentoring, and financial interventions, including access to POS machines for selected participants, to further support youth entrepreneurship.

According to Wuyep, these interventions are aligned with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s seven-pillar policy, particularly the pillar focusing on education and human capacity development. “His Excellency is committed to ensuring that the people of Plateau State become economically prosperous, and we are working to translate that vision into reality,” he said.

The Plateau Youth Council Chairman, Mr. Panan Gongden Dapar, earlier descried the training as “timely and transformative.” he stated that “This program comes at a time when many youths lack productive engagement,” the Council stated. “Training 450 young Plateau entrepreneurs on financial and digital literacy will undoubtedly impact the state’s economy in the years to come.”

The Plasmida DG concluded that the ultimate goal of the program is to reduce poverty, create employment, and foster sustainable economic growth, preparing youths to be business owners, noting that “businesses will not only survive but thrive here on the Plateau.” He noted that the recently created Plateau Job Center also serves as a resource hub for job seekers and entrepreneurs, promoting economic empowerment and development in Plateau State.

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Man Who Donated Kidney To Wife Wants It Back After Partner Files For Divorce

When his wife needed a kidney transplant, Dr Richard Batista gave her one of his, attorney Dominic Barbara said.

When Dawnell Batista has filed for a divorce, Richard Batista wants his kidney back as part of his settlement demand. Or, Barbara said today, his client wants the value of that kidney: An estimated $1.5m (£993,000).

The case is being heard in Supreme Court in Mineola, New York.

Barbara said his client, a 49-year-old doctor from Ronkonkoma who graduated from Cornell University Medical School in 1995, married Dawnell Batista on August 31 1990. The couple had three children, now ages 14, 11 and 8.

After she had two failed transplants, Barbara said, his client donated a kidney to his wife in an operation that took place at the University of Minnesota Medical Centre on June 18 2001. Richard Batista said his marriage at the time was on the rocks because of the strain of his wife’s medical issues.

“My first priority was to save her life,” Batista said at a news conference in Garden City. “The second bonus was to turn the marriage around.”

Dawnell Batista, 44, of Massapequa, filed for divorce in July 2005, Barbara said.

Neither she nor her attorney, Douglas Rothkopf, of Garden City, could immediately be reached for comment. A receptionist at Rothkopf’s office said he was in court.

Medical ethicists agreed that the case is a non-starter. Asked how likely it would be for the doctor to either get his kidney back or get money for it, Arthur Caplan at the University of Pennsylvania’s Centre for Bioethics, put it as “somewhere between impossible and completely impossible”.

First and foremost, said Robert Veatch, a medical ethicist at Georgetown University’s Kennedy Institute of Ethics, “it’s illegal for an organ to be exchanged for anything of value”. Organs in the US may not be bought or sold. Donating an organ is a gift and legally “when you give something, you can’t get it back”, he said.

“It’s her kidney now and … taking the kidney out would mean she would have to go on dialysis or it would kill her,” Veatch said.

Nor can you assign a subsequent monetary value to an organ, Caplan said. “There’s nothing later [you can get] in terms of compensation if you regret your gift,” he said.

What’s more, no reputable surgeon would perform such a transplant and no court could compel a person to undergo an operation, he said.

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ECOWAS, PSPBA Advance Humanitarian and Peace Nexus with ₦82 Million Support to Conflict-Affected Families

The Plateau State Peace Building Agency (PPBA) on Wednesday, 15th October 2025, hosted a significant engagement session at its conference hall in Jos, focusing on the Humanitarian, Development, and Peace (HDP) Nexus in Bassa, Bokkos, and Mangu LGAs. The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of relief materials worth ₦56 million and ₦26 million for school fees for out-of-school children, donated by the ECOWAS Commission in support of conflict-affected communities.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General of PPBA, Elkanah Izam, Director of Administration, welcomed participants and partners, including PLASEMA, CRADI, JDPC, SDG, and Child Protection Network. He commended ECOWAS for its continuous support, describing the gesture as part of ongoing humanitarian interventions aimed at rebuilding resilience and restoring hope among victims of conflict in Plateau State. Izam further explained that though logistics challenges delayed the full delivery of the relief materials, the symbolic presentation signified the agency’s readiness to ensure direct community distribution in collaboration with partners.

In his remarks, Usman Adamu Obeche, Programme Officer for Disaster Risk Management at the ECOWAS Commission, reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, particularly children affected by violence. He emphasized that the relief intervention targets school-aged children who remain the most affected by recurring crises, noting that education remains central to peacebuilding and community recovery.

During the experience-sharing session, representatives from Bassa, Bokkos, and Mangu communities recounted the devastating impact of conflicts in their areas. They highlighted that thousands remain displaced, with several still living in camps under dire conditions. Churches and humanitarian organizations have been providing temporary relief through food, shelter, and healthcare, yet the needs remain overwhelming.

The community leaders further appealed for urgent government and donor support to address critical challenges such as out-of-school children, inadequate medical care, poor shelter conditions, and lack of basic amenities for displaced women and children. They expressed gratitude to ECOWAS and the Plateau Peace Building Agency for their continued concern and partnership.

The event reaffirmed the collective resolve of ECOWAS, PPBA, and partners to strengthen humanitarian coordination and promote peace and resilience in Plateau’s conflict-affected areas. The symbolic presentation marked a renewed step toward restoring hope and dignity to displaced families in Plateau State.

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Nigerian Air Force Opens Registration For 2025 Basic Military Training Course

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced the commencement of online registration for the Airmen and Airwomen Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 46/2025, offering an opportunity for qualified Nigerians to join the service.

According to a statement released by Air Vice Marshal A.H. Bakari on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, the application process is free of charge and will run from October 14 to November 25, 2025.

Applicants are required to apply via the official recruitment portal at: www.nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng

Application process
According to the Air Force, interested applicants are advised to carefully read all instructions on the recruitment portal before completing their applications.

Once completed, candidates must print out an Acknowledgment Form, Parent/Guardian Consent Form, and Local Government Area Attestation Form.

The attestation form must be signed by either a Military Officer (not below the rank of Wing Commander), a Police Officer (of at least Chief Superintendent rank), a Local Government Chairman or Secretary, or a Magistrate from the applicant’s state of origin.

Each form must also include the signee’s passport photograph and a copy of a valid ID such as a National ID card, Driver’s Licence, or International Passport.

NAF warned that forms will not be generated for invalid applicants, emphasizing that all information provided must be accurate.

Eligibility requirements
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens and meet the medical, physical, and psychological fitness standards of the Nigerian Air Force. Male applicants must not be less than 1.66 meters tall, while females must not be less than 1.63 meters.

For Non-Tradesmen and Non-Tradeswomen, applicants must:
Be between 18 and 22 years old.
Possess at least five credits, including Mathematics and English Language, in not more than two sittings in WAEC, NECO, GCE, NABTEB, or NBAIS.

Present their secondary school testimonial.

For Tradesmen and Tradeswomen, applicants must:

Be between 18 and 27 years old.
Possess a National Diploma (ND) or NCE with at least a lower credit and the same five-credit minimum requirement in relevant examinations.

Hold a valid trade test certificate and driver’s licence for driving roles.

Sportsmen and women must provide evidence of professional experience, including certificates and medals.

Applicants must not have any prior criminal convictions by a court of law.

The Zonal General Aptitude Test for shortlisted applicants will hold on to a date to be announced later on the recruitment portal. Only successful candidates from the aptitude test will be invited for the selection interview.

For further information, applicants are encouraged to visit the instruction page on the recruitment portal from October 14, 2025, or contact the NAF support lines: 07052683575, 07030562381, or email careers@airforce.mil.ng (available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM).

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National Assembly Proposes November 2026 For 2027 General Elections

Nigeria’s next presidential and governorship elections may be held in November 2026, following a proposal by the National Assembly to move the polls six months earlier than usual.

The proposal—part of a raft of far-reaching amendments unveiled during a public hearing jointly held by the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters on Monday—seeks to ensure that all post-election litigations are concluded before winners are sworn in on May 29, 2027.

The draft amendment read, “Elections into the office of the President and Governor of a State shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.”

By this calculation, the polls would fall in November 2026, roughly six months before the end of the current administration’s tenure.

Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Adebayo Balogun, explained that the move is designed to “ensure that all manner of election litigations are dispensed with before the swearing in of winners.”

He said the National Assembly plans to amend sections 285 and 139 of the 1999 Constitution to shorten the timelines for election petitions — reducing tribunal judgments from 180 to 90 days, appellate court decisions from 90 to 60 days, and ensuring that the entire judicial process does not exceed 185 days.

Other key proposals include early voting for certain categories of Nigerians — such as security personnel, INEC staff, accredited journalists, and observers — at least 14 days before election day.

Significantly, the amendment also seeks to make the electronic transmission of results mandatory, with penalties for non-compliance.

The proposed Section 60(5) reads, “The Presiding Officer shall transmit the results, including the total number of accredited voters, to the next level of collation both electronically and manually.”

Officers who issue unstamped ballot papers or result sheets could face a one-year jail term or a ₦1 million fine.

Stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission, represented by Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, threw their weight behind the proposed reforms, particularly the call for electronic voting and compulsory e-transmission of results, describing them as critical to enhancing credibility and reducing post-election disputes.

In July, mixed reactions had trailed a similar proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow all elections in Nigeria to be conducted on the same day in 2027.

While leading opposition parties — the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, African Democratic Congress and New Nigeria People’s Party — supported the idea, the ruling All Progressives Congress rejected it, warning of dire consequences.

The initiative, spearheaded by the House Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, emerged from broader constitutional amendment consultations across the six geo-political zones.

If passed, the proposal would mandate INEC to conduct presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly elections on a single day — a move touted to drastically cut costs and reduce post-election bandwagon effects.

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Madagascar President ‘Runaway’ From Country As Soldiers Join Youth Protests

Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has reportedly left the country amid mounting political unrest and a loss of support within the military.

His departure follows weeks of youth-led demonstrations demanding change and accountability.

Tensions have been rising in the Indian Ocean island nation, where economic hardship and growing discontent among young citizens have sparked nationwide protests.

What began as calls for reform soon evolved into a broader demand for leadership renewal.

President Rajoelina’s reported exit, said to be on a French military plane, marks a significant turning point for Madagascar, a country with a history of fragile transitions and recurring political upheaval.

Observers say the loss of military backing was decisive, underscoring the delicate balance between civilian authority and security institutions in emerging democracies.

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Vwang District Prays and Endorses Hon. Bagos for Senate, Supports Governor Mutfwang’s Second Term

The people of Vwang District held a special prayer and endorsement session for Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos and Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, reaffirming their trust and confidence in both leaders.

The District Head of Vwang, Da Gyang Gut Balak (Gwom Rwai Vwang ), and the Vwang Development Association (VDA) jointly prayed on behalf of Vwang District for Hon. Bagos’s senatorial ambition.

Clergymen led by Rev. Joshua Mandyel, Chairman RCC Turu/PCC Kuru, offered prayers and blessings for Hon. Bagos’s political journey and victory.

In his remarks, Hon. Bagos appreciated the community’s prayers and support, pledging to remain a loyal servant of the people. He also urged continuous support for Governor Mutfwang, describing him as “a true friend of Vwang District.”

The event was attended by notable dignitaries including Rt. Hon. Simon Karu, Hon. Isaac Arin, Hon. Agbalak Ibrahim, Hon. Happiness Akawu, and Hon. Asten Yusuf, numerous councilors and many other stakeholders.

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Lagos Re-arraigns Kidnapper Evans Over Police Officers’ Killing

Lagos State Government on Monday re-arraigned convicted billionaire kidnapper, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, before a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja over the murder of two police officers.

Evans and his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka, were arraigned before Justice A. O. Ogala on a five-count charge bordering on murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.

They both pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Evans is currently facing five different criminal cases for kidnapping and the murder of several victims and has already been convicted in two of the cases.

Details soon….!

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Nigerian Army Begins Recruitment For Regular And Short Service Intake

The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of applications for the Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) and the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) Course 49/2026.

According to a statement released by the Military Secretary (Army) at the Army Headquarters, Mambilla Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja, the recruitment exercise aims to strengthen the Nigerian Army with competent and patriotic individuals ready to contribute to national security and development.

Applications for both the Regular Recruit Intake and the Short Service Combatant Commission are to be completed online and free of charge via the official portal https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

Applicants are to log in using a username and password, fill out the online form, submit, and print copies of the application and guarantor forms, which must be duly signed and presented at designated state recruitment centres during screening.

The online registration runs from September 29 to November 14, 2025, while shortlisted candidates will be screened in their respective states of origin between December 4 and December 17, 2025.

Basic requirements
The Army stated that applicants must be single Nigerian citizens by birth, and must possess a National Identity Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).

Candidates must also be medically, physically, and psychologically fit according to Army standards, and must be free of any criminal conviction.
For academic qualifications, applicants are required to have at least four passes, including English Language, in not more than two sittings in WASSCE, GCE, NECO, NABTEB, or NBAIS.

The statement further explained that applicants for non-tradesmen/women must be between 18 and 22 years old, while tradesmen/women must not be older than 26 years by December 30, 2025.

Additionally, male candidates must not be less than 1.68 metres tall, while female candidates must be at least 1.65 metres tall.

Those applying as tradesmen/women are required to possess a Trade Test or City and Guild Certificate, with full details available on the recruitment portal.

Conditions of service and benefits
Successful candidates for the Short Service Combatant Commission will be granted a 15-year commission, 10 years active, renewable for another five years based on performance.

Those under the Regular Recruit Intake will undergo initial training at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria, and may progress through the ranks based on discipline and service years.

The Nigerian Army listed several benefits of service, including:

Enhanced pay and allowances.
Opportunities for further education and training.

Welfare and insurance packages.
Pension and gratuity entitlements.
Home ownership opportunities for all soldiers.

Screening and transparency
The Army emphasized that there will be no Computer-Based Test, no zonal screening, and no special centres, as all screening activities will take place at candidates’ respective states of origin.

Applicants are advised not to pay anyone or offer gratification, as the recruitment process is entirely free and transparent.

“All candidates must present original educational certificates, NIN slip, and BVN printout during screening. Any candidate who falsifies results or documents will be withdrawn from training,” the statement warned.

For further inquiries, applicants can contact the official support lines at 07036499094 or 09041116433 between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm daily.