A chieftain of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Doubara Kumokou, has gifted cars to two individuals, including longtime supporter Hon. Watari Kenigbolo, as part of activities marking Kenigbolo’s 45th birthday in Yenagoa.

Kumokou, popularly known as the “Youth Governor,” also presented a vehicle to Mr. Kokobaiye Abeki, a youth member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), during the celebration. Speaking at the event, Kumokou said the gesture was in recognition of Kenigbolo’s loyalty and commitment over the years.“I decided to surprise Hon. Kenigbolo with this car in appreciation of his dedication and steadfastness,” he said.

The NDC stalwart, who is seeking to represent Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency in 2027, called for youth development initiatives that transcend political affiliations. He urged leaders to support young people through skills acquisition programmes, business grants, and other empowerment initiatives.

According to him, sustainable development can only be achieved when empowerment programmes are driven by genuine concern for citizens rather than political interests.The event also featured the defection of Amaebi Boyei, described as an APC youth leader in Yenagoa, alongside supporters who joined the NDC.

Welcoming the new members, Neze Charles, Secretary of NDC Ward One in Yenagoa Constituency I, assured them of equal opportunities within the party. In his remarks, Kenigbolo thanked Kumokou for the gift and expressed appreciation to guests who attended his birthday celebration.

By Achadu Gabriel

The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) has expressed concern over renewed security incidents in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, warning that recent developments could undermine efforts that have restored relative peace to the area in recent years.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Isah Muhammad, the group said improvements in security were achieved through the combined efforts of government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders.

According to BEPU, some armed groups have reportedly continued criminal activities despite ongoing peace efforts. The union cited reports of farmland invasions, intimidation of farmers, and the theft of motorcycles and mobile phones in parts of the emirate.The group also referenced the recent killing of Ibrahim Adamu, a commercial driver who was reportedly attacked near Buruku in Chikun Local Government Area while travelling from Kaduna to Birnin Gwari.

BEPU stated that the incident led to retaliatory attacks on three Fulani individuals, who were later rescued by security personnel and treated for injuries. The union said no deaths were recorded during the reprisal. “BEPU strongly condemns all forms of violence and actions capable of reigniting conflict,” Muhammad said, adding that residents across ethnic groups desire peace and stability.

The union urged the government and security agencies to strengthen patrols, recover illegal firearms, review existing peace arrangements, and improve protection for farmers and travellers. BEPU also appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and called on political actors to avoid actions that could heighten tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sagbama Branch, Barr. Ogheneochuko J. Sampson, has supported calls for the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of kidnapping and banditry cases across Nigeria. Speaking with journalists in Yenagoa ahead of the branch’s 2026 Law Week, Sampson described the proposal as a positive step toward addressing insecurity, noting that similar arrangements already exist for electoral matters.

“The idea of special courts for kidnapping and banditry cases is a welcome development and should be replicated across the country,” he said. However, he questioned whether federal and state governments would provide the resources needed to sustain such courts, including funding, judicial personnel, and infrastructure.“The challenge is not just creating the courts.

Governments must be willing to fund them, employ more judges, and provide the necessary facilities,” he added.Sampson also stressed that tackling insecurity requires broader efforts beyond the judiciary, calling for greater accountability in the management of security resources and measures to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms.

Commenting on the justice sector in Bayelsa State, the NBA chairman commended Governor Douye Diri’s administration for investments in judicial infrastructure and road projects, which he said have improved access to justice in several local government areas.

He rated the performance of the state’s judiciary at 80 percent, citing improved court facilities and stronger collaboration between the bench and the bar. The NBA Sagbama Branch’s 2026 Law Week is scheduled to hold from June 21 to June 28 with the theme: “True Justice: The Need for Institutional and Individual Accountability in Safeguarding Democracy.”