A joint security team comprising the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and operatives of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on Wednesday, rescued 308 kidnapped victims across Kwara, and Niger States.
A security source disclosed that the operation, one of the largest and most successful, also included officers and men of the Nigeria Police, as well as other unnamed security agencies.

The operation, the source stated, happened on the same day, leading to the rescue of the victims kidnapped victims across the states.

Of the 308 rescued, said the source, were 163 victims abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama LGA, Kwara State, and 145 from Niger State

He added that the rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at the Military Medical Facility, Wawa Cantonment, New Bussa LGA of Niger State.

By Israel Adamu, Jos

A former councillor representing Rim Ward in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, Daniel Danjuma Chong, popularly known as “Hon. Star,” was reportedly killed by gunmen during an attack on Torok village in Rim Community on Sunday night.

According to a resident, Mrs. Cynitha Dung, the attack occurred around 11:45 p.m. and triggered panic as residents fled after hearing prolonged gunfire. She said Chong was found dead after the shooting, while another resident, Mr. David Dachollom Danjuma, sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) condemned the killing in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong. The group alleged that armed attackers entered the community under the cover of darkness, opened fire, and fled after the incident.

The association expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured resident a speedy recovery. It also called on security agencies and the Plateau State Government to identify and arrest those responsible and strengthen security in vulnerable communities.

BYM further urged authorities to address criminal hideouts it believes operate in the area and renewed its call for measures to improve security, including restrictions on open grazing. Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

By Aga Samuel Imoter, Jalingo

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has signed three Executive Orders aimed at tackling drug abuse, political thuggery and environmental crimes as part of efforts to strengthen security and promote public safety across the state.The orders, signed on Sunday, are designed to reinforce the enforcement of existing laws and address security and environmental challenges, according to the state government.

The first order targets drug abuse by strengthening the enforcement of laws regulating illicit drugs and controlled substances. It also directs relevant agencies to intensify public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programmes and youth empowerment initiatives.

The second order prohibits political thuggery, including the recruitment, sponsorship, financing and deployment of political thugs. The government said the measure is intended to curb electoral violence, voter intimidation and other activities capable of disrupting public order.

The third order focuses on environmental protection by addressing illegal mining, unlawful logging and other unauthorised exploitation of natural resources. It seeks to strengthen enforcement against environmental crimes and promote the sustainable management of forests, farmlands and water resources.

Governor Kefas called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, political stakeholders, youth groups, civil society organisations and security agencies to support the implementation of the directives. He said the executive orders reflect his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law and creating a peaceful environment for sustainable development.