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  • Gwoza Christian Community Alleges 176 Churches Destroyed in Borno State

    Gwoza Christian Community Alleges 176 Churches Destroyed in Borno State

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    The Gwoza Christian Community Association (GCCA) in Borno State has alleged that 148 out of 176 churches in the Gwoza community have been burnt down and remain in ruins following years of attacks by insurgents.

    This revelation was contained in a statement jointly signed by the association’s National Coordinator, Rev. Dr. (Arch.) Ayuba John Bassa, and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Rev. Filibus K. Goma — a former President of the Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN) Church. The statement was shared during a Middle Belt Media Chat Forum for public awareness.

    According to the GCCA, Christians in the region continue to suffer persecution and displacement as a result of repeated attacks allegedly carried out by Boko Haram insurgents. The association expressed deep concern that despite widespread destruction, many of the affected churches have not been rebuilt, leaving worshippers without places of assembly or refuge.

    The statement titled “The Unspoken Genocide: GCCA Account on Christian Persecution in Gwoza, Borno State” detailed what it described as a long-standing pattern of violence and neglect. It claimed that many Christian families have been displaced, their homes destroyed, and their communities left without access to basic social amenities or security guarantees.

    “The Christian community in Gwoza continues to live under fear and trauma,” the statement read in part. “Out of 176 churches that existed in the community, 148 have been burnt down and remain in ruins. Many of our people have lost their means of livelihood, and rebuilding efforts have been minimal.”

    The GCCA called on the Federal Government, Borno State authorities, and humanitarian agencies to intervene urgently to restore peace, rebuild destroyed churches, and ensure the protection of all residents regardless of religious affiliation.

    The group also urged international human rights organizations and faith-based institutions to investigate the alleged persecution and provide support for affected communities in Gwoza and other parts of northeast Nigeria facing similar challenges.

    Gwoza, located in Borno State, has been one of the areas hardest hit by the Boko Haram insurgency since 2009, leading to widespread displacement and loss of life across the region.

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  • Truck Crushes Female Federal University Lokoja Lecturer to Death in Lokoja

    Truck Crushes Female Federal University Lokoja Lecturer to Death in Lokoja

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    A female lecturer at the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Mrs. Kemi Emmanuel, was killed on Wednesday after being hit by a truck in Lokoja, Kogi State.

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the incident, describing it as a hit-and-run accident involving an articulated vehicle.

    According to the FRSC Sector Commander in Kogi State, Mr. Tenimu Etuku, the tragic incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the Crusher area of Lokoja metropolis. Mrs. Emmanuel, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at FUL, reportedly fell off a commercial motorcycle, commonly known as okada, after being struck by the speeding truck.

    “When the accident happened, our rescue team responded promptly and rushed the victim to the Kogi State Specialist Hospital, where she was confirmed dead,” Etuku said.

    He explained that the deceased’s remains have been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary. Etuku also expressed concern over the conduct of the okada rider, who allegedly fled the scene under the guise of pursuing the hit-and-run driver.

    The FRSC commander cautioned motorcycle riders against competing with heavy-duty vehicles on highways, warning that such reckless behavior endangers lives.

    “The Corps continues to urge commercial motorcyclists to exercise caution, obey traffic rules, and prioritize the safety of their passengers,” he added.

    Mrs. Emmanuel was described by colleagues and students as a dedicated and respected academic who contributed immensely to the growth of the Department of Theatre Arts at FUL. Her sudden death has left the university community in deep shock.

    The FRSC has launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the driver of the truck responsible for the fatal accident.

  • Kogi Govt Urges Calm, Dismisses Rumoured Bandits Attack as Security Agencies Heighten Vigilance

    Kogi Govt Urges Calm, Dismisses Rumoured Bandits Attack as Security Agencies Heighten Vigilance

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    The Kogi State Government has urged residents to remain calm and vigilant following reports of a planned bandit or terrorist attack in parts of Kogi and Ondo States.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government reassured citizens that there is no cause for panic, noting that security agencies are fully alert and taking proactive measures to prevent any security breach.

    Fanwo described the intelligence report as a positive development that reflects the vigilance and dedication of the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies in protecting Nigerians from criminal threats.

    “The report itself is evidence that our security agencies are alive to their responsibilities. We commend the DSS for their vigilance and for providing early intelligence capable of preventing such evil plans from being executed,” he stated.

    The Commissioner further noted that the Kogi State Government is working closely with the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Police, and other relevant security formations to ensure that any potential attack is neutralized before it poses a threat to lives or property.

    According to Fanwo, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has made the security of lives and property a top priority of his administration, reinforcing surveillance and other strategic security measures, especially in border communities.

    He encouraged residents to continue their daily activities without fear while maintaining vigilance and promptly reporting any suspicious movement or individuals to the nearest security agency.

    “The government will protect the people at all costs. We will not allow criminals or terror groups to disrupt the peace and progress we have built. Kogi remains one of the safest states in Nigeria, and we intend to keep it that way,” the statement concluded.

    The government’s reassurance follows recent intelligence reports suggesting possible terrorist movements in the North Central region, including Kogi and Ondo States. However, authorities have maintained that all necessary security measures are already in place to ensure the continued safety of residents.

  • Gov. Alia Hails Gowon’s Contributions to Public Health, Nation-Building at 91

    Gov. Alia Hails Gowon’s Contributions to Public Health, Nation-Building at 91

    By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

    Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has commended former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), for his tireless contributions to public health and national unity as the elder statesman marks his 91st birthday.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor praised General Gowon’s efforts in combating Guinea Worm, Malaria, and HIV/AIDS through his humanitarian initiative, the Yakubu Gowon Centre for National Unity and International Cooperation.

    Governor Alia also lauded Gowon’s enduring commitment to good governance and nation-building, describing him as a man of integrity, patriotism, and selfless service.

    He recalled the former leader’s post-war policy of “Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation”, noting that it played a pivotal role in healing the wounds of the Nigerian Civil War and rebuilding the country’s economy and infrastructure—particularly in the Eastern Region.

    “General Gowon’s steadfast belief in one, united Nigeria has continued to inspire hope and unity among our people,” Alia stated, adding that his leadership legacy remains a guiding light for current and future generations.

    Governor Alia prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the former Head of State, wishing him good health, long life, and renewed strength to continue contributing to the nation’s progress.

    He further urged Nigerian leaders to emulate Gowon’s humility, statesmanship, and unwavering dedication to national service.

    Gov. Hyacinth Alia celebrates Gen. Yakubu Gowon at 91, praising his role in eradicating Guinea Worm and promoting unity through nation-building efforts.