News
Arrest of Notorious Bandit Leader Bako Wurgi Marks a Significant Step in Nigeria’s Fight Against Banditry.
In a notable operation, troops from the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have apprehended Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer. Wurgi is suspected of playing a pivotal role in the murder of the Emir of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
According to counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama, who shared details via his X handle, the operation leading to Wurgi’s arrest occurred on Saturday. Intelligence reports indicated that he was receiving medical treatment in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State, for injuries sustained during a confrontation with a rival group. Upon discovery, troops apprehended Wurgi, who was found with multiple cuts and gunshot wounds. While two accomplices managed to flee, another individual assisting in Wurgi’s transport was taken into custody.
The late Emir of Gobir was abducted on July 9, 2024, in the Sabon Birnin Local Government Area and tragically murdered on August 22 after ransom negotiations failed. Reports suggest that Wurgi was instrumental in the kidnapping and subsequent execution, which involved demands for both cash and motorcycles.
Wurgi is believed to have international connections as an arms smuggler and is reportedly related to Bello Turji, another notorious bandit leader. His son, Sani Duna, is alleged to serve as a getaway biker for Turji, indicating a troubling familial network within the banditry operations.
Makama emphasized that Wurgi’s arrest represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest region. Currently, Wurgi is being held at an undisclosed location, while a manhunt is underway for his accomplices.
This development underscores the commitment of Nigerian security forces to address the challenges posed by banditry and enhance the safety and security of the region.
On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.
Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.
Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.
Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.
South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”
The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.
Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.
Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.
Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.
Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World Set for Theatrical Release
Nigeria’s SEC Grants Approvals to Crypto Operators: A Step Towards Regulation and Acceptance
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