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.
The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the declaration on Saturday following an inspection of the road. He stated that the project, initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, had been poorly executed or abandoned.
Umahi explained that despite repeated attempts to have Salini repair the road over the past year and a half, progress had been unsatisfactory. Niger Governor Mohammed Bago raised concerns with President Bola Tinubu, prompting the Ministry of Works to intervene. The road, described as being “in a very terrible situation delaying travel time by seven hours instead of an hour and half hours and vehicles are falling and killing people,” has been designated an emergency project.
The contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to substandard work. Umahi has directed his ministry to recover funds owed by Salini, potentially involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Two contractors are now engaged in the project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd. has been contracted to handle part of the road, with 60km already completed under the Governor’s urban renewal agenda. CCCC has been given 10 days to mobilize and commence work on a critical 7km stretch. Umahi emphasized that work will begin immediately under emergency procurement guidelines, with pricing to be verified subsequently.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of Kayode Peters, a renowned filmmaker and producer. The news was announced by his family on his official Instagram page, stating that he passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness.
Peters, fondly known as KP, was celebrated for his contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and producer. He was known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcoms “Twilight Zone” and “Flatmates” in the early 2000s. His work also extended to stage plays and sitcoms like “Extended Family” and “Being Farouk,” significantly impacting Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television landscape.
He is survived by his wife, Alexander, and their children. Funeral arrangements are underway, and further details will be shared by the family in due course. The industry and fans alike will deeply miss his warmth, generosity, and contributions to Nollywood.
President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-nation tour encompassing the Caribbean and South America. Upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, he was received with full military honors by Governor-General Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre.
The President’s itinerary includes courtesy visits to the Governor-General and Prime Minister, followed by an address to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with emphasis on economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. A visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is also planned to strengthen educational ties.
Following his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, attending at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Nigeria’s participation as a ‘partner country’ underscores its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations on a global scale.
Federal Government Declares State of Emergency on Suleja-Minna Road.
Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Kayode Peters.
