News
Benue State Governor Alia reports 598 deaths from herdsmen attacks.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has voiced grave concern over recent violent attacks that have claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands. Speaking during a high-level condolence visit led by National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, Governor Alia characterized the attacks in Guma, Logo, and Ukum local government areas as deliberate attempts to eradicate entire communities.
The Governor highlighted the coordinated nature of these attacks, particularly noting the timing around significant religious holidays. He further reiterated the state’s unwavering commitment to its anti-open grazing law, emphasizing its crucial role in safeguarding agricultural lands and preventing further conflict.
NSA Ribadu, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, conveyed the Federal Government’s condolences and solidarity. He acknowledged the resurgence of violence and underscored the national implications of instability in Benue, Nigeria’s food basket. Ribadu affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the security crisis, emphasizing the need for sustained and united action to ensure the safety and security of the region. He also alluded to how no part of Nigeria is under the total control of criminal elements.
Abuja, Nigeria – Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has accused certain Benue State residents of aiding perpetrators of the recent Yelwata community attack, which resulted in numerous fatalities.
During a press briefing, General Musa stated that the assailants received shelter, sustenance, and intelligence from local individuals, including the location of an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp. He expressed concern over the lack of prior warnings received by security forces.
President Bola Tinubu has mandated the full mobilization of Nigerian security forces to apprehend those responsible and ensure justice. General Musa urged communities to report suspicious activities and emphasized that security is a collective responsibility.
Furthermore, the CDS called on the Federal Government to address Nigeria’s porous borders, citing the influx of arms and fighters from conflict zones as a major security risk. He suggested studying Pakistan’s border security model.
General Musa conveyed condolences to the victims and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace through a “Whole-of-Society” approach.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has committed to facilitating the relocation of Apo mechanic traders and dealers to the Wassa district. This announcement was made during the inauguration of a committee tasked with overseeing the relocation process.
The committee, chaired by the Minister himself, includes key FCT officials. Wike acknowledged the failures of past administrations to fulfill similar promises but assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to completing the relocation.
A site visit to Wassa with the Apo mechanics leaders has been scheduled for June 27th. Minister Wike emphasized the importance of unity among the traders and dealers, assuring them that the administration aims to ensure their satisfaction at the new site. He stated the commitment of President Tinubu’s administration to fulfill this promise.
Niger has announced plans to nationalize the Somair uranium mine, currently operated by French nuclear firm Orano. This decision marks a further departure from France, Niger’s former colonial power, and a potential realignment with Russia. The military government, in power since a 2023 coup, accuses Orano of unfairly benefiting from the mine’s output since its launch in 1971. Orano, which holds a 63% stake in Somair, disputes the allegations and has threatened legal action, citing a “systematic policy of stripping mining assets.” This move follows Niger’s earlier removal of Orano’s operational control over key mines in the country. The nationalization reflects a broader trend in West Africa, with Mali and Burkina Faso also pursuing similar policies under military rule. The situation is further complicated by existing arbitration processes between Orano and Niger, including a recent lawsuit filed by Orano.
