IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported that military operations conducted between March 5 and 13 led to the elimination of 74 terrorists, the arrest of 130 suspects, and the rescue of 61 kidnapped victims across various locations.

Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Armed Forces, the Office of the National Security Adviser, security agencies, and hybrid forces.

During the operations, troops recovered 71 assorted weapons, including 32 AK-47 rifles, 15 locally made guns, nine Dane guns, three pump-action shotguns, two locally fabricated pistols, and 10 other firearms. Additionally, 1,202 rounds of ammunition were seized, comprising 1,133 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and 69 live cartridges.

Terrorists Surrender in North-East

Kangye revealed that 143 terrorists surrendered in the North-East, including five adult males, 66 adult females, and 72 children. One of the surrendered fighters turned in two AK-47 rifles, 33 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two magazines.

Reaffirming the military's commitment to national security, Kangye stated, “The gallant men and women of the Armed Forces will continue to fulfill their constitutional duty of protecting lives and property in line with the law, Rules of Engagement, and Code of Conduct for Internal Security Operations.” 

BY AZUKA CHIEMEKA.

A surge of excitement is spreading across the Niger Delta states as young athletes engage in intense state trials, determined to secure a place at the highly anticipated Niger Delta Sports Festival. From local government screenings to final selection rounds, these aspiring sportsmen and women share a unified dream which is to compete at the highest level, gain recognition, and build a career in their chosen disciplines.

For many, the festival represents far more than just competition; it is a platform of opportunity, a gateway to national and international success. The passion and dedication displayed by these athletes underscore their belief in the life-changing potential of the event. Their overwhelming gratitude is directed at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the visionaries who brought this initiative to life, providing them with a structured stage to showcase their talents.

One of the festival’s most profound impacts is talent discovery. By bringing together the best young athletes from across the region, the event creates an avenue for scouts, coaches, and sports administrators to identify promising talents and guide them toward professional development.

The Scouting and Mentorship Sub-Committee, tasked with unearthing and nurturing future stars, is leaving no stone unturned in its mission to produce world-class athletes. Chairman of the sub-committee, Mr. Godwin Enakhena, has reiterated the commitment to raising the bar in talent identification and development.

“This festival is not just about competition; it’s about creating a sporting legacy,” Enakhena stated. “We are looking for athletes who can bring Nigeria glory—not just in football but across various disciplines where we have the potential to dominate internationally.”

With a team of elite scouts and experienced coaches in place, the committee is building a sustainable pathway for young talents, ensuring they have the support needed to reach the highest levels of professional and international competition.

"Our goal is to restore Nigeria’s position as a sporting powerhouse,” Enakhena added. “The Niger Delta Sports Festival is more than an event; it’s a movement dedicated to discovering and nurturing exceptional talents.”

In an innovative approach, the committee is broadening its focus beyond conventional sports, recognizing the hidden potential in less-publicized disciplines. From athletics to wrestling, boxing to gymnastics, and even emerging sports, no talent will be overlooked.

“We are casting a wide net,” Enakhena affirmed. “We are determined to identify talents in every sport where Nigeria can excel globally.”

Beyond individual success stories, the festival plays a vital role in fostering regional unity. By bringing together athletes from different Niger Delta states, the event promotes peace, collaboration, and a shared vision for sporting excellence. Additionally, it serves as a powerful tool for youth engagement, steering young people away from negative influences and channeling their energy into productive athletic careers.

The benefits of the festival extend beyond sports. Host states experience an economic boost as visitors, officials, and supporters contribute to local businesses. Hotels, transportation services, and small-scale vendors all thrive during the festival period, demonstrating the economic potential of well-organized sporting events.

Furthermore, the festival highlights the crucial role of sports in national development. By investing in young athletes, Nigeria is not only grooming future champions but also fostering a disciplined, goal-oriented generation.

With the festival fast approaching, anticipation continues to build. For many young talents, this event could be the defining moment of their careers. With unwavering support from the NDDC and other key stakeholders, the Niger Delta Sports Festival is set to establish itself as a catalyst for change in Nigerian sports. 

...as Traditional Ruler, Subjects Crash Over Town Union Leadership

... By Marvelous Ugoenyi, Owerri

It's no longer a secret the Press Conference by a group of Uzoubi-Umuna Citizens home and abroad under the auspices of The New Face Of Uzoubi-Umuna Organization weeks ago. 

The group announced the "sack" of what it described as an illegal Exco led by Mr. Ikechukwu Nwaku backed by the Traditional Ruler of the community, HRH, Eze B.C. Okereke, the Ubi 1 of Uzoubi-Umuna, and a former PG who is now the Palace Secretary, Chief Barnabas Onwuzuruike since 2023.

The group then called for an election to address the constitutional crises that has erupted in the absence of a legitimate leadership of the Town Union, and commenced an Electoral process that would lead to election in April 26th, 2025 after it claimed that its leadership had consulted with their people and met severally with the Eze.

But in what seemed like a "betrayal", according to the group, HRH, Eze Boniface Okereke, the Ubi 1 of Uzoubi-Umuna made a video broadcast which he shared on the Social platform, addressing his people and denying agreeing to any election.

According to the Ubi in the Social Media video, "these my subjects came to me, demanding that they need election. Yes, I agreed with them that the other administration has expired. I also informed them that there will be Convention. But I'm the Eze, and they should just calm down till I'm ready for the Convention and I'll inform them, but they want to overthrow a government.

"Things are not done that way. You can't be calling from abroad and saying you want things this way or the other way. Let them wait till I tell them when I'm ready", the Ubi 1 explained in his video to his people.

But the group in another statement cautioned the Ubi 1 against his persistent interferences into the politics of the Town Union of the community.

"You are a Traditional Ruler in charge of our customs and the throne. What we give you is a deserving honour and respect, but you do not have the power to singlehandedly appoint a President-General and executive of the Town Union as you are claiming. The PG should not be your appointee. Please, allow our people to elect their PG and run a people oriented administration in our community", said in a statement by the Leader of the group, Maazi Okwudili Amadi.

The group in another statement said they had led a Delegation with a petition to the Executive Chairman of Orlu LGA, Hon. Pastor Chris Mbarie to intervene in the lingering crises to forestall a break down of law and order in the Central Orlu Municipal community.

They also claimed to have written to the Area Commander, as well as the DPO in charge of Orlu Police Division. "We have also sent out petitions to the Association of PGs, the Clan body and other relevant authorities informing them of these acts capable of causing conflicts in our area, and our insistence on election", it stated. 

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has once again written to the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, seeking to re-present the 2025 budget following a Supreme Court ruling.

In a letter dated March 13 and addressed to Amaewhule, Fubara proposed March 19, 2025, as the new date for the budget presentation but noted that lawmakers could choose another convenient date.

DAILY POST recalls that Fubara was previously prevented from accessing the Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt when he attempted to re-present the budget.

Citing the Supreme Court’s directive, the governor emphasized the need for all arms of government to operate within constitutional boundaries to resolve the ongoing deadlock and ensure the state's progress.

“No matter our differences, the interests of the state and its people must come first,” Fubara stated in his letter.

He reiterated his intention to present the 2025 budget on March 19 at 11:00 a.m. or any other suitable date within the month as determined by the Assembly. 

The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old woman, Rukayya Ahmadu, for allegedly killing her co-wife in Dutse Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, confirmed the incident to DAILY POST on Friday, stating that the attack took place on Monday around 6:30 p.m. in Buju village, Dutse LGA.

According to him, Rukayya Ahmadu allegedly poured hot water on her co-wife, Asiyah Ahmadu, following a dispute, leaving the victim with severe burns.

Upon receiving the report, police officers rushed to the scene and transported Asiyah to Dutse General Hospital for treatment. However, on March 4, 2025, at about 9:00 a.m., doctors confirmed her death while she was still receiving medical care.

The suspect was immediately arrested and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. During interrogation, she reportedly confessed to the crime.

Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway, and the suspect will be prosecuted accordingly. 

Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Amaju Pinnick, has lost his bid for re-election to the FIFA Council, falling short by just a single vote.

At the Confederation of African Football (CAF) General Assembly held in Cairo on Wednesday, Djibouti’s Souleiman Waberi claimed the final available seat with 29 votes, narrowly edging out Pinnick, who secured 28.

Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa led the election with 49 votes, while Egypt’s Hani Rida and Niger’s Djibrilla Hamidou each garnered 35 votes. Mauritania’s Ahmed Yahya and Waberi also secured their positions with 29 votes apiece.

The loss is a setback for Pinnick, who has been a member of FIFA’s top decision-making body since 2021 and was seeking another term.

In the women’s category, Kanizat Ibrahim of Comoros won the seat with 30 votes, defeating Lydia Nsekera (13 votes) and Isha Johansen (7 votes).