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Nationwide alert: FG warns of five-day flooding in 19 states

Published

8 months ago

August 6, 2025

The Federal Government has forecasted heavy rainfall over a five-day period that may trigger flooding across 19 states and 76 locations.

The warning, issued on Tuesday by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment, called on stakeholders and residents to take urgent precautionary measures.

This comes as devastating floods struck Ogun and Gombe states on Tuesday, with other states — including Lagos, Plateau, Anambra, and Delta — also affected by the disaster.

According to the centre’s flood prediction obtained by our correspondent, the affected areas are expected to experience rainfall likely to cause flooding from August 5 to August 9, 2025.

The predicted states and locations are Akwa-Ibom (Edor, Eket, Ikom, Oron, Upenekang); Bauchi (Tafawa-Balewa, Azare, Jama’are, Kari, Misau, Jama’a); Ebonyi (Abakaliki, Echara, Ezilo); Cross-River (Ogoja Edor, Obubra); Nasarawa (Keana, Keffi, Wamba); Benue (Agaku, Buruku, Gboko, Igumale, Ito, Katsina-Ala, Ugba, Vande-Ikya); Kaduna (Jaji, Kafancha, Birnin-Gwari, Zaria) and Katsina (Bindawa, Bakori, Daura, Funtua).

Others are Kebbi (Bagudo, Birnin-Kebbi, Bunza, Gwandu, Jega, Kalgo, Kamba, Kangiwa, Shanga, Ribah, Sakaba, Saminaka, Yelwa, Gauri-Banza); Kano (Bebeji, Gezawa, Gwarzo, Kano, Karaye, Tundun-wada, Wudil, Kunchi); Niger (Kontagora, Rijau, Ringim); Plateau (Mangu); Taraba (Donga, Takum); Jigawa (Diginsa, Gumel, Dutse, Gwaram, Hadejia, Miga); Yobe (Machina, Potiskum); Zamfara (Anka); Sokoto (Sokoto, Wamakko); Borno (Biu); and Gombe (Bajoga).

Flooding in Nigeria has become a yearly occurrence that claims lives and destroys many properties. Last year, 31 states were reportedly affected by flooding, causing hundreds of deaths, injuring thousands of others and affecting 1.2 million.

On September 10, 2024 the Alau Dam collapsed, causing floods in Borno State, killing at least 150 people, displacing 419,000 others and causing the community to submerge 70 per cent.

The country has experienced a series of flooding events that caused property damage, fatalities, injuries and displacement this year. The deadliest flood so far this year was in May that reportedly killed at least 200 people with thousands displaced in Mokwa, Niger State.

The floods, triggered by intense rainfall and exacerbated by a dam collapse, caused widespread destruction and severely impacted the community’s access to essential services.

While Mokwa was the most severely affected area, other parts of Nigeria also experienced flooding in 2025. The flooding affected multiple states, including Rivers State – where torrential rains caused floods and landslides that buried homes and swept people away in the city of Okrika, killing at least 25 people – and put millions of people at risk.

In April, at least 13 people were killed in Kwara State and Mokwa, including three people on a canoe that capsized on a flooded river, and rice fields were destroyed after flooding triggered by the routine water release from the Jebba Hydroelectric Power Station dam affected 30 communities.

Recently, the National Economic Council approved the release of intervention funds to support nationwide flood mitigation and response efforts.

NEC approved the disbursements of N3bn each to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory; N1.5bn to the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning; N1.5bn to the Federal Ministry of Environment; N1.5bn to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation; and N10bn to the National Emergency Management Agency.

In a dashboard released last Friday by NEMA, it showed that no fewer than 165 persons have died, 82 missing and 119,791 persons have been affected by this year’s flooding.

The agency also stated that 138 persons sustained various degrees of injuries, 43,936 displaced, 8,594 houses affected and 8,278 farmlands destroyed across 43 Local Government Areas in 19 States.

According to the agency, children and women were mostly affected.

191 dead – NEMA

Meanwhile, a new report from the National Emergency Management Agency has revealed that in 2025, no fewer than 191 lives have been lost to the floods that have ravaged parts of the country, while 94 people remain missing.

The report obtained by our correspondent on Tuesday showed that Niger State recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 163 deaths, followed by Adamawa State, where 26 people lost their lives. One death each was reported in Borno and Gombe states.

The data further indicated that, so far this year, the floods have affected 134,435 people across 20 states and 47 local government areas.

The affected states include Abia, the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, and Kaduna. Others are Kano, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Ondo, Rivers, and Sokoto.

Additionally, 48,056 people have been displaced, while 239 injuries have been reported. The floods have also damaged 9,499 houses and affected 9,450 farmlands.

NEMA’s dashboard also revealed that among those affected are 27,121 men, 41,539 women, 60,071 children, 5,704 elderly persons, and 1,874 persons with disabilities.

In 2024, the floods affected 5,264,097 individuals, displacing 1,243,638 people across 35 states and 401 local government areas. The disaster resulted in 1,237 deaths and left 16,469 individuals injured.

Also, 116,172 houses were destroyed, and 1,439,296 hectares of farmlands were affected, further worsening the economic and humanitarian impact of the flooding across the country.

Ogun, Gombe ravaged

Parts of Ogun and Gombe states were ravaged by floods on Tuesday following heavy rainfall that began Monday night and lasted into the early hours of Tuesday.

At Redemption City, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Mowe, Ogun State, The PUNCH observed that residents, schoolchildren, and visiting church members attending the Redeemed Christian Church of God annual convention were trapped for hours as floodwaters submerged parts of the area.

One of the worst-hit areas was Estate 15, where some vehicles were completely submerged. Stranded residents had to abandon their cars and resorted to using canoes as a temporary means of transportation.

In response, RCCG officials deployed Type D school buses to help ferry people in and out of the premises.

“I was trapped inside the RCCG camp this (Tuesday) morning and couldn’t leave for work until a special luxurious bus provided by the church came to pick me and others,” a resident, Tunde, told The PUNCH.

It was same scenario at the OPIC area of the state, where the floods disrupted activities and destroyed properties.

In Gombe, the sExecutive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency, Haruna Abdullahi, says no fewer than four persons died from flood, windstorms and rainfall.

He disclosed that about 278 households comprising individuals and farmlands were affected.

Abdullahi said, “The last incident was in Kwami, Dukku, Billiri, Gombe, Yalmatu-Deba, Akko Local Government Areas.

“We received report of four dead persons, two from Gombe Local Government Area, one from Dukku and another in Kwami LG. About 278 households were affected mostly windstorm and flooding of farmlands, and some houses. Mostly the deaths were caused by cracked walls.”

Other states

A night of relentless rainfall plunged parts of Lagos into crisis on Monday, as flash floods swept through residential and commercial areas, stranding thousands and crippling economic activity in Nigeria’s largest city.

The rain, which began late Sunday and intensified through the early hours of Monday, overwhelmed drainage systems and turned streets into rivers across both Lagos Mainland and Island.

By dawn, neighbourhoods such as Ijede in Ikorodu, Lekki, Surulere, Agege, Ajegunle, Alimosho, and Eti-Osa were inundated. Viral videos from Ijede showed families waist-deep in floodwater, wading through what were once roads. In one emotionally charged clip, a barefoot woman in Oko Ope cried out in Yoruba for government intervention, describing how her home had been overrun, “The water is everywhere. We can’t even go inside. We’ve lost everything.”

Traders at major markets were forced to abandon shops as floodwaters invaded stalls, damaging goods. Commuters were left stranded for hours, with major roads waterlogged and transport systems disrupted across the metropolis.

On social media, the hashtags #LagosFlood and #IjedeTragedy trended as residents posted photos of submerged vehicles, flooded living rooms, and schools under water, renewing calls for a long-term solution to Lagos’s perennial flooding crisis.

Despite repeated promises from state officials over the years, the combination of poor urban planning, blocked drainage systems, and unregulated construction in water-prone zones continues to leave Lagos vulnerable to seasonal flooding.

In Delta State, residents of Sapele and Oko communities began experiencing heavy flooding as of Monday. Some residents have already started relocating after parts of their communities were submerged.

Victims of the flood lamented the damage to property and disruption of their daily lives, appealing for immediate intervention from the government.

The Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Ejiro, visited Sapele for an on-the-spot assessment and expressed sympathy for the affected residents. He assured them of the state government’s readiness to respond promptly to alleviate their suffering.

In Oko community, located in Oshimili South LGA, residents described the annual flooding as a recurring menace and called for a lasting solution.

“We are tired of this yearly trauma. We need drainage systems, not just empty promises,” one resident said.

In a related development, the Delta State Government has established six fully-equipped IDP camps in anticipation of widespread flooding, Ejiro announced on Tuesday.

Speaking to journalists, Ejiro said the proactive measure was in response to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s prediction of heavy rainfall and possible flooding in several parts of the state.

According to him, the IDP camps — located in Kwale, Ozoro, Patani, Bomadi, Uto-Jeremi, and Asaba — have been strategically sited in high-risk flood-prone areas to provide timely shelter and support for affected residents.

“These camps are fully equipped with modern facilities, including sick bays, security units, kitchens, and other essential amenities to ensure the safety and comfort of displaced persons,” the commissioner stated.

Ejiro further disclosed that the state government has constituted a Flood Disaster Management Committee led by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu. The committee, he said, is tasked with working closely with community leaders to sensitise residents in flood-prone communities on the need to relocate when necessary.

“Our goal is to ensure that lives are not lost due to preventable causes. When the need arises, we will evacuate affected residents to these designated camps,” Ejiro assured.

The announcement comes as several communities across Nigeria, including in Delta State, continue to suffer the devastating impact of seasonal flooding.

In Diggi town, Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State, a three-hour downpour displaced dozens of residents and left several homes underwater.

Eyewitnesses say the flood surged in from nearby unregulated waterways. “It came like a monster,” a resident said. “People lost everything within minutes.”

The Kebbi State Government directed its emergency agency and local authorities to provide immediate relief. Items including food, bedding, and medical supplies are already being mobilised, according to Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

Community leaders have urged citizens to keep drainages and waterways clear and are calling on NGOs, wealthy individuals, and corporate bodies to assist in recovery efforts.

In Bauchi State, the Bagel community in Dass Local Government Area suffered severe flooding, leaving many residents homeless. At least 13 houses were destroyed by the flood.

The Special Assistant on Media to the Chairman of Dass LGA, Yusuf Makama, confirmed the incident. He noted that Chairman Mohammad Jibo had visited the community, assessed the extent of the damage, and promised to provide relief materials.

“He appealed to the state and federal governments, as well as NGOs, to come to the aid of the victims,” Makama said.

In Shimankar District, Shendam LGA of Plateau State, a violent rainstorm on Sunday left a trail of destruction, affecting at least 50 homes, two primary schools, and a worship centre in Menkaat community.

Affected residents who spoke to The PUNCH in Jos on Tuesday described the extent of the destruction as “overwhelming.”

“We’ve been hit seriously. Our homes, schools, and places of worship were all destroyed,” said Lawrence Longwalk, a local resident. Another victim, Mrs. Akwe Hannatu, added, “We lost everything. Our home was destroyed, and we have nowhere to go.”

Though the State Emergency Management Agency has reportedly been alerted and plans to visit the area, residents say they are yet to receive tangible relief.

In Imo State, the National Emergency Management Agency confirmed that 27 villages in Oguta Local Government Area had been submerged by floodwaters. Seven villages in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, including Olokwu, were also affected, along with flash floods reported in parts of Owerri West LGA, such as Oforola, Avu, New Owerri, and the Akachi area.

A farmer, Amanze Okoro, told The PUNCH that he and his family had to relocate temporarily to their in-laws’ home in Owerri. “We had no choice. Our farm and house were completely taken over by water,” he said.

In Rivers State, continuous rainfall has led to flash flooding in parts of Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor LGAs. Areas affected include Amaechi Drive in GRA, Odili Road, and the Obi Wali axis of Rumuigbo.

Environmental rights activist and Executive Director of Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre, Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene, urged the government to declare a state of emergency in the flood-prone areas.

“Flash floods are now a regular occurrence. What we need is emergency drainage clearing, community sensitisation, and immediate government action. We can’t stop the rain, but we can prevent the suffering,” Dumnamene told The PUNCH in a phone interview.

With more rain predicted in the coming weeks by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, residents across the country are bracing for further hardship. Environmental experts warn that without proactive infrastructure investment, emergency preparedness, and community education, Nigeria will continue to suffer the devastating consequences of seasonal flooding.

States prepare

In Katsina State, following NiMet’s prediction of possible floods in Daura, Jibia, Funtua, and Bakori LGAs, the state government has designated primary and secondary schools as temporary shelters.

Binta Hussaini Dangane, Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, said local emergency committees have been trained across the 34 LGAs to respond promptly to any flood emergencies.

“The government has procured food and non-food items, while awareness campaigns are ongoing,” she said, urging residents to avoid dumping refuse in waterways and to clear blocked drainages.

Despite heavy and sustained rainfall in Bayelsa State, flood control efforts — especially in Yenagoa — have so far prevented severe flooding.

Officials credit ongoing desilting of natural drainage channels and reconstruction projects like the culvert at Osiri Road in Ekeki. Head of the Bayelsa Flood and Erosion Control Directorate, Chief Walson Omusu, said the state remains “ready and proactive.”

The Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency have commenced a joint flood damage assessment across multiple communities in the state following days of torrential rainfall that caused widespread destruction.

Assessment teams visited the most affected local government areas — Yabo, Shagari, and Tureta — where hundreds of residents have been displaced, homes washed away, and farmlands submerged.

In Yabo LG, floodwaters ravaged entire communities such as Shiyar Hegin-Rafi, Shiyar Sarkin Fawa, Shiyar Ubandoma, Shiyar Ubandawaki (Garkar Audu), and Kofar-Bai. Six rooms belonging to one Muhammadu Dan Nanuwa were completely destroyed, while 89-year-old Malam Bango Altine lost five rooms. The palace of the Sarkin Kabin Yabo also suffered significant damage.

In Shagari LG, more than 10 communities, including Lambara, Kambama, Jaredi, Kajiji, and Lokoko, were affected. Vast farmland in Illela-Chofal was submerged, raising fears of food insecurity. Local officials, led by disaster desk officer Ibrahim Abubakar, reported extensive destruction of crops and homes.

In Tureta LG, floods on July 23 and 25 displaced over 250 people across Inwala, Shiyar DanDile, and Lambar-Tureta. Two women were injured in a building collapse, while the home of a Federal Road Safety Corps official, Salisu Muhammad, was among those damaged. Tureta LGA Chairman, Hon. Aliyu Abubakar, blamed poor drainage systems for the disaster.

SEMA and NEMA say the data collected will guide relief distribution and long-term flood mitigation efforts. Temporary shelters have already been set up for displaced families, and officials pledged continued collaboration to strengthen infrastructure and drainage.

Despite flood warnings by NiMet and NIHSA, Kano State has not recorded any significant flooding as of early August. Authorities have, however, cautioned residents in flood-prone communities downstream of the Tiga, Challawa, and Bagauda dams to stay alert.

Similarly, the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA) confirmed that no part of the state has yet been flooded. Officials said they had launched sensitisation campaigns and prepared temporary shelters in Doma, Lafia, Toto, Awe, and Obi LGAs.

In Kaduna, there have been no reports of flooding despite consistent rainfall. The state emergency agency remains on alert as August and September typically see peak flooding. Authorities are monitoring dam levels and weather forecasts to ensure swift response.

The Benue State Emergency Management Agency also confirmed that no flooding has been reported. Officials are, however, prepared to respond if necessary.

While Edo State has yet to record major flooding this year, communities near the River Niger — including Udaba Odemokpa — remain on the edge as heavy rains are expected in September.

In Benin City, areas like Tomline along Lagos Road frequently flood after rainfall. Traders say blocked drainages continue to disrupt businesses.

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Plateau killings: Tinubu visits Jos, IG deploys mobile police

Published

12 hours ago

April 2, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday postponed his scheduled trip to Iperu, Ogun State, to prioritise a condolence visit to Jos, Plateau State, over last Sunday’s attacks that left at least 27 people dead.

The decision comes shortly after President Tinubu met with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Aso Rock Villa on Wednesday evening, where the governor briefed him on the security situation in the state.

Also, the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has ordered the deployment of Police Mobile Force units and other tactical teams to Plateau State.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed this in a statement he signed on Wednesday, titled “President Tinubu postpones Ogun trip, heads to Jos as he begins four-state visit.”

The President will now travel to Jos today to commiserate with the government and people of Plateau State over the recent attacks in the Angwan Rukuba district of Jos North.

Onanuga said from Plateau, the President will travel to Lagos to observe Good Friday and, on Saturday, April 4, he will proceed to Ogun State for the inauguration of the Gateway International Cargo Airport and the inauguration of two commercial aircraft for the export and import of goods.

The President will also inaugurate the new edifice of the Federal Operations Unit of the Nigerian Customs Service and its operational vehicles during the Ogun visit.

He will return to Lagos to continue the Easter holiday, during which he is expected to inaugurate infrastructure projects undertaken by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

These include the Ojota/Opebi Link Bridge, the Lagos State Geographic Information System Building, the Multi-Agency Complex named after the President, and a school complex.

The President Tinubu would also visit Bayelsa State on April 10 to inaugurate some completed projects of Governor Douye Diri, including the independent power plant.

Earlier, Mutfwang had told State House correspondents that the President was contemplating a personal visit to the state to commiserate with the people.

“The President commiserates with the entire state, and as a matter of fact, he’s contemplating coming to the state personally to commiserate with the people.

“It’s something that has touched him personally, and he wants to show the people his love and affection for them,” Mutfwang had told State House correspondents.

Tinubu had on Monday strongly condemned the attacks in Jos and in Kahir village, Kaduna State, describing them as “barbaric and cowardly” acts that will not go unpunished.

He also disclosed that he had invited the governor to brief him on the development alongside security chiefs to stop the killings.

Mutfwang arrived at the Villa at approximately 6:45pm on Wednesday.

Speaking with State House correspondents after meeting the President, he said security forces were yet to apprehend any of the attackers responsible for last Sunday’s killings in Angwan Rukuba district.

“Unfortunately, we’ve not been able to lay hands on the attackers yet to know their identities and their motive,” he said.

The governor said that without apprehending the perpetrators, authorities would not be able to determine the actual reasons behind the attack or establish their identities.

“In a crisis of this nature, you can’t reduce it to one reason. It is a mixture of multiple reasons, and sometimes you can only deduce the actual reasons when you are able to get two groups of people, first the victims and then the attackers.

“Unfortunately, we’ve not been able to lay hands on the attackers yet to know their identities and their motive,” he explained.

Mutfwang also revealed that looters attempted to disrupt the fragile peace in Jos on Wednesday morning, hours after the state government relaxed the curfew imposed following the attack.

“We relaxed the curfew this morning from 8am to 3pm, but unfortunately, this morning, there were some looters who tried to disrupt the peace again.

“But I’m glad that the security forces, working together, were able to calm the situation as of noon,” he said.

The governor disclosed that President Tinubu invited him to brief him first-hand on the attack and discuss the way forward.

He said the President had approved certain security measures to be implemented in conjunction with security forces, though he did not specify what these measures entail.

Mutfwang described the attack as an act of criminality, barbaric, and terrorism, insisting it could not be justified under any religion.

He said, “We are seeing this as an act of criminality. It is barbaric. We condemn it.

“It is an act of terrorism, because whatever religion you belong to, it does not give you any basis to come and do the kind of actions that were done on Sunday.”

The governor expressed optimism that the crisis would mark a decisive turning point for proactive security actions in the state.

“What I can assure you is that this has become a decisive turning point that I’m sure going forward we’re going to see more proactive actions,” he stated.

He added that corpses had been evacuated to the mortuary and some families had already buried their dead.

In a statement on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, the IGP ordered the deployment of Police Mobile Force units to the state.

Additional deployment, according to the statement, included tactical teams and intelligence operatives working in collaboration with other security agencies to prevent further breakdown of law and order across the state.

“In response to the situation, the Inspector-General of Police had earlier deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Umar Nadada, to Plateau State to assess the security situation, coordinate ongoing operations, and strengthen the existing security architecture,” the statement said.

It added that the IGP had further intensified operations through the deployment of additional mobile police units and other security assets to tackle the ongoing security challenges.

“The Inspector-General of Police states that these actions will continue until normal conditions return.

“He has instructed all operational commanders to ensure visible policing and actively engage with vulnerable communities,” the statement added.

The police boss also commiserated with the Plateau State Government, the people of the state, and the families of the victims affected by the attack in Angwan Rukuba.

He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies, warning against taking the law into their own hands.

Earlier on Wednesday, tension remained high as security operatives struggled to restore calm, following the relaxation of the curfew.

Our correspondent reports that the curfew was initially imposed after gunmen attacked residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos, leaving at least 28 people dead.

However, the state government eased the curfew earlier imposed on the Jos North Local Government Area following improved security in the area.

The Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, who disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, explained that the curfew would run from 7 am to 3 pm daily, effective Wednesday, April 1, to allow residents to attend to their normal activities within the permitted hours.

But on Wednesday morning, hoodlums and an irate mob reportedly attacked many motorists and passersby in different parts of the city, raising fresh fear and panic among residents.

A video of a young man hacked to death by hoodlums on the road leading to the University of Jos permanent site raised tension across the town.

It was further learnt that motorists in the Terminus and Bauchi Road, Gangere areas, had their windscreens smashed by hoodlums.

Some of the most affected areas included the University of Jos axis, Bauchi Road, Farin Gada, Tina Junction, and Chobe, among others.

Banks and schools located in the affected areas were forced to close down operations.

“We are scared to open our shops, we don’t know what might happen. But there is no need for the current tension in Jos.

“The governor has done well by relaxing the curfew in the interest of the people, but it’s very unfortunate how some people can decide to take the law into their hands for no reason, and I think the government should not allow them to have their way.

“The government needs to do more to ensure our safety,” a resident, Joy Bature, who runs a provision shop at the Terminus Market, said

UNIJOS evacuates students

Our correspondent reports that following the disturbances, the University of Jos ordered the evacuation of students from its hostels, citing the worsening security situation.

The directive was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the institution’s Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, Emmanuel Madugu.

The statement read, “In view of the general security situation in Jos, and particularly the near chaotic scenarios that unfolded today (Wednesday 1st April 2026), in areas near the university which heightened tensions and threatened the safety of students in the hostels, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Tanko Ishaya, has directed the immediate evacuation of students of the university from the hostels.

“The evacuation is facilitated by HE Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, who has provided transport services, fully authorised to carry out the assignment even within the curfew hours.”

Students residing within Jos and its environs were directed to vacate the hostels from 3 pm on Wednesday, while those whose parents or guardians live outside the state are to be evacuated from 8 am on Thursday.

The management assured all that adequate security had been deployed to safeguard the hostels and the institution.

It also urged students and members of the university community to remain calm, adding that further updates would be communicated as necessary.

UNIJOS alumni worried

The University of Jos Alumni Association, in a statement on Wednesday, expressed concern over the recent rise in tension and reported threats affecting students, staff, and the broader university community within Jos North Local Government Area.

In a statement signed by its Global President, Gad Shamaki, the association urged the Plateau State Government and security agencies to deploy an enhanced security presence across all University of Jos campuses, student hostels, residential areas, and major access routes.

“We specifically request round-the-clock patrols, intelligence-led surveillance, and rapid response units to ensure that any potential threats are proactively addressed and swiftly neutralised,” Shamaki said.

The association also advised students to stay indoors, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activity, prioritising their safety and well-being.

A cross-section of residents who also reacted to the situation called for increased security deployment, particularly around the University of Jos, where students are stranded.

“There’s an urgent need for security deployment to the University of Jos environment, precisely the students’ village hostel.

“We appeal to the security agencies to beam their searchlight around that axis,” said a resident.

Another resident, Ishaku Mark, who lamented the situation, noted, “The Plateau State Government has relaxed the curfew, allowing movement from 7 am to 3 pm daily, effective April 1, 2026, following relative calm in the area after a violent attack that claimed 28 lives.

“What needs to be done is for the residents to maintain peace and not escalate tensions. Those responsible for the renewed tension should be fished out and dealt with.”

When contacted, the spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, was not readily available to comment on the situation, but sources at the command headquarters in Jos assured all that security agencies had been deployed to the affected areas and were working to restore calm and maintain law and order”

Fresh curfew announced

In a bid to maintain peace, the chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, Emmanuel Mwolpun, imposed a fresh curfew in Mangu metropolis, effective from April 1, 2026, until further notice.

It was learned that the curfew will run from 8pm to 6am, effective on Wednesday, April 1.

The spokesman for the Mwaghavul Development Association in the council area, Friday Derwan, confirmed the development in an interview with The PUNCH in Jos on Wednesday.

Derwan said, “Yes, it’s true. There is a curfew in Mangu. It was imposed by the LG chairman in consultation with the security agencies and other stakeholders.

“It is not as if there is any crisis anywhere in the LGA. We felt there was a need to take proactive measures to protect the citizens, given what is happening in Jos and given the past experience of the Mangu LGA.”

A statement later issued on Wednesday by the LGA authority also confirmed the curfew, stating that the move was aimed at ensuring the safety and security of residents and property within the metropolis.

The statement signed by the Director of Press and Publicity to the Chairman, Mangu LGA, Jeremiah Dakahap, read, “Following a careful deliberation with heads of security operatives, the Chairman of Mangu Local Government, Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun, has imposed a curfew in Mangu metropolis, effective from April 1st, 2026, until further notice.

“The curfew hours have been set from 8pm (night) to 6 am daily. This measure is taken to ensure the safety and security of residents and property within the metropolis.”

“The Local Government Administration urges all residents to comply with the curfew directive. Members of the public are advised to stay indoors during the curfew hours and cooperate with security personnel on duty.

“The Executive Chairman appeals to residents to go about their daily activities peacefully and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

“This curfew is imposed in the interest of public safety and security.”

NYSC suspends clearance

The National Youth Service Corps on Wednesday suspended the ongoing biometric clearance across all local government areas in Plateau State.

The suspension, approved by the NYSC Director General, affected all the LGAs in the state.

According to a statement signed by the NYSC state coordinator, J. Yavala, the suspension was due to security concerns.

The statement assured that clearances done for April remained valid, adding that the exercise would resume as soon as normalcy returned to the state.

It advised corps members to stay indoors and stay safe.

Lawyers demand tougher action

The Plateau Lawyers Bar Forum called for stricter penalties against commercial motorcycle operators who violate the ban on their activities within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the forum’s chairman, Ledak D. Dafer and Secretary, Dr D.N. Dashe, strongly condemned the killings and urged the state government to ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.

The lawyers called on the government to identify, arrest and prosecute the attackers and anyone found to have sponsored the assault.

They also demanded an investigation into what they described as a delayed response by the police, noting that security formations were located close to the scene of the incident.

“The Plateau Lawyers Bar Forum has found it imperative to unequivocally condemn the dastardly and mindless killings of defenceless residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos, Plateau State, by armed criminals,” the statement said.

The forum urged the Plateau State Government to strictly enforce the existing ban on commercial motorcycles across the Jos-Bukuru metropolis without exception.

Police arrest fake soldier

Operatives of the Plateau State Police Command arrested a fake soldier in the state capital.

It was learnt that the suspect was immediately taken to the police headquarters in Jos to be paraded by the Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah.

In a statement confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer, Alabo Alfred, invited members of the press to cover the event, stating that the arrest was made in Angwan Rukuba, a community in Jos North LGA of the state, still reeling from a recent deadly attack that claimed 28 lives.

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Alleged coup: Families of detained officers protest at N’Assembly

Published

12 hours ago

April 2, 2026

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Scores of children and wives of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly on Wednesday, demanding a speedy trial and the release of the accused officials.

The visibly distraught protesters gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, moving in a slow procession while clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Don’t Kill Our Daddies,” “Detention Without Trial is Injustice,” and “Six Months of Torture: Enough Is Enough.”

Amid tears and trembling voices, the children appealed for justice and access to their fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months.

Speaking exclusively with The PUNCH, eight-year-old Halima Mohammed, daughter of Lt Col Mohammed Almakura, said, “Please don’t kill our daddy. We want justice for him.

“Since he was arrested by the government, our lives have not been the same again. My mummy cries every day. I really miss him so much.”

Nine-year-old Ibrahim Bala, son of Major Bala, also expressed deep longing for his father.

“Let the government bring my daddy back safely.”

The last time I saw him was nine months ago. I really miss him. He used to teach me things about school and how children should behave towards adults.

“I’m in primary four. But I last saw him about six months ago. Our house has been lonely without him. I also miss him because nobody used to take me out as he used to do before,” he said.

Four-year-old Fatima Yusuf, daughter of Wing Commander Yusuf, made an emotional plea to the nation’s leadership.

She said, “I want to beg the President and our First Lady to bring my daddy safely back. Since he left, I have no one to play with. He always helped me to learn things I didn’t know and took me out.”

Eleven-year-old Nana Aisha Usman urged the authorities to either release the detained officers or charge them in court.

“Please help us beg the government to release my daddy or take him to court. He and other people locked up deserve justice. Since he was taken away, the house is empty without his presence.

“If he is at home, he takes me to the shop and buys things for me. Any time I bring my assignments, he is always happy to help me with them. I don’t think my dad is a bad person. He never meant harm to anybody. I want the government to help us investigate and free him.”

One of the spouses, Nana Ibrahim, described the circumstances surrounding the arrests and continued detention as questionable.

She said, “The whole coup allegation and arrest are shady. Investigations and statements have been conducted for over six months.

“Yet, they have been denied access to their families and lawyers. If they have any evidence about their involvement, they should come out with it boldly with their chest.

“They should let the world know how many people are indicted or in detention and charge them in court. That is all we are asking.

“After all, they have announced that they have concluded their water-tight investigation and evidence. So, why the delay? They should take them to court and come out with the evidence.

“We want an open trial where everybody will listen to the charges and defend themselves. If they can prove themselves beyond a reasonable doubt, they should be set free. Enough is enough!”

The protest comes about a month after families of the detained officers appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant them access to their husbands and ensure they are either released or arraigned before a court of law.

The appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja attended by no fewer than 20 wives and several children of the detained officers, including a two-month-old baby.

The families were accompanied by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore.

At the briefing, the families lamented that the officers had been held for over 160 days without trial or contact with their relatives, describing the situation as a violation of their fundamental rights.

Speaking on behalf of the families, Memuna Bashiru said the prolonged detention had thrown their households into uncertainty and emotional distress, noting that while allegations had been widely publicised, families remained in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.

They appealed directly to the President and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to intervene, stressing that their demand was not for favours but for adherence to constitutional provisions.

The arrest of the indicted officers was first announced on October 4, 2025, by the then Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, who disclosed that 16 officers were taken into custody for alleged breaches of military regulations and acts of indiscipline.

However, an interim investigation later suggested the existence of a clandestine network of officers, allegedly coordinated by a senior Army officer, which had begun preliminary planning for a coup.

According to the report, the alleged plot involved surveillance of key national assets, including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and major international airports, with October 25, 2025, cited as the planned date for the operation.

Those reportedly in custody include Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A. A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, and Maj M. A. Usman.

Others are Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A. A. Yusuf, Lt S. S. Felix, Lt Cdr D. B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S. B. Adamu and Maj I. Dauda.

The alleged plot, according to findings, targeted senior government officials, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

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News

El-Rufai returns to ICPC custody

Published

1 day ago

April 1, 2026

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A former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has been returned to the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Commission (ICPC).

El-Rufai, who left custody on March 27, 2026, following the death of his mother, was re-arraigned on Tuesday.

Earlier, the court had adjourned his application for bail till March 31, 2026.

But, on Tuesday, he first appeared at the Kaduna State High Court for a separate charge filed against him by the ICPC.

The absence of the second defendant stalled the hearing, which was then adjourned to 10 April 2026.

Subsequently, he was taken to the Federal High Court, Kaduna, which was scheduled to hear his application for bail today, Wednesday.

Shortly after the court’s proceedings, the former governor was returned to the ICPC custody pending the continuation of his trial on Wednesday.

Daily Trust reports that the chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was taken to the court amid tight security, less than 24 hours after he received dignitaries over the death of his mother, Hajiya Ummar El-Rufai.

Confirming the adjournment of the bail application to one of our correspondents on Tuesday, El-Rufai’s Counsel, Upong Akpan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said the hearing on the bail application would determine his client’s fate temporarily.

Akpan, who did not go into details, expressed confidence that the former governor would regain his freedom in due time.

“I’m sorry, I can’t talk now, we are in the middle of work. I have to go and file responses. The hearing of the bail application has been adjourned till tomorrow,” he told Daily Trust.

Charges against El-Rufai

El-Rufai is standing trial before the Federal High Court on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.

The charges include: alleged unlawful receipt of about N289.8 million as severance allowance above-entitled benefits; alleged receipt of $320,800 through multiple deposits into a domiciliary account; alleged receipt of $155,800 and $305,300 from separate individuals; and alleged receipt of smaller dollar deposits from different persons at various times.

He denied all allegations levelled against him.

What happened in court

In the court, the Defence Counsel filed a motion, urging the presiding judge, Justice Rilwan M. Aikawa, to recuse himself from the case on grounds of alleged bias and a pending petition.

However, another motion was subsequently filed to withdraw the earlier request seeking the judge’s recusal.

The prosecution also filed a counter-affidavit opposing the bail application, which contributed to the adjournment.

Earlier, El-Rufai, who was arraigned before a Kaduna State High Court sitting in Kawo before Justice Darious Khobo on separate charges, was scheduled to be docked alongside his co-defendant, one Amadu Sule, but the latter was absent in Court over reported ill-health.

Specifically, ICPC said the duo were being arraigned over allegations that border on abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud and conferring undue advantage.

It was gathered that the case, with charge number KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26, was adjourned to April 10, 2026, for further hearing. The anti-graft agency had earlier explained that both charges were filed on March 18, 2026.

Specifically, armed personnel of the police, DSS and Kaduna State Vigilance Service were deployed to strategic locations, while major roads, including Ali Akilu Road, witnessed heavy traffic due to movement restrictions.

Journalists were barred from covering the proceedings, as the prosecuting counsel, Dr Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha, declined to speak to the media.

Similarly, the Defence counsel, Ubong Akpan (SAN), also declined to comment at the State High Court.

The spokesman of the ICPC, John Odey, could not be reached last night when contacted, as calls to his mobile phone did not connect.

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