FG Launches Recruitment of National Health Fellows to Strengthen Rural Healthcare in Nasarawa

The Federal Government has commenced the recruitment of young medical professionals to serve as National Health Fellows, a presidential initiative aimed at fostering a new generation of leaders in the health sector.

The program targets the selection of thirteen youths from the thirteen local government areas of Nasarawa State, with the goal of strengthening local capacity for health system reform and improving service delivery, particularly for rural communities.

Implemented by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with state health ministries and development partners, the National Health Fellows program seeks to equip young professionals with leadership and management skills in primary healthcare facilities across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas. Each local government area will host one health fellow.

The current session focuses on selecting fellows for Nasarawa State, with the selection panel evaluating applicants on areas of competence that will enhance healthcare delivery in rural communities. The panel emphasizes that the recruitment process will be merit-based, ensuring fairness, transparency, and credibility.

Selected fellows will serve for a one-year tenure, during which they will contribute to healthcare reforms and youth leadership development at both national and state levels.

This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to developing youth leadership in the health sector while addressing critical gaps in rural healthcare delivery.

Can Anyone Really Push Wike Out of Rivers Politics? FCT Minister Boasts of Unshakable Control, Defies Rivals, and Says Only His Camp Truly Delivered Tinubu’s 2023 Victory

Is Nyesom Wike still the most powerful political force in Rivers State, and can any group truly challenge his grip on the state’s politics? The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister has answered that question with confidence, declaring that no political camp can push him or his loyalists out of Rivers State, despite threats, attacks, and growing opposition since the 2023 general elections.

Speaking during a visit to the Port Harcourt City Local Government Area Secretariat, where he met party leaders, traditional rulers, women, and youth groups, Wike insisted that his political structure remains intact and battle-tested. “Nobody in this state can push us out. We have led this war since 2023 and we have never reneged,” he said, adding that his supporters had stood firm in the face of intense pressure.

The former Rivers governor explained that his ongoing tour of the state’s 23 local government areas was both a show of appreciation to his supporters and a rallying call to maintain backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. According to Wike, Rivers State remains one of the President’s most dependable strongholds.

“If there is one state the President knows he can go home and sleep with his two eyes closed, it is Rivers State,” he declared, arguing that his political camp paid the price for its early and unwavering commitment to Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.

Wike also fired back at politicians he accused of opportunism, claiming that those who failed to support Tinubu in 2023 are now attempting to take over the Renewed Hope movement. He dismissed such efforts as dishonest and bound to fail. Using a vivid metaphor, he said they were like people who contributed nothing to a meal but suddenly wanted to eat first once the food was ready.

Describing Port Harcourt as a politically complex, cosmopolitan city, Wike said electoral victories there are particularly difficult, making any success significant. He further claimed that Rivers State is unique in its ability to bring leaders of the two major political parties together to work as a team—a strategy he said was central to Tinubu’s victory.

“This is the only state where you can see the leadership of two major political parties working as a team,” he said, urging other states to emulate Rivers rather than resent it.

While projecting strength, Wike also called for unity, humility, and responsive leadership within the state. “Leadership is not a birthright,” he warned, adding that good leaders must listen to the people and be willing to change when advised. He concluded by praising the Port Harcourt City council leadership for its cooperation and urged sustained unity to drive development.

His bold remarks raise key political questions: Is Wike’s dominance in Rivers truly unbreakable? Are his rivals capable of mounting a serious challenge? And will Rivers remain a decisive power base for Tinubu as the 2027 elections approach?

Did Abdulfatah Ahmed Divert ₦5.78 Billion UBEC Funds? Why Kwara Court Adjourned Ex-Governor’s Fraud Trial to February 16

A Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has adjourned the ₦5.78 billion alleged fraud trial of former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and his former Commissioner for Finance, Ademola Banu, raising fresh questions about how public education funds were allegedly diverted under the previous administration. The case, which resumed before Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar, was postponed to February 16, 2026, following legal objections during the presentation of evidence by the prosecution.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), through its Ilorin Zonal Directorate, is prosecuting the former officials over claims that funds meant for educational development were unlawfully redirected. According to the EFCC, the defendants approved the use of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) matching grants—money specifically allocated for building and upgrading primary and junior secondary schools across Kwara’s 16 local government areas—to pay civil servants’ salaries, contrary to the conditions attached to the funds.

During the latest hearing, the prosecution called its sixth witness, Stanley Ujilibo, who told the court that the EFCC obtained bank statements from Polaris Bank (formerly Skye Bank) and Guaranty Trust Bank as part of its investigation. He explained that official letters dated August 1, 2025, were sent to both banks requesting records of Kwara State Government accounts. The banks acknowledged the requests and provided the statements, which were admitted as exhibits by the court.

The trial further revisited earlier testimony by a former Accountant-General of Kwara State, Suleiman Oluwadare Ishola, who stated that ₦1 billion from UBEC matching grants was borrowed in 2015 by the Ahmed administration to pay salaries and pensions. This revelation has intensified public scrutiny over whether funds intended for school infrastructure were systematically diverted for recurrent government expenses.

However, proceedings were briefly stalled when the EFCC attempted to tender additional documents from the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General. Defence counsel, led by Kamaldeen Ajibade, objected on procedural grounds, arguing that the documents had not been properly highlighted for clarity and reference. Justice Abdulgafar upheld the objection and consequently adjourned the case.

The adjournment has sparked debate across Kwara State and beyond: Was public education funding sacrificed to cover salary obligations? Did the former administration violate the terms governing UBEC grants? And will the evidence presented be enough to establish criminal responsibility?

As the trial continues, the case stands as a major test of accountability in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, particularly regarding the management of education funds and the prosecution of high-profile political figures.

Breaking: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Reaffirms Support for President Tinubu Amid Rivers APC Clash Ahead of 2027 Elections

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, emphasizing that his political structure in Rivers State is fully committed to the President. Wike made the statement on January 6, 2026, during ongoing consultations across local government areas in Rivers State. His declaration comes amid a public clash with APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru over party influence and local politics. Wike warned against interference in Rivers State, calling it a “no-go area” for outsiders. The tensions reflect deep divisions within the APC, particularly following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s defection from the PDP to the ruling party. Despite these challenges, Wike affirmed that his loyalty to Tinubu remains non-negotiable, reinforcing his influence over grassroots structures in Rivers State as a key factor in the party’s electoral strategy.

#NyesomWike #BolaTinubu #APC #RiversStatePolitics #2027Elections #PoliticalTensions #FCTMinister #NigeriaPolitics

Nigeria Labour Congress Accuses Police of Intimidating Local Government Workers in Osun, Warns Against Renewed Crisis After 11-Month Strike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Osun State has raised alarm over what it described as the intimidation and arrest of local government workers by the police, barely hours after employees resumed duty following an almost 11-month industrial action. The NLC Chairman in the state, Christopher Arapasopo, warned that the development could disrupt the fragile peace that followed the prolonged shutdown of council activities.

According to Arapasopo, reports from several local government areas indicate that workers were being targeted within council premises. Although the Osun State Police Command has not officially confirmed any arrests, sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC) claimed that two to three workers were apprehended for allegedly attempting to remove documents from secretariats in Boluwaduro LGA (Otan Ayegbaju) and Egbedore LGA (Awo) shortly after work resumed. Images and videos of the alleged arrests circulated online, intensifying public debate.

Speaking at the Osun State Government’s 2026 annual prayer event in Abere, Arapasopo condemned what he called attempts to criminalise civil servants for performing their duties. He accused the police of allowing themselves to be used for political purposes, alleging that workers were being paraded, humiliated, and forced to kneel. He demanded the immediate release of those detained and warned that labour would not tolerate continued harassment.

The NLC chairman further accused the APC of attempting to destabilise the state, vowing that labour would resist any attempt to plunge Osun into crisis through lawful means. He also linked labour’s stance to political accountability, stating that workers would “vote accordingly” in response to how they are treated.

As of the time of the report, the police had yet to issue an official statement. The incident has heightened concerns that unresolved political and administrative tensions at the local government level could once again strain industrial relations in Osun State, just days after workers returned from a prolonged strike.

Ekiti 2026: APC Aspirant Kayode Ojo’s Supporters Allege Police Arrests, Intimidation and Secret Detention Under Governor Oyebanji as Party Crisis Deepens

Supporters of Engineer Kayode Ojo, an aspirant in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship race on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have accused the Ekiti State Government and the police of sustained intimidation, arrests and harassment aimed at silencing dissent within the ruling party. The allegations were contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Kayode Ojo Campaign Organisation, Femi Awojobi, who described the situation as a serious threat to democracy, rule of law and internal party freedom in the state.

According to the campaign, APC members who openly or quietly support Ojo have been targeted through arrests, unlawful detention and intimidation, allegedly under the administration of Governor Abayomi Oyebanji. Several party members across different local government areas were named as victims, including ward executives, women and youth leaders, raising concerns about what the group called a deliberate attempt to crush alternative political opinions within the APC.

The statement highlighted the arrest and alleged secret detention of Akogun Abayomi, popularly known as Lustay, as the most alarming case. Abayomi was reportedly arrested on January 1, 2026, by police officers without a warrant or explanation and denied access to his family, lawyers and medication. The campaign alleged that police initially denied holding him, only for his wife to later discover his vehicle inside the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) premises, sparking fears of abuse of power and lack of transparency.

The group further alleged that Abayomi was subjected to political intimidation, including pressure to renounce his support for Kayode Ojo, and accused the police of acting as a political tool. Describing the situation as a national embarrassment, the campaign called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Judicial Council, civil society organisations and prominent Ekiti stakeholders to intervene, investigate alleged abuses and ensure the immediate release of all supporters detained over their political beliefs.

LOKOJA: TROOPS FOIL BANDITS MOVEMENT: ARREST LOGISTICS SUPPLIER IN KOGI

Troops, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Lokoja on Saturday 3 January 2026 recorded another operational successes following coordinated patrols and ambush, conducted in Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi State.

A statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Lieutenant HASSAN ABDULLAHI says the troops, acting on credible intelligence on the movement of bandits from Adankolo area towards Agbadu Bunu in Kabba Bunu LGA, swiftly deployed and laid ambush at bandits identified crossing point.

He says the he bandits subsequently ran into the troops's ambush where they were engaged.

In the course of the encounter, troops neutralized two bandits and recovered one AK 47 rifle.

Relatedly, further intelligence revealed another movement of bandits around Saminaka village in Yagba West LGA.

The statement says Troops, in conjunction with local vigilantes, conducted a patrol to the village and adjoining forested areas. On arrival, the village was observed to have been deserted, prompting troops to dismount and explore the surrounding forest and routes leading towards the Saminaka Sabo Rijiya road where they came across a number of bandits and engaged them.

During the operation, troops also arrested a suspected bandit logistics supplier identified as Sunday Adedotun, from Odo Eri village in Yagba West LGA.

The suspect was apprehended on a farmland within Saminaka village, claiming to be assisting farmers in transporting produce from their farms.

Items discovered include cartons of energy and soft drinks, bottled water and harvested farm produce.

The suspect according to the statement is currently in custody undergoing investigation.

Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi commends the troops for their professionalism, courage and timely response to credible intelligence, noting that their actions reflect the high level of commitment to duty.

He assures the public that troops will continue to sustain aggressive patrols, ambushes and intelligence driven operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the area.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Over 30 Women, Children Displaced by Bandits Forced to Share Single Room at Unofficial Zamfara IDP Camp

More than 30 women and children displaced by bandit attacks are crammed into a single room at an unofficial IDP camp in Gusau, Zamfara State. Videos shared by lawyer Mubashir Umar reveal horrific living conditions, with victims recounting abductions, killings, rape, hunger and prolonged captivity despite ransom payments. Umar blamed the worsening humanitarian crisis on the Zamfara State government’s failure to establish official IDP camps across the state’s 14 local government areas, leaving displaced persons to seek shelter in schools, unfinished buildings, markets and private homes amid escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West.

FG GRADUATES OVER 7,000 FOREST GUARDS, SET FOR IMMEDIATE DEPLOYMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

Fresh Details Emerge as Sokoto Residents Recount Panic, Damage After US Drone Strikes Hit Communities

Residents of Tambuwal and Tangaza local government areas in Sokoto State have shared firsthand accounts of panic and property damage following drone strikes carried out by the United States military on suspected terrorist hideouts. Eyewitnesses in Jabo district of Tambuwal LGA described seeing a low-flying object before a loud explosion created a large crater on farmland, while a medical practitioner said her house roof was damaged by the blast. Although no casualties were reported, the strikes sparked fear among residents, particularly in communities previously considered peaceful. In Tangaza LGA, local officials confirmed strikes on locations believed to be linked to the Lakurawa group, with authorities yet to verify the full impact. Nigerian officials later confirmed the airstrikes as part of ongoing security cooperation with the United States.

Nigerian Police Parade Three Masquerades In Akwa Ibom Over Violent Attacks As Governor Umo Eno Enforces Statewide Ban On Street Displays

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has paraded three masquerades—Samuel Ime, Kingsley Samuel, and Idiome Samuel—over alleged violent attacks on residents that left several victims injured and hospitalised. The incident comes amid a strict statewide ban on masquerade activities on streets and highways announced by Governor Umo Eno to curb rising cases of harassment, violence, and public disorder. While reaffirming respect for cultural traditions, the governor stressed that masquerade displays must be confined to designated village squares and traditional spaces, warning that public safety and human dignity take priority during the festive season. Security agencies have been directed to fully enforce the ban across all 31 local government areas of the state.

#AkwaIbom
#NigerianPolice
#MasqueradeBan

Nigeria Records 153 Measles Deaths in 11 Months with Over 19,000 Confirmed Cases Across 36 States – NCDC Report

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a total of 19,213 confirmed measles cases out of 26,866 suspected cases in 507 Local Government Areas across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as of November 2025. The report revealed 153 deaths from the disease, with children aged 9–59 months accounting for nearly half of all confirmed cases. Disturbingly, 77% of confirmed cases were among children who had not received any measles vaccination. States with the highest number of suspected cases include Borno, Zamfara, Yobe, Bauchi, and Kebbi. The NCDC highlighted that measles remains highly infectious, spreading through respiratory droplets and remaining contagious for up to two hours in the environment. The report underscores the urgent need for intensified vaccination campaigns and public health measures to prevent further fatalities.

Ondo Communities Accuse Rex Forestry of Failing CSR Duties, Ignoring Government Directives

Communities in Okitipupa and Odigbo Local Government Areas of Ondo State have accused Rex Forestry Limited of neglecting its Corporate Social Responsibility obligations and defying government directives. The firm, operating under the Ondo State Afforestation Project, allegedly failed to allocate 1% of its budget to CSR, hire local indigenes, and support education, sanitation, and skills training programs. Despite prior meetings and a seven-point government agenda to address these issues, the company reportedly continued to employ outsiders and disregarded local demands. Community leaders have formally petitioned the Ondo State Government for urgent intervention to enforce compliance and prevent unrest.

Borno state independent electoral commission has commenced the distribution of sensitive and non sensitive materials to the twenty seven local government areas of the state ahead of December 13th local government election.

Chairman of the commission, Dr. Tahiru Shettima says the Commission is fully prepared for the chairmanship and councillorship election with measures in place to ensure no eligible voter is left out even in hard to reach areas, urging political parties to abide by the electoral guidelines and calling on voters to turn out in large numbers to exercise their civic duty.

Kebbi State Government Approves N10bn Loan To Secure Extra 1,300 Hajj Slots

The Kebbi State Government has approved a N10 billion loan to secure an additional 1,300 Hajj seats for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 pilgrimage. The Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruku Aliyu-Yaro, disclosed this on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi while briefing journalists.

He explained that the intervention was necessary to meet the December 5 deadline earlier fixed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria. Aliyu-Yaro praised Governor Nasir Idris for what he described as a timely and people-focused decision, noting that many prospective pilgrims were already distressed over f£ars of losing their slots.

According to him, the loan not only protected the state’s full allocation but also created opportunities for more residents to participate. He also announced that the payment deadline for intending pilgrims has now been extended to December 16. With the extension, pilgrims can now complete payment of the N7,696,769.79 Hajj fare without pressure.

He added that all 21 local government areas in the state would benefit equally from the new arrangement. Aliyu-Yaro further revealed that preparations for the 2026 Hajj had already been underway for several months, stressing that Kebbi remains one of the leading states in early planning and coordination for the pilgrimage.

Insecurity: Kano gov gathers 4,444 Qur’an reciters for prayers against banditry

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has warned against politicising insecurity, stressing that the growing threat of banditry demands collective action from all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

The governor made the remarks on Saturday night during a special prayer session at the Government House, where 4,444 Qur’an memorizers (Huffaz) gathered to recite the Holy Qur’an and offer prayers for lasting peace in the state following recent attacks by armed bandits.

The event drew notable figures, including the 16th Fulani Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, top government officials, clerics and community leaders.

Governor Yusuf emphasised that insecurity affects everyone equally, urging Nigerians to unite in confronting the menace.

“Insecurity does not know politics or party affiliations. This is why everyone, regardless of their leanings, must join hands to fight the monster of banditry. We want to see everybody working together to free Kano,” he said.

According to him, the government is working round-the-clock with security operatives to protect Kano and its environs.

Describing the mass prayer session as a vital spiritual effort, the governor noted that such initiatives should be appreciated by all well-meaning residents.

The prayer session drew Islamic scholars, Qur’an reciters and participants from all 44 local government areas, all united in seeking divine intervention and an end to insecurity in the state.

KANO: GOV YUSUF PROMISES SAFE RETURN OF KIDNAPPED VICTIMS

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has charged security agencies in the state to ensure the safe and unconditional release of all victims kidnapped in Tsanyawa and Shanono local government areas.

Anambra Healthcare Crisis Worsens as 55 PHCs Operate With Fewer Than Five Qualified Health Workers



A severe healthcare crisis is unfolding in Anambra State, where 55 out of 66 assessed Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) operate with fewer than five government-employed health workers. Data from Orodata Science’s CheckMyPHCs platform reveals widespread understaffing across 16 local government areas, with some facilities run by only one worker—often a community extension worker or volunteer with limited training.
The situation falls far below the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and WHO minimum staffing standards, which require at least 12 staff for primary health clinics and 24 for fully equipped PHCs. Years of underfunding, stalled recruitment, and poor incentives have left rural communities without adequate maternal care, emergency response, or 24-hour medical support.
Residents describe many PHCs as “buildings without workers,” with emergencies often unattended at night. Health experts warn that the shortage threatens progress in maternal and child health, immunization, and disease surveillance. Despite the state government’s recent effort to recruit 10 health workers per ward, analysts say it is far from sufficient to reverse the deepening crisis.

JUST IN: The Delta State Government says it is injecting a total of N75 billion into road projects across the state’s 25 local government areas.

The state Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed

12 BRIGADE TROOPS RESCUE 6 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS IN KOGI

12 Brigade Troops of the Nigerian Army, Lokoja have recorded another operational success with the rescue of six kidnapped victims during a coordinated search and rescue mission.

This time in Ejiba and Saminaka Forests axis, spanning Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi State.

A press statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations
12 Brigade Nigerian Army Lokoja Lieutenant HASSAN ABDULLAHI says, the operation is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal activities in the State.

The statement further says, intensive air and ground offensives by troops, supported by the Nigeria Police helicopter, yielded results when troops deployed at Patrol Base Ejiba in Yagba West, intercepted the victims.

The rescued persons were found to have been released by the bandits following the sustained pressure by the joint operations.

Five of the rescued persons have been reunited with their families in Egbe and Ejiba communities of Yagba West Local Government Area while the sixth is currently receiving medical attention due to his condition at the point of rescue.