What Will 2026 Really Bring for Nigeria and the World? Azu Ishiekwene Predicts Power Shifts, Economic Strain, AI Disruption, 2027 Politics and Who Wins the World Cup

Is 2026 a year of quiet recovery—or the beginning of deeper political, economic and global turbulence? And is Nigeria already slipping into the politics of 2027?

In what he describes as possibly his final annual forecast, journalist and columnist Azu Ishiekwene delivers a sweeping, high-stakes outlook on Nigeria and the world, blending political prediction, economic analysis, technology trends and global power shifts. Known for earlier forecasts that accurately anticipated election outcomes and cabinet shake-ups, Ishiekwene argues that 2026 will be a year where politics collides head-on with harsh economic realities, leaving citizens caught between daily hardship and recycled political promises.

He warns that Nigeria’s economy will remain under pressure, with tensions growing between tight monetary policy and rising demands for fiscal expansion in a pre-election year. Could divisions inside the Ministry of Finance undermine investor confidence? And will petrol prices remain stable around ₦850 per litre, as he suggests, only if oil output rises and NNPC escapes its heavy crude obligations?

While cheaper fuel from the Dangote Refinery may offer temporary consumer relief, Ishiekwene predicts continued instability in electricity supply, pointing to a fragile transmission system that still requires massive investment. He also foresees President Bola Tinubu possibly unveiling private-sector-led reforms in power transmission involving major business players.

But is Nigeria already entering the politics of 2027 in 2026?

Ishiekwene argues that although early elections are unlikely, political realignments are accelerating. With multiple opposition governors defecting to the ruling APC, claims of a creeping one-party state are growing. Yet, he suggests the reality is more complex: a weakened opposition plagued by internal fractures, financial constraints and a lack of coherent alternatives.

Turning to the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition—uniting figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso—he raises a critical question: is ADC truly built to win in 2027, or merely to survive until 2031? He predicts Atiku will clinch the party’s ticket over Obi, with Obi likely offered the vice-presidential slot—potentially triggering backlash among “Obidients.” With limited grassroots reach and the enormous financial demands of a presidential campaign, Ishiekwene concludes that ADC may struggle to pose a serious challenge to the ruling party in the next election cycle.

Beyond Nigeria, he paints 2026 as a year shaped by geopolitical rivalry, especially between Donald Trump’s America and Xi Jinping’s China, and by growing global unease over U.S. trade policies, immigration enforcement and economic nationalism. Could gold and non-dollar assets accelerate as the world quietly prepares for a less dollar-centric future?

He also highlights the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, warning that 2026 will mark a shift from basic generative AI to agentic, autonomous systems capable of independent action. As AI blurs the line between reality and fabrication, he predicts rising confusion, misinformation, and ethical challenges—ushering in what he calls the “Year of the Humanoid.”

Even football is not spared his forecasting. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Ishiekwene tips Spain to win, citing tactical depth and cohesion, while acknowledging Morocco as Africa’s strongest hope.

Ultimately, the essay asks uncomfortable but urgent questions:
Is Nigeria drifting toward political dominance by one party?
Will economic reforms truly ease citizens’ burdens—or merely reshuffle the pressure?
Can a fractured opposition reorganise in time?
And in a world increasingly shaped by AI and geopolitical rivalry, where does Nigeria truly stand?

For Ishiekwene, 2026 is not just another year—it is a crossroads where technology, politics, power and survival intersect, setting the tone for Nigeria’s future well beyond the next election.

Pastor Bolaji Idowu Faces Backlash for Sharing Photos of Celebrities at Church Crossover Service

Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Church in Lagos has drawn criticism for posting photos from his church’s “RESET” crossover service, featuring celebrities like Peller, Broda Shaggi, and SIRBALO Comedy.

Some social media users accused the pastor of prioritizing celebrities over regular church members, such as ushers and choristers, for social media appeal. Others defended him, saying featuring public figures could inspire more people to attend church and spread faith.

The pastor has previously sparked online debate by highlighting celebrities, including singer Tiwa Savage and her son, during church events.

: #PastorBolajiIdowu #CelebrityChurchDebate #ChurchCrossoverService #Peller #BrodaShaggi #SocialMediaCriticism

Gunmen Attack Plateau Community During New Year’s Eve Celebrations, Kill 7 Residents, Injure Others and Burn Houses in Jos South

At least seven people were killed and several others injured on New Year’s Eve after gunmen suspected to be Fulani militia attacked the Bum community in Chugwi, Vwang District of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The deadly assault occurred around 11:00 p.m. on December 31, 2025, while residents were observing crossover night to usher in the New Year, plunging the community into grief and chaos.

Confirming the incident, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, said the attackers took advantage of the festive celebrations to carry out the assault, killing residents, injuring others, and setting several houses ablaze. As of the time of reporting, seven bodies had been recovered, while search and rescue operations were still ongoing, raising fears that the death toll could rise.

Tengwong lamented that the attack happened despite prior security alerts warning that some communities in Jos South had been marked for possible attacks, alleging that the warnings were ignored by security agencies. He described the incident as part of a growing pattern of violent attacks on rural communities in Plateau State, particularly during festive periods meant for peace and celebration.

In a related incident, residents of Ipele community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State were thrown into panic in the early hours of January 1, 2026, after suspected terrorists attacked and burned down a police station in the area. The assault forced residents to flee their homes, while videos showed the police facility and vehicles set ablaze. As of the time of filing the report, there was no official confirmation of casualties, and efforts to get a response from the Ondo State Police Command were unsuccessful.

Lagos State Government Cancels 2025 Greater Lagos Fiesta Hours Before Kick-Off as Sanwo-Olu Urges Residents to Stay Home, Reflect and Pray Into 2026

The Lagos State Government has abruptly cancelled the highly anticipated 2025 Greater Lagos Fiesta, just hours before it was scheduled to usher residents into the New Year on December 31. The decision, officially approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was confirmed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, barely a day before the event’s kick-off.

Traditionally marked by fireworks, music performances, and large public gatherings across Lagos, the Greater Lagos Fiesta was instead replaced with a call for solemn reflection. Governor Sanwo-Olu urged residents to remain at home and observe the transition into 2026 through personal prayers, asking Lagosians to pray for the nation, the state, and its people.

In his New Year message, the governor emphasized themes of peace, prosperity, productivity, and good leadership, expressing optimism that 2026 would be a better year for Lagos State. He reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to delivering improved governance and working harder in the coming year.

Notably, the government did not disclose the specific reason behind the sudden cancellation, sparking mixed reactions on social media. While some residents praised the move as thoughtful and sensitive amid recent tragedies, others criticised the timing, arguing that cancelling the event less than 24 hours before commencement negatively affected planners, vendors, and businesses relying on the festivities.

The cancellation has added to ongoing public debate about governance decisions, crisis response, and the balance between celebration and reflection during challenging times in Lagos and Nigeria at large.

Gov. Ododo Greets Christians at Christmas, Harps on Peace, Unity

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has conveyed heartfelt Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the State, describing the sacred feast of the Nativity as a solemn reminder of selfless love, meekness and devotion to the service of mankind.

In his message through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor reflected on the spiritual depth of the season, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ calls believers to walk in patience, forbearance goodwill and virtues that strengthen harmony and communal living.

Governor Ododo observed that the enduring lessons of Christmas remain vital to the growth of Kogi State, urging citizens to uphold the spirit of brotherhood, restraint and collective duty as pillars for lasting peace and progress.

He stated that his administration remains guided by these timeless ideals in the pursuit of good governance, public order, and the steady advancement of the state, anchored on inclusive policies and geared towards the well-being of the populace.

The Governor further assured that the security and welfare of the people remain topmost priorities of the government, pledging continued efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods.

He prayed that the joy of Christmas abide in every household accross Nigeria, rekindle hope in every individual and usher the people into a New Year marked by peace, diligence and shared prosperity.

“I Relocated to My Village in Mangu With My Children, But Bandits Keep Calling and Threatening Me” — Plateau Widow Cries Out Over Insecurity

A widow in Plateau State, identified as Nanbam, has raised alarm over continued threats from bandits despite relocating with her children to her village in Mangu after her husband was killed in Mushere community. She revealed that the attackers have persistently called and intimidated her, causing fear for her family’s safety. Although she changed her SIM card on relatives’ advice, the threats resumed, leaving her psychologically distressed and struggling to care for her children. Her ordeal highlights the growing insecurity and emotional toll faced by victims of banditry in Plateau State.

During offering time, a man dropped ₦50 in the plate.
The pastor looked at him and said:

“Brother, God will bless you according to what you gave.”

The man immediately ran back, grabbed the plate, and tried to put ₦5,000 inside.

The pastor shouted:
“Usherrrr! Stop him! He has already received his blessing of ₦50!”

Everyone in church nearly fainted from laughter.

#ChurchWahala #SundayLaughs #NaijaHumor #FunnyStory

Northern States Governors' Forum Appoints Ezekiel Gomos as Director-General to Strengthen Regional Coordination

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), under the leadership of its Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has approved the appointment of Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, OFR, as Director-General of the Forum’s Secretariat.

The appointment is in line with the Forum’s renewed commitment to strengthening its institutional capacity and improving coordination among the 19 northern states in addressing the region’s pressing challenges.

According to the Forum, creating the office of Director-General is a strategic step towards repositioning the Secretariat as a more effective hub for policy coordination, collective action and long-term development planning.

Mr. Gomos, a former Secretary to the Plateau State Government, is an accomplished development economist and policy expert with a distinguished career spanning public service, governance reform, private-sector development and human capital advancement.

His experience includes senior roles in high-impact institutions such as the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

In addition, he has been Lead Consultant and Head of Faculty at the Jos Business School (JBS), a centre dedicated to entrepreneurship development, leadership training, and policy dialogue.

For nearly two decades, Mr. Gomos has served as a resource person at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, contributing to the training of senior leaders across Nigeria in policy, strategy and national development.

The new DG's academic credentials include graduate and postgraduate degrees from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and the University of East Anglia, UK. He is also a recipient of several prestigious international fellowships, including the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (University of Minnesota), the British Chevening Scholarship and the UNDP Fellowship at the ILO Training Centre in Turin.

Gomos has attended senior executive programmes at Harvard Kennedy School, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and Durham University Business School.

Presenting the appointment letter, Governor Inuwa Yahaya charged Mr. Gomos to apply his extensive expertise in strategic leadership, institutional development and policy management to strengthen the NSGF Secretariat into a robust platform for collective security coordination, regional economic cooperation and sustainable development across the North.

The NSGF Chairman expressed confidence that the appointment will usher in a new era of deeper collaboration, improved coordination and more coherent regional responses to the North’s most critical challenges.

All Eyes on Akinwunmi Ambode.

Politics, in Lagos, rarely forgets, only circling back when the timing feels right. And now, after years of studied silence, Akinwunmi Ambode’s name is again spoken in the open with chants, banners, and renewed conviction that the former governor might find his way back to the seat he once lost.

At a recent gathering in Lagos, the Tinubu-Ambo Support Group, a coalition of political loyalists, pledged allegiance to two men: President Bola Tinubu and Ambode. Their mission was clear: mobilise voters ahead of the 2027 elections, stir the political base, and remind citizens that loyalty, when revived, can reshape the future.

Dr. Seyi Bamigbade, the group’s director-general, described it as a movement to “reawaken civic consciousness” and restore continuity between Tinubu’s national reform and Ambode’s Lagos vision. Their call echoed across markets and youth halls: get your PVCs, prepare for 2027, let Lagos move again.

Yet beneath the cheers lies the hum of unfinished history.

Ambode’s story is one of brilliance and breach. His four-year term (2015–2019) delivered roads, transport networks, and fiscal growth, but also alienated party powerbrokers. In 2018, when Tinubu withdrew his support, the empire shifted. Ambode lost the APC ticket to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ending his bid for re-election and ushering in years of quiet withdrawal.

Now, his name returns, attached to Tinubu’s own. The pairing, once improbable, now feels strategic. For some, it signals reconciliation; for others, a test of Lagos’s political memory. Can ambition and loyalty coexist, or does one always exact a price from the other?

Ambode himself has remained silent, as if watching from a measured distance. But Lagos remembers. And in the whispering corners of its politics, where godfathers and foot soldiers meet, the question grows louder: if the city offers him a second dance, will he take it?

Primate Ayodele Blasts Tinubu, Says Release Nnamdi Kanu, You Wasted NDLEA, Security Operatives Effort.

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.

He was reacting on Tuesday after President Bola Tinubu granted a presidential pardon to murderers, corrupt officials, and criminals.

According to him, some of those he pardoned had been sentenced to death, life sentences for crimes relating to drug trafficking, murder, and human trafficking, to mention but a few.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele described the action as wasting the efforts of the NDLEA and security operatives who arrested and convicted the criminals.

He stated that the criminals will continue to cause issues in the country and add to the troubles of security operatives, despite the current situation of insecurity in the country.

Primate Ayodele said: “Why must he pardon criminals, cocaine pushers? It’s just like wasting the efforts of these security operatives to arrest these criminals.

These criminals will continue to cause issues in society; you can’t separate them from crime.”

He said since it was easy for the president to pardon the criminals, it’s unfair to allow Nnamdi Kanu to still be behind bars without sentencing for several years.

Benjamin Kalu Reflects on Nigeria’s 26 Years of Democracy, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Justice and Freedom

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, highlighting both its achievements and ongoing challenges 26 years after the country’s return to civilian rule.

In a video shared by Symfoni TV, Kalu reminisced about the nation’s optimism at the dawn of democracy in 1999, following decades of military dictatorship. He said Nigerians had hoped that the new era would usher in freedom, justice, and prosperity for all citizens.

Speaking during an update on the ongoing constitutional amendment process, Kalu stated that the 1999 Constitution was designed to lay the foundation for a Nigeria where citizens wield real power, rights are protected, and government institutions exist to serve the people.

However, he questioned whether that vision has been fully realized, noting that while progress has been made — including seven peaceful general elections and smooth power transitions between political parties — more work still lies ahead.

Kalu acknowledged that civil society has grown stronger, the media enjoys greater freedom, and the judiciary, despite challenges, continues to assert its independence.

He also emphasized the role of political parties as vital channels for citizen participation, noting that millions of Nigerians continue to cast their votes because they believe in the value of democracy.

“The Constitution of 1999 brought about the return of Nigeria to democratic governance 26 years ago. For a moment, there was great anticipation — we dared to think that a new era of freedom, justice, and prosperity was finally within reach,” Kalu reflected.

Kalu concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain steadfast in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the ideals envisioned at the beginning of civilian rule continue to guide the nation’s path forward.

Edo Pastor Distributes Bras, Wrappers to Female Church Members He Deems Indecently Dressed.

Evangelist Isaac Josiah, lead pastor of Reclaimers Ministry in Benin City, has caused a stir after distributing bras, wrappers, and pyjamas to female members he said came to church braless or improperly dressed.

In a Facebook video from the September 14 service, Josiah told ushers to hand the items to women whose appearance he considered distracting.

“Brother Osase, Eric, and Chimere, you are at the door. From today, any girl who enters this church and we see her n+pple, we will give her a bra and say, ‘We have discovered that you can’t afford a bra. So, on behalf of the church, we give you this,’” he declared.

He added that those who refuse should be escorted home:
“If you give any sister whose nipple is showing a bra and she refuses, call her and ask, ‘How much is a tricycle to your house?’”

Josiah also warned men against sagging or exposing underwear:
“When you leave your house in a mini skirt and start adjusting it in church, or you (a man) leave home without a belt, just call them and give them this white pyjama. If we can’t change you in this church, look for another church.”

He stressed that his decision was to prevent distractions during worship:
“When we praise God and jump like this, a brother will say, ‘I want to praise God, but my manhood is reacting, how do I praise God?’ What some brothers have fallen in love with in this church are breasts and buttocks. They don’t love the girl; what they are looking at is not real.”

The pastor further directed ushers to cover br£astfeeding mothers whose cleavage was exposed and promised to buy belts for men who attend church without them.

“We are serious about this decision. I’m not joking,” he said. “If you are looking for a church where you can dress anyhow, not Reclaimers. You can go anywhere.”

Jonathan Meets IBB & Abdulsalami in Abuja Amid Ongoing National Consultations

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on Sunday paid a courtesy visit to former Nigerian heads of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at their Abuja residence.

The closed-door meeting reportedly lasted several hours, though details have not been made public. Jonathan, known for his consistent calls for dialogue and consultation in tackling Nigeria’s challenges, is believed to have used the visit as part of his wider engagement with elder statesmen across the country.

Generals Abdulsalami and Babangida remain towering figures in Nigerian politics. Abdulsalami is revered for ushering in the Fourth Republic in 1999, while Babangida remains a key voice in national discourse, having ruled between 1985 and 1993.

Jonathan, who governed from 2010 to 2015, has maintained regular contact with past leaders, fostering discussions on unity, governance, and peace. His Abuja visit once again highlights the tradition of former leaders consulting one another to strengthen national stability.

#GoodluckJonathan #IBB #Abdulsalami #NigeriaPolitics #Leadership #Unity #NationBuilding

Tinubu Reshuffles NTA Leadership, Appoints Pedro as DG

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a major shake-up at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), ushering in a new era of leadership to revitalise the nation’s state broadcaster.

Veteran media executive Rotimi Richard Pedro takes the helm as Director-General, bringing nearly 30 years of expertise in broadcasting, sports rights, and marketing communications across Africa, the UK, and the Middle East.

Other top appointments include:

Karimah Bello (Katsina State) – Executive Director, Marketing

Stella Din (Plateau State) – Executive Director, News

Sophia Issa Mohammed (Adamawa State) – Managing Director, NTA Enterprises Ltd.


Pedro, a Lagos native and founder of Optima Sports Management International (OSMI), has distributed premium sports content—including the EPL, UEFA Champions League, FIFA World Cup, and CAF tournaments—to over 40 African countries. His impressive résumé includes work with FIFA, UEFA, Fremantle Media, and the African Union of Broadcasters (AUB), where he secured exclusive pan-African media rights for CAF competitions.

The overhaul is one of the biggest leadership changes in NTA’s history, aimed at modernising the broadcaster, boosting revenue, and delivering world-class content in an increasingly competitive media landscape.


#Tinubu #NTA #RotimiPedro #BreakingNews #MediaLeadership #Broadcasting #NigeriaMedia #NTAReforms #SportsRights #MediaTransformation

Late Akeredolu’s Wife, Betty, Backs Peter Obi, Applauds One-Term Promise.

Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former First Lady of Ondo State, has declared her support for Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, citing his pledge to serve only one term if elected.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Akeredolu praised Obi’s bold leadership style, comparing it to that of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew, whose reforms transformed the Asian nation. She described Obi as a principled and disciplined leader, noting that his integrity stands in stark contrast to the corruption stalling Nigeria’s development.

“I stand with Peter Obi,” she wrote, adding that his one-term commitment could usher in the kind of transformative leadership Nigeria desperately needs. Her endorsement has sparked widespread reactions on social media.

Supporters hailed her statement as a courageous show of confidence in Obi’s vision, with many echoing the belief that a focused four-year tenure could break the cycle of corruption, drive production, and reposition the country. Hashtags such as and have since gained traction.

However, some critics questioned the timing and motive behind her statement, citing her previous political involvement in Ondo State. They suggest her support may be both strategic and symbolic.

Obi continues to gain popularity among young Nigerians seeking accountable leadership, and Akeredolu’s endorsement reflects growing elite support ahead of a possible 2027 presidential run.

Asake has fully dropped everything to do with his former record label YBNL, he has replaced Empire with Gamma as his official distribution company.

His record label, Giran Republic has signed a distribution deal with Gamma, a Los Angeles based music and entertainment company. He has joined artists like Usher, Rick Ross, and Snoop Dogg.

Asake is currently based in California. He has his cannabis brand in California and has just signed a distribution deal with a California based company. Omo Mr Money is making moves!

Brief: Police Recover Body Of Slain Photojournalist In Kogi, Suspect Found Dead In Hotel

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of the body of photojournalist Ayobami Aiyepeku, who was allegedly murdered by his neighbour, a correctional service officer, Oluwapelumi Adebayo.

Police spokesperson SP Williams Aya told reporters on Monday in Lokoja that Ayobami’s decomposing body was discovered Sunday evening near the WAEC office, Crusher Zone 8 area of Lokoja. He said the victim was killed on Tuesday, July 22, in an office close to the Government House/GRA.

The corpse has been deposited at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital, while a discreet investigation is ongoing. Aya urged the public and the deceased’s family to assist with credible information.

Ayobami’s elder brother, Timothy Aiyepeku, appealed for justice and commended the police and media for their efforts.

Meanwhile, the prime suspect, Pelumi Adebayo, was found dead inside Abidan 115 Hotel on Thursday, after reportedly being on the run. The Chairman of Lokoja Local Government, Abdullahi Adamu, has since ordered the hotel’s closure and offered condolences to the bereaved family.

NewsBody Of Kogi Photojournalist Allegedly Killed By Prison Officer Discovered In Lokoja.

The body of a Kogi photojournalist who was allegedly killed by a correctional service officer has been found after days of searching.

Following days of intense search, concern, and unanswered questions, the body of the decomposing Kogi State Photojournalist, Ayobami Aiyepeku, who was allegedly killed by a serving officer with the Nigerian Correctional Service, Adebayo Pelumi, has been discovered in the outskirts of Lokoja.

The 26 years old remains were found on Sunday evening in the bushy area around the Crusher axis of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.

Residents, who perceived a foul odour, alerted the Lokoja Local Government Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu, and security officials.

The deceased, an indigene of Ekinrin Adde in the Ijumu Local Government Area of the State, was allegedly lured and killed by Pelumi on Tuesday July 22nd, 2025.

The suspect reportedly fled the scene with the victim’s body, prompting a police manhunt to locate both him and Ayobami’s remains.

BONA NAIJA learnt that the body of the prime suspect, Pelumi, was later found in a hotel in Lokoja after taking a poisonous substance to commit suicide.Ayobami’s remains have been deposited at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja, as investigations continue.

Women and babies killed in fresh plateau attack.

At least 14 passengers, including women and babies, have been killed in a fresh wave of violence in Plateau State.

The victims were ambushed on Thursday evening along the Chirang Road in the Mangor District of Bokkos Local Government Area while returning from the weekly market held in Bokkos town.

According to reports, the attackers—believed to be armed assailants—opened fire on a vehicle carrying market-goers, leaving several dead at the scene. The attack follows closely on the heels of a similar tragedy last month when wedding guests from Kaduna State were killed by a mob in the same region.

Confirming the latest incident, the Bokkos Cultural Development Forum (BCDF), through its chairman Farmasum Fuddang, condemned the attack and expressed frustration over what it described as a breakdown of peace efforts between farming and herding communities.

“The victims were returning from the weekly market in Bokkos town when their vehicle was ambushed. Victims included women and babies. This violence occurs despite various so-called peace and reconciliation efforts,” Fuddang stated.

He further alleged that the attackers were members of a particular ethnic group, claiming the motive behind the violence was territorial expansion.

“Their goal is to take control of the entire local government area, which is recognised as the potato headquarters of Nigeria,” he said.

Fuddang also cited ongoing village attacks and land takeovers in the Mushere area as part of what he described as a broader campaign by the suspected group to dominate the region.

In response, the Gan Allah Fulani Development Association (GAFDAN) rejected the accusation. Its chairman, Saleh Adamu, dismissed the claims as unfounded.

“The allegation has no basis because there is no evidence that the attack was carried out by the Fulani. And no herder was arrested at the scene to prove it was carried out by Fulani. This allegation is the first of its kind here,” Adamu said.

He called for restraint and urged security agencies to investigate thoroughly.

“When an incident occurs, security forces do investigate before identifying the perpetrators. We condemn the attack in its totality, as the killing of innocent people is not in any way justified by any offense. We condemn the killings,” he added.

BREAKING: Women and Babies Killed in Fresh Plateau Attack.

At least 14 passengers, including women and babies, have been killed in a fresh wave of violence in Plateau State.

The victims were ambushed on Thursday evening along the Chirang Road in the Mangor District of Bokkos Local Government Area while returning from the weekly market held in Bokkos town.

According to reports, the attackers believed to be armed assailants opened fire on a vehicle carrying market-goers, leaving several dead at the scene. The attack follows closely on the heels of a similar tragedy last month when wedding guests from Kaduna State were killed by a mob in the same region.

Confirming the latest incident, the Bokkos Cultural Development Forum (BCDF), through its chairman Farmasum Fuddang, condemned the attack and expressed frustration over what it described as a breakdown of peace efforts between farming and herding communities.

“The victims were returning from the weekly market in Bokkos town when their vehicle was ambushed. Victims included women and babies. This violence occurs despite various so-called peace and reconciliation efforts,” Fuddang stated.

He further alleged that the attackers were members of a particular ethnic group, claiming the motive behind the violence was territorial expansion.

“Their goal is to take control of the entire local government area, which is recognised as the potato headquarters of Nigeria,” he said.

Fuddang also cited ongoing village attacks and land takeovers in the Mushere area as part of what he described as a broader campaign by the suspected group to dominate the region.

In response, the Gan Allah Fulani Development Association (GAFDAN) rejected the accusation. Its chairman, Saleh Adamu, dismissed the claims as unfounded.

“The allegation has no basis because there is no evidence that the attack was carried out by the Fulani. And no herder was arrested at the scene to prove it was carried out by Fulani. This allegation is the first of its kind here,” Adamu said.

He called for restraint and urged security agencies to investigate thoroughly.

“When an incident occurs, security forces do investigate before identifying the perpetrators. We condemn the attack in its totality, as the killing of innocent people is not in any way justified by any offense. We condemn the killings,” he added.