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Enugu Police Nab 24-Year-Old For Rape, Attempted Murder Of Pregnant Woman

 

The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, Ugwu Desmond, for the attempted murder and rape of a pregnant woman in Affa community, Udi Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred on the night of March 14, 2026, has been described by authorities as a deeply disturbing attack on a 30-year-old woman who was returning home from a neighbour’s residence along a quiet track road in Amokwo-Affa.

In a statement made available to DAILY GAZETTE on Sunday in Enugu by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the victim was reportedly ambushed from behind by the suspect, who was armed with a cutlass.

He allegedly forced her to the ground, attempted to strangle her, and covered her mouth to prevent her from raising alarm.

The assailant then dragged the victim into an uncompleted building, where he threatened to kill her if she resisted, before forcefully raping her and inflicting injuries.

Despite the trauma, the victim managed to report the incident to the police at about 6:15 a.m. on March 15, prompting a swift response from operatives of the Affa Police Division.

The suspect was subsequently apprehended.
Police authorities confirmed that the victim was immediately taken to a hospital for medical examination and treatment.

Investigators also processed the crime scene, recovering key exhibits, including the weapon allegedly used in the attack and clothing with suspected blood and seminal stains.

The suspect has reportedly confessed to the crime.

The Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable and assuring the public that justice will be served.

He directed a thorough investigation and stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court upon its conclusion.

Giwa further urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly, noting that community awareness plays a critical role in preventing crime.

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Remi Tinubu Blasts ‘Barbaric’ Delta Festival Assault, Demands Swift Justice For Victims

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has strongly condemned the assault of women and girls during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, describing the incident as “horrific” and unacceptable.

In a statement she personally signed on Sunday, Tinubu reacted to viral videos showing young women being chased, stripped, and molested during what was meant to be a cultural celebration.

She stressed that no tradition or custom should be used as a cover for violence or the violation of human dignity.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, the First Lady maintained that respect for tradition must never override the fundamental rights and safety of women and girls.

She commended the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests already made and called on security agencies to ensure that all those responsible are prosecuted and face the full weight of the law.

Tinubu also urged victims of the assault to seek medical attention and psychological support, offering prayers for their healing and recovery.

The incident, which occurred during the annual Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, sparked outrage after disturbing footage surfaced online showing coordinated attacks on women by groups of young men.

Community leaders have since distanced the festival from the violence, insisting that the acts were carried out by criminal elements and do not reflect the true cultural practices of the people.

Authorities have so far arrested at least 15 suspects, including a community leader, as investigations continue into the shocking incident.

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JUST IN: FG Scraps Common Entrance, Unveils Student Tracking System To Tackle Dropouts

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to abolish the Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Examination and replace it with a new system that tracks pupils throughout their academic journey using a unique identification number.

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, explaining that the reform is aimed at improving access, accountability, and continuity in the education sector.

Under the proposed changes, the common entrance examination will be phased out and replaced with Continuous Assessment (CA), which will capture a pupil’s academic performance from primary one and follow them even when they transfer between schools.

According to the minister, the reform is necessary to address the alarming gap in the transition from primary to secondary education.

Despite over 23 million pupils in more than 50,000 public primary schools nationwide, only about three million proceed to junior secondary schools.

He described the disparity as a clear indication of limited access, stressing the urgent need for state governments to expand educational infrastructure and build more schools.

To strengthen monitoring, the government will introduce a Learner Identification Number for every pupil at the primary level.

The unique number will remain with each child throughout their education, enabling authorities to track academic progress and identify dropouts in real time.

Alausa noted that the system would help determine why some pupils fail to transition to the next level, ensuring timely intervention.

He also revealed plans to revive the school feeding programme to boost enrolment and retention, adding that it may be repositioned under the Federal Ministry of Education for better oversight.

The reforms are part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to improve access, reduce dropout rates, and ensure more Nigerian children complete basic education.

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Race For APC Top Jobs Heats Up As Screening Begins Tuesday Ahead Of National Convention

The All Progressives Congress (APC) will on Tuesday, March 24, screen aspirants vying for national offices as preparations intensify for its March 27 National Convention.

The screening exercise is scheduled to hold at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, where all aspirants are expected to appear in person.

In a notice issued on Sunday, the Secretary of the Screening Committee, Isa Yuguda, stated that only those who have purchased and submitted their Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms will be eligible for the exercise.

He also directed aspirants to come along with all relevant documents for verification and urged them to arrive early to ensure a seamless process.

The screening marks a critical step in the APC’s ongoing congress cycle, which began in December 2025 with membership e-registration and has since progressed through ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses.

With appeals from previous stages already addressed, the process now enters its final phase, culminating in the party’s National Convention scheduled to hold from March 25 to March 28, 2026.

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Breathing Life Into Mobility: The CNG Revolution In Enugu

By Onyiba Shepherdman Iyioku

Initially, when Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah introduced the CNG transport system, critics questioned the operational formula, citing concerns that the concessioning of buses and operations to a private company would lead to exploitation.

However, these critics’ overlooks the principles of Public-Private Partnership (PPP), where government creates an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Enugu’s transport system, including Enugu Air, is a prime example of this model in action.

Today, in the midst of turbulent global oil prices, triggered by the ongoing gulf war, Enugu State’s bold investment in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transportation system stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation.

The Enugu State Rapid Bus Service, a shining example of people-centred transport, continues to defy the odds, maintaining stable fares and cushioning the impact of economic pressures on everyday commuters.

This strategic social investment has yielded rich dividends, making mobility across Enugu State not just accessible, but affordable.

Hundreds of thousands of residents now rely on this service for safe and efficient transportation, a testament to the system’s growing relevance and impact.

By embracing CNG, Enugu State has not only reduced its dependence on fossil fuels but has also set a new benchmark for modern public transportation in Nigeria.

The CNG transportation system transcends conventional transit; it’s a lifeline that enhances the quality of life for residents, fosters economic stability, and showcases a progressive administration committed to innovation and accessibility.

As the world grapples with energy uncertainty, Enugu State’s CNG initiative shines bright, illuminating a path towards a more sustainable and equitable transportation future.

In conclusion, the people of Enugu appreciate the foresight of the administration of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, whose vision is people’s centred leadership and governance.

The Enugu CNG buses are not just a mode of transport, but a symbol of hope and progress. With routes spanning across the state, residents can travel affordably and efficiently. Some of the routes and fares include:

– Holy Ghost to Emene: ₦300.00
– Holy Ghost to Abakpa: ₦300.00
– Holy Ghost to UNTH: ₦500.00
– Abakpa to UNTH: ₦600.00
– Abakpa to Agbani: ₦600.00
– Abakpa to Nsukka: ₦1,300.00
– Holy Ghost to Nsukka: ₦1,600.00

This initiative is a testament to Governor Mbah’s commitment to delivering people-centred governance, and the people of Enugu are reaping the benefits.

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Restoring The Industrial Zones: Governor Mbah’s Bold Vision For Emene Industrial Layout

 

The industrial revolution of the 1960s created special industrial zones and Emene was a planned industrial zone for Enugu state and South East Region.

Sunrise flour, Niger Gas, Niger Steel, Anamco and PPMC etc were industries thriving and driving development.

The foundation laid by the late premier of the eastern region M.I Okpara was solid and reliable but decades of neglect and lackadaisical attitude destroyed the industrial zones. Emene was abandoned.

Despite hosting the industrial blood of the state and zone. It was neglected. No one cared about Emene or the wasting away legacy assets of the state and region.

The industries closed, road infrastructure failed. Emene once the bubbling centre for medium and small scale industries became a shadow of itself.

From Thinkers corner to ifemelumma to Ukwuoji to Orie Emene to Eke Obinagu to Proda junction was an eyesore.

A manager manages things but a leader changes everything. Governor Peter Mbah saw opportunities in the decay and cavities of Emene and decided it’s time for bold decisions and quickly declared a state of emergency on the infrastructure deficits in Emene and breathed life into the once forgotten industrial hub.

The once shadow of neglect Nigergas limited turned a corner.

New equipment, new managers, everything turned around. Completely rehabilated.

Over 20 roads from Thinkers corner to ifemelumma to Destiny layout to Mainland to Apostle bus stop to Ukwuoji emenite road to Proda thus saving time and money for people doing merry go round from the old Abakaliki road Emene to join the dualized and reconstructed Enugu/ Abakaliki high way built by Enugu State government which has a new flyover bridge arguably one of the longest constructed by the federal government of Nigeria in record time.

The government is building a smart city in the Emene Industrial zone with a 16km dual carriageway with about 10 kilometres already completed.

This city will have the best infrastructure and it’s already 60 percent sold out.

The Akanu Ibiam airport Enugu has been concessioned and this means increased investment in aviation infrastructure thus boosting economic value chain in both regional and international trade and commerce.

The Emene Logistics Hub is another strategic out of the box infrastructure project coming to live in Emene industrial zone. Strategically located along the Enugu–Abakaliki Expressway, designed to boost trade and commerce in Enugu State.

As part of Governor Peter Mbah’s economic expansion, it will feature a central station to facilitate efficient goods movement and industrial development.

Haulage services and products warehousing for export is part of the second phase of the TIP transport infrastructure programme of the Enugu State government which intends to use the logistics hub to improve supply chain efficiency and improve better storage and movement of both agricultural and non agricultural products and services.

These hubs are already being constructed not only in Emene but also in 9th mile corner and Obollo Afor.

The government aims to use this to drive a uniformed one stop shop logistics hub with already successful CNG buses transporting hundred of thousands of our people will be complemented with a logistics hub that will aid in movement of goods and services in and out of Nigeria using Emene industrial zone as a take off point.

With infrastructure revamped and new cities created the vision of Michael Okpara is bearing fruits as governor Peter Mbah puts Emene and Enugu State back to the competitive world of business and commerce.

Eze Chinweuba
Mbuze 1 of Neke

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2027: Gov Mbah’s Second Term And The Logic Of Performance-Based Mandate

By Dr. Malachy Chuma Ochie

Let me begin by stating that Gov. Peter Mbah’s bid for a second term in office stands on a principle that is often promised but rarely delivered in governance, and that is: performance as the true basis for political continuity.

In an environment where electoral outcomes are frequently shaped by rhetoric, patronage, and short-term political calculations, a performance-based mandate offers a more rational and sustainable path to leadership renewal.

The logic behind a second term for Mbah is rooted in measurable outcomes rather than political theatrics. Governance, at its core, is about improving the lived realities of citizens through infrastructure, economic growth, education, healthcare, and security.

When a leader demonstrates tangible progress in these areas, the argument for continuity becomes not just persuasive but compelling. It shifts the conversation from personalities to policies, from promises to proof.

A performance-driven administration builds credibility over time. Citizens are more likely to trust a government that delivers on its commitments, meets targets, and maintains transparency in its operations.

This trust becomes political capital, stronger than any campaign slogan. It also fosters civic confidence, encouraging public participation and investment in the state’s development trajectory.

Moreover, continuity based on performance ensures that long-term projects are not abandoned midway due to political transitions. Development is rarely instantaneous; it requires sustained effort, policy consistency, and institutional stability.

A second term provides the opportunity to consolidate gains, refine strategies, and scale successful initiatives. It allows governance to move beyond experimentation into maturity.

Another critical dimension is accountability. When a leader seeks re-election on the strength of performance, it sets a precedent that results matter. It signals to both current and future officeholders that the electorate values outcomes over optics.

This can gradually reshape the political culture, making governance more results-oriented and less driven by empty populism.

However, a performance-based mandate also raises expectations. Citizens who re-elect a leader based on past achievements will demand even greater results in the subsequent term.

This creates a healthy pressure on the administration to innovate, improve efficiency, and address gaps identified in the first term.

In this way, performance becomes both the justification for continuity and the standard for future evaluation.

Ultimately, the case for Peter Mbah’s second term is strongest when framed through this lens of demonstrable impact. It is not about political loyalty or strategic alliances, but about a social contract grounded in results.

When leadership is earned through performance, governance becomes more purposeful, and democracy more meaningful.

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Show Proof, Take N1bn, David Umahi Dares Tracy Ohiri In N280m Debt Row

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has escalated his dispute with businesswoman Tracy Ohiri, challenging her to provide concrete evidence of an alleged ₦280 million debt in exchange for a ₦1 billion payout from his associates.

Umahi also confirmed that he has directed his legal team to commence court proceedings to resolve the matter, following a fresh wave of allegations by Ohiri.

The controversy began after Ohiri accused the minister on social media of owing her for campaign materials supplied during his time as a party chairman.

The claims, which went viral, were later withdrawn after her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, intervened, leading to a public apology.

However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Ohiri re-emerged with new claims, alleging she was pressured into retracting her earlier statements and promised payment that never materialised.

In response, Umahi, through a statement by his media aide, insisted that any resolution must be based on verifiable proof.

He maintained that while some well-meaning associates had offered financial support, it was strictly conditional on Ohiri presenting credible evidence, including communication records related to the transaction.

The minister also defended the role of Abubakar, describing his involvement as a sincere attempt to mediate the dispute without any financial inducement.

Reaffirming his position, Umahi stated that the matter would now be left for the courts to determine, stressing that his focus remains on delivering infrastructure projects and national development.

The dispute continues to generate public interest, with both parties holding firmly to their claims as the case appears set for legal resolution.

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Panic On Awka-Enugu Expressway As LPG Tanker Explodes In Flames

Tension gripped residents and motorists along the Awka-Enugu Expressway in Awka after a tanker conveying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) went up in flames near the Women Development Centre at Agu Awka.

The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, caused widespread panic and heavy traffic congestion as people fled the scene over fears of a possible explosion.

Eyewitnesses said the driver noticed thick smoke billowing from the engine compartment before the situation escalated into a full-blown fire.

The flames quickly engulfed the tanker’s head and cabin, raising concerns that the fire could spread to the gas-filled sections.

A nearby resident recounted that the fire intensified within minutes, forcing traders and passersby to abandon their activities and seek safety.

Emergency responders from the Anambra State Fire Service arrived promptly after receiving a distress call and were able to contain the blaze before it escalated into a major disaster.

Officials disclosed that preliminary investigations traced the cause of the fire to an electrical fault within the tanker.

While the engine cabin was completely destroyed, no casualties or additional property damage were recorded.

Firefighters successfully brought the situation under control and concluded operations shortly after ensuring there was no further risk.

Authorities have since urged motorists and tanker operators to regularly service their vehicles, particularly electrical components, to prevent similar incidents.

The swift response of emergency services was widely credited with averting what could have been a catastrophic explosion in the busy area.

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‘No Female Coach, No Game’, FIFA Mandates Gender Inclusion On Women’s Team Benches

Global football governing body FIFA has introduced a new regulation requiring all women’s teams participating in its tournaments to include female coaches on their technical benches.

Under the directive, each team must have at least one female head coach or assistant coach, while a minimum of two female staff members must be present on the bench during matches.

The rule will take effect starting with this year’s U-17 and U-20 Women’s World Cups, as well as the Women’s Champions Cup.

The decision, approved by the FIFA Council, forms part of a broader push to address the underrepresentation of women in coaching roles across global football.

FIFA’s Chief Football Officer, Jill Ellis, said the move is aimed at accelerating opportunities for women and creating clearer pathways into coaching at elite levels.

She noted that the current imbalance in the profession requires deliberate and sustained intervention.

Despite the growth of women’s football, female representation in coaching remains limited. At the 2023 Women’s World Cup, only 12 out of 32 teams were led by female head coaches.

Prominent figures in the women’s coaching space include Emma Hayes, who leads the United States team, and Sarina Wiegman, who has guided England to multiple European titles and earned several global coaching accolades.

Others making strides at the international level include Gemma Grainger, Casey Stoney, and Carla Ward, while Rhian Wilkinson recently led Wales to a historic qualification for a major tournament.

FIFA believes the new rule will significantly boost female participation in coaching roles and inspire more women to pursue careers on the sidelines, ahead of future competitions such as the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The governing body insists that improving gender balance in coaching is not only a matter of equity but also essential for the continued growth and development of the women’s game globally.

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