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NSCDC Cell Tragedy: Survivor Recounts How 37 Miners Died in Niger Custody

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NSCDC Cell Tragedy: Survivor Recounts How 37 Miners Died in Niger Custody

NSCDC Cell Tragedy: Survivor Recounts How 37 Miners Died in Niger Custody

A survivor of the detention tragedy involving suspected illegal miners in Niger State has recounted the terrifying experience inside a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) detention facility where 37 detainees died.

The incident occurred after dozens of suspected illegal miners were arrested during enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16.

According to reports, about 67 detainees were held at the NSCDC facility, with 37 later found dead.

One survivor, identified in reports as Dauda Shehu, said the detainees were packed into an overcrowded cell with inadequate ventilation.

He reportedly told authorities that the detainees suddenly began struggling to breathe and repeatedly called for help, banging on the cell door and appealing to officers to intervene.

Shehu alleged that the detainees were left struggling for air as some of their colleagues began collapsing.

Another survivor reportedly alleged that an unidentified liquid or substance was sprayed inside the cell before the situation deteriorated, causing coughing, sneezing and difficulty breathing.

The allegation has not been independently established, and there is currently no confirmed evidence that the substance caused the deaths.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation.

The NSCDC initially suggested that a possible disease outbreak could have been responsible, but officials subsequently stressed that the actual cause had not yet been established and that medical examinations were required.

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has called for a thorough investigation, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered a full and transparent probe into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The Federal Government has also suspended senior NSCDC officials, including the Niger State Commandant, pending investigations.

The incident has generated widespread concern over the conditions under which detainees were held and calls for accountability if investigations establish that negligence, abuse or other unlawful conduct contributed to the deaths.

For now, the survivor accounts remain important evidence in the investigation, but the definitive cause of the deaths is yet to be established by the relevant authorities.

AIPROW, Ibusa Association USA Unveil 3-Day Free Medical Outreach for Ibusa Residents

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AIPROW, Ibusa Association USA Unveil 3-Day Free Medical Outreach for Ibusa Residents

The Association of Ibusa Professional Women (AIPROW), in partnership with Ibusa Association USA Inc., has announced a three-day free medical outreach programme aimed at providing healthcare services to residents of Ibusa and neighbouring communities.

The 2026 Annual Medical Outreach Programme is scheduled to take place from October 1 to October 3, 2026, and will bring together medical experts and other healthcare professionals to provide free medical services, health education and support to members of the community.

According to the organisers, activities will begin on October 1 with a career talk and mentoring programme for the girl child at Obi Okeze Hall, Ogbeowelle, Ibusa.

The first day will also feature the distribution of wheelchairs, mobility aids and food items to persons living with disabilities as part of efforts to support vulnerable members of the community.

On October 2, a mental health seminar will be held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa. The seminar will focus on mental wellness, emotional health and available support systems.

The medical outreach will take place on October 3 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, beginning at 9 a.m.

Healthcare services scheduled for the outreach include breast, cervical and prostate cancer screening, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, general medical examinations, eye and vision tests, distribution of medicated glasses and free medications, among other health interventions.

The organisers urged residents of Ibusa and neighbouring communities to take advantage of the programme and access the healthcare services at no cost.

AIPROW and Ibusa Association USA Inc. said the initiative reflects their commitment to promoting community health, supporting vulnerable residents and improving the overall wellbeing of people in Ibusa through sustained humanitarian and health-focused interventions.

The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Angela Loks Izegbu, Public Relations Officer, for AIPROW.

Effurun Clash: Delta Govt Condemns Political Violence, Orders Probe Into NDC-APC Disturbance

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Effurun Clash: Delta Govt Condemns Political Violence, Orders Probe Into NDC-APC Disturbance

The Delta State Government has condemned a reported political disturbance in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, involving suspected supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The government also directed security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.

The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Friday, September 18, 2026, while reacting to the incident and viral video footage circulating online.

Aniagwu said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate what happened and bring those responsible to justice.

He stressed that political differences should not be allowed to degenerate into violence, intimidation or disruption of public peace.

According to him, political parties, candidates and their supporters have the right to campaign peacefully across Delta State, provided their activities remain within the law.

The commissioner said the state government would not shield anyone found to have committed an offence, irrespective of political affiliation.

“Political affiliation is not a shield against the law. If anybody commits an offence, the law should take its course,” Aniagwu said, according to reports.

He called on political leaders, candidates, youth groups and supporters of all parties to exercise restraint and ensure that campaign activities remain peaceful.

The government also urged security agencies to remain vigilant and provide a safe environment for all political actors as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Meanwhile, allegations have emerged from the NDC camp concerning responsibility for the disturbance. The NDC House of Representatives candidate for Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency, Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, accused Governor Oborevwori and the APC of involvement in the alleged attack on NDC supporters.

Those allegations remain claims and should not be treated as established facts pending the outcome of investigations. Reports also indicate that the police had not publicly confirmed the identities of the alleged attackers or established their political affiliation at the time of reporting.

The Delta State Government’s position, however, is that anyone found responsible for violating the law should face appropriate legal consequences.

The government further appealed to political actors to focus on issues, programmes and peaceful democratic engagement rather than confrontation.

Police Clarify IGP Disu’s Position on Recording Officers, Say No Ban Imposed

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Police Clarify IGP Disu’s Position on Recording Officers, Say No Ban Imposed

The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has not banned Nigerians from recording police officers while they perform their duties in public.

The clarification followed recent comments by the police chief that sparked discussions over citizens’ right to film officers during official operations.

The Force New Media Officer, Aliyu Giwa, explained that the IGP’s concern was not about preventing legitimate documentation or shielding police officers from accountability, but about the misuse of recordings, particularly when police encounters are turned into entertainment or social-media content.

According to Giwa, there is a distinction between responsibly documenting police activities and deliberately provoking, ridiculing or exploiting encounters with officers for online content.

He stressed that responsible recording could serve both citizens and police officers by providing evidence where allegations of misconduct arise and helping to protect officers against false accusations.

“Wearing the uniform does not remove an officer’s right to dignity or privacy,” Giwa said, while maintaining that the police must remain open to legitimate scrutiny.

The clarification followed remarks by IGP Disu during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association in Abuja.

The IGP had expressed concern over what he described as the growing practice of Nigerians recording police officers in different locations, including situations outside their official duties. He said such indiscriminate recording could be demoralising to officers.

However, Disu also acknowledged that citizens have the right to record police officers while they are performing their duties in public, urging Nigerians to exercise the right responsibly and not use officers as material for skits or entertainment.

The controversy also comes against the backdrop of a March 17, 2026 judgment by the Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, which affirmed the constitutional right of Nigerians to record police officers while performing their duties in public. The court also addressed requirements concerning officers displaying their names and force numbers during public operations.

The police clarification therefore indicates that the IGP’s recent comments should not be interpreted as a blanket prohibition on citizens filming police officers.

Rather, the Force says the emphasis is on balancing citizens’ right to document public police activities with respect for officers’ dignity, privacy and the proper discharge of their duties.

ACNPN Celebrates Churchill Oyowe at Birthday, Hails His Leadership and Service to Journalism

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ACNPN Celebrates Churchill Oyowe at Birthday, Hails His Leadership and Service to Journalism

The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, has congratulated the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a goodwill message signed by the State Chairman of ACNPN, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, the association described Oyowe as a distinguished media leader and a man of purpose, integrity and exemplary character.

Abiagom said Oyowe’s birthday was not only an occasion to celebrate another year of life but also an opportunity to recognise what he described as his dedication to service, leadership and the advancement of journalism in Delta State.

According to the ACNPN chairman, Oyowe has continued to distinguish himself through humility, wisdom and an inclusive leadership style, which he said has earned him the respect and admiration of journalists, publishers and other media stakeholders across the state.

“Comrade Churchill Oyowe is a remarkable gentleman whose commitment to the growth of the media profession remains commendable. He is a leader who carries everyone along and has maintained a cordial and productive relationship with community newspaper publishers in Delta State.

“His open-door policy, maturity and sense of fairness have strengthened unity within the media family,” Abiagom said.

The ACNPN chairman further noted that Oyowe had continued to gain greater wisdom, experience and strength with each passing year, while making positive contributions to the lives of those around him and to the development of journalism.

He also praised the NUJ chairman for his dedication to the welfare of journalists and his efforts toward fostering professionalism, ethical reporting and harmony within the union.

On behalf of the executive and members of the ACNPN Delta State Council, Abiagom wished Oyowe good health, divine protection, greater accomplishments and many more fruitful years in service to humanity and the journalism profession.

He prayed that the new chapter of Oyowe’s life would bring renewed strength, abundant blessings and greater opportunities to continue contributing to the media industry and society.

“Happy Birthday, Comrade Churchill Oyowe,” Abiagom said.

Don’t Mistake Nigerians’ Patience for Acceptance of Hardship — Northern Christian Elders Warn Tinubu

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Don’t Mistake Nigerians’ Patience for Acceptance of Hardship — Northern Christian Elders Warn Tinubu

Don’t Mistake Nigerians’ Patience for Acceptance of Hardship — Northern Christian Elders Warn Tinubu

The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the latest increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), warning that Nigerians’ patience amid worsening economic pressures should not be mistaken for acceptance of hardship.

The forum made the call in a statement signed by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, amid concerns over rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential household expenses.

NOSCEF said the latest petrol price increase would further weaken the purchasing power of Nigerians and place additional pressure on families and businesses already struggling with high living costs.

The Christian elders urged President Tinubu to use the remaining period of his administration to focus on measures that would ease the economic burden on citizens, including reducing the cost of living, creating jobs, strengthening security and addressing critical infrastructure deficits.

According to the forum, if the Federal Government requires additional revenue to finance its programmes and obligations, it should explore alternative and sustainable sources rather than continually transferring the burden to citizens through higher petroleum prices.

The group also cautioned the President against being insulated from the realities facing ordinary Nigerians by officials or supporters who may present a more favourable picture of the economy.

NOSCEF said its position was informed by its members’ direct contact with communities across the country, where they witness the effects of rising living costs and other economic challenges.

While acknowledging that the administration had made efforts in some areas, the forum maintained that more needed to be done to address the hardship confronting citizens.

It called for urgent measures to restore household purchasing power, create productive opportunities for young Nigerians, strengthen the fight against insecurity and accelerate the rehabilitation and provision of critical infrastructure.

“The patience of Nigerians should not be mistaken for acceptance of perpetual hardship,” the forum warned.

NOSCEF further urged the Federal Government to make citizens’ welfare a central consideration in major economic decisions, stressing that continued public patience should not be interpreted as an unlimited willingness to endure worsening living conditions.

2027: Oborevwori Committed to Building Better Future for Delta Youths — Lucky Abuah

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2027: Oborevwori Committed to Building Better Future for Delta Youths — Lucky Abuah

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Youth Mobilisation, Chief Lucky Abuah, has said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is focused on creating a better future for young people across the state.

Abuah made the statement on Tuesday while interacting with youths from Oshimili South Local Government Area in Asaba, where he highlighted what he described as the administration’s efforts in youth empowerment, skills development and inclusive governance.

According to the governor’s aide, the administration’s MORE Agenda has provided opportunities for young people through various empowerment and skills acquisition programmes, as well as initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is a focused leader who believes in the capacity of young people. His administration is working tirelessly to create opportunities that will take our youths away from the streets and position them for a brighter future,” Abuah said.

He maintained that continued investment in youth development was essential to reducing unemployment and enabling young people to contribute meaningfully to Delta State’s economic and social development.

Abuah also commended the governor’s administration for its attention to infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development, saying such investments would benefit present and future generations.

The governor’s aide urged youths across the state to remain law-abiding, take advantage of available empowerment opportunities and participate actively in governance and community development.

He further assured the youths that the state government would continue to implement programmes aimed at improving their welfare and economic prospects.

The engagement brought together youths from different communities in Oshimili South, with participants expressing support for initiatives focused on youth empowerment and development in Delta State.

Ebu Residents Renew SOS Over Roads, Infrastructure, Seek Urgent Government Intervention

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Ebu Residents Renew SOS Over Roads, Infrastructure, Seek Urgent Government Intervention

Residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have renewed their call for urgent government intervention over what they describe as decades of neglect, poor infrastructure and unmet development promises.

The residents said the agrarian community has remained supportive of successive governments, particularly during elections, but expressed disappointment that the expected benefits of government have not been sufficiently felt in the area.

According to them, Ebu is currently grappling with dilapidated roads, deteriorating school facilities, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, lack of electricity and growing security concerns.

The situation, they said, has become more difficult following heavy rainfall that recently rendered the community’s major access route impassable, disrupting movement and economic activities.

Farmers, traders, students and other residents have reportedly been affected by the poor condition of the road, which residents say has made transportation of farm produce and access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities increasingly challenging.

Ebu–Ezi–Ukala Road Raises Concern

A major concern among residents is the condition of the Ebu–Ezi–Ukala Road, which they described as a strategic route requiring urgent attention.

Residents said the prolonged deterioration of the road has hindered economic activities and made movement into and out of the community difficult.

They also expressed security concerns, alleging that the difficult terrain and poor accessibility could be exploited by criminal elements. Some residents specifically raised allegations involving suspected herdsmen, although such claims require verification by relevant security authorities.

Beyond the road network, community members said several other basic amenities remain inadequate.

They pointed to the condition of schools, healthcare facilities, electricity supply and other infrastructure, saying these challenges have contributed to the community’s developmental difficulties.

Residents Demand Action

Community members said repeated appeals and promises of development over the years have yet to translate into the level of visible infrastructure they expect.

They therefore appealed to the Federal Government, Delta State Government and other relevant authorities to urgently consider the reconstruction of the Ebu–Illah–Ugbolu Road and Ebu–Ezi–Ukala Road, alongside improvements to other critical infrastructure in the community.

The residents stressed that their concerns go beyond roads, describing their appeal as a demand for greater government attention and inclusion in development programmes.

“Ebu is bleeding and urgently needs government attention,” a community stakeholder said. “We have waited for decades. What we need now are visible actions and not more promises.”

The residents warned that continued infrastructural neglect could further affect economic activities and worsen social challenges in the community.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, the residents said they want political leaders seeking their support to also pay attention to the development needs of the community.

For Ebu residents, they said, the immediate priority is not more promises but tangible development that can improve movement, security, education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

“I Am Not a Money Bag; I Represent the People” — Tessy Okeze Speaks on 2027 Aniocha/Oshimili Race

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“I Am Not a Money Bag; I Represent the People” — Tessy Okeze Speaks on 2027 Aniocha/Oshimili Race

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the contest for the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency seat in Delta State is attracting renewed attention, with different political actors positioning themselves ahead of the election.

Tessy Ngozi Okeze, candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) for the constituency, speaks on her political background, her decision to contest, her approach to the race and the issues she believes should shape the 2027 election.

In this interview with Publishers, Okeze discusses youth unemployment, infrastructure, economic empowerment, transparency and grassroots representation. She also responds to the experience of former representative Ndudi Elumelu and explains why she believes voters should focus on accessible and accountable representation.

Guide Express : Can we know you, and how do you intend to face your opponents, especially Ndudi Elumelu, who has considerable experience representing Aniocha/Oshimili?

Tessy Okeze: Thank you for the question. My name is Tessy Okeze, an indigene of Igbuzo in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State and the House of Representatives candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) for Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.

I am a grassroots politician, community development advocate and a firm believer in people-oriented leadership.

Over the years, I have worked closely with communities across Aniocha and Oshimili, listening to the concerns of our people and contributing to initiatives aimed at improving their lives.

My decision to contest for the House of Representatives is driven by my desire to bring fresh ideas, renewed energy and purposeful representation to the constituency.

I have immense respect for Ndudi Elumelu, and I acknowledge the experience he acquired during his years in the National Assembly. However, democracy thrives on choice, competition and inclusiveness.

Representation should not be determined by experience or financial capacity alone. It should also be about understanding the present realities of the people, being accessible and developing practical solutions to their challenges.

It is also important to note that communities in Aniocha have produced the federal representative for several consecutive years. Many stakeholders therefore believe that Oshimili should also have the opportunity to produce the next representative, in the spirit of fairness, equity and political balance.

My campaign is not about attacking anybody. It is about presenting an alternative vision centred on youth empowerment, women development, infrastructure, economic opportunities and effective representation.

From my perspective, the 2027 election will test whether financial influence or the collective will of the people will determine the outcome.

The 2023 election also demonstrated that an incumbent with significant political experience can be defeated at the polls. Labour Party candidate Ngozi Okolie defeated Ndudi Elumelu in that election, providing another example of the competitive nature of electoral politics in the constituency.

I am not a money bag. What I have is the support of people across Aniocha/Oshimili who believe in what I represent. Many of my supporters are also APC members and sympathisers who have continued to provide me with moral, political and financial support.

So, I am not intimidated by anybody. I am prepared to face the election on the basis of issues, grassroots engagement and the confidence of the people.

My objective is to win the 2027 election through the strength of the people and a credible political structure.

Guide Express: What are the three biggest challenges facing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency today, and what practical steps will you take within your first two years in office to address them?

Tessy Okeze: The  three major challenges facing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, in my view, are youth unemployment, inadequate infrastructure and limited economic opportunities.

The first is unemployment among our young people. Within my first two years in office, I will work to attract federal empowerment programmes, establish skills-acquisition initiatives, promote vocational training partnerships and facilitate access to grants and business-support programmes for young entrepreneurs.

Secondly, infrastructure remains a major concern across several communities. I will engage relevant federal ministries, departments and agencies, as well as development partners, to attract road projects, improve educational facilities, strengthen healthcare infrastructure and support rural electrification initiatives.

Constituency projects under my representation will be driven by the actual needs of the people rather than political convenience.

Thirdly, we must expand economic opportunities for our people. I will advocate for agricultural support programmes, rural development initiatives, investment opportunities and improved market access for farmers, traders, artisans and small-business owners.

Our people should not only see their representative during elections. They should feel the impact of representation in their daily lives.

Guide Express: How will you ensure regular engagement, transparency and accountability to your constituents if elected?

Tessy Okeze: Accountability begins with accessibility.

If elected, I will establish a fully functional constituency office where residents can regularly meet with their representative, present their concerns, offer suggestions and receive updates on ongoing programmes and projects.

I will also organise periodic town-hall meetings across the constituency. These meetings will provide opportunities to brief constituents on legislative activities, constituency projects and engagements with federal ministries, departments and agencies.

In addition, I intend to publish regular reports detailing bills sponsored, motions moved or supported, constituency projects facilitated and other activities undertaken on behalf of the people.

Traditional and digital media will also be used to keep constituents informed about my activities and stewardship.

My commitment is simple: leadership that listens, representation that delivers and accountability that earns the trust of the people.

Finally, I want to use this opportunity to appreciate our party executives for their support and commitment. I also particularly appreciate our governorship candidate, Engr. Isaac Eshor, who has been of tremendous assistance to me and to our party in Delta State.

His support and commitment to the political process are deeply appreciated. We remain committed to working together with our party structures and supporters as we approach the 2027 general election.

FINAL CURTAIN: Nollywood and Theatre Legend Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

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FINAL CURTAIN: Nollywood and Theatre Legend Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.

Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The family described the veteran actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

The family statement gave his date of birth as July 11, 1942, and his date of death as September 16, 2026. It also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during the period of mourning.

Olu Jacobs built a career spanning several decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London) and began his professional career in Britain before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the prominent figures in the country’s entertainment industry.

Throughout his career, Jacobs received several recognitions, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was also honoured by the Federal Government as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Beyond acting, Jacobs and his wife, veteran actress  were involved in the Lufodo Group and the development of performing-arts training through the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

Jacobs’ passing comes after years of false reports about his death circulating on social media. In 2024, his family had publicly dismissed similar reports and confirmed that he was alive. The latest announcement, however, has been made by his immediate family and has been independently reported by major Nigerian news organisations.

His death marks the end of a long career that connected Nigerian theatre, television and Nollywood with international productions.

The Nigerian entertainment industry and fans across the world are now mourning a veteran whose career spanned generations.

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