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Redeemed Christian Church razed in Niger by Arsonists

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***As CAN condemns the act

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (Champion Zonal Headquarters) situated along Federal College of Education (FCE) road in Kontagora came under heavy attack in the early hours of Saturday when suspected hoodlums razed the church building
An Assistant Pastor in the church, Pastor Samson Ogbebor who confirmed the incident, said the church came under attack at about 3am on Saturday by unknown hoodlums.

It was gathered that a similar fate befell the church 10 years ago when some hoodlums took advantage of a crisis in the area and burnt down the worship center and the church management was later warned not to rebuild the church
Ogbebor, who narrated how the incident happened, indicated that he got a distress call that the church was on fire and on getting there met the church that has been in existence for the past 20 years in flames and properties looted by hoodlums.
“This Church has faced lots of challenges, sometimes about 10 years ago, hoodlums came and burnt it down completely and with self efforts we were able to erect it again.
“We have made several unsuccessful attempts but they have refused us the permission to roof it properly and we decided to be using it like that for worship but look at what they have done today again.”
While appealing to Governor Umaru Bago, the Emir of Kontagora, Alhaji Muhammadu Bari Mu’azu II and all relevant security agencies to treat the incident with all seriousness it deserved, he pointed out that the incident has been reported to the ‘A’ Division Police station in Kontagora for investigation and to bring the perpetrators to book.
In his reaction, the Coordinator of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kontagora, Very Rev. Fr. Musa John Ghado appreciated God and commended the efforts of Governor Bago and the State CAN Chairman, Most Rev (Dr) Bulus Dauwa Yohanna and all other actors who did not support the #EndBadGovernance Protests, saying that it would have provided a good opportunity for churches in the area to come under attack
“By now, we would have been counting our losses because these hoodlums would have seized the opportunity to cause havoc on innocent lives and properties”.
He however encourag the parishioners and all Christians in the state to follow the way of Jesus Christ and remain calm, peaceful and seek the face of God as they continue with their worship, promising that the issue will be forwarded to the state CAN for further action.
An Elder in the church, Mr John Aboje, also disclosed that they have no cause to be deterred by the incident but to continue to be good Christians and citizens of the country.
Accordingly, he said “We just want the government and the emirate to look into this very issue to allow freedom of worship in Kontagora and the state in general”.
Meanwhile the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Niger state chapter, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna has condemned the incident by the unidentified arsonists.
The State CAN Chairman in a statement in Minna, described the incident as barbaric and uncalled for, saying that “it is a painful thing to the Christian community as he appealed to the government to take proper action by ensuring the culprits are brought to book”.
According to him “There is freedom of worship in Niger state, I am sure by the time the government and security agencies take action, it will go a long way to addressing any form of tension that may want to escalate beyond control.
“We are hoping that the law will take its course. To be frank, issues like this must be tamed and people who have done this should be fished out and made to face the law”.
No statement yet from the state police command on the incident as at the time of filing this report.

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Peter Obi at Late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Burial calls for Reflection on Leadership, Legacy

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Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi,
joined political leaders, industry captains, and Nigerians from all walks of life in Nnewi on Saturday to bid farewell to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
In an emotional statement, Obi described Ubah’s passing as a “rude shock” and a profound loss to the nation.

Reflecting on Ubah’s life, Obi highlighted his contributions beyond politics. “Senator Ubah contributed to a better society through his not-for-profit organization, which cared for the less privileged by investing in their education, health, and poverty alleviation,” he noted.

Obi emphasized the brevity of life, particularly for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities. “His death should remind us… that we only have a limited time here on earth to serve the people under our care and leave lasting legacies for generations to come,” he said.

Extending condolences to the Ubah family, the Senate, and the people of Anambra South Senatorial District, Obi prayed for God’s comfort and strength during this time of grief. He also called on leaders to honor Ubah’s legacy by prioritizing service and uplifting the lives of those they lead.

As Nigerians mourn the loss of a distinguished leader, Obi’s tribute is a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, service, and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to others.

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Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Laid to Rest Amidst Tributes

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***Death a Lesson to the Living – Cardinal Okpaleke

The late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was buried on Friday at his hometown, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, Anambra State, following a solemn funeral service at St. Peter Claver Parish.
His passing drew an outpouring of grief and tributes from dignitaries, clergy, family, and friends.

Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, described Ubah’s death as a profound lesson for the living, urging everyone to strive to leave an impactful legacy.

“His demise is a lesson to us all,” said the Cardinal during his homily. “We must strive to live a life that will be remembered for good. We must touch lives, make a difference, and leave a lasting legacy.”

The Cardinal highlighted Ubah’s philanthropic acts and unwavering commitment to uplifting others, which he urged attendees to emulate.

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow, recalling his last interaction with the late senator earlier this year.
“I still remember when we met sometime in May, and I asked him if he was nursing an ambition for something. We spoke about his future plans, not realizing this tragedy was ahead,” Soludo lamented.
Former Senator Uche Ekwunife described Ubah as a “rare gem” and a leader whose kindness and dedication to youth development left an indelible mark.
“In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and kindness—not just in titles and positions but in words and deeds,” Ekwunife said, praising his contributions to sports and the empowerment of young people.
Ubah’s impact was evident as mourners, including political figures, clergy, and locals, reflected on his legacy of service, compassion, and excellence. His townsman, Joe Ezeike, remarked, “Ubah’s passing has left a void in the nation’s political landscape, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The funeral was marked by an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection as attendees paid their final respects to a man remembered for his selflessness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

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Deji Adeyanju fires back at Wike over Comments, Labels Him a “Bully and a Coward”

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Deji Adeyanju and Nyesom Wike

Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has issued a scathing response to comments made against him by Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister and former Rivers State governor. Wike had recently accused Adeyanju of being jobless, noting that the activist once sought his support in a bid to become the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national publicity secretary.

During a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju didn’t hold back, describing Wike as “a bully and a coward.”
He went on to criticize Wike’s character and political approach, saying, “Wike has never worked anywhere in his life. He is a serial betrayer. The only difference between Wike and Portable is that Portable does not betray people who have helped him.”

Adeyanju praised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his recent actions against Wike, saying, “I commend Governor Fubara for dealing decisively with him. That’s how to deal with tyrants. Wike is nothing without politics.”

He further expressed his concerns over Wike’s influence, stating, “The reason why he is making so much noise and constituting a nuisance all over the place is because of our political patrimony that he loots. Clowns and charlatans like Nyesom Wike will open their mouths and criticize true activists.”

Adeyanju also highlighted the importance of citizens participating in politics, saying, “Wike wants everyone to leave politics to rogues like him. His idea of nation-building is where people like him control everything. All citizens of conscience should get involved in politics.”

The back-and-forth between Adeyanju and Wike highlights ongoing tensions within Nigerian political circles and has sparked discussions about the role of activists and the nature of leadership in the country.

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