The Christian Association of Nigeria, on Thursday, said Christians in the northern part of the country must take proactive steps to defend themselves against persistent attacks. The declaration followed the Palm Sunday attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred around 8pm, left more than 20 people dead and several others injured. Following the attack, the Defence Headquarters placed troops on nationwide alert ahead of the Easter celebrations, assuring Nigerians of tightened security. Addressing journalists during the end-of-the-month briefing on Tuesday in Abuja, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Michael Onoja, assured citizens of heightened vigilance by troops during the Easter celebrations. But speaking to Saturday PUNCH, the Chairman of CAN in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Joseph Hayab, said despite the wave of killings and persistent security challenges, the Christian community would not give in to fear. “These killers are not spirits. These killers are human beings; they may have got some upper hand, but when our people really organise themselves, a time will come when you see that the person who is chasing you, you are chasing him back. “Unless and until all of us start organising ourselves to chase those who have been chasing us, they will torment us for the next 200 years. If we are no longer afraid of our attackers, what have we done? Have we been able to defend ourselves? Must we say we are defending ourselves since we are not afraid of the attackers? “Since 2009 till today, they have been tormenting us every time it is Easter and Christmas; they will deny us the joy of celebrating. They (terrorists) are telling us that they will attack us. What kind of a thing is that? So, should we stop everything and go into hiding? No, every church leader should tell his members that enough is enough of this rubbish,” Hayab said. When asked if CAN would advise members to carry arms, Hayab said the group would not disclose all its strategies. “If we start telling everything we know, we will just help the enemy of the church to triumph. But what we are simply saying is that we are not happy with the killings, but we will not allow the killers to intimidate us and stop us from celebrating Easter the way it should be celebrated. “We are angry with the killings; we are angry with the inability of government and security services to stop the killings, but we are also calling on Christians not to be deterred because this whole war is psychological. By the time we give in and stop doing what we’re supposed to do spiritually, they have succeeded in what they want to do. “Do you know why they are attacking places of worship? It is so that we will stop going to places of worship, and we’ll stop doing what we are doing. So, as leaders, if we don’t tell our people and encourage them to stand firm, we’re giving in to a cheap blackmailer.” Hayab said the wave of killings and violence, particularly around the Easter period, was deeply troubling but would not break the resolve of the Christian community. He lamented that the continued violence had become overwhelming, especially as believers prepare for Easter celebrations. He noted that many Nigerians were beginning to lose faith in official assurances, describing the situation as a serious test for the government. Security analysts differ on defence A retired military officer, Brigadier General John Sura, advocated lawful self-defence and stronger community-based security measures as part of efforts to curb the attacks. Sura, a former governorship aspirant in Plateau State, said citizens should be encouraged to take minimal steps within the law to protect themselves rather than remain vulnerable during attacks. He said, “Self-defence allows you to carry a Dane gun, and then you have a licence to carry that. If you go to the police, they can give you that. You can also carry very sharp objects that you keep to defend yourself in case of any attacks. “I have followed the discussions of the DG, SSS. In the confines of the law, you are allowed to carry something to defend yourself. Like the incident that happened in Plateau, those terrorists were pulling people into their houses and slaughtering them because they had nothing to defend themselves. “The last kick of a horse does not stop it from dying, but you should be able to inflict injury on the person before he kills you, not to be killed like an animal. Therefore, everyone should be encouraged to put in whatever is minimal to defend themselves when such things happen.” He also called on state governments to strengthen local security structures, including vigilance groups and community outfits, to serve as a second line of defence. Sura cited the need for improved deployment of local security initiatives such as Operation Rainbow in the state, noting that better coordination and presence could help prevent attacks. “The police and the military cannot be everywhere. We must augment them with local structures and timely intelligence,” he added. Sura identified intelligence failure and poor collaboration between communities and security agencies as major factors behind the recurring attacks, urging residents to share timely information with authorities. He called on governors to activate and properly deploy state-backed security outfits, while emphasising that security is a shared responsibility across federal, state and local levels. But Lieutenant Colonel Abdulwahab Ademola (retd.) advised against arming civilians, arguing that this could create further risks and worsen insecurity. Instead, Ademola said the government should focus on equipping communities with dual-purpose technologies that could serve both civilian and security needs. He said communities must be strengthened through the use of simple technology, particularly early warning systems, as the first line of defence against terror attacks. Ademola explained that residents could be trained to use basic tools to detect and report threats in real time, noting that attackers often mobilise openly without being intercepted. “Security agencies cannot be everywhere, but communities can be supported with structured local policing backed by early warning mechanisms,” he said. Beyond technology, he called for regular training and simulation drills within communities to prepare residents for emergencies. He said communities should be taught how to respond during attacks, including how to disperse quickly, protect vulnerable groups, and avoid gathering in large numbers, which often increases casualties. PFN demands end to killings Also, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria called for a thorough investigation and a rethink of Nigeria’s security approach. The National Secretary of PFN, David Bakare, who spoke in an interview with our correspondent, described the resurgence of insecurity as “deeply troubling”, warning that the situation appears to be worsening despite earlier gains made by security agencies. According to him, the ability of attackers to strike within Jos city, rather than in outlying areas, raises serious concerns about the current security architecture and intelligence system. “We were already celebrating as if we had overcome the worst,” he said, noting that the latest development was suggestive of a dangerous relapse. “There is a need to carefully investigate what exactly happened and what is responsible for this return of insecurity,” Bakare added. He stressed that beyond routine condemnations and deployment of troops, authorities must undertake a comprehensive review to understand the root causes of the renewed violence. Bakare questioned whether the resurgence could be linked to factors such as increased funding for insurgents, political dynamics, or gaps within the nation’s security framework. “It is not just about sending more troops or opening military camps everywhere. There must be a rethink, a reinvestigation of what exactly is happening before we begin to respond,” he said. The PFN scribe urged the Federal Government and security agencies to adopt a holistic strategy that was beyond reactive measures, insisting that identifying the underlying causes would lead to more effective and lasting solutions. He also highlighted the vulnerability of Christian communities during major religious observances, especially as the Easter season approaches. Efforts to contact the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon, were unsuccessful as his phone was unreachable at the time of filing this report. But the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, in a statement on Wednesday, ordered massive deployment of security assets to Jos to restore calm and ensure the arrest of those responsible. The statement, signed by Okon, added that in response to the situation, the IG deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Nadada, to the state to assess the security situation, coordinate ongoing operations, and strengthen the existing security architecture.

The Oyo State chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, has accused the state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, of making mockery of the Yoruba traditional institution. The party made the accusation while reacting to the elevation of three high chiefs to the position of Oba in Ibadanland. THENEWSCREDIT reports that the State government had on Friday coronated three High Chiefs as Obas. The affected individuals are High Chief Akeem Adewoyh Chief Kola Babalola and High Chief Sharafadeen Alli. Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District, is one of the gubernatorial aspirants on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, the three individuals and some notable indigenes of Ibadanland were absent at the event. APC in its reaction, said Makinde has written a bad page for himself in the history of the state. In the statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Sadare, the APC said, “Gov. Makinde made a mockery of the Yoruba traditional institution today when he installed photographs and empty chairs as Obas. “He can never have any justification for this shameful act but we are not surprised because we have known him to be an accidental public servant.”

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has promoted three High Chiefs in Ibadanland to Obas in their absence. THENEWSCREDIT reports that this is the first time such would happened in the history of Yorubaland. The three High Chiefs, Ekeerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Akeem Adewoyin, Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Kola Babalola and Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Sharafadeen Alli, had declined invitation for the coronation ceremony. Following their invitation by the state government a few days ago the three individuals claimed they would not be available for the ceremony. However, the state governor, Seyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Adebayo Lawal, pronounced them as Obas at the event, on Friday. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja was also absent at the event but was represented by Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola. The three chiefs also made good their resolve and were not present at the coronation event but Lawal who spoke on behalf of Makinde pronounced the them Obas. He said, “Distinguished newly crown Kabiesi, Kade o pe Lori ki bata o pe lese”. The event was attended by Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Eddy Oyewole-Foko, Osi Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Ekeerin Olubadan, Adebayo Akande, Chief Nureni Akanbi, Secretary to the State government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, Araba of Ibadanlanf Ifalere Adegbola and former Minister of Trade and Industry, Onikepo Akande. Others are; House of representatives member representing Ibarapa North/ Ibarapa Central, Adebayo Adepoju, Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, President General, Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole,

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Joash Amupitan has revealed the implications of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, going ahead with its scheduled congress and convention. Speaking on Arise News on Friday, Amupitan warned that the party must allow the law to take its course by going back to the status quo as ordered by the court. He said maintained that what happened in Zamfara State some years back might be repeated with ADC, if David Mark and other members of his party failed to put their house in order. Recall that the national chairman, David Mark, had at a press conference on Thursday, vowed that the party will continue with its planned congresses and national convention. But Amupitan warned, “If they decide to go ahead, let me tell you what happened in Zamfara: it happened in the past.” “At the end of the day, after you have won, the court will declare the election invalid and the implication is that the person with the second-highest number of votes will be declared the winner. It’s happened in Plateau State. “Failure to obey the court order has consequences. They have liability to do whatever they want to do, but INEC doesn’t want to face a situation again where there is an order not to do anything or take any steps. “I have the judgment here, and I can read it to you, it is very definite.”

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has declared that officers must pay fares before boarding commercial vehicles, warning against abuse of authority. Jimoh spoke on Wednesday at Obalende Garage, Lagos State, during a sensitisation meeting with drivers and transport workers marking National Police Day 2026. He stressed that relations between the police and the public must be based on partnership, not coercion, urging both sides to support each other voluntarily. “No police officer has the right to enter your vehicle without paying. We should assist one another willingly, not by force,” he said. Jimoh called for stronger cooperation to maintain safety and order on roads, insisting there was no conflict between officers and transport unions. He said their relationship remained cordial and rooted in mutual respect, dismissing perceptions of persistent friction between both groups. The AIG warned officers against extortion and misconduct, stressing zero tolerance for unprofessional behaviour within the force. “I don’t collect money from officers. We don’t arrest people arbitrarily. If you have issues with any officer, report directly to me,” he said. He urged the public to report harassment or misconduct, assuring that complaints would receive prompt attention and action. Jimoh advised drivers to avoid confrontations with officers, urging them to channel grievances through proper authorities. On safety, he warned against speeding, drunk driving, and substance abuse, describing them as major threats to lives on Nigerian roads. “If you drink, do not drive. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Faulty vehicles can expose you to danger if they break down,” he said. He also cautioned against chemical stimulants, noting they impair judgement and increase accident risks. Jimoh urged discipline, patience, and compliance with traffic rules, adding that personal well-being and stable homes improve performance. He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to sustained engagement with transport unions to build trust, reduce conflict, and enhance nationwide road safety. (NAN)

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), respectively. The commission also said it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared national chairman through the courts. INEC announced on Wednesday that it would suspend recognition of all factions within the party and refrain from monitoring any conventions or congresses organised by groups aligned with the affected leaders. The decision, it said, will remain in place pending the final determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court. The development follows a leadership crisis within the ADC and a recent judgment of the Court of Appeal in Suit No. CA/ABJ/145/2026, which has further complicated the dispute. In a statement, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the Commission remains committed to neutrality. He urged political stakeholders to avoid actions that could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections. INEC disclosed that it had received a letter dated March 16, 2026, from Suleiman Usman SAN & Co, warning against any recognition of Nafiu Bala Gombe as acting national chairman while legal proceedings are ongoing. The Commission also confirmed receiving a separate “Demand for Enforcement” from Summit Law Chambers, representing Gombe, which called for the removal of Mark and Aregbesola from INEC’s records and urged the Commission to stop engaging with them or recognising any activities conducted under their authority. The conflicting legal demands from the rival factions have deepened the party’s internal crisis, prompting INEC to halt all official dealings with the contending groups until the courts resolve the matter.

The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 6, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Easter celebration. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government on Wednesday. In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated Christians across Nigeria and in the diaspora on the occasion of Easter. Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to imbibe the virtues of selflessness, forgiveness, forbearance, and love, as exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. He also called on citizens to remain committed to the values of tolerance and community spirit, noting that such virtues are vital for strengthening national unity. The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to policies aimed at promoting national rebirth, economic growth, and shared prosperity for all Nigerians.

Award-winning actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, on Wednesday, described herself as an extremist in relationships, saying she loves fiercely and can cut people off completely Akindele, who appeared on The Morayo Show hosted by veteran broadcaster Morayo Afolabi-Brown, made this reflection on her personality and how she handles friendships. “I’m an extremist. I love so hard. I’m real. I’m like this. I’m not perfect. I can be troublesome. Yes, I can be. I’m tough,” she said. The actress, who was responding to Afolabi-Brown’s observation that she operates at two extremes, loving deeply or cutting people off completely, acknowledged the trait but said she was working on finding balance. “Morayo, I must say, I’m not proud of that and I’m proud of it. There must be a balance,” she stated. Akindele credited filmmaker and friend, Uzee Usman, with helping her confront the blind spots in her character. She recalled a point in which Usman bluntly told her that as a leader, she must learn to accept people as they are and not expect every door to close the same way hers does. “You see, this one, number one, the way this boy is doing no good.But number one, you be leader. You go there, accept people as they be. No be every door you go, they close, number one. You go just leave them, put them for a place. And for the first time I sat down, I was quiet.” “I said the same way he talks now true. I go try to manage. I’m an extremist. I love so hard,” she said The actress also spoke about her late mother, who frequently reminded her that not everyone operates at her speed. I’ve tried my best, Iyabo Ojo quits reconciling Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham “Everybody’s not as smart as you, as fast as you. Calm down. It is good, but calm down,” she recalled her mother’s words. She added, “Human relationships for me is very important and I’m learning every day. But no matter what happens, my mental health is very important.” THENEWSCREDIT reports that the interview comes days after Toyin Abraham approached Akindele and attempted to greet her while kneeling, but Akindele appeared to ignore the gesture, maintaining a straight face and not warmly reciprocating at the premiere of Iyabo Ojo’s film, The Return of Arinzo, held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Victoria Island, Lagos.

A 21-year-old carpenter, Anthony Alabi, has confessed to murdering a 58-year-old woman, Veronica Olaseni, in her farm in Ondo State. Alabi was arraigned in an Akure Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder and theft. The court didn’t take his plea due to lack of jurisdiction. Prosecutor Folashade Adebayo said Alabi committed the crime on March 2, 2026, around 2:30 p.m. in Iboropa-Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area. Alabi allegedly strangled Olaseni after she caught him stealing her belongings. The defendant also stole an Infinix phone, a cutlass, and a bank ATM card belonging to the deceased. The charge sheet cites sections of the Ondo State Criminal Code Law. Alabi confessed to the crime, saying he went to Olaseni’s farm to steal cashew nuts but killed her after she recognized him. He also admitted to having intercourse with the corpse, telling the court, “I didn’t want her body to waste.” Police prosecutor, Adebayo therefore, urged the court to remand Alabi pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The Presiding Magistrate Temitope Adurota, consequently ordered his remand at the Olokuta Correctional Centre, Akure, pending the issuance of advice from the office of the state’s Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP.Ondo state news. Magistrate Adurota, ordered that the case file be forwarded to the office of the DPP for advice and adjourned the case to June 6 for mention.

Former Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, has disclosed that she joined cult and worked for the devil. The actress who recently gave her life to Christ, revealed this part of her history while confessing during a ministration in Tanzania. Speaking about her journey in the movie and entertainment industry, Tonto claimed to have been involved in many demonic activities, noting that she dedicated her life to demons’ work. “The devil has lost this battle, I don’t care what you think, I don’t care what they say, this is God. In the midst of trying to navigate life in the wicked world that I came from, I had put my hands into so many dirty things. And did filthy things. “I joined a cult and worked so hard for the demon. I know who he is, and I know that he doesn’t have anything over me anymore. And today, God said no, mercy said no. I’ll take you back and clean you up”, she said.