Nigerian Newspapers Summary
Good morning! Here is today’s summary from Daily News 24. Stay informed with the top headlines making waves across Nigeria, including a tragic airstrike accident in Sokoto, a deadly attack on cattle rearers in Plateau, rising security concerns in Imo and Niger states, and significant developments in national defense and governance.
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1. Accidental airstrike kills villagers in Sokoto State
A Nigerian fighter jet targeting terrorists in Sokoto State accidentally bombed two communities—Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa—in Silame Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries among villagers. Locals reported widespread panic and called for urgent government intervention.
2. Gunmen attack cattle rearers in Plateau, kill livestock and injure many
Gunmen launched an attack on cattle herders in the Heipang area of Barkin Ladi Local Government, Plateau State, on Wednesday. The attackers reportedly opened fire indiscriminately, killing several cattle and injuring herders, causing them to flee for safety. The Miyetti Allah chairman condemned the attack and called for increased security.
3. Gas cylinder explosion kills apprentice, injures others in Niger State
A gas cylinder explosion at a vulcaniser’s workshop near Kpakungu police division in Minna, Niger State, claimed the life of an apprentice named Haji. The incident also left the vulcaniser, his son, and another apprentice with serious injuries. Emergency responders attended to the casualties as investigations commenced.
4. Car rams into Christian procession in Gombe, injures 22
Tragedy struck in Tumfure, Gombe State, when a vehicle lost control and rammed into a Christian procession on Wednesday. The accident left 22 individuals injured. The Gombe State Police Command confirmed the incident and assured the public of ongoing investigations into the cause of the accident.
5. Nigerian Air Force to acquire fighter jets and helicopters to combat insurgency
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to enhance its operational capabilities by acquiring 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, disclosed the plans during a Christmas luncheon with NAF personnel in Maiduguri.
6. Jigawa governor announces mother’s passing
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has announced the death of his mother, Maryam Namadi. The sad news was shared via a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Gumel, in Dutse on Wednesday. Condolences have poured in from dignitaries and well-wishers.
7. Ogun police arrest four suspects over theft of motorcycle and gas cylinder
The Ogun State Police Command arrested four suspects involved in the theft of a motorcycle and a gas cylinder in the Ajuwon and Odeda areas. The arrests followed swift police operations after multiple theft-related complaints were lodged by residents in the affected areas.
8. Police officers, kidnappers killed in Imo shootout
A fierce shootout between police officers and a kidnapping syndicate in Orogwe, Imo State, resulted in the deaths of two officers and three kidnappers. The Anti-Kidnapping Unit carried out the operation, dismantling the syndicate responsible for multiple abductions in the area.
9. Suspected killer of ex-permanent secretary dies in hospital
The prime suspect in the murder of a former permanent secretary in Niger State, 18-year-old Fatiha Abdulhakeem, has died in Minna General Hospital. The police spokesperson revealed that the suspect succumbed to severe stomach pain after being rushed to the hospital under police custody.
10. Bishop Kukah blames government failures for tragic stampedes
Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese has attributed the recent deadly stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja to government failures in addressing hunger and poverty. He lamented Nigeria’s persistent struggles despite decades of independence and urged immediate action to address systemic challenges.