New Post Africa

Category: Crime Diary

  • NBA warns against judicial interference in political party affairs

    NBA warns against judicial interference in political party affairs

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep concern over recent political and legal developments ahead of the 2027 General Elections, warning against the misuse of courts in matters relating to the internal affairs of political parties.

    In a statement issued on Friday, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, noted that the association has closely monitored the interpretation and potential application of provisions of the Electoral Act 2026. He stressed that Section 83 of the Act explicitly bars courts from entertaining suits or granting interim injunctions in matters concerning political party affairs.

    “What we now see are situations where actions are instituted in courts by lawyers in clear violation of the Act, and courts purportedly grant interim or interlocutory injunctions in contempt of statutory provisions. This does not augur well for our democracy,” Osigwe said. He warned that such practices risk turning judicial processes into tools for political score‑settling and electoral manipulation.

    The NBA emphasized that the provisions of the Electoral Act were designed to curb abuse of court processes and discourage forum shopping in political disputes. It cautioned that selective or manipulative application of these provisions could undermine democratic competition and shrink the political space.

    Osigwe reminded members of the Bar that they are “Ministers in the Temple of Justice and not political agents seeking judicial endorsement of partisan objectives.” He warned that lawyers who deliberately file actions aimed at drawing courts into intra‑party disputes, or who seek ex parte or interlocutory orders in violation of the law, risk disciplinary proceedings. The NBA pledged to petition the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) against any practitioner found guilty of such conduct.

    The association also urged the judiciary to remain vigilant and resist being drawn into political theatrics. “Courts should firmly decline invitations, no matter how artfully crafted, to intervene in matters the law explicitly bars them from,” the statement concluded.

  • US praises Nigeria over large-scale terrorism convictions

    US praises Nigeria over large-scale terrorism convictions

    INTERNATIONAL, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The United States Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Fares Boulos, has commended the Nigerian government for securing recent convictions of terrorism suspects, describing the move as a strong demonstration of commitment to justice and accountability.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, Boulos said the United States welcomed the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in Nigerian courts. “We commend the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes, and we recognize this as an important step toward accountability and justice,” he noted.

    He stressed that Washington believes timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. “Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians, and we support continued efforts to strengthen judicial efficiency and fairness across the country,” the statement concluded.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that the Federal Government secured 386 convictions out of 508 cases in the ongoing mass trial of terrorism suspects. The Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, confirmed the development last Friday, noting that of the 508 defendants brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja, two were acquitted while eight were discharged.

    Fagbemi further clarified that another batch of 112 suspects, whose cases could not be heard, will be arraigned alongside others in the next phase of the mass trial scheduled for 15–18 June. He stressed that the convictions send a clear message that Nigeria has zero tolerance for terrorism and related crimes.

    The United States’ endorsement of Nigeria’s judicial efforts signals support for the country’s fight against extremism, and the strengthening of national and regional security.

  • UN reveals organized child trafficking networks in South Eastern Europe

    UN reveals organized child trafficking networks in South Eastern Europe

    INTERNATIONAL, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The United Nations has raised alarm over the growing exploitation of children in South Eastern Europe, citing harrowing cases of forced begging, sexual abuse, and coerced labour. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed that children now account for nearly a quarter of all detected trafficking victims in the region, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated action.

    Recent cases illustrate the scale of the crisis: in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a married couple forced their four children to beg daily for over a year; in Slovenia, a father sold his teenage daughter into an abusive marriage; and in North Macedonia, a 12‑year‑old girl was forced to drink alcohol, dance in bars, and endure sexual exploitation. “These cases illustrate how children, including migrants and refugees, are being cruelly exploited by human traffickers,” said Davor Raus, a UNODC crime prevention expert.

    At a regional meeting in Skopje, more than 60 anti‑trafficking specialists from 20 countries discussed strategies to combat organized crime networks. Romanian prosecutor Dan Alexandru Popa warned that traffickers are increasingly sophisticated, citing an ongoing trial of 14 defendants accused of exploiting German teenagers under the guise of rehabilitation programmes in Romania. The group allegedly abused minors while misappropriating state funds meant for their welfare.

    Links between migrant smuggling and trafficking were also highlighted. In Bosnia, two Afghan nationals stand accused of luring unaccompanied children from refugee camps with false promises of free passage into the EU, only to subject them to forced criminality and sexual exploitation.

    Experts stressed the devastating impact of trafficking on child victims, including long‑term trauma, mental health issues, and disrupted education. “The impact on children is magnified due to their vulnerability and dependency on caregivers, who in some cases are the exploiters,” said Stojne Atanasovska Dimishkovska, UNODC’s National Programme Officer in North Macedonia.

    The meeting, co‑organized by France’s Permanent Mission to the UN, concluded with calls for stronger victim protection, compensation, and efforts to dismantle cultural prejudices that enable practices such as forced marriage and begging. “Traffickers are becoming more professional and organized,” said French expert Elodie Goyard, urging immediate and lasting safeguards to prevent revictimization.

    The UN stressed that tackling child trafficking requires sustained international cooperation, robust prosecution of perpetrators, and comprehensive support for victims to rebuild their lives.

  • Oyo Police arrest syndicate over forgery and impersonation in Ibadan

    Oyo Police arrest syndicate over forgery and impersonation in Ibadan

    IBADAN, Nigeria, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The Oyo State Police Command has announced the arrest of ten suspects accused of impersonation and forgery in Ibadan, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

    According to a statement by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer, the arrests were made on 9 April after actionable intelligence revealed that a syndicate was operating from a hideout in the Ogunpa area of Ibadan. The group allegedly specialised in forging official documents, certificates, and stamps belonging to government agencies, banks, and private organisations.

    The suspects were identified as Mumini Akanbi (62), Quadri Muhammed (31), Salami Tajudeen (50), Oladipupo Hammed (45), Oladipupo Taiwo (40), Olorunosebi Kazzeem (42), Fatai Akanni (54), Alamu Kazeem (60), Olalekan Afeez (42), and Alex Olanrewaju (64). All have reportedly confessed to their involvement and are assisting investigators.

    Search warrants executed at their operational bases led to the recovery of incriminating exhibits, including forged police character certificates, Nigeria Police Force CID stamps, Oyo State Government ministry stamps, and stamps belonging to commercial banks and private organisations.

    The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response, while also praising members of the public for providing timely intelligence. He emphasised the importance of community partnership in crime prevention and urged residents to remain vigilant.

    The statement further highlighted the Inspector-General of Police’s “People-First Policing Strategy,” which prioritises community engagement and intelligence-led policing to enhance public safety nationwide.

    The Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that all suspects will be charged in court upon conclusion. Citizens were advised to obtain documents only through official channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.

    The Oyo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to rid the state of criminal activities and called on residents to continue supporting security agencies in sustaining peace and order.

  • NDLEA arrests 93-year-old great grandfather and medical doctor in nationwide drug crackdown

    NDLEA arrests 93-year-old great grandfather and medical doctor in nationwide drug crackdown

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — A 93-year-old great grandfather and a 69-year-old medical doctor are among suspects arrested as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intensified its crackdown on drug cartels and collaborators in intelligence-led operations across Nigeria.

    In Abia State, operatives arrested Pa Friday Ahukanna Chigbu at his home in Umuagbaigba, Amavo Nkwogu village, Osisioma LGA, on 7 April. A search of his residence uncovered 7.7 kilograms of skunk, a potent strain of cannabis. Chigbu admitted to smoking skunk since 1959 and said he turned to trafficking about a year ago after working as a truck pusher, painter, and tiler.

    The NDLEA also intercepted an Ivorian national, Michael Gohouri, 41, at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport with 82 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.49kg. Investigations revealed that Gohouri, who ingested the drugs in a Kano hotel, was acting under the instructions of Dr Chudi Daniel Ofomata, a 69-year-old medical doctor. Ofomata was later arrested in Ogun State, where officers recovered controlled substances including promazepam and promethazine injections.

    Further arrests included three suspects in Ogun State with 34kg of skunk, a female suspect in Imo State with 56.2kg, and a couple in Niger State with 118kg hidden in their kitchen. In Borno, officers seized over 42,000 tablets of Rohypnol, 82,700ml of codeine syrup, and 10,000ml of Pentazocine injection from a trailer carrying vehicle parts. The consignment’s owner was arrested in a follow-up operation.

    In Lagos, NDLEA operatives intercepted a luxury bus en route to Port Harcourt, recovering 15kg of Scottish Loud cannabis and arresting two suspects. Another operation in Mushin led to the seizure of 26,800 bottles of codeine syrup. In Abuja, a raid on the notorious Tora Bora drug joint resulted in eight arrests and the recovery of 11.5kg of skunk. Meanwhile, in Edo State, two trucks carrying 7,245kg of processed skunk concealed among beer cartons were intercepted, with five suspects detained.

    According to a statement signed by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended officers across multiple states for their efforts, noting the balance between reducing drug supply and demand. He also highlighted ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaigns in schools, motor parks, and churches nationwide.

    The arrests underscore NDLEA’s determination to dismantle drug networks and curb trafficking across Nigeria.

  • Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo decries killing of family in Bokkos attack by Fulani militias

    Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo decries killing of family in Bokkos attack by Fulani militias

    JOS, Nigeria, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), has condemned the killing of five members of a family on the night of 9 April 2026 in Mbwelle village, Forof District, Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State. The attack was allegedly carried out by armed Fulani assailants emerging from a settlement said to be under military protection.

    In a statement issued today, Reverend Dachomo noted that the assault reportedly lasted for two hours without intervention from military personnel stationed less than three kilometres away. He added that, to the shock of villagers and officials attending a mass burial on 10 April, an Operation Enduring Peace gun truck, marked Operation Enduring Peace E5 and believed to belong to Sector 5, was allegedly later seen positioned in front of the Fulani settlement where witnesses claimed the attackers had retreated.

    Local residents reported that the attack began around 9:00 pm with sporadic gunfire as families prepared for bed. The gunfire intensified, spreading across the village and forcing residents to flee in terror. Survivors recounted that snipers had been positioned along escape routes, shooting at anyone attempting to run for safety. Those who remained indoors were not spared, including a pregnant woman killed alongside her unborn child.

    Witnesses described how the assailants shot victims and attacked others with machetes while shouting religious slogans, leaving behind devastation and grief. The attackers were said to have come from Korong, a nearby Fulani settlement reportedly occupied by force, which continues to pose a threat to surrounding communities.

    The killings follow a recent attack in Angwan Rukuba, Nasarawa Gwong area of Jos North, which claimed several lives. President Bola Tinubu visited Plateau State to condole with the people after that incident. Analysts have expressed concern over the persistence of violence in the state despite the recent deployment of security personnel and equipment to the North-Central region.

  • INEC denies Chairman’s alleged APC-supporting X account, warns against partisan fabrications

    INEC denies Chairman’s alleged APC-supporting X account, warns against partisan fabrications

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, endorsed a partisan post on X (formerly Twitter).

    In a statement signed by Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, the Commission described the allegation as “baseless, a total fabrication, and a figment of the imagination of its purveyors.” It stressed that Prof. Amupitan does not own or operate any personal account on X and has never engaged in partisan commentary in either his private or public capacity.

    INEC said the contrived post was a desperate attempt to undermine the integrity and neutrality of the Chairman at a time when the Commission is focused on electoral reforms and preparations for upcoming polls. The Commission added that the fabrication was a distraction designed to erode public trust in the electoral umpire.

    Beyond partisan mischief, INEC warned that cybercriminals have been exploiting fake social media accounts in the Chairman’s name to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians. Several fraudulent accounts have previously been identified and reported to security agencies. The Commission said it is working with cyber‑intelligence units to track and prosecute those behind the latest identity theft and misinformation campaign.

    INEC emphasised that identity theft and the dissemination of forged social media interactions are criminal offences under the Cybercrimes Act, and vowed that perpetrators will face the full weight of the law.

    The Commission urged the public to disregard the falsehood and rely only on verified institutional channels and formal press statements for information. It reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections for all Nigerians.

  • Nigeria Sanctions Committee designates 48 individuals and groups for terrorism financing

    Nigeria Sanctions Committee designates 48 individuals and groups for terrorism financing

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — The Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NigSac) has announced the designation of 48 individuals and organisations for terrorism financing and related offences, in a sweeping move aimed at disrupting extremist networks across the country.

    According to official records, those sanctioned include individuals such as Abdulsamat Ohida, Mohammed Sani, Fatima Ishaq, Tukur Mamu, and Yusuf Ghazali, alongside groups including Jama’atu Wal‑Jihad, Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru), the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

    The Committee’s narrative summaries highlight the roles of several key figures. For instance, Chiwendu Joy Owoh, identified as a financial operative, allegedly managed accounts used to collect and remit funds for a terrorist structure known as BRGIE. Intelligence reports linked her Moniepoint account to systematic fundraising activities across Nigerian states.

    Similarly, Abdurrahman (FNU) was designated as a senior commander of ISWAP’s Okene faction, suspected of involvement in attacks around the Federal Capital Territory and the South‑West, including the June 2022 assault on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.

    Another designee, Fatima Ovayioza Ishaq, was described as a financial courier for ISWAP Okene, responsible for disbursing funds to widows and wives of fighters.

    The sanctions, which include asset freezes and restrictions on financial transactions, are part of Nigeria’s broader counter‑terrorism strategy under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Officials emphasised that the designations aim to cut off funding streams, weaken operational capacity, and deter support networks that enable extremist violence.

    Here’s the full list of the 48 individuals and groups sanctioned by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NigSac):  

    1. Abdulsamat Ohida  

    2. Mohammed Sani  

    3. Abdurrahman Abdurrahman  

    4. Fatima Ishaq  

    5. Tukur Mamu  

    6. Yusuf Ghazali  

    7. Muhammad Sani  

    8. Abubakar Muhammad  

    9. Sallamudeen Hassan  

    10. Adamu Ishak  

    11. Hassana Isah  

    12. AbdulKareem Musa  

    13. Umar Abdullahi  

    14. Abdurrahman Ado  

    15. Bashir Yusuf  

    16. Ibrahim Alhassan  

    17. Muhammad Isah  

    18. Salihu Adamu  

    19. Surajo Mohammad  

    20. Fannami Bukar  

    21. Muhammed Musa  

    22. Sahabi Ismail  

    23. Mohammed Buba  

    24. Jama’atu Wal‑Jihad  

    25. Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru)  

    26. Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)  

    27. Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)  

    28. Yan Group  

    29. Yan Group NLBDG  

    30. Adamu Hassan  

    31. Hassan Mohammed  

    32. Usman Abubakar  

    33. Kubara Salawu  

    34. Rabiu Suleiman  

    35. Simon Njoku  

    36. Godstime Iyare  

    37. Francis Mmaduabuchi  

    38. John Onwumere  

    39. Chikwuka Eze  

    40. Edwin Chukwuedo  

    41. Chiwendu Owoh  

    42. Ginika Orji  

    43. Awo Uchechukwu  

    44. Mercy Ali  

    45. Ohagwu Juliana  

    46. Eze Okpoto  

    47. Nwaobi Chimezie  

    48. Ogumu Kewe  

    NigSac reiterated its commitment to safeguarding national security and urged financial institutions, businesses, and the public to comply fully with the sanctions regime.

  • Court jails ex‑senatorial candidate 10 years for aiding terrorism

    Court jails ex‑senatorial candidate 10 years for aiding terrorism

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (Agency Report) — The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Borno senatorial candidate, Babagana Habeeb, to 10 years’ imprisonment for aiding terrorism.

    Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Peter Lifu convicted Habeeb on a one‑count charge filed by the Federal Government, which centred on aiding and abetting terrorist activities through the supply of petroleum products to insurgents.

    Habeeb, a fuel dealer based in Maiduguri, pleaded guilty to selling fuel in the North‑East region but claimed that his station attendants may have carried out the transactions without his direct involvement. During proceedings, he pleaded for leniency, kneeling in the dock and appealing to the court for mercy, citing his two wives, six children, and over a decade in detention without contact with his family.

    Prosecuting counsel, Mr David Kaswe, opposed the plea, urging the court to impose a 20‑year sentence. He argued that the fuel supplies enabled insurgents’ mobility during attacks and facilitated their escape into remote areas.

    Justice Lifu, however, held that there was no evidence linking Habeeb to membership or training within the terrorist group, noting that the sole offence established was the sale of fuel to insurgents. He also observed that the prosecution did not dispute the claim of prolonged detention.

    Consequently, Habeeb was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment, with the court ordering that the term should take effect from the date of his arrest and detention. The judge further directed that the convict be released immediately after signing his release warrant to enable rehabilitation.

  • Ondo Police arraign three suspects over traffic offences, assault and abduction of officers

    Ondo Police arraign three suspects over traffic offences, assault and abduction of officers

    AKURE, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — The Ondo State Police Command has arraigned three suspects for a string of traffic and criminal offences, including disobedience of traffic regulations, obstruction, assault on police officers, abduction of a police officer, resisting arrest, and reckless driving.

    According to a statement issued by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, Police Public Relations Officer, the first incident occurred on 3 April when Olopade Abraham, accompanied by Emmanuel Taiwo, disobeyed traffic lights at Cathedral Junction, Akure, while driving a Toyota Avensis. A Senior Traffic Warden, ST Oliniju Kehinde, attempted to enforce compliance but was taken away in the vehicle when the driver diverted to an unknown destination. A patrol team from Fanibi Division intercepted the car at Winners Chapel Junction, rescuing the officer and arresting the suspects.

    In a separate incident on 5 April, a police patrol team intercepted a vehicle driving against traffic at the Oba‑Ile axis. During enforcement, Mrs Adeyanju Tolutope and her husband, who remains at large, resisted arrest. Mrs Tolutope assaulted Inspector Tolulope before being taken into custody, while efforts continue to apprehend her fleeing accomplice.

    All suspects have been charged in court for prosecution.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the professionalism and restraint of officers involved, noting that their swift actions reflect the Command’s commitment to enforcing traffic laws and safeguarding road users. He expressed appreciation to Inspector‑General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his support and strategic guidance, which continue to strengthen the Command’s operational effectiveness.

    The Command reiterated its zero‑tolerance stance on traffic violations and assaults against law enforcement officers, urging members of the public to comply with traffic regulations and lawful directives. Violators, it warned, will face decisive legal consequences.