New Post Africa

Category: Obituaries

  • Peter Obi pays tribute to Late General Obiakor, calls for better welfare for military personnel

    Peter Obi pays tribute to Late General Obiakor, calls for better welfare for military personnel

    AWKA, Nigeria (NPA) — Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has paid tribute to retired Lieutenant General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor, describing him as an exemplary officer and diplomat whose life was defined by service to Nigeria.

    In a statement issued on Friday titled “Honouring Our Heroes Beyond Tributes,” Obi said he joined other Nigerians in Awka to celebrate the life and legacy of the late military officer.

    Obiakor served in the Nigerian Army and later worked as a diplomat and military adviser at the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

    Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said serving and retired members of the Armed Forces deserved the highest honour and respect, both in life and after death.

    He urged political leaders to personally identify with and honour those who had dedicated their lives to defending the country.

    The NDC presidential candidate said the recent loss of military personnel in an aircraft crash and a subsequent helicopter incident highlighted the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces.

    He called for improved welfare for retired personnel, including timely pension payments, accessible healthcare and decent living conditions.

    For serving personnel, Obi stressed the need for adequate equipment, proper training and effective medical care.

    “Those who defend our nation deserve a nation that protects their dignity and well-being,” he said.

    Obi prayed for the peaceful repose of Obiakor’s soul, comfort for his family and protection for serving military personnel.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu mourns Ralph Obioha, hails former NADECO leader’s role in pro-democracy struggle

    JUST IN: Tinubu mourns Ralph Obioha, hails former NADECO leader’s role in pro-democracy struggle

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the passing of Chief Ralph Obioha, a respected statesman, former lawmaker, businessman and prominent figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle.

    Tinubu extended his condolences to Obioha’s family, community, the people of Abia State, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, members of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and all Nigerians mourning the former lawmaker.

    In a statement issued on October 7, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Obioha as a member of a generation of Nigerians who answered the call of duty during some of the most difficult periods in the country’s history.

    Tinubu said Obioha, as a founding member and prominent leader of NADECO, stood firmly for democratic governance during the struggle to restore democracy following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

    “His commitment to the pro-democracy cause came at considerable personal cost. Yet, despite the challenges and pressures of those difficult years, he remained steadfast in his belief that Nigeria’s destiny was inseparable from democracy, justice, constitutionalism and the right of the Nigerian people to choose their leaders,” the President said.

    Tinubu said the contributions of Nigerians who stood firm during difficult chapters of the country’s history should not be forgotten.

    “Chief Ralph Obioha was a courageous Nigerian who made sacrifices for democracy and remained committed to the ideals of a better Nigeria.

    “His generation faced extraordinary challenges, and he played his part in defending the principles he believed would strengthen our democracy and our nation.

    “His passing is a loss to his family, his community and the nation. We shall remember him for his courage, his convictions, his service and his belief in Nigeria.”

    The President, on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, extended his deepest condolences to Obioha’s family and loved ones.

    He prayed that Almighty God would comfort the bereaved and grant eternal rest to the deceased.

    “May the memory of Chief Ralph Obioha endure as a reminder that the building of a nation requires courage, sacrifice, conviction and faith,” Tinubu added.

  • Sanwo-Olu commiserates with Tinubu, NAF over Ondo aircraft crash

    Sanwo-Olu commiserates with Tinubu, NAF over Ondo aircraft crash

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commiserated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the crash of a NAF ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday.

    Sanwo-Olu, who is Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, described the deaths of the passengers and crew members as a painful loss and extended his condolences to their families, friends and associates.

    The governor expressed his condolences in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.

    The NAF later confirmed that 25 people — 20 passengers and five crew members — were on board the aircraft, with no survivors.

    Sanwo-Olu also commiserated with the Nigerian Air Force and prayed for strength and comfort for the families of the victims as they mourn their loved ones.

    “My heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, over the tragic air mishap that claimed the lives of 25 passengers, including crew members in Ondo State.

    “This is a very painful loss. On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I pray that the Nigerian Air Force, families and friends of the victims of the air crash will find the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

    He prayed that the deceased would be granted eternal rest and that their families would receive the strength to cope with the loss.

  • Peter Obi visits NAF headquarters, signs condolence register for crash victims

    Peter Obi visits NAF headquarters, signs condolence register for crash victims

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has visited the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja to commiserate with the organisation following the crash of a NAF aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, signed the condolence register opened at the NAF facility and commended members of the Armed Forces for the sacrifices they make in the line of duty.

    The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed on October 5 while on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos. The NAF later confirmed that 25 people, comprising 20 passengers and five crew members, were on board and that there were no survivors.

    In a statement titled “My Visit to the Nigerian Air Force Facility,” Obi said the visit followed his earlier message of condolence over the crash.

    “Further to my message yesterday, I visited the Nigerian Air Force facility in Abuja today to formally sign the condolence register following the unfortunate aircraft crash,” he said.

    Obi said the visit provided an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the course of protecting the country.

    “These courageous Nigerians put their lives on the line to defend our nation and protect our people. We must never take their service and sacrifice for granted,” he said.

    He extended his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families, colleagues and loved ones of those who died in the crash.

    “May God grant eternal rest to the departed and give their families the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss,” Obi said.

    He also prayed for the continued protection of Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

    “May God continue to protect all those who serve our country,” he added.

    Obi had earlier expressed sadness over the crash, describing the affected personnel as courageous men and women who devoted their lives to defending Nigeria and protecting its citizens.

    The Nigerian Air Force has opened a condolence register at its Conference Centre in Kado, Abuja, for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security agencies and other well-wishers to pay their respects.

    The crash remains under investigation, with the Chief of the Air Staff directing a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also ordered an investigation and declared three days of national mourning for the deceased Air Force personnel.

  • Amnesty International demands justice over alleged extrajudicial #EndSARS killing of journalist Pelumi Onifade

    Amnesty International demands justice over alleged extrajudicial #EndSARS killing of journalist Pelumi Onifade

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Amnesty International Nigeria has called for justice over the alleged killing of Pelumi Onifade, a 20-year-old journalist who died during the #EndSARS protests in Lagos in October 2020.

    In a statement issued on Friday and titled “The Brutal Killing of Pelumi Onifade,” the rights organisation alleged that Onifade was killed by members of the Lagos State Police Task Force after he was detained during the protests.

    According to Amnesty International, Onifade was covering a demonstration in Abule Egba, Lagos State, for Gboah TV when he was struck by a bullet. The organisation alleged that members of the Lagos State Task Force subsequently dragged him, while bleeding, into a van.

    Amnesty further alleged that Onifade had been detained earlier on October 24, 2020, after filming a Lagos politician allegedly wielding a gun during the protests.

    The rights group said DNA tests and a post-mortem examination confirmed that Onifade died from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

    Amnesty alleged that his body was later deposited at the mortuary of the General Hospital, Ikorodu, Lagos.

    The organisation called for the case to mark the beginning of what it described as a process of justice for Onifade, who it said was carrying out his work as a journalist when he was killed.

    “The case of Pelumi Onifade is just one of many shocking atrocities committed by Nigeria’s security agencies during #EndSARS protests,” Amnesty said.

    Amnesty International has previously documented excessive use of force and killings during the #EndSARS protests, including the reported deaths of protesters in Lagos and elsewhere. The organisation called for investigations and accountability for those responsible.

    #EndSARS protests

    The #EndSARS movement erupted in October 2020 following years of public complaints about abuses attributed to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a police unit established to combat violent crime.

    Amnesty International documented allegations of police abuses including excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial killings during the protests.

    The protests, driven largely by young Nigerians, initially focused on demands for the dissolution of SARS and an end to police brutality before expanding into broader calls for accountability, justice and governance reforms.

    The Federal Government announced the dissolution of SARS on October 11, 2020, but protests continued in several parts of the country.

    Amnesty condemns alleged use of force in Minna

    In a separate development, Amnesty International has condemned what it described as the use of lethal force against protesters in Minna, Niger State, following the reported deaths of 37 youths in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    The rights organisation alleged that some protesters were shot and left with severe injuries, and said at least two people were reportedly killed during the protests.

    Amnesty called for an independent and adequately resourced investigation into the reported incidents.

    It also urged the authorities to provide parents and relatives of victims with the necessary support to pursue justice and obtain appropriate remedies.

    The organisation said the reported incidents underscored the need for security agencies to respect the right to life and ensure that the use of force during protests complies with applicable laws and human rights standards.

  • President Tinubu mourns as veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

    President Tinubu mourns as veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84 on Tuesday.

    After training at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Olu Jacobs built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.

    He received several industry honours and awards for his contributions to the performing arts and was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

    In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on September 16, 2026, President Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film in Nigeria and internationally.

    The President acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, saying his exceptional talent, discipline and dedication to his craft inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.

    Tinubu also praised the late actor’s ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him admiration in Nigeria and beyond.

    “He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts. His remarkable body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn.

    “The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity,” the President said.

    The President extended his condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children and relatives, as well as colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.

    He prayed for the repose of the deceased actor’s soul.

  • JUST IN: Barack Obama family mourns death of Sunny

    JUST IN: Barack Obama family mourns death of Sunny

    Former United States President Barack Obama and his family are mourning the death of Sunny, their Portuguese Water Dog and a cherished member of the family for 13 years.

    Obama, in a statement on Wednesday, described Sunny as “pretty much perfect”, recalling her energy, loyalty and affectionate nature.

    Sunny joined the Obama family during his second term in the White House and quickly became close to the family and their first dog, Bo.

    Obama said Sunny was athletic and full of energy, often chasing squirrels and birds across the South Lawn. Unlike Bo, who could usually be won over with treats, Sunny preferred playing, running around with the family and having her belly rubbed.

    He also recalled her protective nature towards Bo and her close relationship with the Obama family’s staff.

    “We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay,” Obama said.

    Sunny died after 13 years with the Obama family.

    #NewpostAfrica #BarackObama #Obama #Sunny #USA #WhiteHouse

  • Atiku mourns Bamanga Tukur, says elder statesman understood public service as duty

    Atiku mourns Bamanga Tukur, says elder statesman understood public service as duty

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has described the late former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Muhammad Tukur, as a member of a generation that understood public service as a duty rather than a reward.

    Atiku, in a condolence statement issued on Sunday and titled, “Nigeria has lost an elder statesman,” said Tukur dedicated his life to public service, business and the advancement of African enterprise.

    According to the former vice president, Tukur served the country in various capacities, including at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), as Governor of the old Gongola State and as Minister of Industries.

    Atiku said the late elder statesman was also a champion of African enterprise long before intra-African trade became a prominent subject of public discourse.

    He said: **“Alhaji Bamanga Muhammad Tukur, Tafidan Adamawa, served this country at the Nigerian Ports Authority, as Governor of the old Gongola State, as Minister of Industries, and as a champion of African enterprise long before it became fashionable to speak of intra-African trade.

    “He belonged to a generation that understood public service as duty rather than reward.”**

    Atiku prayed for the repose of Tukur’s soul and extended his condolences to his family, the Fombina Emirate, the Adamawa State Government and people, as well as his associates across Nigeria and Africa.

    He said: “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. My condolences to the Tukur family, the Fombina Emirate, the Government and people of Adamawa State, and his associates across Nigeria and Africa.”

  • PDP bids Bamanga Tukur farewell

    PDP bids Bamanga Tukur farewell

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family in Nigeria and the diaspora has expressed deep sadness over the death of its former National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, who died at the age of 90.

    In a statement signed on Saturday by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP Interim National Working Committee, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party described Tukur’s death as “a statesman’s farewell.”

    The PDP said Tukur played prominent roles in shaping policies and projects across key sectors of the Nigerian economy, particularly ports administration, international trade and industries.

    The former governor of the old Gongola State also held several high-ranking political and public offices, building a political career that matched his extensive professional record.

    The party recalled that during its last interaction with Tukur a few months ago, he reaffirmed his belief in the PDP as a truly national party capable of providing solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

    According to the statement, Tukur also charged the PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, to keep the party’s flag flying.

    The PDP joined Tukur’s family, friends and admirers in mourning his passing and prayed for comfort for those he left behind.

    Read the full report through the link in the comments.

    #NewpostAfrica #BamangaTukur #PDP

  • Tinubu mourns former Gongola governor Bamanga Tukur at 90

    Tinubu mourns former Gongola governor Bamanga Tukur at 90

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of elder statesman, renowned businessman and former governor of the old Gongola State, Alhaji Bamanga Muhammad Tukur, who died at the age of 90.

    President Tinubu described the passing of Tukur, the Tafidan Adamawa, as the end of a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s political and economic history.

    In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, September 12, 2026, the President described Tukur as a towering figure whose distinguished career spanned public administration, governance, industry, politics and pan-African business leadership.

    Born on September 15, 1935, Tukur rose to national prominence as General Manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority, a position he held from 1975 to 1982, where he contributed to the modernisation of port operations and the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

    Tinubu also recalled Tukur’s entry into politics during the Second Republic, which culminated in his election as governor of the old Gongola State in 1983. The state was later divided into Adamawa and Taraba states.

    Tukur subsequently distinguished himself in the private sector as Chairman of BHI Holdings and the DADDO Group of Companies, conglomerates with interests in manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and trading.

    He also served as Federal Minister of Industries under the military administration of General Sani Abacha from 1993 to 1995.

    On the continental stage, Tukur was described as a strong advocate of Africa’s economic development. As Executive President of the African Business Roundtable and Chairman of the NEPAD Business Group, he championed intra-African trade, private sector-led growth and sustainable development.

    Tukur also served as National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from March 2012 to January 2014.

    President Tinubu acknowledged his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development during his tenure as PDP chairman, particularly in promoting party discipline and consensus-building.

    “Alhaji Tukur was urbane, generous and deeply rooted in the values of integrity and service that the Adamawa Emirate and the nation hold dear.

    “He was a man of big ideas and bold enterprise who believed in Nigeria’s limitless potential. Nigeria will sorely miss his wise counsel and fatherly guidance,” Tinubu said.

    The President extended his condolences to the Tukur family, the Fombina Emirate of Adamawa, the Government and people of Adamawa State, as well as the political and business communities in Nigeria and across Africa.

    Tinubu also prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, grant his soul Aljannah Firdaus and comfort all those mourning his death.