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Enugu Govt condemns renewed excesses of Oriokpa Masquerade in Nsukka, vows tough measures

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The Enugu State Government has expressed strong displeasure over yet another incident of violent conduct and public nuisance involving the Oriokpa masquerade in Nsukka, vowing to take decisive action to bring the menace to an end.

The government in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Dame Ugochi Madueke, said the flogging, harassment, brutalization, and extortion of residents by the masqueraders was unacceptable and not in line with the true cultures and traditions of the people.

“While masquerades are a revered part of our cultural heritage and are expected to be conducted in a manner that respects the dignity, safety, and rights of all members of the public, the recent violent conduct of the Oriokpa masquerade is not only unacceptable, but also a direct violation of the conditions under which the ban earlier imposed on the masquerade was lifted.

“It is deeply disturbing and regrettable that some individuals continue to abuse this sacred tradition by turning cultural displays into opportunities for violence, intimidation, and extortion, despite previous engagements with stakeholders and custodians of tradition in the Nsukka cultural zone.

“The Ministry wishes to reiterate the government’s zero tolerance for any cultural practice that endangers public safety or violates the law. Accordingly, the government is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all those involved in the incident are identified and brought to justice.

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“Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the Oriokpa masquerade activities will commence immediately, with a view to considering a fresh ban if necessary.”

The statement also called on community leaders and custodians of culture to ensure that all cultural practices are not only peaceful, but also safeguard the safety and dignity of every citizen.

“We call on community leaders, traditional institutions, and cultural custodians in Nsukka and beyond to take greater responsibility in ensuring that masquerade practices are peaceful, respectful, and aligned with the values of modern civil society.

“Enugu State remains committed to the promotion of culture — but not at the expense of human life or dignity. Culture must unify, not divide. It must celebrate identity, not inflict harm,” Dame Madueke concluded.

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Soldier declared wanted over terrorism

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The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared one of its personnel wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements.

It said that preliminary investigations indicated that the soldier, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026.

“The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared one of its personnel, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements,” it said in a statement by Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Oluwatope Aluko, on Thursday.

It said that intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws.

“The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps wishes to state unequivocally that it has zero tolerance for misconduct, indiscipline, or any act capable of compromising the operational effectiveness, integrity and reputation of the Nigerian Army or threatening national security,” it added.

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The military authorities said any personnel found to have aided terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items would be subjected to the full weight of military and civil laws.

The Corps, therefore, appealed to members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.

It noted that such information should be reported immediately to the nearest military formation or any security agency.

“The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps reassures Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets.

“The Corps will continue to strengthen internal control measures and ensure that every allegation of misconduct is thoroughly investigated while those found culpable are held fully accountable,” it added. (Channels TV)

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Mbah reacts to Enugu Air runway incident, declares Safety Non-Negotiable

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The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has reacted to Thursday’s runway incident involving the state-owned airline, Enugu Air, at Benin Airport, empathizing with the passengers and crew members over the traumatic experience.

Mbah, in a statement he personally signed, commended the aviation authorities for immediately initiating an investigation into the incident, saying that, for Enugu Air, safety remained non-negotiable.

In the statement made available to newsmen on Friday, the governor said, “The Enugu State Government is aware of the runway excursion incident affecting Enugu Air, Embraer E170, Flight 4264, operating until the Benin Airport from Lagos on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

“The government empathizes with the 63 passengers and five crew members on board the aircraft over the traumatic experience and is thankful to God that no life was lost and no injuries have so far been reported.

“The government commends the swiftness of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) in embarking on the ongoing investigation to determine the circumstances and factors that may have led to the incident. The government will ensure the full cooperation of its going concern, Enugu Air, with the investigation and regulatory authorities.

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“While the outcome of the investigation is awaited, the government assures the public that the operations of Enugu Air are guided by the highest safety standards. The airline is founded on a corporate culture that places safety above profit and schedule, and its quality assurance and quality control systems stipulate a safety threshold that is considerably higher than the industry benchmark.

“This accounts for the growing confidence and patronage the airline has continued to enjoy from both passengers and industry stakeholders. Enugu Air will therefore continue to serve its teeming customers and abide by its utmost commitment to safety, professionalism, and a sense of hospitality.”

He thanked Nigerians for their support following the incident, as many continued to relive their pleasurable experiences flying the airline.

“The Enugu State Government wishes to express its profound gratitude to Nigerians for the outpouring of solidarity since the unfortunate incident. Quite uncommonly, Nigerians have continued to share their positive experiences with Enugu Air since it was launched a year ago. This matters so much to us as a government at this time,” he concluded.

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Pastor found dead inside church

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A pastor of the Power in the Word of God for the World Ministry has been found dead inside his church in Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, with the circumstances surrounding his death still unknown.

The incident happened on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the church located on Etim Inyang Street in Oron.

The discovery of the pastor’s body has caused concern among residents, while many people in the area have been discussing different claims about what may have happened.

Some residents believe the pastor may have taken his own life. However, there has been no official confirmation from the police, and the reports circulating on social media remain unverified.

Videos shared online showed people believed to be members of the church carrying the pastor’s body out of the building.

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Another video showed the body, wrapped in cloth, inside a police pickup van belonging to the Oron Area Command.

As of the time of reporting, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command had not released an official statement explaining the cause of the pastor’s death or the outcome of any investigation.

Efforts by Premium Times to get a response from the police were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson for the command, Timfon John, did not answer phone calls or reply to text messages seeking comments on the incident.

Authorities are expected to investigate the case to determine the exact cause of the pastor’s death.

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