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40 Women Get Solar Power System in Owukpa Community

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40 Women Get Solar Power System in Owukpa Community

By: Michael
Mike

In a bid to support a post-extractive future for Owukpa women, whose peaceful efforts led to the halting of environmentally destructive coal mining activities in their community in 2021, Yes to Life, No to Mining (YLNM)—a global solidarity network for Indigenous Peoples, impacted communities, and local organisations advocating for the right to say “No” to mining—partnered with Eco Defenders Network to distribute multi-functional solar power systems to about 40 women.

The event in Owukpa was met with great enthusiasm. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for this initiative, which will help address their energy needs at home and in their businesses.

Speaking at the event, Shehu Akowe of Eco Defenders Network, representing YLNM, emphasized that this gesture calls on the government and well-meaning Nigerians to advocate for ecologically and socially just energy alternatives. He noted the support of energy systems that value diverse ways of life and protect the land, air, and water on which everyone depends.

Akowe further stated that Nigeria’s vast solar and wind potential should be harnessed to create clean energy alternatives to coal. “Embracing these technologies will help move us beyond the violent and harmful practice of extraction, which assumes the Earth has no limits, and instead provide communities with clean energy systems.”

In response, two beneficiaries, Mrs. A.A. Cecilia and Mrs. G. Enenche, expressed their gratitude, acknowledging that this gesture would help address the long-standing issue of energy deficiency in Owukpa. They thanked the organization for the solar-powered systems, affirming that the new lights would improve their homes and businesses. They also urged the government to embrace solar energy as a viable alternative to their community’s ongoing energy access challenges.

Madam Julie Ooja, a community environmental mobilizer and member of Owukpa who has long supported her fellow women in their fight for a cleaner environment, also expressed her appreciation to YLNM for supporting Owukpa’s women. She reiterated that the women would continue to advocate for the closure of the coal mine while also calling for the development of better infrastructure, including improved roads, schools, functional hospitals, and access to clean, portable water and reliable electricity.

Shehu Akowe emphasized the importance of unity in advocating for life-sustaining, post-extractive futures that respect human dignity and environmental integrity.

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Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara

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Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued three kidnapped victims during a fighting patrol in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Security sources told Zagazola that the operation was conducted on April 25 at about 9:00 p.m. by troops of 1 Brigade in collaboration with hybrid forces deployed at Kulchin Kalgo.

The sources said the troops advanced to Bilbis area following intelligence on the presence of terrorists and made contact with the armed group.

According to the sources, the troops engaged the criminals in a firefight, forcing them to flee and abandon three kidnapped victims in the process.

The rescued victims were subsequently handed over to the district head of Bilbis for safe custody and further reunification with their families.

The sources added that the troops have continued exploitation of the area to track fleeing suspects, while the general security situation remains under close monitoring.

Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara

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Troops arrest suspects, rescue kidnap victim in Benue

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Troops arrest suspects, rescue kidnap victim in Benue

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued a victim in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.

Security sources said that the incident occurred on April 25 at about 10:30 a.m., when troops deployed at Agidi responded to reports of a kidnap incident in Abenga and Mabur communities.

The sources said the troops swiftly mobilised to the area and made contact with the suspected kidnappers, engaging them during the operation.

According to the sources, the troops overpowered the criminals, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the rescue of one kidnapped victim.

The sources added that the apprehended suspects and the rescued victim have been handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and necessary action.

They assured that security forces will continue to intensify operations to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.

Troops arrest suspects, rescue kidnap victim in Benue

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Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid

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Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a raid in Enugu State.

Sources said that the operation was carried out on April 25 at about 6:20 p.m. by troops of 82 Division Garrison, 103 Battalion and 197 Special Forces Battalion.

The sources said the joint team conducted the raid at Obinofia Ndiagu village, where one suspected IPOB/ESN operative was apprehended.

According to the sources, three mobile phones were recovered from the suspect during the operation.

They added that the suspect and recovered items are currently in the custody of the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and necessary action.

The sources noted that the operation is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the South-East.

Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid

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