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In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother,

Published

2 years ago

July 30, 2023

Ochuwa Ibrahim

In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother,

By Augustine Osayande

On the serene morning of July 30th, 1988, as the sun cast its gentle rays upon the Earth, a tight-knit family basked in the tranquil serenity. Little did they know, a profound metamorphosis awaited, poised to reshape their existence. Within this affectionate family, I, the youngest among them, held a deep longing, yearning for a profound bond with my cherished mother. Remarkably, destiny appeared to sense this desire, and an extraordinary synchronicity enveloped us, setting the stage for a poignant and intimate meal that was about to unfold.

With anticipation in the air, the family gathered eagerly around the dining table in the quaint village of Oheze-Naka, nestled within the Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Each member recognized the significance of this occasion, cherishing the opportunity to share a meal with their cherished matriarch. Laughter, tender conversations, and the melodious clinking of utensils created a symphony of familial love, interwoven with the aroma of the food that nourished not only their bodies but also their souls.

In that fleeting moment of unity, the bonds within the family grew stronger, etching memories that would forever resonate within their collective consciousness. They reveled in the simple joys of life—conversations filled with anecdotes, shared dreams, and mutual affection. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary meal would become an indelible marker, standing as the final chapter of their shared culinary experiences.

However, as the sun ascended toward its zenith, casting elongated shadows in its wake, an unforeseen calamity shattered the tranquility that had enveloped their lives. The distant sound of urgency, carried by the wind, reached the ears of the youngest family member. It was the frantic shouts of their older brother, an unsettling chorus of desperation, urging them to hasten back home.

With a racing heart, the youngest rushed towards the source of the commotion, a cloud of foreboding descending upon them, casting darkness upon their world. Unbeknownst to them, the weight of tragedy hung heavily in the air. A sense of impending sorrow clung to their every step, growing more burdensome with each passing second. Their reality was about to be irreversibly shattered.

Upon arriving at their family abode, their brother’s grief-stricken and disbelieving face conveyed volumes before any words were spoken. The youngest listened, trembling, as the devastating news unfolded. Their beloved mother, Mrs. Ona Osayande, the beacon of warmth and love, had departed from this world, leaving behind an agonizing void that could never be filled.

The realization crashed upon them like an overwhelming tidal wave, stripping away the innocence and joy they had embraced just hours earlier. A profound sense of loss, anguish, and disbelief gripped their heart, leaving them numb, unable to comprehend the cruel twist of fate that had so abruptly snatched their mother from their lives.

Today, as I reflect on the passing of 35 years since you departed this earthly realm, emotions overwhelm me. Though the pain of losing you still lingers, I find solace in the countless beautiful memories we shared together. You were not merely a mother to me; you were my guiding light, my source of strength, and my best friend. Your unwavering love and support nurtured me, shaping the person I have become.

From the earliest moments of my life, you embraced the role of a loving mother with open arms, and your dedication knew no bounds. Your wise words echoed in my mind during times of struggle, providing me with the courage to persevere. Your gentle touch reassured me in moments of doubt, reminding me that I was never alone.

Mum, your selflessness and compassion were unparalleled. You devoted your life to caring for others, even those unrelated to you, showering us all with warmth and affection. Your love extended beyond the boundaries of our immediate family, reaching out to those in need and brightening their lives with your kind heart. You taught me the value of kindness, empathy, and generosity, traits that I strive to embody every day. Your acts of love were not confined to our home; you touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know you.

As the years have passed, I have come to appreciate the depth of your character even more. You faced adversity with grace, never allowing it to diminish the inner light that shone so brightly within you. Your resilience in the face of challenges serves as a constant reminder to persevere and never lose hope. Your unwavering faith in the goodness of the world inspired me to see beyond difficulties and embrace life with optimism.

Although I wish I could have shared more of my life with you, I take comfort in knowing that you continue to live on in my heart. Your love and spirit remain a guiding force, illuminating my path and reminding me of the importance of cherishing every moment. The lessons you taught me are etched into my very being, shaping my decisions and actions. Your memory fuels my determination to live a life that honors the values you instilled in me.

Today, I honor you, dear mother, by celebrating your life and the profound impact you had on me and those around you. Your memory will forever be etched in my soul, and I will strive to make you proud every day. As I navigate life’s challenges, I find strength in knowing that you are watching over me, guiding me from above. Your unconditional love continues to be a guiding light, comforting me in moments of darkness and encouraging me to reach for the stars.

Years have passed, and as the youngest child, I carry the weight of that fateful day forever marked by the fleeting happiness of our last meal together, mother. Through the depths of sorrow, I have emerged with a profound understanding of the fragility of life, holding tightly to the memories and lessons imparted by our dear mother. Though physically absent, her spirit will forever guide and inspire us, reminding us to embrace each passing moment.

Thank you, dear mother, for everything you were and still are to me. Though the years may continue to pass, the love we shared will endure for eternity. As I carry your legacy forward, I promise to pass on the love, compassion, and wisdom you bestowed upon me. Your spirit lives on in me, and as I embark on the journey of life, I am forever grateful to have had you as my mother. Until we meet again, may you rest in eternal peace, knowing that you are loved beyond measure.

***Augustine Osayande contributed this article through austinelande@yahoo.com

In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother

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80 militants surrender arms, embrace amnesty in Cross River

Published

11 hours ago

January 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

80 militants surrender arms, embrace amnesty in Cross River

By: Zagazola Makama

No fewer than 80 militants operating in the creeks of Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State have voluntarily surrendered their arms and embraced the state government’s peace and reintegration Amnesty framework.

The militants came out in large numbers from the creeks on Friday at Atimbo Rear Area under Operation OKWOK, within the Area of Responsibility of Headquarters 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army and is already being described by as a strategic breakthrough in the fight against coastal militancy and maritime crime in southern Cross River.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the surrender was the outcome of months of sustained military pressure combined with discreet dialogue involving community leaders, government officials and security agencies.

Two militant camps dismantled themselves in one coordinated move. The first camp, headed by ThankGod Ebikontei, popularly known as Ayibanuagha, presented 39 fighters. Four additional members, officials said, are expected to report in the coming days.

The second camp, commanded by John Isaac, alias Akpokolo, brought forward 41 fighters. His group, widely known along the waterways as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or “Border Boys,” had controlled large stretches of creeks linking Cross River to neighbouring coastal corridors.

Ten more of his fighters are also expected to join the amnesty process. In total, 80 militants formally stepped out of the creeks and into a state-supervised disarmament and rehabilitation programme.

The disarmament was not symbolic. A significant cache of weapons, equipment and operational assets was voluntarily handed over, illustrating the firepower the groups once commanded.

The sources said that items surrendered included AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, a Mark 4 rifle, a G3 rifle, multiple single-barrel guns, magazines, speedboats, high-powered boat engines, locally fabricated pistols and assorted military kits.

Of particular concern to security officials was the surrender of an explosive charge and live ammunition, which draw to the attention of the destructive capacity the groups had at their disposal. Also surrendered were machetes, camouflage clothing, tactical vests, knee and elbow guards, and communication tools, all of which painted a picture of organised armed groups rather than loosely structured criminal gangs.

For the Nigerian Army, the scale and quality of the surrendered items confirmed that the amnesty was reaching core actors, not just foot soldiers.

Brig.-Gen. P.O. Alimikhena, Commander of 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, described the development as a “confidence-building milestone” that validates the military’s dual-track strategy.

“This voluntary surrender shows that consistent operations, combined with constructive dialogue and strong collaboration with the Cross River State Government and other security agencies, can deliver peace,” Alimikhena said.

“We will continue to secure the environment while supporting lawful initiatives that reintegrate repentant youths and ensure lasting stability.”he said.

Military sources said the success in Akpabuyo followed intensified patrols, improved intelligence flow and engagement with local power structures in creek communities.

After the formal disarmament, the former militants were handed over to the Cross River State Government’s Rapid Response Team.
They are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Muka Sam Hotel in Ikot Ansa, Calabar.

The exercise is designed to verify identities, assess security risks and determine eligibility for rehabilitation, skills training and reintegration support. Officials said the profiling phase is crucial to ensuring that only genuine repentant militants benefit from the programme and that criminal elements do not exploit the amnesty.

Akpabuyo Local Government Area sits along a strategic maritime corridor that links Cross River’s inland communities to coastal and cross-border trading routes. For years, militancy in the area has affected fishing, boat transport, palm produce trade and cross-border commerce with Cameroon.

Sea robbery, illegal taxation of fishermen, extortion and violent turf battles turned the creeks into zones of fear. The collective withdrawal of two major camps in one day is therefore both a psychological and operational shift. It sends a signal that militancy is no longer the dominant survival strategy for youths in the area.

The Nigerian Army credited the success of the Akpabuyo amnesty to what it called “effective civil-military collaboration,” singling out the Cross River State Government under Gov. Bassey Edet Otu for sustained political backing, coordination and logistical support.

Sources said the state government’s willingness to invest in dialogue, rehabilitation and youth empowerment made the option of peace more attractive than continued life in the creeks.

Beyond the powerful images of surrendered weapons and surrendered men, officials insist the hardest phase lies ahead. Reintegration, monitoring and economic re-engagement will determine whether the peace holds or unravels.

Headquarters 13 Brigade has reaffirmed its commitment to consolidating the gains, warning that while the door to peace remains open, security forces will maintain pressure against any group that chooses violence over dialogue.

They has urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that the breakthrough in Akpabuyo is not an endpoint, but the foundation for a safer and more stable Cross River State.

80 militants surrender arms, embrace amnesty in Cross River

News

Zulum Dismisses Claims of Favoring Candidates for APC Congress

Published

19 hours ago

January 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Zulum Dismisses Claims of Favoring Candidates for APC Congress

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has firmly dismissed rumours circulating that he has anointed individuals for executive positions in the forthcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) party congresses.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the Governor described the claims as the handiwork of mischief-makers seeking to cause disaffection within the party.

Governor Zulum emphasised that he has not in any fora endorsed any candidate for any party position, whether in Gwoza Local Government Area or any of the state’s 27 local government areas.

“Let me categorically state that I have not anointed any person for the position of Chairman or Secretary of APC in Gwoza local government in the forthcoming party congress. I wish to also stress that I have not anointed any person for any position in the APC congress in any of the 27 local government areas,” Governor Zulum stated.

He further called on party members to disregard the false information, saying, “I am calling on our party faithful and supporters to disregard the rumour as it is a calculated attempt to create disaffection and derail the party from its trajectory.”

The Governor instead urged party stakeholders to continue constructive consultations aimed at identifying credible candidates to be fielded for all party positions.

Zulum Dismisses Claims of Favoring Candidates for APC Congress

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VP Shettima Arrives In Guinea For President Doumbouya’s Inauguration

Published

19 hours ago

January 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP Shettima Arrives In Guinea For President Doumbouya’s Inauguration

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President-elect Mamady Doumbouya.

The Vice President was received by senior Guinean government officials and members of the Nigerian diplomatic corps ahead of the official ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 17, at the GLC Stadium in Nongo.

The inauguration of President Doumbouya follows his victory in the December 2025 general elections, signalling the formal end of a four-year military transition.

The Vice President’s attendance at the inauguration affirms Nigeria’s leadership role within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its commitment to the restoration of constitutional order across the sub-region.

Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, Nigeria has continued to position itself as a stabilising force, advocating for democratic governance as a prerequisite for regional prosperity.