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Ooni of Ife Admonishes Inmates to see Condition as Opportunity to Turn New Leaf
Ooni of Ife Admonishes Inmates to see Condition as Opportunity to Turn New Leaf
By: Michael Mike
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi has called on inmates not to see their incarceration as the end of life, but should rather see it as an opportunity to turn a new leaf.
The monarch gave this advice on Tuesday during a visit the Medium Security Custodial Centres, Kuje, in comomeration of his 8th year Anniversary on the throne.
The Ooni who is the Convener, Hope Alive Initiative for Africa, in his remark, said his visit was necessitated by his empathy for humanity and his believe in giving second chance to people to correct their mistakes. He expressed joy on the warm reception accorded him and his wife on this special occasion.
He urged inmates not to see their incarceration as the end of life, rather they should see it as an opportunity to turn a new leave. In his words “I am here for the real people who need hope, your condition today will be history tomorrow, so don’t give up.”
The Ooni secured the release of five inmates through payment of fines.
He admonished them to be of good behavior, comport themselves in line with the rules of the custodial centre and forgive themselves.
The Ooni promised to support the inmates rehabilitation programme by giving materials to aid their skills acquisition program.
In her speech, the deputy convener, Hope Alive Initiative for Africa, Olori Temitope Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi said the visit was not only to celebrate the remarkable reign of his majesty but to reflect on societal issues which according to her “we are reminded of the power of forgiveness, redemption and second chance.
She applauded the Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the correctional service authorities for doing a great job in the reformation and reintegration of the offenders.
The Controller General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa, appreciated the Regal Majesty and the Olori for choosing MSSC Kuje to show their benevolence, he assured them of the service commitment to the full implementation of Service’s mandate of reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates of offenders.
The CGC who was able represented by Controller of Corrections in charge of Planning, Research and Statistics, Ajibogun Olatubosun admonished the discharged inmates to be good ambassador of the centre in their future endeavors.
Highlight of the event, was exhibition of items produced by inmates of the facility.
Ooni of Ife Admonishes Inmates to see Condition as Opportunity to Turn New Leaf
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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