Troops Rescue INEC Official, Arrest Suspects After Election-Related Kidnapping Attempt in Cross River

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops have rescued an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and arrested three suspects following a reported kidnapping and disruption of election-related activities in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:15 p.m. on May 22 when two groups of suspected kidnappers stormed the venue of ADC primary elections at Wummy Hotel, Ekori community.

According to the sources, one of the groups abducted the INEC returning officer, forced him into a vehicle, and compelled him to transfer ₦70,000 before fleeing the scene.

The second group, operating on a motorcycle, reportedly carted away ballot boxes from the venue.

Following intelligence on the incident, troops in Yakurr Local Government Area laid an ambush on the fleeing suspects, successfully intercepting the vehicle and rescuing the kidnapped INEC official.

Three suspects were arrested during the operation, while one armed suspect reportedly escaped into nearby bush with a pistol, a mobile phone, ATM card, travelling bag and other election materials.

The rescued official, arrested suspects and recovered vehicle are currently in military custody for further investigation and action.

Security forces have intensified efforts to track down the fleeing suspects and recover the stolen electoral materials.

Troops Rescue INEC Official, Arrest Suspects After Election-Related Kidnapping Attempt in Cross River

Troops Launch Manhunt for Berom Militia After Attack on Cattle in Plateau Community

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Sector 4 Operation Enduring Peace have launched efforts to track down Berom Militia following an attack on cattle in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Security sources disclosed that the troops responded to a distress report at about 5:12 p.m. on May 23 concerning an attack on cattle belonging to a local herder identified as Alhaji Tambari at Gassa village.

According to the sources, the cattle were grazing in the area when the attackers struck and fled before the arrival of security personnel.

Upon reaching the scene, troops discovered that one cow had been shot dead during the incident.

The Berom militia were said to have escaped from the area before security operatives arrived.

Troops have since intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack while patrols have been heightened within the community and surrounding areas to prevent further incidents.

Security authorities reiterated the commitment of Operation Enduring Peace to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace in communities across Plateau State.

Troops Launch Manhunt for Berom Militia After Attack on Cattle in Plateau Community

Gombe 2027: Pantamiyya Movement to galvanise grassroots support for Gwamna’s guber bid

The Pantamiyya Movement Brothers, led by prominent grassroots mobiliser, Sanusi Hamisu Usman, popularly known as Ameer Sanusin-Gombe, has declared its full support for the governorship ambition of APC candidate in Gombe State, Dr Jamil Isyaku Gwamna ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a solidarity visit to Dr Gwamna, Ameer Sanusin-Gombe described the meeting as strategic and timely, noting that the movement was determined to support what he called “the emergence of a worthy successor” capable of consolidating the achievements of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

The movement, which boasts more than 100 coordinators spread across all wards in the 11 local government areas of the state, said its decision to align with Dr Gwamna was driven by his growing acceptability within the APC family and among the wider grassroots population.

Sanusin-Gombe appealed to the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, and other aspirants in the APC governorship race to close ranks with Dr. Gwamna in the overall interest of the party and the development of Gombe State.

He stressed that unity among party stakeholders remained critical to securing a landslide victory for the APC in both the governorship and presidential elections.

According to him, Dr Gwamna’s political experience, grassroots connection, and wide acceptance across different blocs within the party made him the right choice for the task ahead.

“We are here to demonstrate our solidarity and commitment to the project of ensuring APC remains united and victorious in 2027. Dr. Gwamna has shown humility, experience, and the capacity to carry everyone along,” he said.

Responding, Dr. Gwamna expressed appreciation to the Pantamiyya Movement for placing party unity above other interests, describing the visit as a demonstration of political maturity and commitment to the future of the APC in the state.

The APC governorship candidate assured party members that he would pursue an inclusive leadership style that accommodates all interests and tendencies within the party.

He called on all former contestants and stakeholders to set aside differences arising from the primaries and work together as one family toward sustaining the developmental strides recorded under Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration.

Dr. Gwamna, therefore reaffirmed his commitment to mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in the 2027 elections, insisting that unity and collective purpose would remain the party’s greatest strength in Gombe State.

Gombe 2027: Pantamiyya Movement to galvanise grassroots support for Gwamna’s guber bid