Bago

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Niger State-based journalist, Mustapha Bina, was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) after reporting an alleged bandit attack on Governor Umaru Bago’s motorcade during a project tour to Mashegu Local Government Area.

According to the report, the attackers opened fire on the governor’s convoy, prompting a swift response from his security team.

“Several bandits were neutralised, while others fled into the bush after being overpowered,” a source claimed.

Some vehicles in the convoy, including a Hilux and a bulletproof vehicle of the Counter-Terrorism Unit, were reportedly damaged.

However, the Niger State Government has since denied the incident, with the chief press secretary to the governor and the state commissioner for Information issuing a statement debunking the report.

Despite the denial, Bina was arrested and detained by the DSS, allegedly on the orders of Governor Bago. An insider source revealed that it took the intervention of the state NUJ chairman and other stakeholders to secure Bina’s bail.

“Mr Bina was invited to the SSS office in Minna for questioning. The governor really felt embarrassed that the issue was out,” the source said.

The incident has reignited concerns about the growing restrictions on press freedom in Niger State.

“It is very unfortunate that the civic space is becoming stifled, and the environment hasn’t been very conducive for journalists, especially under the current administration,” the source added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has strongly condemned the burning of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Kontagora town by suspected hoodlums, describing the act as “mindless and cowardly.” 

In a statement, Governor Bago stated that the attack was not only a violation of the Christian community but also a threat to the state’s harmony and unity. 

The governor assured citizens that the government prioritizes their safety, security, and freedom of religion, saying, “We will not condone this act of violence.” 

Governor Bago has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

He urged the people of Kontagora to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks, noting the importance of preserving peace and unity in the state.

By Muhammadu Sabiu

Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, witnessed a devastating boat accident on Sunday, leaving 24 lives tragically lost and many more in distress. 

Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago expressed his profound shock at the incident and has since called for immediate safety measures. 

The accident occurred between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. in communities situated between Jebba and the Kainji dam. Most of the victims were women and children.

Over 30 individuals have been rescued so far, thanks to the combined efforts of the marine police, local divers, and the Niger State Emergency Management Agency. 

Governor Bago, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, conveyed his deep condolences to the affected families.

He described the incident as “terrible and undesirable” and prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in Aljannah Firdausi. 

Expressing his concern, Governor Bago called for the mandatory use of life jackets by anyone boarding a boat in the state.

He strongly condemned overcrowding on boats, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to safety guidelines. The exact number of passengers on the ill-fated boat is still unclear, but reports suggest that many were not wearing life jackets, which may have contributed to the tragedy. 

The Chairman of Mokwa Local Government Area, Jibrim Muregi, confirmed the ongoing efforts by divers to rescue victims and recover more bodies from the scene.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, led by Alhaji Salihu Garba, is collaborating closely with local authorities and divers in search, rescue, and recovery operations. 

As the rescue operation continues, the affected communities are plunged into mourning, with residents anxiously searching for their missing loved ones.

The cause of the boat mishap remains unknown, underscoring the urgency of improving safety measures and enforcing strict compliance with regulations governing water transportation in the state.