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49 Rescued, 23 Missing in Benue Boat Tragedy; NEMA and Partners Continue Search

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49 Rescued, 23 Missing in Benue Boat Tragedy; NEMA and Partners Continue Search

49 Rescued, 23 Missing in Benue Boat Tragedy; NEMA and Partners Continue Search

 

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the rescue of 49 people and the recovery of three bodies following a boat accident along River Benue in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident occurred on Saturday, December 15, when a boat carrying 76 passengers capsized after hitting a submerged tree in the river.

According to a statement from NEMA, the boat was carrying traders returning from the Ocholonya Market, a key economic hub for residents of Agatu and neighboring communities. The accident occurred around 7:00 PM, with most of the passengers originating from Odenyi Magaji and other areas in Nasarawa State.

“Besides the 49 survivors, one individual managed to swim to safety, but 23 people are still unaccounted for,” the statement said. “NEMA is working closely with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), local authorities, and divers to locate the missing persons. The Nigerian Navy has also been contacted to assist in the ongoing search efforts.”

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) expressed condolences to the people of Benue State following the tragedy, with its chairman, Mallam AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, offering his sympathy to Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia and the affected families. The NGF commended emergency responders for their efforts, particularly in rescuing 11 individuals from the incident.

“Our hearts go out to the families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident,” the statement read. “We pray for the quick recovery of the survivors and for strength for the people of Benue State during this difficult time.”

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Promising Nigerian Student Killed in Pretoria Attack

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Promising Nigerian Student Killed in Pretoria Attack By George Omagbemi Sylvester

Promising Nigerian Student Killed in Pretoria Attack

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

 

“Isaac Satlat strangled after hijacking; police search for two suspects.”

A murder investigation is underway after 22-year-old Nigerian student, Isaac Satlat, was brutally killed in Moshongo, Attridgeville, just outside Pretoria, in the early hours of Wednesday, February 11, 2026. South African police have opened a homicide case as the Nigerian community demands swift justice.

According to family sources and preliminary community reports, Satlat was hijacked late Tuesday night after closing from school for the day and embarking on his regular Uber side hustle. Although the attackers were reportedly armed with a firearm, he was ultimately strangled with his seat belt. His vehicle was later found abandoned, while his body was discovered some kilometres away in Moshongo.

 

Community sources say the car was equipped with a camera, which captured two suspects (a man and a woman) believed to be involved in the crime. However, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has not yet released the identities of any suspects, nor has it provided detailed updates on the investigation.

Satlat was a student in South Africa and was due to graduate next month. According to his family, plans were already underway for him to relocate to Canada to continue his studies. Those aspirations were abruptly cut short by the violent attack.

His father, Mr. David Satlat, who lives in South Africa, confirmed the incident after being contacted by community leaders. He was later hospitalized following a sharp rise in blood pressure after identifying his son’s body. Isaac’s mother and siblings remain in Nigeria, now grieving the sudden and tragic loss.

Leaders within the Nigerian diaspora have described the killing as senseless and deeply disturbing, urging authorities to ensure that those responsible are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.

While the exact motive for the murder remains under investigation, the incident reflects the broader challenge of violent crime in South Africa. The country continues to grapple with high rates of homicide, armed robbery, and car hijacking, with thousands of violent deaths recorded annually. Criminal attacks, particularly at night and in less-secured areas, have remained a persistent threat to both citizens and foreign residents.

Security analysts note that many young migrants and students often take on part-time work, including ride-hailing services, to support themselves-an arrangement that can expose them to heightened risks. As criminologist Prof. Gareth Newham of the Institute for Security Studies has previously observed, “South Africa’s violent crime problem is driven largely by illegal firearms, economic desperation, and weak policing capacity in high-risk areas.”

Migration experts also warn that repeated incidents involving foreign nationals can strain diplomatic ties and erode confidence in South Africa as a destination for education and business. Dr. Loren Landau, a leading migration scholar at the University of the Witwatersrand, has argued that “when migrants perceive that the justice system cannot protect them, it undermines social cohesion and international trust.”

The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria is expected to follow up on the case as pressure mounts from community organizations demanding transparency and justice. Nigerian associations have also pledged to support the family, both legally and diplomatically, as the investigation proceeds.

For now, the focus remains on the search for the two suspects believed to have been recorded inside the victim’s vehicle. Police are appealing to the public for information that could lead to their arrest.

Isaac Satlat’s death has left a painful void among friends, family, and fellow students. A young man on the brink of graduation and a new chapter abroad has instead become another casualty of violent crime—his life cut short in circumstances that have shaken an entire community. As investigations continue, his family and compatriots are united by one demand: justice must not be delayed, and it must not be denied

Promising Nigerian Student Killed in Pretoria Attack
By George Omagbemi Sylvester

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GEN CG MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE HAILS GOVERNOR UBA SANI AS GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR 2025

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*GEN CG MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE HAILS GOVERNOR UBA SANI AS GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR 2025*

 

The General Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative (GCGMSI) has extended hearty congratulations to His Excellency, Governor Mal Uba Sani of Kaduna State, for clinching the prestigious “Governor of the Year 2025” award presented by the Leadership Media Group.

 

The honour was conferred at the 18th Leadership Conference and Awards Ceremony, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, in recognition of Governor Sani’s transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and development in Kaduna State.

 

In a statement signed by the Convener, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the GCGMSI lauded the Governor’s exceptional accomplishments since assuming office. The statement highlighted that the Grand Patron of the Initiative, His Excellency General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, Minister of Defence, also conveyed his personal congratulations, describing Governor Sani as “a true unifier” who has fostered remarkable unity across the state.

 

“Governor Uba Sani has brought unity to Kaduna State since his assumption into office,” the Grand Patron noted, adding that the Governor’s leadership exemplifies dedication to service and inclusive governance.

 

The GCGMSI further expressed profound appreciation to the Leadership Media Group for deeming Governor Sani’s administration worthy of such a distinguished honour. The statement emphasized that the award reflects the positive impact of the Governor’s policies and his relentless drive toward sustainable development.

 

Governor Sani, in his acceptance speech, dedicated the award to the resilient and hopeful people of Kaduna State, as well as to the hardworking public servants who strive daily to rebuild trust in governance and deliver meaningful change.

 

The GCGMSI acknowledged this gesture as a testament to the Governor’s profound commitment to serving his people. “His dedication shows how committed he is to serve his people,” the statement affirmed.

 

*ABOUT THE GENERAL CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE*

 

The General Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative stands as a dynamic and forward-thinking organization dedicated to national progress through youth empowerment and unity. With a mission rooted in educational development, ethical leadership, and social cohesion, the Initiative actively promotes:

 

– Educational development and unity among youths.

– Empowerment through values, leadership training, and development strategies.

– Campaigns against drug abuse and ethnic divisions.

 

Under the esteemed patronage of General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the GCGMSI continues to champion initiatives that foster a brighter, more united future for Nigeria, aligning with the visionary leadership exemplified by figures such as Governor Uba Sani.

 

The GCGMSI remains committed to supporting leaders who prioritize the people’s welfare and national unity, reinforcing its role as a key advocate for transformative governance and societal development.

 

**-END-**

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Life lessons inspire my songs, says Afrobeats star Halley

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Life lessons inspire my songs, says Afrobeats star Halley

Life lessons inspire my songs, says Afrobeats star Halley

 

 


‎Afrobeats star, Oladipupo Halley has revealed that life lessons are part of the inspiration behind his hit songs

‎The ‘Colos Timo Mogbe’ crooner whose versatility has earned him a good reputation in the music industry noted that music is the tool he uses to express himself and address societal challenges.

‎Speaking in an interview, Halley reiterated that his creative voice is inspired by real life, street stories, and deep reflections on success, struggle, and faith.

‎”My music blends African rhythms, soulful melodies, and street wisdom, creating sounds that connect with everyday people and real emotions.

‎”Through my songs, I speak on life lessons, loyalty, hustle, hope, and self-belief, using catchy hooks, strong rhythms, and relatable lyrics. I aim to inspire, entertain, and remind people to stay true to themselves while chasing their dreams,” Halley said.

‎The Business Administration and Management graduate started music as a member of the choir in his church before making it official in 2006 with his first studio single “I want you”.

‎After a brief break from music to focus on his education, Halley returned to the scene with another single titled ‘Oko ati iyawo’ in 2010, and he hasn’t looked back ever since.

‎His latest cut, ‘Life Struggle (Abeokuta Boi) is currently available on all digital streaming platforms.

‎”I’m also working on shooting the video of Life Struggle due to popular demand, and more will follow as 2026 is going to be a busy year,” Halley concluded.

Life lessons inspire my songs, says Afrobeats star Halley


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