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Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest

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Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest

Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest

 

 

 

Unknown gunmen have kidnapped a Catholic Priest of Abakaliki Diocese, Ebonyi State, Rev. Father Joseph Azubuike in the state.

 

 

 

 

The Catholic Priest was kidnapped on Monday, alongside three other persons.

 

 

In a statement issued by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Father Mathew Opoke, the victim was kidnapped on his way to St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, on his way back from duties.

 

 

 

 

In the statement titled, “Call for Prayers,” the Diocesan Chancellor disclosed that the abductors were making financial demands.

 

 

 

The statement read in part: “Kindly pray for the unconditional release of Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike who was abducted yesterday Monday, 10th of July, 2023, close to his parish on his way back from pastoral duties.

 

 

 

 

“Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

 

 

 

“The abductors are making financial demands but with your prayers, we are going to have them back unconditionally. May Mary, the Mother of priests, intercede for us. Amen.”

 

 

 

Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ebonyi State Police Command, Onome Onovwakpoyeya, said her office was yet to be furnished about the development.

 

 

 

“Am still making contact with our Divisional Police in the area of the incident. Let’s me find out if the matter has been reported,” the Police spokesman said.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, gunmen suspected to be enforcers of the sit-at-home order wrecked havoc in the state, thereby heightening tensions and fear among residents.

 

Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest

Unknown gunmen have kidnapped a Catholic Priest of Abakaliki Diocese, Ebonyi State, Rev.
 Father Joseph Azubuike in the state.
The Catholic Priest was kidnapped on Monday, alongside three other persons.
In a statement issued by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Father Mathew Opoke, the victim was kidnapped on his way to St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, on his way back from duties.
In the statement titled, “Call for Prayers,” the Diocesan Chancellor disclosed that the abductors were making financial demands.
The statement read in part: “Kindly pray for the unconditional release of Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike who was abducted yesterday Monday, 10th of July, 2023, close to his parish on his way back from pastoral duties.
“Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
“The abductors are making financial demands but with your prayers, we are going to have them back unconditionally. May Mary, the Mother of priests, intercede for us. Amen.”
Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ebonyi State Police Command, Onome Onovwakpoyeya, said her office was yet to be furnished about the development.
“Am still making contact with our Divisional Police in the area of the incident. Let’s me find out if the matter has been reported,” the Police spokesman said.
Meanwhile, gunmen suspected to be enforcers of the sit-at-home order wrecked havoc in the state, thereby heightening tensions and fear amongst residents.
But the State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has declared that there was nothing like sit-at-home in the state.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Dr. Monday Uzor, the governor who spoke to newsmen shortly after participating in a meeting of Ohaneze Ndigbo with Governors, House of Assembly Speakers National Assembly Members, and other Leaders from the South East zone at Imo State Governor’s Lodge Asokoro, Abuja, explained that what played out a week ago in the state was a case of miscreants who attempted to put fear in residents and disrupt businesses.
“I am surprised to hear sit-at-home from you because there is nothing like sit- at home in Ebonyi. We never for one day observed sit–at–home and I know you are aware.
“Some people only wanted to know if they can start putting tension on people and we said no, they don’t have such powers, they can’t do that and it didn’t happen,” Nwifuru said.

 

 

But the State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has declared that there was nothing like sit-at-home in the state.

 

 

 

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Dr. Monday Uzor, the governor who spoke to newsmen shortly after participating in a meeting of Ohaneze Ndigbo with Governors, House of Assembly Speakers National Assembly Members, and other Leaders from the South East zone at Imo State Governor’s Lodge Asokoro, Abuja, explained that what played out a week ago in the state was a case of miscreants who attempted to put fear in residents and disrupt businesses.

 

 

 

“I am surprised to hear sit-at-home from you because there is nothing like sit- at home in Ebonyi. We never for one day observed sit–at–home and I know you are aware.

 

 

 

 

“Some people only wanted to know if they can start putting tension on people and we said no, they don’t have such powers, they can’t do that and it didn’t happen,” Nwifuru said.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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