The witness said the attackers, numbering over 100 and armed with AK47, killed about 150 persons in the incident.

Paul, who is an investigator and member of the Intelligence Response Unit, IRU, of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, told Justice Joyce Abdulmalik while testifying at the resumed trial of the nine men accused of being involved in the attack.

“The number of people that came for the attack in Yelwata were over 100 and they were wielding AK47.

“Investigation into the case is still ongoing. Any moment from now, we may still bring another set of people,” he said.

The nine men are Ardo Lawal Mohammed Dono, Ardo Muhammadu Saidu, Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi, Yakubu Adamu, Alhaji Musa Mohammed, Abubakar Adamu, Shaibu Ibrahim, Sale Mohammed and Bako Jibrin.

Led in evidence by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, DPPF, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the witness said the attack was carried out by Fulanis, who were on a retaliatory mission.

Paul said he knew all the defendants, because he participated in their arrest in three communities in Nasarawa State shortly after the attack.

“On the 13th of June 2025, we received a news of an attack in Yelwata in Benue. I was in Apa, in Benue State on a kidnapping case when we were drafted to immediately move to Yelwata town.

“We moved into the place on June 14 and gathered some information that led to the arrest of the defendants.

“Some of them were arrested in Kadalko (a border town between Benue and Nasarawa State), Ageregu (another border town) and Lafia in Nasarawa State,” the witness said.

Paul said investigation revealed that there was actually an attack, which led to the killing of over 200 people, with many others injured and property destroyed.

He added: “We learnt over 200 people attacked Yelwata. The attack was initially planned for Dawudu Village, they were repelled and the attackers went into Yelwata, killing over 200 people.

“Yelwata is like a meeting point for displaced people in other villages in Benue State. So, people who were taking refuge in Yelwata were also victims of the attack.”

The witness said he visited Yelwata and was there for almost a month in the course of the investigation.

On why it was only the nine defendants that were brought to court, the witness said they were arrested based on human intelligence gathered based on the investigation.

Paul told the court that the first person to be arrested was Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi, who was in Ageregu village.

He said Abdullahi admitted during interrogation that he participated in a meeting that was held in the house of Alhaji Ardo Lawal Dono, in Nasarawa State, in which all the Ardos were in attendance, including Ardo Giza, Ardo Kwara and Ardo Giana.

The witness said the meeting dwelt on complaints about the way the Fulani were being treated in Benue, during which Abdullahi claimed that his cows and two of his children had been killed.

He said at the end of first meeting, Ardo Lawan, being the head of Ardos in Nasawa State, asked them to go and do what they thought will help them.

Paul said the second meeting was held at Ardo Mohammed Saidu’s (2nd defendant’s) house and agreed to contribute funds to execute the attack.

He added that Abdullahi admitted contributing N300,000 while another participant at the meeting contributed N200,000.

The witness told the court that Abdullahi also told him that Ardo Kadalko (Mohammed Saidu) said he lost about 250 of his cows and two of his children in a place very close to Yelwata.

On how the investigators confirmed that the meetings actually held, the witness said they were able to ascertain from the other defendants that the two meetings actually held and that plans for the attack were concluded at their meetings.

Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter until Friday for continuation of trial.

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The post Yelwata attack: How suspected terrorists were arrested -Witness appeared first on Frontpageng.

Spokesman for PSC, Mr Torty Kalu, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Kalu said that the physical and credential screening would hold between March 9 and April 18 across the country.

“Applicants who successfully completed the online recruitment registration exercise are requested to login to the recruitment portal on npfapplication.psc.gov.ng,

“This is to check their status and print the following documents which they must present at the screening venue on the date and time indicated in their invitation slip.

“The documents are guarantors form, application submission slip, invitation slip, credentials screening form and physical screening form,” he said.

He added that items to be presented during the screening include invitation slip with assigned TABLE and credential screening form.

“Other items to be presented are original National Identity Number (NIN) printout or card issued by NIMC, O’ Level (GCE/SSCE) Certificate and Birth Certificate or Declaration of age.

“LGA/State of Origin Certificate, Trade Test/Certificate for specialists only, duly completed and signed Guarantors form with photocopies and passports of referees attached would also be presented,” he said.

According to him, original and duplicate copies of credentials are to be neatly packaged in two separate white flat files, with recent passport photographs attached.

Kalu said applicants must appear at the various screening venues wearing white canvas shoes, white T-shirts, white shorts, and white stockings.

He said the screening exercise would take place at designated locations within each state/FCT as indicated on the invitation printout.

He also said that the recruitment exercise was absolutely free of charge without any pecuniary obligation.

He quoted the Chairman of PSC, Mr Hashimu Argungu, as pledging that the process would be conducted in the best tradition of transparency and accountability.

Argungu urged applicants to be wary of online impostors, scammers and other criminal elements who might want to take advantage of the recruitment process to defraud innocent applicants.

He warned that anyone found wanting would be arrested and prosecuted.

Source: NAN

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The Head of Protocol and Public Affairs of PSC, Mr Torty Kalu, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Kalu said the application portal, opened on December 15 and slated to be closed on January 26 had been extended to February 8.

He said the decision followed the receipt of over 400,000 applications and a review, showing significant disparities in state participation.

“While some states like Adamawa, Benue, and Kaduna have high application numbers, states such as Lagos, Ogun, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, and Anambra have notably lower submissions.

“The extension is to ensure equitable representation nationwide.

“All eligible Nigerians, particularly from above-mentioned states with fewer applications, are strongly encouraged to apply via the official portal: www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng,” he said.

He enjoined state governments, local government councils, community leaders, and other stakeholders to mobilise and sensitise eligible citizens within their jurisdictions to take advantage of the extension to apply.

The PSC spokesman pledged the commitment of the commission and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure a fair and transparent recruitment process.

Source: NAN

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The post Police recruitment: PSC, NPF extend deadline for application appeared first on Frontpageng.

The move followed the directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to that effect against the backdrop of the increasing wave of insecurity in the country.

The recruitment portal – www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng – will be open from Monday, 15 December 2025 to Sunday, 25 January 2026.

According to a statement by the Head, Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Njoku Kalu, the directive for the recruitment was aimed at strengthening community policing, enhancing internal security and expanding the manpower base of the Nigeria Police Force.

The commission said the approval had been given for the opening of the recruitment portal for applications from eligible Nigerians.

The commission gave details on the recruitment exercise:

“Qualifications:

General Duty cadre applicants must be holders of GCE Ordinary Level, SSCE/NECO or their equivalents with a minimum of five (5) credits (including English Language and Mathematics) in not more than two sittings.

Specialists cadre applicants must be holders of GCE Ordinary Level, SSCE/NECO or their equivalents with a minimum of four (4) credits (including English Language and Mathematics) in not more than two sittings. A minimum of three (3) years’ experience and Trade Tests in relevant fields/areas is required.

“Eligibility:

Interested candidates must:

Be Nigerian citizens by birth

Be aged between 18 and 25 years for General Duty; 18 to 28 years for Specialists

Be medically, physically and psychologically fit

Not be less than 1.67m (male) and 1.64m (female) in height (for General Duty only)

Meet other requirements as shall be specified on the recruitment portal

“Application Period:

The recruitment portal will be open from Monday, 15 December 2025 to Sunday, 25 January 2026.

All applications must be submitted ONLINE through the official recruitment portal: www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng.”

The commission stressed that the recruitment exercise would be conducted in the most transparent, merit-based and credible manner.

It stated that application is free as there would be no payment required at any stage of the process.

It also warned applicants to be wary of fraudstars.

The commission added: “Detailed guidelines, requirements and the application link will be made available on the official recruitment portal: www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng (to be activated on 15th December 2025) and on the official websites and social media handles of the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Police Service Commission urges all qualified and patriotic Nigerians to seize this opportunity to serve the nation.”

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The post Police begin recruitment of 50,000 constables (+How to apply) appeared first on Frontpageng.

The police boss made the charge on Friday in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

He said managing the detention and arraignment of the suspects, the NPF had rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.

He further explained that under the Nigerian law, individuals who had reached the age of criminal responsibility were answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

Egbetokun said the Nigeria Police Force was committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity.

The statement reads in full:

“The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recently arraigned 76 individuals in court on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony. These serious allegations encompass offenses such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security. In managing the detention and arraignment of these suspects, the NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.

“The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court. Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions.

“Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to draw negative attention. Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.

“While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

“This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offenses. As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.

“The NPF acknowledges public interest in this case and assures the public that our officers will maintain professionalism throughout the legal process. The public is encouraged to view this case without undue bias, as the Force remains focused on a transparent pursuit of justice. The Nigeria Police Force is committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity.”

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The district head was abducted alongside eight others in Kanya District of Danko/Wasagu local government area of the state on October 6.

Confirming the killing in a statement issued to pressmen in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, the spokesperson of the command, SP Nafi’u Abubakar, said eight of the abductees had been rescued by security operatives.

“Acting on credible intelligence and in view of the determination and resilience of the combined team of policemen, military and members of vigilante, eight victims of the kidnapping incident have successfully been rescued.

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“They have been rescued unhurt on Tuesday at about 10:00a.m. at Sakaba forest after a gun duel.

“The rescued victims have since been reunited with their families after medical examination at General Hospital, Sakaba.

“Regrettably, while the search and rescue operation was ongoing, the dead body of the district head of Kanya, Alhaji Isah Daya was found in the forest,” he narrated.

Abubakar also quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Alhaji Bello Sani, as condoling with the state government, Zuru Emirate, family and well-wishers of the late district head.

“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and may his gentle soul continue to rest in Jannatul Firdaus,” he quoted CP as praying.

The PRO solicited the support of members of the public to provide the command and other security agencies with relevant information that would assist in arresting the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

Source: NAN

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To this end, President Bola Tinubu has directed security and law enforcement agencies — including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC; the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS; the Nigeria Police Force, NPF; and the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA — to intensify efforts in cracking down on individuals in possession of and trafficking in stolen vehicles.

The president noted that one of the most effective tools available to law enforcement agencies was depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities.

He acknowledges the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, RCMP, on behalf of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.

While expressing concern over the involvement of transnational organised criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, President Tinubu commended the commission for collaborating with partners to ensure a coordinated and professional response to the menace.

The president further directed all relevant agencies, particularly the anti-corruption agencies, to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from organised crime infiltration.

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He also demanded that the value of seized and confiscated moveable assets be preserved for the state, society, and victims in line with existing legislation and international conventions.

The president strongly affirmed, “Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries.”

President Tinubu affirmed that his administration remained committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes.

The post Tinubu orders crackdown on cyber-criminals, transnational car thieves appeared first on Frontpageng.

The information is contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Friday in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said the troops operating under the auspices of Operation UDO KA II, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies, subdued the group with superior fire power, neutralising two fighters.

He said the troops also recovered three Semi Automatic Pump Action Rifles and a locally-fabricated single barrel gun during the encounter.

He added that the troops, in conjunction with DSS, apprehended a notorious ESN Commander, Mr Ezege, in a separate sting operation at Obinagu in Udi local government area of the state.

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According to him, the arrested ESN commander, recently threatened to unleash mayhem in Enugu State via his viral video and audio message circulated on some social media platforms .

He said the suspect was already in custody for further investigations.

Nwachukwu said troops of 130 Battalion, operating in 13 Brigade Area of Responsibility under 82 Division, in collaboration with DSS operatives, also smashed a notorious syndicate of gun runners at Obudu in Cross River.

He said the operation followed credible intelligence revealing the illicit activities of the gun runners in Obudu and Biaju general areas.

He said the leader of the gun running syndicate was nabbed in the sting operation, alongside his accomplices comprising two Nigerians and two Cameroonians.

Nwachukwu said the preliminary investigations had revealed that the accomplices purchased firearms, which they in turn sold to a middle man, who supplied the arms and ammunition to Ambazonian Separatists in the Republic of Cameroon.

He added that a subsequent operation conducted on Thursday, led to the arrest of the gun running kingpin, Raphael (a.k.a. Biajua), a Cameroonian, at Biajua community in Boki local government area of Cross River State.

According to him, the troops also recovered four Semi Automatic Pump Action Rifles and four mobile phones.

“The Nigerian Army enjoins the general public to remain vigilant and report any untoward activity to the security agencies, in support of ongoing operations to curb security challenges.

“The good and enterprising people of South East Nigeria are also encouraged to discountenance the illegal sit-at-home order and go about their daily activities and businesses without fear of intimidation, as ongoing operations will be sustained to counter the enforcement of the unlawful order,” he said.

Source: NAN

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Egbetokun made this known on Friday in Abuja during his inaugural conference with Strategic Police Managers, consisting of officers from the rank of Commissioners of Police and above.

“The Nigeria Police Force under my command, in its quest to stamp out violent crimes and their detrimental and debilitating effects on the security and safety of our society, will forge ahead to tackle the menace of crimes and criminality head on.

“This will be done with the establishment of a specialized Quick Intervention Squad which will comprise combat ready Police Mobile Force personnel with effective and enhanced training in crisis de-escalation and violent crime reduction strategies.

“This will lead to a review of the engagement patterns of the Police Mobile Force in a bid to restore the days of glory of the Police Mobile Force as a punching arm of the Police,” he said.

The I-G said his administration would embrace innovation and technology as powerful allies in the fight against crime.

According to him, the world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and so the Nigeria Police should adapt to the evolving landscape of crime.

He said criminals were presently more sophisticated, more organised and more ruthless than ever before.

Egbetokun said the Nigeria Police Force would leverage cutting-edge tools, data analytics and intelligence networks to stay one step ahead of the criminals, seeking to disrupt the peace of the country.

The I-G said that would be achieved through a robust and effective human and technical intelligence gathering process to enhance the capacity of personnel.

“By harnessing the power of technology, we can make our streets safer, our investigations more efficient and our communities more resilient.

“We cannot afford to be reactive; we must be proactive in our approaches by equally collaborating with other security agencies, both domestic and international to strengthen our intelligence network,” he added.

The I-G said his administration would also prioritise the enhancement of the Nigeria Police training curriculum with special focus on attitudinal and behavioural changes for new recruits and reorientation programme for serving officers.

The police boss said the idea was to further refine the perception of officers to concepts of human rights, rule of law and citizen-focused policing.

He said the new training curriculum would be produced with inbuilt tests, designed to weed out individuals with negative mentality and high tendency for violence from recruits.

The I-G said his administration would also make a case for improved welfare for officers to ensure the availability of resources, trainings and support necessary to carry out their duties professionally.

“To this end, my administration will intensify collaboration with relevant stakeholders for the resuscitation of the Police Officer Support Unit, POSU, of the Police Medical services.

“This will serve as a confidential support and counseling facility for all police officers,” he said.

Source: NAN

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According to the spokesman of the Nigeria Police Force, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Thursday, the IGP described the passage of the two “critical” bills as a milestone achievement with positive impact that will redefine the act of policing the country, standardize the training capacity of the Force, enhance police productivity and address the recurring pension related hardship.

He stressed that the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme and establishment of NPF Pension Board was a welcome development and would be resourceful in addressing the plight of Police retirees.

While acknowledging the doggedness and resilience of the National Assembly in the passage of the bills, the Inspector-General of Police commended the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians for their support and concern towards the passage of the bills which, he said, in no time would definitely attract the assent of the president for their full implementation.

The Police boss equally commended the steadfastness and patience of the retirees on the age-long battle of the pension palaver and assured that all hands were on deck to make the bills a reality.

The post IGP commends NASS over passage of Police pension bill, other appeared first on Frontpageng.