By Favour Bibaikefie

Jos, Nigeria – Tensions reached a boiling point in Jos on Monday morning as residents, led by prominent Christian leaders, took to the streets to protest the persistent killings of indigenous people in Plateau State. The unrest is believed to stem from continuous attacks by suspected Fulani militants, which have left communities devastated and in mourning.

The demonstration, led by Rev. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Plateau State, began at Fawvwei Junction, a key area in the city. The march caused heavy traffic congestion, stranding numerous commuters as the protesters made their way through major roads toward the Rayfield Government House.

This protest comes in the wake of a disturbing rise in violence, particularly in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas. Reports from the last two weeks suggest that over 100 people have been killed in a series of brutal attacks on local villages.

“We are not happy over the continuous attacks and killings by gunmen in our communities. That’s why we have come out again to protest these happenings,” said Gyang Dalyop, one of the demonstrators, expressing the deep frustration felt by many.

Joining the call for urgent intervention, another protester, Hannatu Philip, implored the authorities to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed. “The government must do something before the situation gets worse,” she told Phonix News.

Carrying placards bearing messages of grief and demand for justice, the protesters marched in solidarity, drawing attention to what they describe as a neglected crisis that continues to claim innocent lives.

The protest reflects a growing sense of urgency and fear among Plateau’s residents, as they plead for both immediate security measures and long-term solutions to restore peace in the region.

By Favour Bibaikefie

Vatican City – In a solemn announcement from the Casa Santa Marta on Easter Monday, the Vatican confirmed the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, delivered the official declaration at 9:45 a.m., noting that the Pontiff died peacefully at 7:35 a.m.

“With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell said, adding that the Pope “returned to the house of the Father” after a life devoted to faith, compassion, and the service of the Church, especially to those most in need.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Jesuit Pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European to be elected in over a millennium. His papacy was defined by a pastoral approach to leadership, a strong focus on social justice, and a consistent outreach to the poor and marginalized.

Pope Francis had long struggled with health challenges, many of which traced back to a partial lung removal in his youth. In February of this year, he was hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic after battling bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After more than five weeks of treatment, he returned to the Vatican to continue recovery, but his condition declined in recent weeks.

Despite his health issues, Pope Francis remained active in his duties and continued to inspire millions worldwide. In a significant gesture last year, he approved a revised and simplified version of the papal funeral liturgy, reflecting his humble spirit and desire for a modest farewell.

Archbishop Diego Ravelli, master of papal liturgical celebrations, confirmed that the Pope’s wishes for a simpler, pastorally oriented funeral will be fulfilled. “The funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ,” he said.

Funeral details are expected to be released in the coming days, with faithful from around the globe likely to gather in mourning and tribute.

Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy of reform, mercy, and unwavering dedication to the message of the Gospel. As the Church prepares to bid farewell, the world remembers a leader who, above all, chose love, humility, and compassion.

May he rest in peace.

By Favour Bibaikefie

Abuja – The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State has summoned the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), to appear before it on Thursday for an interactive session concerning developments in the state.

This was revealed in a statement released on Wednesday by the House Spokesperson, Akin Rotimi (Jnr), who disclosed that the 21-member committee, chaired by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, was officially inaugurated by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

The committee’s formation follows the National Assembly’s resolution endorsing the President’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.

According to Rotimi, the invitation to the Sole Administrator was among the resolutions reached during the committee’s inaugural meeting on Wednesday. The meeting focused on initial reports and unfolding situations in the state since Vice Admiral Ibas took over administrative duties.

Rotimi stated, “Pursuant to its constitutional mandate to exercise full legislative oversight in accordance with Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Committee resolved, among other matters, to invite Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, to appear before it for a comprehensive interactive session.”

In his remarks, Prof. Ihonvbere emphasized the importance of the engagement, stating, “This engagement is necessary to ascertain the true state of affairs in Rivers State and ensure that the House remains properly guided in the discharge of its oversight responsibilities in the public interest.”

The Sole Administrator is expected to appear before the committee on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 4:00 PM in Room 414 of the House of Representatives New Building at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.