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A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment after convicting him on multiple terrorism charges. Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling on Thursday, imposing life sentences on counts one, two, four, five, and six; 20 years for belonging to a proscribed terrorist group; and five years for unlawful importation of a radio transmitter. The judge noted that the law permits a death sentence for the offences but said he chose a more lenient approach. He also directed that Kanu be held in protective custody outside Kuje prison and ordered the forfeiture of the radio transmitter to the Federal Government. Source – TVC

PDP Faults FG Over Kebbi School Attack, Says Insecurity Worsening Nationwide     The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the attack on the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where armed bandits killed the school’s Vice Principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and abducted 25 students.       In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the opposition party described the incident as “tragic and deeply disturbing,” saying it further underscores what it called the federal government’s inability to curb the escalating wave of insecurity across the country.       The PDP said the killing of the school official and the abduction of the schoolgirls reflect a worsening security climate that has left many Nigerians feeling exposed and unprotected.       According to the statement, the Tinubu-led administration has “consistently preferred the politicization of governance over the protection of citizens,” adding that no government should distance itself from its primary duty of ensuring security of lives and property.       The party said effective leadership requires taking responsibility, confronting the security challenges head-on and abandoning what it described as repeated attempts to deflect from the core issues surrounding the national security crisis.   The PDP expressed sympathy to the families of the abducted students, the relatives of the slain Vice Principal, and the staff and management of the affected school. It also condoled with the Kebbi State Government on devastating tragedy for the education community.       The opposition party noted that the Kebbi attack forms part of a wider pattern of recent abductions in Nasarawa, Plateau, Kano and Katsina, insisting that the trend contradicts the renewed hope agenda of the federal government.       It warned that Nigeria risks sliding deeper into insecurity if urgent and coordinated action is not taken, particularly in states repeatedly targeted by criminal gangs.       The PDP called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to devote urgent and sufficient attention to national security, saying the country could not afford another round of mass kidnappings and school-targeted attacks.   It questioned whether Nigeria must wait for external pressure before taking decisive action, a reference to past incidents where foreign governments issued warnings or expressed concern over mass abductions.   The statement urged federal authorities to step up intelligence gathering, improve community security logistics and strengthen collaboration with states facing heightened security threats.   It also demanded the immediate rescue of the abducted Kebbi students and the prosecution of the perpetrators to serve as deterrence in future cases.   The PDP insisted that only a firm and coordinated response can halt the cycle of killings, kidnappings and school invasions now occurring across several states.   The party urged security agencies to deploy all necessary tools and strategies to prevent further tragedies, insisting that “the killings must stop.”

Eno Warns Disloyal Appointees to Resign or Be Removed   Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Tuesday issued a stern warning to political appointees and senior government officials, declaring that anyone working against his administration from within should “quietly resign” or be removed from office.   The warning came barely 24 hours after two aides were relieved of their appointments over alleged acts of disloyalty.   Addressing appointees, stakeholders and senior bureaucrats, Governor Eno said his administration will no longer tolerate individuals who enjoy government privileges while undermining its policies, programmes or unity.   “Everybody will not agree with us, and that is understood and allowed, but what we will not tolerate is for people to believe that they can be in government and be working against the government. Every action carries a consequence. And I say it again: either you carefully and quietly leave and we will be glad to receive resignations than to stay inside and begin to rock the boat. We will not tolerate it, and that is the truth.” He cautioned   The Governor anchored his position on biblical teachings, insisting that stewardship demands loyalty, commitment and sincerity of purpose. He said loyalty must remain the irreducible minimum for anyone entrusted with public responsibility.   Citing 1 Corinthians 4:2, he reminded appointees that “it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful,” adding that divided allegiance is incompatible with the demands of public service.       In his words “There are people who eat at the table of the king yet feel comfortable working against the same king. That era is over. Faithfulness and loyalty are not negotiable. They are universal standards, and anyone who cannot stand with the government is free to walk away honorably.”   Governor Eno warned that although his administration prioritises peace and stability, such commitment should not be mistaken for indecision or lack of firmness.   “Those who think they can try our resolve to maintain peace should rethink. Meekness is not weakness. I got this job on the mandate of Akwa Ibom people, and I will discharge it till the very last day. We value peace, but we will not entertain subversion or hypocrisy from within.” He added

GOVERNOR ENO CHARGES NEW CIVIL SERVICE HEAD TO PRIORITIZE WORKFORCE CAPACITY BUILDING, PROFESSIONAL GROWTH   … reaffirms commitment to workers’ welfare     In a bid to boost the state’s human resources capacity, Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has mandated the newly-appointed Head of Civil Service, Mrs Elsie Anietie Peters, to spearhead the training and retraining of the state workforce with a view to enhancing professionalism even as he emphasized the need for efficiency and commitment.   Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, the Governor noted that the Civil Service is critical to the success of the ARISE Agenda, and must be well positioned to deliver on its responsibilities.   “The Civil Service is the critical piece of our ARISE Agenda, and it is my hope and belief that, under the leadership of the new Head of Service, we will continue to work together, grow together and serve our dear State with faithfulness, dedication and with unbridled passion,” he said.   Governor Eno who has won various awards as the most workers’ friendly Governor, said the State under his leadership will remain committed to the welfare of workers, emphasising that, “salaries are paid regularly, same with pensions, and most of what the Organized Labour and the State Government had agreed to do are being done. We have one of the most robust and collaborative Labour-Government relations in the country, and we remain dedicated to doing even more.   “We remain dedicated to the improvement of the welfare of our Civil Service workers. We have demonstrated this through the regular payment of gratuities, which we met at N110 billion backlog from 2012- May 29, 2023.Today, we have paid over N75.2 billion of the inherited backlog. N1.3b was recently released, and we have cleared the backlog from 2012 -March 2021.   “You would agree with me, that this is a great achievement and a fulfillment of my campaign promise. We will continue to pay down the backlog until the outstanding is completely cleared, and we thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the funds he has provided the states to carry out both their capital and recurrent expenditures. We have to show those who served our State diligently that we care,” he added.   He congratulated the New Head of the Civil Service, saying that with her background and experience, she has what it takes to lead a Civil Service where the key ingredients would be loyalty to the State and the Governor, and a good understanding of the ideals that shape the ARISE Agenda.   The Governor advised all appointees of government to be faithful to their call.   “Faithfulness, which is also loyalty, is not optional but a requirement. God looks for faithfulness more than talents. God does not look for the most gifted, the most educated, the most charismatic, the most visible. He looks for the most faithful.”   Making reference to Matthew 6:24, he equally advised those playing hide and seek to desist from it as no one can serve two masters at the same time.   The state chief Executive charged Government appointees and workers to remain loyal, faithful, and productive in services for the betterment of the State.   “Everybody may not agree with us, and that is understood and allowed. But what we will not tolerate is for people to believe that they can be in Government and be working against the Government.   “Those who are not willing and ready to work with us and show loyalty to what we stand for are free to leave. My appointees are called “Aides to the Governor.” They are expected to work closely with the Governor and interpret his vision for the development of the State. Faithfulness and loyalty should be sacrosanct, non-negotiable, and this is not an Akwa Ibom standard, it is a universal standard, so we are not reinventing the wheels here.   “Let me also say here that those who think they can try our resolve to maintain peace should have a rethink,” he said.   Governor Eno appreciated the immediate past Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for his diligent service to the State especially, “for the great contributions he made in aligning the civil service with our governance philosophy, the ARISE Agenda, and for being in the vanguard of interpreting my vision to have a lean, professional and ICT-enabled Civil Service.”   Fielding questions from Government House Correspondents shortly after her swearing-in, Mrs. Elsie Peters thanked God and Governor Umo Eno for the privilege, pledging to take the State Civil Service to an enviable dimension as obtainable in civilized climes.   At the ceremony were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Chief Assam Assam, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo; Senator Effiong Bob, Former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson, among others.

Masquerade Chief in A’Ibom Police Net Over Public Disturbance, Extortion Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police command have arrested a leader of masquerade cultural group commonly called ”Ekpo” Uwem Umanah over alleged criminal activities including illegal assembly, armed blockage of a public highway, and extortion in the state. A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer DSP Timfon John, in Uyo on Saturday said the suspect was arrested after a distress call received from a concerned citizen (name withheld) which revealed that the masquerade cultural group was attacking citizens, blocking a public highway, and extorting money from members of the public. According to the information the perpetrators, armed with sphere arrows, machetes, sticks, and other weapons, were also physically assaulting members of the public, including NYSC members. The police spokesperson said investigation further revealed that the leader of the “Ekpo” masquerade in the village had authorized members of the group to wear masks and disguise themselves in masquerade costumes in public, despite an existing ban on such displays. John noted that upon receipt of the information, operatives of the command immediately dispatched to the scene and arrested the alleged mastermind, Uwem Umanah. The statement reads in part,”The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two individuals, including the leader of a masquerade cultural group for a series of criminal activities including illegal assembly, armed blockage of a public highway, and extortion. ”The arrest followed a distress call received from a concerned citizen (name withheld) reporting the illegal display of a masquerade cultural group that was attacking citizens, blocking a public highway, and extorting money from members of the public passing through the route. According to the information from the distress call, the perpetrators, armed with sphere arrows, machetes, sticks, and other weapons, were also physically assaulting members of the public, including NYSC members. ”Investigation revealed that the leader of the “Ekpo” masquerade in the village, one Uwem Umanah ‘M’ aged 45 years, had authorized members of the group to wear masks and disguise themselves in masquerade costumes in public, despite an existing ban on such displays. ”Upon receipt of the information, Operatives of the Command immediately dispatched to the scene and arrested the alleged mastermind, Uwem Umanah. In a related development, one David Michael ‘M’ aged 34 years of Ikot Obong Edong Village, was arrested at Ukana Onuk Village while in possession of complete masquerade costumes, preparing to invade the area. The two suspects have been charged to court following a thorough investigation into the matter The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammad Azare has reassured the general public of the command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and order. The police will not tolerate acts of lawlessness, intimidation, or violence under any guise, including the unauthorized use of cultural paraphernalia to perpetrate crime. Members of the public are urged to continue to provide timely and useful information to the police to prevent crime and ensure that all communities remain safe and secure for lawful activities.

Fens Group CEO, Michael Udofia, Wins 2025 Agribusiness Development Award In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial development, the Chief Executive Officer of Fens Group, Mr. Michael Udofia, has been conferred with the 2025 Agribusiness Development and Enterprise Award (ADEA) by the Nigeria Agribusiness & Agro-Industry Development Initiative (NAADI) under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. The award was presented during the 4th Agribusiness Roundtable International Conference (Uyo2025), holding at Watbridge Hotels and Suites, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with the theme “Resilient Agribusiness: A Sustainable Solution for a Changing World.” Explaining the rationale behind the choice of Udofia, the Zonal Coordinator of NAADI, Mr. Howard Usen, said the ADEA was established to honor exemplary individuals and organizations that drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture, rural development, and industry. In his words “The Agribusiness Development and Enterprise Award recognizes vanguards in the agro sub-sector who have pioneered solutions that enhance livelihoods, create jobs, and promote food security and social inclusion. He described Mr. Udofia as an innovative entrepreneur and visionary leader whose business model has transformed agribusiness and enterprise development in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria and beyond. “You have distinguished yourself as a change agent who has significantly impacted humanity through accelerated employment generation, social enterprise growth, and economic advancement in the West African sub-region,” Usen added. According to him, the Distinguished Advisory Committee of the Agribusiness Development and Enterprise Award found Mr. Udofia deserving of the honor for his exceptional track record in business transformation, leadership, and community impact. “You are a serial entrepreneur of repute with a consistent record of success and innovation.” He noted Responding after receiving the award, the Chief Executive Officer of Fens Group, Mr. Michael Udofia expressed gratitude to the organizers for recognizing his lifelong commitment to enterprise and agricultural development. Udofia who used the platform to encourage Nigerian youths to embrace agribusiness and entrepreneurship with determination and patience said; “After my graduation in 1992, I started business in 1993 with only ₦3,500. It was a humble beginning. Today, by the grace of God, we have grown into a conglomerate with interests in petroleum marketing, construction, and recently, large-scale farming. “You can start small. Even if you plant only 20 stands of palm seedlings, in three to four years, you won’t need to borrow money to pay school fees, and you will have food on your table.” He said The Fens Group Boss revealed that the company currently operates the largest palm plantation in Ibiono Ibom, Akwa Ibom State, a project he described as a demonstration of his belief in agriculture as the foundation of sustainable prosperity. Our correspondent reports that the conference which drew over 500 participants from within and outside Nigeria, was declared open by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, and featured keynotes from ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, legislators, and industry leaders. Also in attendance were heads of government ministries and agencies, representatives of local and international development partners, financial institutions, small and medium enterprises, and major players in the agribusiness and manufacturing sectors.

Why we chose A’Ibom for Five City tour- Davido   Popular singer, songwriter and record producer, David Adedeji Adeleke, known as Davido, has said the choice of Akwa Ibom as the first State in Nigeria to host his music concert, is due to the quality facilities in the State.   Speaking at a pre-concert reception hosted by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno and Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Godwill Akpabio in Uyo, on Sunday,Davido said that the choice of Akwa Ibom to host his first live show in Nigeria after 14 years of being on the stage was as a result of the state’s inherent potentials.   According to him everything about Akwa Ibom State is “beautiful, ” adding that if all states in the country were like Akwa Ibom, he would have been comfortable touring around the whole country.   The music icon commended Governor Eno for his good works in the State, especially in maintaining peace and security and for providing platforms for the youths to excel.   He said, “When we were looking around Africa, five places came and Akwa Ibom was top on the list. A lot of people are flying from other states that don’t have this type of facility.   “I am excited, it is(the Akwa Ibom tour) is best of its kind. We toured America already and it was a great success and we were looking for a good facility around Africa and Akwa Ibom is one of the places that we found out.   ”You have a standard facility, that’s why we are starting here. As time goes, we will keep doing the other states and I am just excited the stadium is already filled up so let’s get ready and shut it down.”   I’m his remark, Senator Akpabio commended Governor Eno for his leadership disposition describing him as both youth and sports friendly.   He commended Davido for choosing Akwa Ibom State, saying that a good number of youths have been mentored through his platform, and urged him to carry some Akwa Ibom budding stars with him as he tours around other countries abroad.   Governor Eno , in his remarks, appreciated the music icon for being an inspiration to the younger generation, adding that his commitment, determination has taken his carrier to the zenith.   “We want to thank you for being an inspiration to the younger generation. For me, you have taken your career to the zenith and it is an inspiration to the youths that what they set their hand to do is possible and achievable.   “We are a youths friendly state and we are trying to develop talents. Thank you for sharing the stage with some of our local entertainers which is an inspiration to them that one day, they can also aspire to be like you,” he said.

ActionAid, CIF Charge Policy Makers on Youth Inclusion in Climate Decision-Making   Leaders and policy makers in Nigeria have been urged to include youth in climate decision-making processes, as a key step towards achieving climate justice and a sustainable future.   The charge was issued during the 2025 South-South Regional Local Conference of Youth (LCOY Nigeria), organised by Clement Isong Foundation (CIF), in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, on the theme; “Youth at the Forefront of Climate Justice: Accelerating Action for a Just Transition,”   Setting the tone, Executive Director, Clement Isong Foundation, Mr. Elkanah Oluyori urged the youth to take ownership of climate solutions rather than wait to be included. He called for courage, innovation, and leadership in building sustainable alternatives. “Are we going to be the victims or the vanguards of the crisis” he asked   The Project Lead, CIF, Dr. Caroline Gordian, in her speech highlighted the importance of empowering young people, women, and marginalized communities to promote climate accountability, democratic governance, and sustainable livelihoods.   Dr. Gordian who assured that empowerment has been the focus of the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA II) project, implemented by ActionAid Nigeria and funded by DANIDA, noted that when youth are equipped with the right tools and platforms, they become active creators of change, not passive recipients of aid.   Delivering a keynote address on the conference’s theme, Executive Director, Policy Alert and Acting Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Government Climate and Oil Derivatives Accountability (AKGCODA), Mr. Tijah Bolton-Akpan, called for justice-centered climate action, accountability in the fossil fuel sector, and youth inclusion in policy frameworks.   Challenging the youth to push for accountability and transparency from leaders, Bolton-Akpan said; “Do not just ask questions—question the answers.”.   He also tasked the federal governments of Nigeria and private actors on climate Justice to move from policy drafting to implementation, by consciously working to ensure that youth are part of decision-making spaces.   A communique issued at the end of the meeting therefore identified youth as key drivers of the Just Transition — leading solutions for climate justice, energy transition, and sustainable livelihoods. It further declared climate justice a moral and human rights issue that demands intergenerational collaboration and inclusive governance.   ” Agroecology, renewable energy, and innovation are powerful pathways for resilience and green job creation. Governments and private actors must move from policy drafting to implementation, ensuring youth are part of decision-making spaces. Digital activism and technology amplify youth voices and hold leaders accountable for environmental governance”. The communique stated   While acknowledging the resilience, creativity, and leadership skills of young people as key drivers shaping a sustainable and equitable future, the 2025 South-South Regional Local Conference of Youth (LCOY Nigeria) made strong case for amplified regional voices, as well as linking local solutions to global advocacy.

HEALTH INVESTIGATION: CEREBRAL PALSY: How Families, Experts Manage the Struggles By Julius Nsikak At just nine years old, God’spower Effiong lives with a reality most of his peers cannot imagine. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy shortly after birth, the condition has shaped his childhood, influencing his growth, speech, and ability to interact with others. On a quiet afternoon in Uyo, he is seen trying to keep up with his siblings in their residential compound along Aka Etinan Road. His steps are unsteady, his movements painfully slow, and his words often melt into sounds only his closest relatives can interpret. Yet when he manages a smile, it speaks louder than any words he cannot say. Family members recall how his late mother, Mrs Imaobong Inyangette, devoted herself to his care. Before her untimely passing, she made frequent visits to Nsit Ibom Medical Centre to collect vitamins and supplements for her son, determined to strengthen his fragile health. “She never gave up on him,” his eldest sister said. “Even when she was tired, she would still look for ways to make him strong. She wanted him to live like other children.” Despite her efforts, God’spower’s progress has been slow. He did not walk until after his second birthday, and even then, his legs appeared too thin for his frame. His buttocks are flattened, his movements restricted, and at nine years old, he weighs just 11 kilograms, far below the expected weight for his age. UNDERSTANDING THE CONDITION Cerebral palsy is not a single illness but a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and posture. It is caused by abnormal brain development or brain damage occurring before, during, or shortly after birth. At the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), one of the few tertiary health institutions in Akwa Ibom equipped to handle complex paediatric cases, Dr Nsisong Udoudo (FMCPaed), a consultant paediatric neurologist, offered crucial insights into the causes, management, and systemic gaps affecting families in Nigeria. “Cerebral palsy,” she explained, “is not a single illness but a group of permanent disorders of movement and posture caused by non-progressive disturbances or injury to the developing foetal or infant brain. It is one of the most common motor disabilities that begins in childhood. These children typically show delays in motor development such as difficulty controlling the neck, sitting, crawling, or walking, as well as abnormal muscle tone, gait problems, and sometimes speech, feeding, or learning difficulties. The condition does not disappear in adulthood; rather, the affected child grows into an adult with cerebral palsy.” Dr Udoudo identified several causes and risk factors, many of which are preventable with proper healthcare. “Complications during labour, such as birth asphyxia, where the baby is unable to initiate or sustain breathing at birth are major causes,” she said. “Others include prematurity, very low birth weight, neonatal jaundice, and infections such as meningitis or sepsis. Maternal illnesses, poor antenatal attendance, and untreated infections also play significant roles. Unfortunately, poor access to good obstetric and neonatal care, and delays in recognising and managing complications, make the situation worse in Nigeria.” According to her, the burden of cerebral palsy in Nigeria, and particularly in Akwa Ibom, is significant. “Globally, the incidence is about 3.6 per 1,000 children, with a higher rate in low- and middle-income countries,” she noted, referencing data from the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Here in Uyo, about three to four out of every ten children seen in our paediatric neurology clinic at UUTH are living with cerebral palsy.” When asked about early detection, Dr Udoudo explained that diagnosis can often be made between 18 and 24 months of age. “Parents and caregivers should watch for warning signs such as poor head control, floppy or unusually stiff muscles, delayed sitting or walking, feeding difficulties, or persistent primitive reflexes,” she advised. “Any baby who experiences a difficult delivery, prematurity, jaundice, or seizures at birth should be closely monitored.” While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, Dr Udoudo emphasised that it can be managed effectively through multidisciplinary care. “Management involves physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, orthotic support such as braces, nutritional management, spasticity control, and, in some cases, orthopaedic surgery,” she explained. “Children also need support for associated conditions like epilepsy, vision or hearing impairments, and feeding or speech difficulties.” Beyond medicine, the consultant shed light on the emotional and financial strain families face. “Caring for a child with cerebral palsy can be financially draining,” she admitted. “The cost of therapy, medications, and orthotic devices ranges from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of naira, depending on the severity of the condition. The burden isn’t just financial, it’s emotional and psychological. Many parents battle anxiety, depression, and social isolation due to stigma.” She further pointed out that physiotherapy, which plays a vital role in improving mobility and preventing deformities, remains out of reach for many. “Physiotherapy helps prevent contractures and trains families on home-based exercises, but cost and access remain huge challenges. Here at UUTH, our clinic only holds once a week, every Tuesday. We simply do not have enough staff to run more sessions.” Comparing Nigeria’s situation to global standards, Dr Udoudo said that while teaching hospitals offer relatively good multidisciplinary care, coverage remains grossly inadequate. “There are too few specialists, limited rehabilitation equipment, and irregular funding. Families often travel long distances just to access care. In addition, disability and rehabilitation have not been given the political priority they deserve.” On government policy, her response was blunt: “To the best of my knowledge, there are no specific government social support programmes for children with cerebral palsy. Most families depend on NGOs and community groups for help.” She added that inclusive education is also lacking. “Sadly, most schools are not inclusive,” she said. “They lack ramps, accessible toilets, or adapted learning materials. Inclusive education is almost non-existent for children with severe disabilities.” Dr Udoudo urged the government and policymakers to prioritise prevention and inclusion. “We must strengthen maternal and newborn care

Musa, Abdulrashid, Adamu Top Lists as A’Ibom Police Command Burst Notorious Tricycle Robbery Syndicate in Uyo The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has arrested Musa Idris Sanni, 31 years, Utibe Asuquo Nkop, 34 years, Dadati John, 46 years, Abdulrashid Sanni, 28 years, as suspected syndicates terrorizing Uyo metropolis using tricycle. The command has also arrested Muhammed Saifuana, ‘M’ aged 32 yrs, Musa Abdulahi, ‘M’ aged 27yrs, Samaila Sauwanu, ‘M’ aged 21yrs, Mubansir Abubakar, ‘M’ aged 20yrs and Adamu Umar, ‘M’ aged 25yrs, over suspected theft of household items. Items recovered include; three (3) tricycles and seventy-two (72) assorted mobile phones as exhibits from members of the syndicate, suspected to have been stolen from unsuspecting victims. Other items include; Five (5) industrial standing fans, Two (2) microwave ovens, One (1) bicycle, Fifty (50) pieces of stabilizers, Three (3) electric kettles, Two (2) brand new Startime decoders, Four (4) pressing irons, One (1) DVD player, and several other goods. In a press briefing in Uyo on Friday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare said the recent arrests came from a distress call from one of the victims of tricycle robbery. “On 7th July 2025, the Command received a petition from one Mr. Aniekan Dan, aged 41 years. He reported that on 3rd July 2025 at about 7:00 pm, while returning from Ibesikpo with his wife, they boarded a tricycle from Ring Road 3 en route Nwaniba. Unknown to them, two other men already seated in the tricycle were members of a robbery gang. “On getting to UniUyo Permanent Site Roundabout, the two supposed passengers, in collaboration with the tricycle rider, suddenly brought out a firearm and ordered the couple to surrender their belongings. They were dispossessed of an iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at ₦680,000, iPhone 16 valued at ₦1,400,000, Samsung S22 valued at ₦370,000, cash sum of ₦28,200, and a handbag containing personal effects. “After robbing and assaulting the victims, the suspects pushed them out of the moving tricycle. Fortunately, the victims managed to identify the MOT number (MOT–0BMR) of the fleeing tricycle, which proved vital in tracking down the culprits. “Through intelligence-led investigation, police operatives arrested the tricycle rider, one Editi, aged 34 years, alongside the tricycle used in the operation. His voluntary statement led to the arrest of four other members of the gang, both within and outside Akwa Ibom State”. He said CP Azare also reported apprehension of a tricycle with registration number 298 WZ along Nasarawa Road, carrying five male occupants, loaded with a large quantity of assorted, brand-new household items, which immediately raised suspicion. He assured that the Command, under his watch, will not relent in ensuring that people sleep with their eyes closed. The CP therefore called on all victims to visit the Area Command Uyo office, with proof of ownership and claim their phones. “The suspects will have their day in court after completion of investigation”. He assured