Category: News

  • Digital Creators Storm Surveyor-General’s Office: Seek Partnership to Remap Nigeria’s Image, Infrastructure

    Digital Creators Storm Surveyor-General’s Office: Seek Partnership to Remap Nigeria’s Image, Infrastructure

    The leadership of the Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA), paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Surveyor‑General of the Federation (OSGoF) at its headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, where discussions were held to strengthen collaboration for national development, public enlightenment, and enhanced digital visibility of government institutions.

    Led by its President, Ikechukwu Chukwunyere, the BAVCCA delegation—comprising six executive members—was personally received by the Surveyor-General of the Federation, Abdulganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, at his office.

    In his opening address, Chukwunyere expressed the honour of BAVCCA visiting the office of the Surveyor-General and lauded the institution’s immense contribution to Nigeria’s infrastructural and territorial development. He explained that BAVCCA, as an umbrella body of over 5,000 professional digital creators, bloggers, vloggers and online journalists, is committed to promoting truthful, ethical and responsible online discourse in support of national growth.

    He emphasised that the Office of the Surveyor-General remains one of the most critical yet undervalued government agencies, pointing to its pivotal role in land mapping, boundary demarcation, geospatial data management and infrastructural planning.

    “Your office lays the foundation for Nigeria’s progress. Unfortunately, many citizens—especially the youth immersed in digital spaces—are unaware of how vital your work is to our national development,” he said.

    Chukwunyere said that BAVCCA is ready to partner with OSGoF in the following areas:

    * Joint public sensitisation campaigns to showcase OSGoF’s achievements and modernisation efforts.

    * A bespoke media workshop to train content creators on accurate reporting of land, boundary and infrastructure topics.

    * A co-hosted 2026 awareness event titled “Mapping the Future: The Role of Digital Media in Geospatial Development.”

    * The establishment of formal communication channels between OSGoF’s media unit and BAVCCA’s Digital Relations Unit to guarantee reliable reporting of OSGoF’s activities.

    The BAVCCA President also applauded the Federal Government’s decision to extend the tenure of the Surveyor-General for two years from January 5, 2026, calling it a strong affirmation of his transformative reforms in geospatial data infrastructure and national mapping. He also welcomed the strategic repositioning of OSGoF directly under the Presidency, saying the move would streamline decision-making and strengthen the institution’s role in mapping, planning, land governance and security.

    On broader national issues, Chukwunyere reaffirmed BAVCCA’s commitment to unity, transparency and responsible reporting amid global scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record. He urged the newly appointed security chiefs to redouble their efforts in protecting all Nigerians, regardless of religious, ethnic or regional background. He pledged that BAVCCA will leverage its platforms to promote narratives of resilience, reconciliation and collective progress.

    In his response, Surveyor-General Adebomehin expressed delight at the visit from BAVCCA and described it as timely and impactful. He reiterated the indispensable role of OSGoF in national planning and governance, and emphasised that Nigeria’s last comprehensive mapping was done over five decades ago — highlighting the urgent need for a new national remapping exercise in line with international standards.

    “Whatever you cannot map, you cannot manage,” he said, while showcasing a modern digital railway map linking Lagos to Calabar—an example of what geospatial technology can do for infrastructure.

    He encouraged professionals in the surveying and geospatial fields to consider stepping into politics, saying that effective national development requires technically skilled individuals in leadership positions.

    “Until we start thinking beyond self, we will remain under-developed as a nation,” he added.

    Adebomehin assured BAVCCA of his office’s readiness to collaborate in public education, digital storytelling and national advocacy initiatives that promote the work of OSGoF.

    The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to establish a partnership framework between BAVCCA and OSGoF, aimed at strengthening public awareness, advancing geospatial innovation, and enhancing Nigeria’s digital governance ecosystem.

  • Revealed: Alleged N5m Bribery against Chief Judge Tsoho Blackmail

    Revealed: Alleged N5m Bribery against Chief Judge Tsoho Blackmail

    Indications emerged that the allegations against the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, over a petition of involvement in an alleged $5 million bribery scheme aimed at overturning a court order restraining Nestoil Limited and its affiliates from tampering with their assets in a $1 billion debt recovery dispute is baseless and mere distractions.

    The allegations surfaced barely one week after Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos granted a Mareva injunction inSuit No. FHC/L/CS/2127/2025, empowering First Trustees Limited and FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited to take possession of Nestoil’s assets pending determination of the case.

    Investigations by our judiciary correspondent revealed that the story flying on some online platforms is aimed at diverting attention on the issues raised in the matter.

    More details later

  • Nasarawa Youths Pass Vote of Confidence on Governor Sule, Minister Imaan Suleiman

    From Abel Zwanke, Lafia

    A coalition of youth organizations under the umbrella of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Nasarawa State Chapter, has passed a vote of confidence on Governor Abdullahi A. Sule and the Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim, for their commitment to youth development and inclusive governance.

    The resolution was made during a Youth Stakeholders’ Engagement organized in commemoration of the 2025 National Youth Day Celebration in Lafia. The event, chaired by Prof. Abdulkareem Kana, SAN, National Deputy Secretary General of the All Progressives Congress (APC), brought together youth leaders, government officials, and policymakers to deliberate on the role of young people in nation-building.

    Speaking during the event yesterday , the Chairman of NYCN, Nasarawa State Chapter, Comrade Ja’afar Muhammad Loko, said the engagement provided an opportunity to strengthen the partnership between the state government and youths towards achieving sustainable development.

    “Governor Sule has demonstrated genuine commitment to youth empowerment through policies that promote education, entrepreneurship, and innovation. We are proud of his leadership and the example he sets for others,” Loko stated.

    He added that the recognition also extended to Hon. Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim for her outstanding performance as Minister of Women Affairs, describing her as “a beacon of hope and an inspiration to young women in Nasarawa and across the nation.”

    “As the first young female Minister from Nasarawa State, Hon. Imaan has continued to raise the bar in public service, particularly in advancing gender inclusion and youth participation in governance,” he added.

    Delivering a paper titled “Youth Empowerment for Nation Building,” the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Students Affairs, Rt. Hon. Shuaibu Sani, urged young people to take advantage of opportunities created by government initiatives to contribute meaningfully to national development.

    “The future of this country rests on the shoulders of its youths. We must equip ourselves with the skills, discipline, and mindset needed to drive innovation and good governance,” Sani emphasized.

    However, Executive Secretary of Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Usman Iskilu Saleh who was one of the panelists spoke extensively on access to healthcare as well as employment of thousands of youth the agency while commending the efforts of governor Abdullahi sule on his resolve to ensure health care services to the people of Nasarawa state.

    The event also featured goodwill messages from dignitaries including the Deputy Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammad Oyanki; Director-General of NASIDA, Barr. Ibrahim Abdullahi; and the Director-General of the Market Bureau, Prince Ahmed Ubangari, who all commended the initiative as timely and impactful.

    At the end of the interactive session, the coalition of youth leaders representing over 28 organizations reaffirmed their confidence in the leadership of Governor Sule and Minister Imaan, pledging continued collaboration with government towards building a more prosperous and inclusive Nasarawa State.t

  • FCT Chief Judge Backs BAVCCA’s Call for Responsible Digital Media, Agrees to Co-Host National Conference

    FCT Chief Judge Backs BAVCCA’s Call for Responsible Digital Media, Agrees to Co-Host National Conference

    The leadership of the Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA), on Wednesday, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Hon. Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, where discussions centered on strengthening collaboration between the judiciary and the digital media community.

    Speaking during the visit, BAVCCA President, Mr. Ikechukwu Chukwunyere, said the association represents a nationwide network of over 5,000 professional bloggers, vloggers, and digital content creators dedicated to promoting ethical online practices and digital accountability in Nigeria.

    He stated that the visit was aimed at fostering mutual understanding and partnership between the judiciary and the digital media sector, noting that both institutions play vital roles in promoting justice, transparency, and public enlightenment.

    “Your Lordship, our visit today is to pay our respects to the judiciary, seek partnership for responsible online reportage, and establish a framework for collaboration in public education, legal awareness, and digital justice literacy,” Chukwunyere said.

    The BAVCCA President emphasized the association’s commitment to promoting responsible online behavior among digital creators, adding that the group is already working on a Digital Responsibility and Judicial Awareness Campaign targeted at educating over 10 million social media users on ethical content creation and respect for judicial processes.

    He appealed to the Chief Judge to partner with the association as a patron in the campaign and to support BAVCCA’s proposed “Judiciary and the Digital Media Conference” scheduled for early 2026.

    Mr. Chukwunyere also commended the FCT Judiciary for its swift justice delivery, digital court reforms, and continued efforts in maintaining the integrity and accessibility of the justice system under Justice Baba-Yusuf’s leadership.

    “We have watched with admiration how Your Lordship continues to uphold the dignity of the Bench amidst growing societal pressures. The reforms you are introducing not only modernize the justice system but also open opportunities for accurate and transparent digital reporting,” he added.

    In his response, Hon. Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf welcomed the BAVCCA delegation and congratulated the association’s executive members on their election, noting that their emergence was a reflection of trust, character, and competence.

    The Chief Judge commended the association for organizing themselves into a structured professional body to check the excesses of online media practitioners, describing the initiative as a step toward ensuring credibility and discipline within the digital space.

    He encouraged the leadership to guide their members responsibly and focus on building the association’s reputation as a partner in nation-building.

    “You have a very critical role to play in shaping public opinion. Lead rightly, promote truth, and ensure that your platforms contribute positively to the growth of our democracy,” Justice Baba-Yusuf advised.

    The Chief Judge also expressed willingness to co-host the proposed “Judiciary and Digital Media” conference with BAVCCA in early 2026, aimed at deepening dialogue between judges, lawyers, and digital content creators on the evolving relationship between law and media technology.

    The courtesy visit ended with group photographs between the BAVCCA leadership and the Chief Judge, symbolizing the beginning of a strategic partnership between the Bench and the Blogosphere in advancing ethical digital communication in Nigeria.

  • NAPTIP Launches Manhunt for Suspect in Brutal Battery Case

    NAPTIP Launches Manhunt for Suspect in Brutal Battery Case

    The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched a manhunt for one Mr. Alabi Uche Sylvanus, accused of violently assaulting his spouse in Abuja, inflicting injuries described as life-threatening.

    The victim, whose identity was not disclosed, was rushed to a hospital in the Gudu District where she underwent emergency surgery. NAPTIP operatives were said to have been present throughout the procedure to monitor her condition and secure necessary evidence.

    Following the attack, a NAPTIP Rapid Response team proceeded to the suspect’s residence in Jabi to effect an arrest. However, the operatives were allegedly prevented from gaining access by a retired military officer identified as General Azi (rtd), who reportedly insisted the case was a “private family matter.” The agency claims the officer subsequently facilitated the suspect’s escape to an undisclosed location.

    In reaction, NAPTIP has raised an inter-agency alert and notified the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Immigration Service, and relevant military authorities to track and apprehend the suspect. The suspect’s international passport has also been flagged to prevent any attempt to leave the country.

    The Head of NAPTIP’s Rapid Response Unit, Dr. Emeh Magnus, confirmed that a report has been filed with the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff over the alleged obstruction by the retired officer.

    NAPTIP reiterated that domestic violence is a criminal offense under Nigerian law and warned that all parties involved in aiding the suspect will also be investigated.

    We remain committed to ensuring justice for victims of domestic violence. This case will be pursued to its lawful conclusion,” the agency stated.

    However, the victim is reported to be in stable condition and under close medical observation.

  • AGEAD Demands Transparency in JAMB’s Financial Records, Commends House Committee’s Intervention

    AGEAD Demands Transparency in JAMB’s Financial Records, Commends House Committee’s Intervention

    • Reiterates commitment to follow the process throughly

    The Advocacy for Good Ethics and Accountability for Development (AGEAD) has called for full transparency in the financial operations of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), urging the public release of its expenditure and revenue records while reiterating that it will not relent to ensure that Nigerians are informed

    In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Henry Thomas, the organization expressed strong support for the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies over its decision to summon JAMB’s Registrar to explain alleged irregularities and questions surrounding the Board’s financial management.

    AGEAD commended the Committee’s proactive move, describing it as “a bold step toward institutional accountability in Nigeria’s education sector.” The group, however, urged lawmakers to go further by demanding the public disclosure of JAMB’s financial statements, budget performance reports, and detailed expenditure breakdowns from 2023 to date.

    According to the statement, citizens have a right to know how revenues generated from public examinations are utilized. “Transparency in JAMB’s operations will not only restore public confidence but also serve as a deterrent against corruption and mismanagement,” AGEAD noted.

    The organization challenged JAMB to publish a comprehensive breakdown of all its revenues, expenditures, remittances to the Federal Government, and internally retained funds. It warned that any delay or refusal to do so would signify “a disregard for ethical governance and the principles of public accountability.”

    AGEAD further advised the House Committee to ensure that the proceedings of its engagement with JAMB are made public, arguing that secrecy would “undermine the credibility of the process and erode public trust.”

    The group disclosed that it had earlier scheduled a National Advocacy Meeting and Press Conference for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the NUJ Press Centre, Utako, Abuja, to address transparency issues in JAMB’s financial operations. However, the event has been temporarily suspended in light of the Committee’s planned meeting with JAMB officials on the same date.

    AGEAD stated that if the legislative engagement fails to yield transparent and satisfactory outcomes, it will proceed with the postponed press conference and may also organize a peaceful public protest to demand full disclosure from JAMB management.

    Reaffirming its stance on ethical leadership and transparency, the organization maintained that public institutions must be accountable to Nigerians, whose resources they manage.

  • ORTOM CONGRATULATES NEW PDP ACTING NAT’L CHAIRMAN

    ORTOM CONGRATULATES NEW PDP ACTING NAT’L CHAIRMAN

    …Blames Suspended Leadership for the Party’s Challenges

    The immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, expresses deep concern over the latest developments in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which culminated in the suspension of the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, and five members of the National Working Committee of the party.
    In a statement Sunday, through his Media Adviser, Terver Akase, declared that
    Chief Ortom, attributes the crisis to what he describes as a lack of cohesion in the management of the party’s internal affairs by its leadership.

    He recalls that he had previously met with the party’s leaders and offered constructive advice on how to resolve the disagreements in a manner that would have produced a win-win situation for all stakeholders, but regrets that his counsel was ignored with impunity.

    According to the statement the former Governor, the PDP leadership had the opportunity to rise above personal interests and unite the party but failed in its responsibility. He states that democracy is fundamentally about inclusion and consensus-building, not high-handedness or exclusion.

    “Democracy thrives when people of diverse views and interests come together to find common ground for the good of all. It is, therefore, the responsibility of leaders to harmonize differing opinions and create a sense of belonging among members. Unfortunately, what we have witnessed in recent times is an attempt by a few individuals to run the party without recourse to collective consultation or internal democratic processes,” Chief Ortom notes.

    The PDP Board member expresses optimism that the party would overcome its current challenges, recalling that PDP had survived many storms in the past and had always emerged stronger whenever it embraced fairness, dialogue, and inclusiveness.

    Chief Ortom congratulates the newly appointed Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Mohammed Abdulrahman, on his emergence, describing it as a fresh opportunity for the party to heal and rebuild internal trust.

    The former Benue Governor urges Hon. Abdulrahman and his team to urgently liaise with the Board of Trustees and other organs of the party to initiate genuine reconciliation efforts that would give every member a sense of belonging and renew confidence in the party’s leadership.

    Chief Ortom further calls on the new leadership to promote inclusiveness, dialogue, and respect for all stakeholders, reminding them that no individual can succeed in isolation. He emphasizes that the PDP’s strength lies in its diversity, collective wisdom, and democratic culture.

    He also appeals to all members of the party, to unite behind the new leadership and recommit themselves to the ideals and values of the PDP.

    His Excellency Ortom reminds party members that, as Nigeria’s main opposition party, the PDP has a duty to offer credible alternatives, hold the government accountable, and defend the principles of democracy and good governance.

  • Dangote Refinery, national asset every Nigerian must defend — BAVCCA President declares

    Dangote Refinery, national asset every Nigerian must defend — BAVCCA President declares

    President of the Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association in Nigeria (BAVCCA), Ikechukwu Chukwunyere, has charged Nigerians on the need to protect Dangote Refinery, describing it as a “national asset that every citizen must protect, nurture, and defend against any form of sabotage or doubt.”

    Chukwunyere made this declaration on Wednesday at BAVCCA’s National Secretariat in Abuja, following a visit by a 15-man delegation of the association to Dangote Industries in Lagos.

    Adding that the visit to the Dangote Refinery was more than a familiarization tour but “a pilgrimage to witness firsthand the embodiment of Nigerian ingenuity, resilience, and vision.”

    According to him, the team’s interaction with Dangote Industries’ Vice President, Mr. Edwin Devakumar, provided deep insight into the sacrifices and determination behind what he described as one of Nigeria’s greatest industrial achievements.

    While recalling Devakumar’s powerful testimony about believing in Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s vision for the refinery, even when many investors doubted its feasibility.

    “Despite the doubts from potential backers, Mr. Devakumar provided crucial support, backing Alhaji Dangote’s dream every step of the way,”

    Chukwunyere said. “Alhaji Dangote himself made extraordinary sacrifices, selling most of his assets to fund the project amid those investor doubts.”

    He said the refinery, valued at over $20 billion, was “a testament to this unyielding faith” and a model of how personal commitment can turn vision into reality.

    Quoting Devakumar, he said Aliko Dangote’s motivation was rooted not only in business ambition but in a “deep prioritization of Nigerians’ well-being.”

    “This passion fuels his endeavors, placing the welfare of our people at the heart of every decision,” he added.

    The BAVCCA President noted that despite setbacks such as the closure of the Arewa Textile Industry in Kaduna, Dangote “persevered, keeping his vision alive against all odds.”

    He described the refinery as the largest in the world, with the capacity to refine 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, set to expand to 1.4 million barrels daily. The project, he said, has created over 65,000 jobs, saved billions in foreign exchange, and generated an estimated $55 billion in annual revenue potential.

    Chukwunyere also highlighted the achievements of the Dangote Fertilizer Plant, which he said has “an impressive production capacity of 3 million metric tonnes per annum of urea,” positioning Nigeria as a key player in global agriculture.

    During the visit, Chukwunyere said he personally expressed appreciation to the Dangote Group on behalf of BAVCCA and recounted the association’s efforts in defending the refinery against social media misinformation.

    “We amplified the truth, countered misinformation, and rallied public support to ensure this vital project was not undermined,” he stated.

    In response, he said, the Dangote Vice President “expressed his pleasure with the bloggers’ efforts and commended the good work being done by our community.”

    The BAVCCA leader also announced that the association’s forthcoming national conference, scheduled for October 31 in Abuja, would highlight “the achievements of the Dangote Refinery, showcase the visionary behind it—Alhaji Dangote—and celebrate the transformative role of such initiatives in Nigeria’s development.”

    He emphasized that content creators have a patriotic role to play in defending national investments.

    “Dangote Industries is not just about refining petroleum; it’s about refining our nation’s future—creating jobs, boosting our economy, and reducing dependency on imports,” he said. “Every Nigerian—bloggers, vloggers, content creators, citizens—must rise to protect Dangote Industries.”

    Chukwunyere reaffirmed BAVCCA’s commitment to “lead this charge, using our platforms to educate, inspire, and unite,” while calling on Nigerians to honor the sacrifices of Alhaji Dangote and the faith of leaders like Devakumar.

    “Join us at our conference on 31st October, and let’s build a Nigeria where national assets like Dangote Industries thrive unhindered,” Chukwunyere concluded.

  • ALSTDI Commends President Tinubu for Extending Adebomehin’s Tenure, Hails Progress in Geospatial Intelligence and National Mapping Reforms

    ALSTDI Commends President Tinubu for Extending Adebomehin’s Tenure, Hails Progress in Geospatial Intelligence and National Mapping Reforms

    • ….Says extension reflects confidence in performance and continuity
    • ….Urges Surveyor-General to sustain momentum and deliver lasting institutional transformation.

    A foremost civil society organization, African Leadership Strategy and Transparency Development Initiative (ALSTDI) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a two-year tenure extension for the Surveyor-General of the Federation (SGoF), Surv. Abudulganiyu Adebomehin, describing the move as a strategic and well-deserved decision that underscores the administration’s commitment to performance, innovation, and continuity in public service.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by its Executive Director, Nelson Ossaieze, the organization lauded the President for recognizing Adebomehin’s achievements, particularly his leadership in advancing geospatial intelligence, digital mapping, and sustainable land administration reforms across Nigeria.

    According to ALSTDI, Adebomehin’s tenure has brought renewed dynamism and visibility to the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF), repositioning it as a key national institution supporting effective policy planning, infrastructure development, environmental management, and internal security operations.

    “Under Surv. Adebomehin, the OSGoF has made significant strides in deploying geospatial technologies to enhance government decision-making and promote data-driven governance. His leadership has bridged the gap between traditional surveying and the modern demands of national development,” the statement said.

    The group highlighted several initiatives spearheaded by Adebomehin, including the drone-based topographical mapping project of the Federal Capital Territory, the digital twin model for Abuja, and the strengthening of the National Geospatial Data Infrastructure (NGDI), all of which have improved spatial data accuracy and accessibility for government and private-sector use.

    ALSTDI also commended Adebomehin for deepening inter-agency collaboration through partnerships with the military, emergency management agencies, and research institutions, initiatives that have elevated the role of geospatial intelligence in national security, urban planning, and climate resilience.

    “These are the kinds of reforms that align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, where innovation, efficiency, and accountability drive public service delivery,” Ossaieze added.

    The organization emphasized that Adebomehin’s renewed tenure offers an opportunity to consolidate the gains recorded so far and to fast-track the completion of major geospatial projects that will further enhance Nigeria’s digital and economic transformation.

    “President Tinubu’s decision is both strategic and symbolic, it sends a strong message that excellence and commitment are recognized and rewarded in the Nigerian civil service,” the statement continued. “We therefore urge the Surveyor-General not to rest on his oars, but to use this opportunity to deepen reforms and justify the President’s confidence in his leadership.”

    It further, reaffirmed its support for national policies that promote sustainable land use, data transparency, and innovation, noting that Nigeria’s development goals depend largely on how well spatial data and intelligence are integrated into governance.

    “Geospatial intelligence remains central to sustainable development, and Surv. Adebomehin has shown capacity and vision in this regard. We are confident that with this extension, OSGoF will reach greater heights and deliver even more impactful results for the nation,” the statement concluded.

  • BUA Cement Faces Legal Showdown as Imiokpe Community Cries Exploitation, Issues 7-Day Ultimatum

    BUA Cement Faces Legal Showdown as Imiokpe Community Cries Exploitation, Issues 7-Day Ultimatum

    The Imiokpe community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, has accused BUA Cement Plc of deliberate manipulation, exploitation, and continued illegal mining operations without accountability or transparency.

    In a petition and demand notice addressed to relevant authorities, the community alleged that BUA Cement is attempting to impose a “One-Centre” Community Development Agreement (CDA) across Okpella — a move they say violates Section 116(1) of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which mandates companies to sign CDAs directly with their actual host communities.

    “Ownership of land rests squarely on kindreds in Okpella, who by law are recognized as host communities. It is our client, as host community, that BUA Cement Plc is mandated to execute a CDA with — not the entire Okpella clan or any so-called central group,” the petition stated.

    Under Nigerian mining law, a Community Development Agreement (CDA) defines the obligations of mining companies to their host communities in areas such as social investment, infrastructure, and local employment. These agreements are intended to ensure that communities directly impacted by mining activities receive fair and lawful benefits.

    The Imiokpe community further alleged that despite the expiration of the previous “aberrated” CDA in November 2024, BUA Cement has continued to extract limestone, laterite, clay, and iron ore from the Ikpe-Obia and Oke-Igholi mining sites without a valid agreement in place.

    They described the ongoing operations as “daylight exploitation,” accusing the company of paying inadequate royalties while deliberately excluding community representatives from employment opportunities, decision-making processes, and infrastructure benefits.

    “BUA’s pattern is to delay, exploit, and profit without fulfilling its legal and moral obligations to its host communities. This aberration will no longer be tolerated,” the kindred declared.

    In a final demand notice, the Imiokpe community issued a seven-day ultimatum to BUA Cement to cease attempts to impose a centralized CDA and instead conclude a lawful agreement directly with the legitimate host community.

    They warned that continued defiance or attempts to manipulate community representation would trigger an immediate legal response.

    “We are prepared to defend our rights through every lawful means available,” the statement read. “If BUA Cement fails to comply with the Minerals and Mining Act by executing a proper CDA with its rightful host communities, we will proceed without hesitation to a court of competent jurisdiction to halt all illegal operations, revoke its mining licence, and demand full restitution for years of exploitation and neglect.”

    The community concluded with a stern warning that no corporate influence or political alliance would shield BUA Cement from the consequences of lawlessness.

    “The era of intimidation and exploitation is over. Either BUA obeys the law or faces the full weight of justice,” the kindred declared.