Troops Neutralise Scores of Terrorists, Recover Arms in Yobe

Troops of the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have eliminated scores of terrorists and recovered weapons during sustained offensive operations across the North-East theatre under Operation DESERT SANITY V.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of OPHK, highlighting what the military described as “significant operational successes” in ongoing counter-terrorism campaigns.

According to the statement, troops operating in Sector 2, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out a successful night operation around Muktum and Ngirbuwa villages in Yobe State. During the encounter, several terrorists were neutralised, while others fled with injuries.

Recovered items from the scene included two AK-47 rifles, three motorcycles and mobile phones believed to have been used for coordination and logistics. Further exploitation along the terrorists’ withdrawal route reportedly revealed drag marks and a shallow grave, suggesting additional enemy casualties.

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In a related operation, troops of Sector 1 engaged fleeing insurgents along the Bulayobe–Darel Jamel axis as they attempted to cross a major supply route. The suspects reportedly fled in disarray, abandoning two sacks containing assorted logistics items suspected to be intended for terrorist elements.

Military authorities stated that although the general security situation across the theatre remains “calm but unpredictable,” troops’ morale and combat effectiveness remain high as they continue to dominate their areas of responsibility.

The operations form part of intensified offensives targeting remnants of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), both of which have been responsible for years of insurgency in the North-East.

Security analysts note that Operation DESERT SANITY V is aimed at dismantling terrorist logistics networks, disrupting supply chains and preventing regrouping efforts, particularly in border communities across Yobe and neighbouring states.

The OPHK Headquarters reassured residents of the region of its unwavering commitment to sustaining pressure on insurgents until lasting peace and economic stability are fully restored in the North-East.

Residents have been urged to continue providing credible and timely intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing military operations.

Troops Neutralise Scores of Terrorists, Recover Arms in Yobe

Woman Arrested Over Murder of Nigerian E-Hailing Driver in South Africa

A woman has been arrested in connection with the brutal killing of Isaac Satlat, a 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver, in South Africa, sparking outrage both locally and within the Nigerian community abroad.

The arrest was confirmed by the South African Police Service (SAPS) following investigations into the violent attack that occurred in Pretoria West on February 11, 2026.

According to police reports, Satlat, who worked as a driver on the Bolt platform and was also a student, had picked up passengers shortly before the attack. Video footage that later circulated online allegedly shows a woman seated in the front passenger seat while a male accomplice in the back seat attacked the driver. Authorities say the suspects overpowered him inside his vehicle before taking control of the car.

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The victim’s body and the hijacked vehicle were later discovered in Atteridgeville, a township west of Pretoria. Police have cautioned members of the public against sharing the disturbing footage, warning that it could interfere with investigations and cause further distress to the victim’s family.

The female suspect was subsequently taken into custody and is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder and car hijacking. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and additional arrests are likely as efforts intensify to apprehend other suspects believed to be involved in the crime.

The killing has reignited concerns about the safety of e-hailing drivers in South Africa, particularly foreign nationals. Members of the Nigerian community in Pretoria have called for swift justice and stronger security measures to protect ride-hailing operators. Community leaders have also urged transport platforms to enhance safety features for drivers while appealing to law enforcement to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.

Woman Arrested Over Murder of Nigerian E-Hailing Driver in South Africa

Fubara Chooses Peace, Dedicates “Man of the Year” Award to Wike

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a bold statement of political reconciliation by dedicating his “Man of the Year” award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The gesture comes as the governor continues efforts to heal political rifts that have plagued Rivers State since his inauguration in May 2023.

At the New Telegraph Honor/Dinner Night in Lagos on Friday, Fubara reflected on leadership, political pressure, and the value of peace, describing what critics often call “weakness” as a deliberate choice for stability.

“Some of these pains, some persons describe them as weakness, while others say it is being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace. Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” Fubara said.

The governor emphasised that weakness is a virtue, adding that it “pays at the right time,” highlighting his focus on peaceful governance and unity. He also thanked the people of Rivers State for their patience and maturity during months of political tension.

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In a notable gesture, Fubara dedicated the award to Wike, describing him as the mentor who “discovered” his potential and paved the way for his political rise. “Without him, I wouldn’t be standing here as governor … it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” he said, framing the award as a symbol of respect and reconciliation.

Reconciliation Amid Political Tensions

The dedication signals a thaw in the previously tense relationship between Fubara and Wike, which had seen governance instability, impeachment threats, and legislative conflicts. Recent interventions by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reportedly helped ease the tension, prompting both leaders to take steps toward collaboration and stability.

Observers note that Fubara’s public acknowledgment of Wike’s role in initiatives such as the Port Harcourt Ring Road project reinforces the governor’s commitment to unity and development-focused leadership. Fubara has also moved to stabilize governance, including submitting a new list of commissioner nominees to the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Political Implications

Analysts describe Fubara’s award dedication as a strategic political peacebuilding move, enhancing stability in Rivers State and setting a tone for future cooperation. The gesture underscores the importance of mentorship, respect, and reconciliation in Nigerian politics, particularly in states where rivalries have historically disrupted governance.

The award ceremony drew dignitaries across political, traditional, and civil society circles, highlighting the symbolic significance of Fubara’s message of unity and inclusive leadership.

Fubara Chooses Peace, Dedicates “Man of the Year” Award to Wike