News

Fuel Scarcity Thwarts Kidnapping Attempt as Victim Released in Niger

Published

1 year ago

October 17, 2024

An unidentified man kidnapped in Niger State has recounted his miraculous escape after his captors were forced to release him due to an unexpected fuel shortage. The victim, who was being taken to Zamfara on a motorcycle, said the kidnappers were forced to abandon him in the bush after their bike ran out of fuel. According to his account, he was slapped before they let him go, likely in frustration over the failed abduction.

The incident, which has sparked widespread reactions on social media, highlights an unusual consequence of the ongoing fuel scarcity in Nigeria.

On social media, users expressed a mix of shock, relief, and humor. @Voice of Hausa wrote, “Miracle no dey tire Jesus! I thank God for his life. What the enemies purported for evil has worked for his good. The fuel scarcity that people are lamenting has worked against the kidnapper’s agenda and a soul is saved. Glory to Jesus.”

Similarly, @Nameen Jay commented, “This is wild! Imagine getting kidnapped only for the whole plan to fall apart because the kidnapper didn’t check the fuel gauge. Talk about a getaway that went nowhere—literally!”

Adding to the humorous takes, @Jay remarked, “Meanwhile, the guy is lucky. If they had managed to carry him to the hideout, na fuel money dem for first flog comot for him body before them reason ransom or whatever anything wey dem wan take am do, hmm.”

Another commenter, @Ikediya, linked the incident to broader government policies: “In that case, Tinubu is using the high cost of fuel to fight against insecurity. That’s genius at its best!”

In a similar vein, @Austine O’Brian quipped, “So T-pain policy against kidnapping is yielding results, wow. He is likely going to increase the price of petrol.”

The fuel crisis has been an ongoing challenge across Nigeria, affecting various sectors, but this incident shows an unexpected silver lining. While many have lamented the soaring cost of fuel and its effects on daily life, this case demonstrates how the scarcity might inadvertently slow down criminal activities like kidnapping, which rely on transportation.

Kidnappings have become an increasing concern in several regions of Nigeria, with bandits often using motorcycles to move their victims to remote hideouts. This failed attempt, while tragic for the larger issue of insecurity, stands out as a rare instance where a national problem played a positive role in thwarting criminal activity.

Though the circumstances of the man’s escape are extraordinary, they have highlighted a broader issue—the reliance of criminals on transportation and how shortages could become a factor in limiting their operations. However, this is not seen as a long-term solution to the country’s security challenges, with many calling for a more coordinated response to tackle the root causes of kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

News

FG Targets Guinness World Record with 3.6km Dining Table in Abuja

Published

2 hours ago

November 6, 2025

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

The Federal Government will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest dining table during the Mega Renewed Hope NIHOTOUR Gastronomy Festival slated for December 6 in Abuja. The 3.6-kilometre table is expected to host between 2,000 and 3,000 participants.

Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, announced this on Thursday alongside the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.

Fagade said the record attempt will be followed by communal dining, cultural displays, music, and comedy, adding that the initiative aims to position Abuja as a major cultural destination.

He noted that the festival aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, promoting tourism, hospitality, and youth empowerment through skills development.

Minister Musawa described the event as a platform for economic inclusion and creative growth, highlighting gastronomy’s role in national development alongside film, music, and fashion.

The week-long festival, themed “Oriki: Taste of Culture,” will feature exhibitions, culinary masterclasses, food tastings, and investment dialogues showcasing Nigeria’s rich food heritage.

President Tinubu is expected to officially unveil the festival and record attempt in Abuja.

News

Senate Clears Air Peace, Faults NSIB Over Drug Allegations

Published

2 hours ago

November 6, 2025

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

The Senate has cleared Air Peace of wrongdoing in the July 13 runway overrun at Port Harcourt International Airport, describing the drug and alcohol allegations against the airline’s pilots as “inconsistent and uncoordinated.”

The decision followed an investigation by the Senate Committee on Aviation, which reviewed the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), report and found discrepancies that could harm Nigeria’s aviation reputation.

Committee Chairman, Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), said the aircraft sustained no damage and returned to Lagos the same day, warning that inaccurate reports could erode global confidence in the country’s air safety ratings.

He commended Air Peace and other domestic carriers for maintaining strict safety standards and urged regulators to support indigenous airlines.

Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, criticised the NSIB’s handling of the matter, calling it misleading and damaging to the airline’s reputation.

He clarified that the incident resulted from human error, not mechanical failure, and reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to safety.

The Senate is expected to issue a final report recommending better coordination and clearer communication among aviation regulators.

Defence and Security

Army Chief Pledges Better Welfare, Fair Postings for Troops

Published

2 hours ago

November 6, 2025

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has pledged to prioritise troop welfare, transparency, and fairness in postings to boost morale and strengthen operational efficiency.

Shaibu made the promise on Thursday in Maiduguri during an interactive session with defence correspondents as part of his operational tour of the North-East.

He commended troops for their resilience in defending the nation and assured that the Army would sustain and improve the soldier-first welfare policy introduced by his predecessor.

“As soldiers get what is due to them on time, we will extend that support to their families while they serve their fatherland,” he said.

The COAS also vowed that merit and professionalism would guide all postings and appointments, ensuring fairness and competence in leadership.

Shaibu, who assumed office on October 30, 2025, described morale as a key component of fighting power and reaffirmed his commitment to timely payment of allowances and other entitlements.

His visit was part of efforts to assess field operations and enhance the welfare of frontline troops battling insurgency in the region.

(NAN)