Prince Abubakar Audu University hands over suspects to security agencies; Vice Chancellor visits bereaved family in Lokoja

Two students of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, have been arrested by the police in Kogi State for their alleged involvement in the killing of a 300-level student on campus. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, reportedly stemmed from cult-related violence within the university premises.

According to a statement released by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Uredo Omale, the suspects were apprehended within two hours of the incident. The deceased, Mr David Ocholi Solomon, was a student in the Biochemistry department and was allegedly targeted by fellow students belonging to a rival cult group.

The killing has heightened concerns about campus security and ongoing cult activities in higher institutions across Nigeria. Prince Abubakar Audu University, located in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State (North-Central zone), has recently witnessed increased efforts to curb cultism and violent clashes among students.

Vice Chancellor Prof Usman Salisu Ogbo led a condolence visit to the family of the late Mr Solomon at their residence in Lokoja on Saturday. In her statement, Mrs Omale confirmed that “the suspects have been handed over to security agencies for further investigation and prosecution.” She added that the university is cooperating fully with authorities to ensure justice is served.

While reactions from student groups and state officials were not immediately available as at press time, university management has assured stakeholders that measures are being strengthened to prevent recurrence. Security agencies are expected to conclude their investigation and bring charges against those found culpable.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/two-suspected-cultists-arrested-in-kogi-university-over-students-death/

Command confirms two persons still missing after armed bandits intercepted commercial vehicle in Kankara LGA

Police operatives in Katsina State have rescued nine people from suspected armed bandits following a foiled kidnap attempt along the Katsina-Kankara road on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred around Tashar Kanya village in Kankara Local Government Area at about 2:30pm on 12 June, involved a commercial vehicle carrying eleven passengers.

According to a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, the assailants blocked the busy highway and intercepted a red Volkswagen Golf III Saloon with registration number KMC 400 MK, driven by a man identified as Aliyu, popularly known as “Maitakabari.” Police responded swiftly to distress calls from the area, engaging the bandits in a gun battle that forced them to abandon their captives and flee into nearby bushland. Nine of the abducted passengers were rescued unharmed during the operation.

The ongoing insecurity in parts of Katsina State, particularly along highways connecting rural communities, has heightened public concern in recent months. The state has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups targeting travellers and villagers for ransom kidnappings. Security stakeholders have called for increased patrols and intelligence-sharing among agencies to stem the tide of abductions.

DSP Aliyu noted that while nine victims were safely rescued, two persons remain unaccounted for as at press time. “A search and rescue effort is ongoing within the Tashar Kanya axis to locate the remaining victims,” he said. He assured residents that police presence would be reinforced on vulnerable routes and urged motorists to cooperate with security personnel at checkpoints.

Further updates are expected as search operations continue. Meanwhile, civil society organisations have urged government to address root causes of rural insecurity and improve collaboration between local vigilantes and formal security agencies.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/police-foil-kidnap-attempt-rescue-nine-victims-in-katsina/

Automaker introduces flagship plug-in hybrid SUV and promises new energy models as part of expansion in Nigeria

Carloha Nigeria, the authorised importer of Chery vehicles, has officially launched the Chery Tiggo 9 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) at its flagship showroom in Alapere, Lagos, on Thursday. The event also saw the announcement of the upcoming introduction of the Chery Q brand into the Nigerian market as part of the company’s commitment to next-generation mobility solutions.

The unveiling ceremony featured industry stakeholders and select members of the media, with Carloha showcasing the latest advancements in automotive technology. The new Tiggo 9 PHEV is designed to set a new standard in the premium SUV segment, combining hybrid fuel efficiency with luxury features and advanced safety systems. The model offers both electric and petrol-powered driving options for improved fuel economy and lower emissions.

Speaking at the event, Managing Director of Chery Central Africa, Mr Hai Wei, described the launch as a major milestone for Chery’s innovation drive in Nigeria. “It is my pleasure to be in Nigeria today for the official unveiling of the Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV, a vehicle that embodies Chery’s vision for innovation, advanced technology, and environmentally responsible mobility. Nigeria remains a strategically important market for Chery and a key pillar of our growth ambitions across Africa,” Wei said during his remarks.

Sales Director of Carloha Nigeria, Mr Joseph Omokhapue, highlighted that the vehicle offers luxury, performance, safety and sustainability tailored to Nigerian motorists’ needs. “The Tiggo 9 PHEV is more than just a new SUV; it is a statement of innovation,” Omokhapue stated. He added that this launch reflects Carloha’s commitment to providing innovative mobility solutions aligned with global trends while meeting local consumer expectations.

Marketing Director at Carloha Nigeria, Mr Dexter Li, emphasised that this move signals a shift towards smarter and more sustainable travel options without compromising comfort or practicality. The company also reinforced its after-sales support through its CarlohaCare 6-6-7 programme—providing six years’ free scheduled servicing, six years’ warranty coverage, and a seven-day repair promise—to ensure long-term value for customers.

A notable highlight was the live demonstration by Chery’s humanoid robot “Kemi” and an intelligent Robo Dog, which presented the new Tiggo 9 PHEV to guests—a showcase intended to illustrate Chery’s vision for artificial intelligence integration in future mobility.

Carloha further announced plans to introduce Chery Q brand vehicles into Nigeria soon. The company said this move will expand its portfolio of technologically advanced and environmentally responsible cars available to Nigerian consumers.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/carloha-nigeria-launches-cherry-tiggo-9-phev-announces-arrival-of-cherry-q-brand-in-nigeria-2026061314505503473