News
Herders accuse Nigerian Army of unlawful detention of community leader after incident with retired General
By: Amaechi Okoro

The family of Bello Badejo, leader of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, has raised serious concerns regarding his arrest and detention by the Nigerian Army. They claim that his apprehension, which occurred on December 9, 2024, was unwarranted and rooted in unfounded allegations.
The incident in question involved a confrontation between a retired Nigerian Army General and a group of herders at Tudun Wada, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, on December 8, 2024. Diaspora digital media gathered that According to the family, Badejo had no involvement in the altercation but was detained because of his role as a respected community leader who attempted to mediate the situation.
On December 8, 2024, a retired Army General allegedly discharged firearms at a herd of cattle in Tudun Wada, causing significant damage and losses for the herders. In response, the herders reportedly acted in self-defense, disarming the General and subsequently reporting the matter to the police.
This incident escalated tensions between the herders and the military, especially considering the historical challenges in the region related to herder-farmer conflicts and military presence.
Despite not being involved in the event, Bello Badejo was targeted by authorities due to his reputation as a community leader. According to his brother, Suleiman Waziri, Badejo was not present at the scene of the incident in Tudun Wada but was arrested in connection to it because he had been approached by relatives of the herders for assistance.
As a well-respected figure, he had been asked to mediate and secure the release of cattle that had been confiscated during the altercation. His family insists that this was the only reason for his involvement, and his arrest was unjustifiable.
Badejo’s brother, Suleiman Waziri, detailed the events leading up to the arrest in an interview with Diaspora digital media. Waziri stated that his brother had been preparing for the opening of the Maliya Market Ceremony in Nasarawa State when he was taken into custody by officers of the 117 Battalion.
He further clarified that Badejo had no connection to the incident in Tudun Wada, as he was in Maliya at the time, dealing with his responsibilities as a community leader. Despite this, he was arrested in a commando-style operation carried out by military personnel.
The arrest took place on December 9, 2024, the day after the incident in Tudun Wada, and was seemingly motivated by the herders’ request for mediation.
Waziri claims that the family was not informed of the charges or allegations against Badejo, and his legal rights were violated as he was denied access to counsel and family members. Legal representatives have been unable to meet with him, and the 117 Battalion officers have insisted that any access must be granted by higher authorities.
The family has accused the Nigerian Army of acting outside the bounds of the law, with Waziri emphasizing that the arrest was an attempt to intimidate and silence Badejo.
He maintains that his brother’s only crime was attempting to assist the herders, who had suffered substantial losses in the altercation with the retired General.
The involvement of the herders in this situation is central to the controversy. According to Suleiman Waziri, the herders had sought help from Badejo after the firearms were discharged at their cattle.
This request for assistance was driven by a belief in Badejo’s influence and status as a mediator in the region. However, despite his lack of direct involvement in the violent confrontation, Badejo found himself at the center of the fallout, arrested by the military for attempting to intervene on behalf of the herders.
The herders’ actions in self-defense against the retired General raised concerns about the escalating tension between military personnel and local farmers and herders in the region.
The involvement of the military in such incidents, particularly when civilians or community leaders like Badejo are caught in the middle, adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation. Many believe that this is a case of mismanagement of local conflicts by military forces, further exacerbating the challenges faced by herders in Nasarawa and other parts of Nigeria.
The family of Bello Badejo has made a formal appeal to the Nigerian Army high command, calling for his immediate and unconditional release. They have also demanded that his legal team be granted access to him to ensure that his rights are respected.
The family believes that his arrest was unjust, and the charges against him are baseless. They called on the Chief of Army Staff and other relevant authorities to investigate the incident impartially and transparently, without allowing any political or military influence to cloud the process.
The family’s call for justice comes amid growing concerns about the treatment of herders in Nigeria, especially in regions where herder-farmer conflicts are common. Many of the herders are caught in the crossfire of conflicts not of their making, and community leaders like Badejo are often sought out to mediate tensions.
The arrest of such leaders raises questions about the role of the military in dealing with civilian disputes and whether the actions taken are in the best interest of the public.
Following his arrest, Bello Badejo was transferred to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for further investigation. Lieutenant Olokodana Odunayo, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the Guards Brigade, confirmed to journalists that the 117 Battalion had handed over Badejo to the DIA, although no additional details about the transfer or the investigation were provided.
The transfer to the DIA adds another layer of mystery to the case. The DIA, which handles intelligence matters related to national security, is known for its secrecy and lack of transparency. This move has led to further concerns from the family and the public about the handling of the case, with many speculating that the military intends to keep Badejo in custody indefinitely without providing any clarity on the charges or reasons for his detention.
This case has broader implications for the herders and their place in Nigerian society. Historically, herders have faced challenges in gaining recognition and protection under Nigerian law, especially when conflicts arise with farmers, the military, or other groups. Incidents like the one in Tudun Wada are just the latest in a long series of challenges for herders, who often face violence and discrimination from various quarters.
The role of community leaders like Bello Badejo is critical in mediating these disputes, and the arrest of such leaders raises concerns about the willingness of authorities to allow dialogue and peaceful resolution.
The treatment of herders, and by extension their leaders, reflects the current state of governance in Nigeria and the importance of addressing ethnic and regional tensions within the country. Without effective communication and the involvement of trusted community leaders, it is unlikely that long-term peace will be achieved in areas affected by herder-farmer conflicts.
The arrest of Bello Badejo, a respected community leader and head of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, has sparked outrage among his family and the public. The charges against him remain unclear, but his family insists that his only role in the incident involving the retired Army General was to assist the herders in securing their cattle.
The Nigerian Army’s actions have raised serious questions about the treatment of herders and the role of military forces in local conflicts. The family is calling for transparency, an impartial investigation, and the immediate release of Bello Badejo.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by herders in Nigeria and the need for better mediation and conflict resolution mechanisms to address the growing tensions between various groups in the country.
More details coming soon…
News
‘Gate of Hell’ Will Open on Gaza’– Israeli Defence Issues Finally Warning to Hamas

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a fierce warning to Hamas, declaring that Gaza City will face complete destruction if the militant group refuses to accept Israel’s conditions for ending the war.
Katz, in a statement shared on social media on Friday, August 22, 2025, used sharp words to describe Israel’s next steps.
He said the “gates of hell” would open on Hamas if it failed to disarm and release all hostages.
“Soon, the gates of hell will open upon the heads of Hamas’s murderers and rapists in Gaza until they agree to Israel’s conditions,” Katz wrote.
He added that if Hamas refused, Gaza City would suffer the same fate as Rafah and Beit Hanoun, two cities previously flattened by Israeli offensives.
His comments mark one of Israel’s strongest warnings since the escalation of the conflict.
The minister’s remarks came only hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that negotiations had been ordered to free the hostages held in Gaza.
Netanyahu explained in a video address that Israel’s military operation in Gaza City would not stop during talks. “Defeating Hamas and releasing our hostages go hand in hand,” he said.
The prime minister also confirmed the mobilisation of 60,000 reservists to join the offensive.
Meanwhile, mediators have been waiting for Israel’s response to a ceasefire plan that Hamas accepted earlier in the week.
The proposal suggests a phased release of hostages, but Israel insists that only a deal ensuring the release of all captives at once will be accepted.
Israel’s hardened stance has sparked growing concern worldwide.
International leaders have cautioned that an expanded assault on Gaza City could worsen the humanitarian disaster already unfolding in the region.
Gaza’s health ministry says more than 62,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, have been killed since Israel’s military campaign began.
The United Nations considers these figures credible.
The war was triggered by Hamas’s October 2023 attack, which left 1,219 people dead in Israel, mostly civilians.
Since then, the conflict has intensified, with both sides showing little sign of compromise.
With Katz’s threat to turn Gaza City into rubble if demands are not met, the conflict appears to be entering an even deadlier stage.
The international community continues to press for a ceasefire, but Israel’s leadership insists that victory over Hamas and the release of all hostages remain its top priorities.
Health
NAFDAC Raises Alarm as Fake Cowbell Milk Floods Nigerian Markets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarm over the circulation of fake Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday, August 22, 2025, the agency explained that the counterfeit milk is packaged to look like the discontinued Cowbell “Our Milk,” but it is unauthorised and unsafe for consumption.
NAFDAC clarified that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authentic manufacturer, stopped producing Cowbell “Our Milk” in September 2023.
The product was replaced with Cowbell “Our Creamy Goodness.” Despite this, fake versions of the old product have found their way into Nigerian markets.

Picture of Fake cowbell milk.
The counterfeit sachets bear the brand name, NAFDAC registration number, and familiar packaging design, making them difficult for unsuspecting buyers to identify as fake.
Health Dangers of Fake Cowbell Milk
NAFDAC warned that the consumption of these counterfeit products poses serious health risks.
Fake milk could contain toxic chemicals, harmful additives, or diluted ingredients that endanger human health.
Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are the most vulnerable. Possible dangers include:
- Foodborne illnesses
- Allergic reactions
- Organ damage
- Long-term health complications
- In extreme cases, death
Counterfeit Product Details
- Product Name: Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet
- Purported Manufacturer: Promasidor Nigeria Ltd
- Production Date: 04/2025
- Expiry Date: 12/2028

Picture of original cowbell milk.
NAFDAC Issues Strong Warning
The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing the counterfeit milk.
Healthcare professionals, distributors, and consumers have been advised to report suspicious sales of substandard or fake products immediately.
Reports can be made through:
The nearest NAFDAC office
Toll-free line: 0800-162-3322
Email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng
NAFDAC also called on traders and retailers to stop selling the fake sachets.
The agency assured the public that strict enforcement measures are being taken to remove the counterfeit products from circulation.
This is not the first time Nigerians have faced risks from fake food and beverages.
Experts warn that counterfeit consumables are becoming more sophisticated, often making them difficult to spot.
Consumers are advised to always check product details, expiry dates, and packaging changes announced by manufacturers.
By highlighting the dangers and raising awareness, NAFDAC says it hopes to protect Nigerians from avoidable health crises linked to fake milk products
Africa
‘Misplaced Priority’: Peter Obi Blasts FG’s ₦142bn Bus Terminal Project

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has slammed the Federal Government’s approval of ₦142 billion for the construction of bus terminals across Nigeria, describing it as a reckless misplacement of priorities.
Obi issued a statement on Friday, August 22, via his Official X formerly Twitter platform, warning that the project reflects poor leadership and lack of focus in managing Nigeria’s limited resources. He titled his statement, “₦142 Billion for Bus Terminals.”
According to him, the true test of leadership is how scarce resources are prioritized.
He stressed that investing such a huge amount in bus terminals while critical sectors like healthcare suffer shows a government that is out of touch with citizens’ realities.
Obi said: “The difference between success and failure in any nation is how leaders prioritise resources.
The decision to spend ₦142 billion on six bus terminals exposes a lack of competence and vision. It is a clear sign of poor leadership.”
The Federal Executive Council had recently approved the funds for the construction of one modern bus terminal in each of the six geopolitical zones.
The government described it as part of efforts to modernise transport infrastructure and improve mobility nationwide.
But Obi strongly disagreed. He compared the allocation to healthcare funding, pointing out that the combined budget for all teaching hospitals and federal psychiatric centres in Nigeria is less than ₦100 billion in the 2024 budget.
“This is disturbing,” Obi continued, “because health remains one of the most critical sectors of development. Yet it is underfunded and deteriorating rapidly.
The World Health Organization has reported that over 20 million Nigerians live with mental health conditions.
This is a tragic irony. How can the government ignore this crisis and focus on bus terminals?”
He argued that the health sector, alongside education and poverty reduction programs, deserves priority attention.
Obi insisted that until government spending reflects the real needs of Nigerians, the country will remain trapped in poor governance.
Many Nigerians have also taken to social media to express anger, echoing Obi’s concerns. Critics argue that the decision proves the Federal Government is disconnected from the economic struggles of ordinary citizens.
For Obi, the ₦142 billion project is not just a case of wrong timing.
He sees it as a clear example of governance failure and misplaced priorities.
News
Why I’ll never encourage my son to visit Nigeria — Taribo West

Former Super Eagles defender, Taribo West, has strongly criticized the treatment of Nigerian football legends, vowing never to encourage his son to set foot in Nigeria due to the neglect shown to the country’s sports heroes after their deaths.
Speaking passionately during the burial ceremony of late goalkeeper Peter Rufai, in a video shared by News Central on Friday, the former Inter Milan star expressed his deep disappointment with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Lagos State Government for allegedly abandoning Rufai’s family during their time of need.
“It’s disheartening that you have Lagos State, you have the Nigerian Football Association, and yet they drop the entire burden on the family,”West lamented.
He revealed how deeply Rufai’s passing affected him, saying: “My mother passed on, I never shed tears. My father passed on in my hands, I never shed tears. But when Rufai passed on, I had goose pimples all over my body. Tears were rolling down my cheeks. What kind of nation is this?”
West didn’t hold back in recalling similar neglect faced by other late football icons like Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha.
He condemned the consistent abandonment of ex-players who had sacrificed so much for the country, stating that such treatment discourages him from allowing his children to represent Nigeria in football.
“With this kind of example, I will never advise even my son to put his feet for this country. Send me out! Do we have a Football Federation or a Football Association in this Lagos State? That this hero, this soldier, this football evangelist, has to be treated this way in his family”, he said.
The former defender also highlighted the financial struggles faced by Rufai’s family, revealing that they had to solicit funds from friends and well-wishers just to cover burial costs.
“Could you imagine that the family would be crying just to solicit within our groups to ask for money? That is madness”, he exclaimed, visibly frustrated.
Peter Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,”was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the nation’s victorious 1994 Africa Cup of Nations campaign and its debut at the FIFA World Cup the same year.
He passed away in July 2025, leaving behind a legacy that has reignited conversations about the lack of support and respect for retired athletes in Nigeria.
News
Hardship: Man commits suicide in Imo

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Friday morning in Amakpu Okuku community, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, as residents discovered the lifeless body of a man in his 50s, identified simply as Odomma, who reportedly died by suicide.
The father of four, who earned a living selling water in jerry cans and buckets, had been battling severe financial hardship, leaving him unable to adequately provide for his family.
Odomma’s body was found hanging in an unfinished building near his home, a grim discovery that shook the community as locals went about their daily routines.
According to residents, Odomma had expressed frustration about his struggles months earlier, threatening to end his life due to the alleged neglect by his wife and children, who reportedly stopped providing him with food because he couldn’t support the household.
A community member, Ikenna, shared insights into Odomma’s despair, saying:
“He said if the situation continued, he would take his life to end the misery. We advised him to report the matter to the village head for settlement. Sadly, he chose this path. Just see how this man ended his life because of money. He could have sold his GP tank or generator to get food, but he decided to take his life. Now others will gather to eat, and he won’t be part of it.”
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as dozens of residents rushed to the unfinished building, some capturing videos of the lifeless body on their phones.
Known for his affordable water sales, with prices starting from ₦100, Odomma was regarded as a hardworking man, though visibly depressed in recent months.
Efforts to confirm the incident with the Imo State Police were inconclusive. Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye initially promised to verify the details with the Divisional Police Officer in Owerri West but could not be reached for further updates as of the time of this report.
-
Featured4 days ago
Your Attacks on Peter Obi Are Petty, Stop It! Chekwas Rebukes Soludo
-
News3 days ago
Tension in Anambra community as senior police officer shoots kinsman dead
Colleagues, others try cover-up; victim's family fights back
-
News7 days ago
Anambra South Bye-Election: APC Chief Rescues Deputy Gov Caught In Vote Buying From Angry Youths
By Chuks Collins, Awka
-
News5 days ago
Nigerian visa applicants must provide 5-yr social media history — US embassy
-
Celebrity/Entertainment20 hours ago
How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night
-
Analysis6 days ago
Systemic Sabotage: How APC, INEC Colluded To Undermine Amamgbo’s Senatorial Bid
By Arthur Ezechukwu
-
News3 days ago
Terrorist Organisation: APC, PDP Members in US, UK, France Risk Deportation
-
Celebrity/Entertainment5 days ago
Why single mothers can’t raise boys into proper men — Jim Iyke
-
News6 days ago
BREAKING: Troops arrest Nigeria’s most wanted terror kingpin
-
News2 days ago
Vandal electrocuted while vandalizing Aba power infrastructure