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Herdsmen Strike Again in Kogi, Kill Traditional Ruler, His Wife, 10 Others

Published

7 years ago

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  • US Govt. backs Ortom on ranching

Barely five days after the killings in Dekina and Omala Local Government Areas, a traditional ruler and 11 other persons have again been reportedly killed and several houses razed in separate attacks by suspected herders of cattle on Agbenema, Aj’Ichekpa, Opada and Iyade villages in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Those killed included a traditional ruler, the Onu Okenwu Agbenema of Ife, Chief Musa Edigbo, his wife and 10 others by the assailants.

The attacks started on Sunday night and lasted till Monday morning.

During the attacks, the residence of the former vice-chairman of Omala LGA and that of his father were also razed.

It was gathered that the attackers, who were allegedly armed with sophisticated weapons, hid in the bushes around the villages from where they launched the deadly ambush on their targets.

According to the residents, who managed to escape the assault on their communities, the herdsmen set houses ablaze and opened fire on the fleeing inhabitants, slit their throats with machetes, and dismembered their bodies.

The eyewitnesses, who would not want their names in print, told newsmen that the administrator of Omala, Hon. Ibrahim Aboh, escaped the gruesome onslaught by a whisker.

They also alleged that the soldiers who were drafted to curtail the suspected herdsmen’s killings refused to assist the locals repel the assailants.

“We were surprised when we approached the soldiers who were stationed at a guest house at Abejukolo for assistance. They refused to act and used their vehicle to block us from advancing to the troubled spots to help our people.

“It is clear that the aim of the Fulani herdsmen is to kill us and take over our ancestral homes. They have razed Ojuwo Ajomayeigbi, Iyade, Agbenema and Opada villages so that they can use our land for their cattle colonies.

“We want the world to come to our assistance before these Fulani exterminate and inherit our land. We have lost confidence in the security agencies posted to us because from their actions, we believe they have been instructed to adopt a sit and look approach while we are being massacred.

“Right now, a coordinated war is raging simultaneously in most villages in Omala, Dekina and Bassa LGAs. Our people are being killed and houses burnt down, and our women are being raped while many children who ran from the theatre of war are still missing.

“Since the attacks began, we have not gone to the farms and even the markets have closed. Hunger has come to stay on our land. If drastic measures are not taken to quell this mad killings by these herdsmen, food insecurity will take over our land,” the eyewitnesses lamented.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kogi State Police Command, Mr. William Ayah, said the command was yet to be briefed by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) on the latest attacks on the Omala communities.

Last Saturday, the state governor, Yahaya Bello, visited the crisis-prone area of Oganenigu where over 35 persons were massacred and houses burnt by the invading Fulani herders last Wednesday.
He promised to make the attack the last in the state.

In a related development, the governor of neighbouring Benue State, Mr. Samuel Ortom, who has adamantly advocated the establishment of ranches for cattle rearing, Monday received the support of the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington.

The US ambassador, who visited Ortom at the Government House, Makurdi, to commiserate with the governor over the recent killings in Benue State by suspected herdsmen, said if cattle are properly reared in ranches instead of open grazing, Nigeria could become one of the highest income earners from milk production.

Narrating his own experience, the ambassador disclosed that he came from a family of farmers that used to graze cattle from Colorado in the U.S. to Texas every year until his family stopped moving cattle and learnt to take advantage of the land to rear their livestock.

“I come from a family of farmers and part of my family used to move cattle from one state called Colorado to another state called Texas every year and over time they changed until now the cow business that they do is very much one that takes advantage of the land and we have to move them on trucks.

“I had a great conversation the other day just outside the city of Jos with one of the great milk producers of the world, a company that produces milk. And I talked to the guy and he was mentioning to me that the milk that comes from the Fulani cattle could be incorporated into the milk produced here.

“Literally the future of the nation could be rich when the milk of those herders get fed to the sons and daughters of families and their vegetables get fed to the sons and daughters of the herders. I am happy that you are thinking in this direction Mr. Governor,” the US ambassador stated.

Ortom thanked the ambassador for the visit and solicited the assistance of the U.S. in the establishment of ranches across the country, stating that they were one reliable way of guaranteeing peace in the country.
“Let me on behalf of the government and people of Benue State welcome and appreciate your visit.

“We were glad when we learnt that you were coming to visit us because we look up to America for a lot of things. Today the presidential system of government that we practise, we borrowed it from America.

“I have been advocating ranching instead of the open grazing that we have in Nigeria today. And because of the shortage of land, the issue of open grazing has become a major security challenge, especially in my state.

“Frequently, there are clashes between farmers and herdsmen because the land is not there and my people are mostly farmers, so they find the herdsmen encroaching and trespassing on farmlands and thus destroying their crops and when they (the herders) are confronted, it turns into a fight, In the process, we have lost so much.

“I have been calling for the establishment of ranches just like it is done in America. Most of us look forward to a time when our governments at the federal and state levels will come together and find a lasting solution to this crisis, because it is not peculiar to Benue State alone.

“There are other states too that are affected. But to me, I see that ranching as it is done in America can solve the problem permanently because the land is not increasing but the population is increasing.

“When there were grazing routes in the 1950s, the total population of Nigeria was less than 40 million. Today, by the 2012 projections, we are over 170 million and by 2017, I am sure we will be hitting 200 million. So it is a big challenge.
“While we want to support the herdsmen to graze and to rear cattle, it should not be at the detriment of the lives and property of our people,” he said.

Ortom also highlighted other areas of collaboration between the state government and the U.S., recalling that he had to persuade officials of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to remain in Benue.

“America has been supporting us in several ways. The USAID has been of great assistance to my government. Before I assumed office, they were about to leave the state but I invited them to stay back for dialogue and since then, they have been of tremendous help to us,” the governor stated.

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Global Affairs

Iran’s ‘Great Surprise Tonight’: Implications, Risks & Strategies to Avert War — Tracking Times

That statement followed Supreme Leader Khamenei’s own warning that “the battle begins”—signaling Iranian resolve to respond decisively.

Published

6 hours ago

on

June 18, 2025

By

Iran’s ‘Great Surprise Tonight’: Implications, Risks & Strategies to Avert War — Tracking Times

Iranian state media had issue a warning of “a great surprise will occur—one that the world will remember for centuries.”

Though the exact wording varies slightly by translation. In fact, multiple outlets report that during a live Tehran broadcast, a state television anchor cautioned:

“Tonight, a great surprise will occur—one that the world will remember for centuries.”

According to The Print and unionesarda, “This ominous statement wasn’t aimed at local viewers. It was meant for an international audience, setting a deliberate tone of imminent, dramatic escalation” (theprint.in, unionesarda.it)

1. Context & What Was Said

During live state TV coverage of Israeli strikes, an anchorman declared:

“Tonight, a great surprise will occur, one that the world will remember for centuries.”

That statement followed Supreme Leader Khamenei’s own warning that “the battle begins”—signaling Iranian resolve to respond decisively (nypost.com).

Read Also: Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

2. What Could the “Surprise” Be?

a. Large-Scale Missile Strike
Given past patterns, Iran could launch an unprecedented barrage of ballistic missiles and drones targeting deep into Israel or U.S. bases in the region.

b. Innovative Weapons Unveiled
New IRGC stealth drones will debut. Hypersonic missiles or electronic warfare systems could also be introduced. These innovations might strike both military targets and critical infrastructure.

c. Proxy Network Activation
Iran-backed groups—Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, Houthis—might start simultaneous attacks across multiple fronts (Lebanon, Gaza, Red Sea).

d. Cyber or Space Operations
Potentially disruptive digital attacks on Israel’s infrastructure or satellite interference—amplifying effects beyond conventional warfare.

3. Immediate Impacts & Risks

  • Civilian Casualties: Higher death tolls, mass evacuations, infrastructure damage.
  • Oil Supply Threats: Attacks on tankers or Strait of Hormuz closure could spike global oil prices.
  • Regional Expansion: Spillover violence increases chance of a broader Middle East war.
  • Global Economic Panic: Markets dip, safe-haven buying surges, flight cancellations from region.
  • Media & Propaganda Blitz: State outlets on both sides will escalate rhetoric, complicating diplomacy.

4. Strategies to Avert Disaster

  1. Immediate Diplomatic De-escalation: Third-party nations (EU, Turkey, GCC) must urgently broker an Iran–Israel communications channel.
  2. UN Security Council Pressure: Immediate resolution calling for pause and reducing aerial incursions.
  3. Establish Crisis Hotline: A direct military-to-military “red phone” between Tehran and Jerusalem to avoid miscalculations.
  4. Proxy Restraint Coordination: U.S. and European sanctions could target non-state actors to limit escalation via militias.
  5. Global Humanitarian Planning: Neighboring countries should prepare refugee shelters, medical assistance, and aid corridors.

5. Long-Term Consequences If Ignored

  • Potential Widespread Conflict: Major powers drawn into localized theaters leads to proxy or direct war.
  • Economic Shockwaves: Energy prices surge, supply chains disrupted, trend toward global recession.
  • Humanitarian Toll: Millions displaced, with little stable response capacity due to simultaneous crises.
  • Global Realignments: Countries may strategically reorient to China, Russia, or alternative trading blocs.

6. Recommended Path Forward

StrategyPurpose
Diplomatic MediationLower tensions before military triggers
Third-Party Escalation TalkReduce risks of blowback from attacks
Public TransparencyMaintain civilian trust and compliance
Technological CautionShare intel on drone/missile tests
Humanitarian & Refugee PrepEnsure readiness for civilian fallout

️Final Take

Iran’s “great surprise tonight” warning is grim—but not inevitable. With thoughtful global diplomacy, military restraint, and coordinated crisis-response, escalation can be prevented.

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Global Affairs

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls. Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.

Published

2 days ago

on

June 17, 2025

By

Iran–Israel War Escalates in today’s Attacks

Latest Developments

  • Israel’s Operation Rising Lion launched coordinated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites (Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow), key IRGC commanders, and missile infrastructure—including in Tehran—claiming “total air superiority” (theguardian.com).
  • Iran retaliated with over 300 missiles and drones, landing in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other regions (apnews.com).

Current Casualties & Damage

  • Iran: Health Ministry reports 224 killed, ~1,277 injured; independent sources suggest up to 400+ deaths, many civilians, with extensive damage to city infrastructures—water, power, hospitals (theguardian.com).
  • Israel: Official sources confirm 24 civilian deaths, ~60–500 injured from Iranian strikes (apnews.com).

Official Statements

President Donald Trump

  • Urged all Tehran residents to vacate right away; left G7 early to address crisis (reuters.com).
  • Pushed for a “real deal” nuclear agreement with Iran, denying ceasefire claims (reuters.com).

Israeli Government (PM & IDF)

  • PM Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as many days as needed to neutralize the threat”—emphasizing hits on nuclear/scientific and missile facilities (understandingwar.org).
  • The military claims destruction of 120 missile launchers (~1/3 of Iran’s stockpile) and “total air superiority” over Tehran (theguardian.com).

Iranian Response

Humanitarian Impact & Civilian Exodus

  • Over 100,000 Tehran residents have fled northwards to Mazandaran, Gilan, and Alborz provinces (en.wikipedia.org).
  • Reports of fuel shortages, hospital strain, internet blackouts, and psychological distress are emerging (en.wikipedia.org).

🔮 What’s Next?

  1. Further military escalation — Iran may strike U.S. or allies if intervention continues (understandingwar.org).
  2. Nuclear diplomacy in limbo — Iran paused talks pending Israeli ceasefire; Trump supports negotiation .
  3. Broader regional ripple effects — Proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias, could escalate (en.wikipedia.org).
  4. Global economic disruptions — Oil prices spiked after Tehran warnings; airlines diverted flights (en.wikipedia.org).

Biblical Perspective

  • Operation Rising Lion invokes Isaiah 31:4 (“As a lion… roars!”), reinforcing Israel’s belief in its God-given resolve (newarab.com).
  • Some Christian prophecy scholars see this as part of eschatological build-up (Ezekiel 38, Isaiah 17)—though cautioned by others to avoid hasty conclusions (forums.crosswalk.com).
  • Biblical themes abound: calls for justice, divine defense, and the lament over cities under siege echo Psalms and prophets (e.g., Lamentations 2:1; Joel 3:2). Prayer for peace and wisdom is urged.

Key Takeaways

  • The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls.
  • Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.
  • Expect continued conflict, potential negotiations, and regional escalation.
  • Many believers are interpreting the events through biblical lenses—prayers for peace are critical.
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Global Affairs

Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

Published

3 days ago

on

June 16, 2025

By

Trackingtimes News & Politics

Historical Background

Since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, tensions with Israel have grown over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy militias like Hezbollah. Israel has consistently opposed any perceived existential threat. This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts are mostly orchestrated from the shadows. This rivalry has rarely escalated into full-scale war.

Most Recent Updates & Casualties

🛑 Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” (Started June 13)

  • Targets hit: Over 100 Iranian sites—including Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, IRGC bases, missile production plants, Tehran’s Ministry of Defense HQ, and oil/fuel depots near Tehran (english.mathrubhumi.com, theguardian.com, en.wikipedia.org, wsj.com).
  • Casualties in Iran: At least 78–224 killed (including 20+ senior commanders such as Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri, Gen Hossein Salami, Gen Gholam Ali Rashid, Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh); 6–14 nuclear scientists killed; hundreds wounded; many civilians among victims (theguardian.com).
  • Notable death: Brigadier Gen Mehdi Rabbani and his family were killed in one strike (en.wikipedia.org).

🇮🇷 Iranian Retaliation

  • Missile & drone attacks: Waves launched at Tel Aviv and Haifa; 65 ballistic missiles and scores of drones fired (theguardian.com).
  • Casualties in Israel: At least 14–24 killed and ~390 injured; critical infrastructure—including a power plant and U.S. Embassy wing—was damaged (theguardian.com).

Official Statements

Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

“Israel opened its wicked and blood‑stained hand… will receive a bitter and painful fate… severe punishment awaits.” (thedailyguardian.com)

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We acted pre‑emptively to prevent Iran’s nuclear bomb… we’ll do what we need to do. Regime change is possible.” (ft.com)

USA – President Donald Trump

“We were aware of the impending Israeli operation… working behind the scenes on a deal… vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader… unprecedented retaliation if Iran targets the U.S.” (theguardian.com)

🌍 Regional & Global Impacts

Middle East

  • New proxy wars erupt across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Oil markets surged, then stabilized—global energy remains vulnerable .
  • Gulf and NATO countries deploy military to deter escalation amid high tensions (theguardian.com).

USA

  • Supports Israel’s missile defenses and may deploy naval vessels.
  • Oil price fluctuations could worsen inflation.
  • Diplomatic pressure mounts with vetoes and summit-level interventions .

Africa

  • Rising oil prices strain developing economies.
  • Cargo and shipping risks impact African trade.
  • Diaspora populations in Africa may intensify local debates or protests via spiritual and cultural channels.

📖 Historical & Biblical Lens

  • Biblical parallels: Books like Ezekiel (chapters 38–39) discuss invasions from the North targeting Israel. Some interpret modern Iranian threats through this prophetic narrative.
  • Spiritual implications: Maxwell Nnawuihe’s teachings on justice, fearlessness, and faith echo strongly amid this crisis.
  • Economic ties: Faith & Fortune Finance’s messages on biblical stewardship and fiscal resilience are directly relevant as nations and individuals face uncertainty.

🕊️ Pathways to Peace

  1. U.N.-mediated ceasefire with verified arms monitoring to halt further strikes.
  2. Inclusive regional security framework involving Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria to reduce proxy aggression.
  3. Faith-driven diplomacy: Interfaith councils (Christian-Muslim-Jewish) promoting reconciliation, trust-building, and shared economic ventures.
  4. Economic resilience programs: Channel resources into reconstruction and economic stability—aligning with themes from Faith & Fortune Finance’s “Kingdom Wealth” strategy.
  • Faith & Fortune Finance’s content tied to economic resilience:
  • “Biblical Wealth Under Crisis”
  • “Kingdom Finances When Markets Shake”

Maxwell Nnawuihe’s video on prophetic motivation and fearless leadership:

“Courageous Voices Precede Peace”

Conclusion

This Israel–Iran conflict marks a historic escalation, with devastating strikes, high-profile casualties, and global political impact. Blending historical, biblical, and economic insight provides deeper understanding—and grounds your YouTube channels in relevance.

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