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25 Killed, 27 Others Missing, As Irate Youths Attack Commuter Buses In Plateau  

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4 years ago

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JOS, the capital of Plateau State, was thrown into mourning on Saturday following the gruesome killing of 25 travellers on Rukuba Road in Jos North Local Government Area, with 27 others still missing. 

Sunday Tribune learnt that the unfortunate incident occurred around 9.45 a.m. when passengers travelling in five vehicles from Bauchi to Ikale in Ondo State ran into a procession conveying corpses of those killed in Irigwe, Bassa Local Government Area last week, for mass burial.

It is recalled that seven persons were allegedly killed last week in Bassa Local Government. It was gathered that scores of sympathisers had assembled at Plateau State Specialist Hospital by 7.00 a.m. on Saturday to convey the corpses to Miango for burial.

A source, who witnessed the incident, stated that the travellers, who were not privy to the happening, ran into the convoy and some irate youths who were among the sympathisers descended on the five buses, killed a number of them, majority of whom were Hausa/Fulani, based in Ondo State.

The media gathered that the travellers were returning from an Islamic new year prayer organised by a renowned cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, in Bauchi State.

It was further learnt that about 27 passengers in the vehicles were still missing as of the time of filing this report, while those who sustained injuries were receiving treatment at Plateau State Specialist Hospital.

When Sunday Tribune visited the Hospital, bodies of the 25 victims were being prepared for burial.

Governor Simon Bako Lalong, reacting to the development, warned people bent on fomenting trouble in Plateau State to desist, as the government will not allow any form of lawlessness to disrupt the peace of the state.

Governor Lalong condemned the act and immediately directed security agencies to identify and arrest the perpetrators, while cordoning off the area in order to restore calm.

He said attacks on innocent citizens, no matter their background, would never be tolerated in Plateau State and those found guilty would be decisively dealt with to serve as deterrence and restore public order.

The governor also commended security agencies for their immediate response, leading to the arrest of some suspects and the restoration of calmness to the area.

While commiserating with the families of those affected, the governor assured all law-abiding citizens that security had been beefed up around the area as well as the entire metropolis to forestall further breach of the peace.

In his reaction, the Ondo State governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, has called for calm. His Chief Press Secretary, Mr Richard Olatunde, described the attack as a case of mistaken identity. In a press statement, the governor said he “received the unfortunate report of the Plateau State tragedy, where some people believed to be indigenes of Ondo State were attacked.

“An unconfirmed number of deaths are believed to have been recorded while some are severely injured in the said attack. Their true identity will soon be unravelled.”

Akeredolu stated that “the victims, according to preliminary reports, took a route where crisis between Muslims and Northern Christians had ensued for some time, and that they may have been possibly, mistaken for aggressors.

Accordingly, either of the two feuding groups in the area could be responsible in this regard.

Akeredolu, however, called for calm among the people of the state, urging that nobody should take law into their hands, while he particularly, urged the people to refrain from any hasty colouration of the unfortunate incident.

The Plateau State police command while confirming the incident said 22 people died while 15 were injured. The state Commissioner of Police, Edward Egbuka visited the scene and ordered an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, ‘Operation Safe Haven’ in charge of security in Plateau State has arrested five persons in connection with the incident.

According to the statement issued by the Command and signed by its spokesperson, Major Ishaku Gaji Takwa, the troop of ‘Operation Safe Haven’ on Saturday swiftly responded to distress calls that suspected hoodlums blocked Jos North junction on Rukuba road in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State and attacked some commuters.

Culled from the Tribune News Nigeria

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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2 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Video: Omambala Cultural Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Igbo-Inspired Mother’s Day Event

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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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Omambala Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Mother’s Day Event

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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – May 5, 2025 — The Omambala Cultural Association in Houston hosted a vibrant and heartfelt Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall on Creekbend. The event brought together families and community members to honor the enduring strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers within the Igbo community.

Led by the association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, the gathering featured prayers, cultural music, dance, and speeches dedicated to celebrating motherhood. Awkuzu described the event as a moment of reflection and appreciation for mothers, emphasizing their central role in shaping families and preserving cultural values.

The association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, addressing the group.

 

Celebrants celebrate at the Omambala Cultural Association’s Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall in Houston.

 

Celebrants

“Mothers are the heartbeat of our homes and the foundation of our culture,” Awkuzu said, urging attendees to honor and support mothers every day, not just on special occasions.

The celebration included lively performances of traditional Igbo music and dance, homemade meals prepared by members, and the presentation of thoughtful gifts to each mother in attendance. Vice President Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka, known as Omemma Igbo, also delivered remarks, recognizing the vital role of mothers in nurturing future generations.

Photo from left_ Vice President of the group, Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka – Omemma Igbo, and the President, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland.

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and shared memories, reinforcing the communal spirit that defines the Omambala Cultural Association. Elders and youth alike participated in storytelling sessions and interactive cultural activities, creating a multigenerational experience that underscored the importance of preserving Igbo heritage. Several attendees expressed appreciation for the sense of belonging and cultural pride the event fostered.

The Omambala Cultural Association Inc. is a community-based organization representing people from the Old Anambra Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria. It remains committed to promoting cultural education, unity, and socio-economic development for Igbo people in the diaspora and beyond.

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