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43 feared killed, 50 houses razed in renewed Benue attacks

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No fewer than 43 people are feared killed, while about 50 houses were burnt in fresh attacks on some communities in Benue State in the last 48 hours.

On Tuesday, about 13 people, including a three-month-old baby, were killed in two separate attacks on communities of Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack came barely 24 hours after eight persons, including two aid workers, were killed by suspected herdsmen in the same local government area.

Local sources said a bus loaded with some mourners, who were returning from a burial at Umenger, was attacked by gunmen around Torkula village, resulting in the death of three persons, while two others who were shot are currently receiving treatment at the hospital in Makurdi.

The deceased three month-old-baby was said to have been shot in the chest, while his mother, who narrowly survived the attack, was also shot on the lap.

Also, the Udei Branch community was said to have been attacked on Tuesday night by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen during which eight people were reportedly killed.

Confirming the attacks on his council, Chairman of Guma LGA, Caleb Abs, said 13 people were killed in two separate attacks on Udei Branch and Torkula.

“It is true that there was an attack yesterday. There was a burial in Torkula and people who were coming back from the burial came under attack and about five people were killed.

“At about 10pm, yesterday, there was another attack at Branch Ude where about eight people were killed, totalling about 13 people, only yesterday.

“Two people were injured according to the information I received, and they are now receiving treatment in the hospital,” Aba said.

When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Catherine Anene, said she was yet to be briefed on the attack and promised to call Daily Sun back as soon as she gets the information.

In a related development, several people are feared killed in a renewed communal crisis between Ochoro and Bonta communities of Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State.

Sometime in April, this year, the Bonta-Okpute crisis escalated resulting in the killing of 12 soldiers who were deployed to the area to maintain peace and order.

This eventually led to the military sacking Bonta and adjourning communities to recover arms of the murdered soldiers.

There had been normalcy in the area since then until this fresh crisis in Ochoro, a neighbouring village, on Monday, in which local sources alleged that over 30 persons, including children and women were killed.

Also, our sources who did not want to be named, claimed that 50 houses were also burnt in the crisis.

When contacted by telephone, Chairman of Oju LGA, Clement Ona, said although he was aware of the crisis, it didn’t happen in his council, but in Konshisha LGA.

On his part, Council Chairman of Konshisha, James Ijirgba, confirmed the fresh crisis in his council, but added that he was awaiting a full briefing by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Benue, DSP Catherine Anene, said she was yet to be briefed on the crisis.

Culled from the Sun News Nigeria

Houston

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

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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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Houston

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

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

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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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