Electricity consumers on Band A feeders who endured prolonged power disruptions earlier this year are set to receive compensation following a new directive from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. The regulator announced on Thursday that it had approved a special relief package for eligible customers affected by electricity shortages caused by generation challenges between February and March 2026. In a notice shared on its social media platforms, NERC said widespread generation deficits across the power sector significantly undermined the ability of electricity distribution companies to meet the minimum service commitments promised to Band A customers during the period. To address the situation, the commission issued Directive No. NERC/2026/002, establishing a framework for compensating customers whose electricity supply fell below approved service standards due to circumstances beyond the control of the distribution companies. According to NERC, the disruptions were largely linked to inadequate gas supplies and repeated attacks on critical gas and transmission infrastructure, developments that severely constrained power generation nationwide. “The shortfalls were primarily caused by gas supply limitations and vandalism affecting key energy infrastructure,” the commission explained. Under the newly approved arrangement, customers connected… 

The Bauchi State Police Command has dealt a significant blow to criminal elements in the state, rescuing two kidnap victims and apprehending five suspected members of an abduction gang during a coordinated security operation in Alkaleri Local Government Area. The breakthrough was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Nafiu Habib. According to the police, the ordeal began on June 2, 2026, when heavily armed assailants invaded a residence in Kwarin Gadali Hamlet, located in the Pali District of Alkaleri LGA, and forcefully whisked away a woman and her adult son. Habib said security operatives wasted no time in launching a manhunt after receiving a distress report about the incident. “Immediately the report reached us, officers attached to the Pali Outstation mobilised to the area and commenced a targeted intelligence operation aimed at identifying the culprits and securing the safe return of the victims,” he stated. Acting on credible intelligence, a joint task team comprising police operatives, military personnel and local vigilantes tracked down and arrested three suspects in Kuka Village, Duguri District, on the day of the abduction. The suspects…