*Unprovoked killing of military personnel unhealthy for national security, says DHQ

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has declared that the the nation will win the war against insecurity.
He said the nation’s adversaries were wrong in their calculations that the country will give in to intimidation.
This came as Defence Headquarters (DHQ) stated that the killing of military personnel by citizens had become worrisome to the military high command and unhealthy for national security.
It made a quick reference to the killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama in Delta State and a recent attack on soldiers at the Banex Plaza in Abuja.
It said such conduct lowers the morale of troops.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the five-storey complex of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) Headquarters in Asokoro, Abuja, Tinubu, who was represented by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said the country was presently faced with security threats which he vowed to contain.
He said his confidence was anchored on the unwavering commitment of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the intelligence agencies, including the DSS, NIA and of course the DIA.
The president said he had made the task of securing every inch of the country a priority, adding that he had no intention to back down on the sacred duty.
He said that DIA was a key agency in the security architecture of the country that primarily provides intelligence to the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence.
“Since we became an independent nation about 64 years ago, except for the period of the civil war spanning 1967 all the way to 1970, at no time have we been faced by multiple threats than in recent times.
“We not only face physical threats, but also economic and digital threats.
“In our bid to combat physical threats, we deploy the armed forces in almost all the areas to assist the civil authorities
“Some of the other threats you will have to contend with behind your computers using, if necessary, artificial intelligence, enabling our military to know the position of the enemies or the games they are up to,” he asserted.
“At no time have we been faced with security threats such as we have today. We face digital threats, other threats
“Our adversaries got our DNA wrong. We will never give in to our adversaries. We will win”, he said.
He pledged that government “will provide you with welfare and requirements to succeed. I commend past and present military leadership for completing this edifice”.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj Gen Emmanuel Undiandeye, said the agency had since establishment, diligently carried out its assigned responsibilities of intelligence gathering and provision of timely and appropriate actions for the military and strategic national decision-making.
Undiandeye emphasised the place of intelligence as a critical tool of statecraft that provides the necessary foreknowledge to protect the nation from surprise attacks, either through hostile foreign military or internal challenges.
He said that certain factors and conditions such as conducive working environment of the operators of the system, were required to allow effective functioning of the agency.
The intelligence chief said the completion and inauguration of the agency’s new headquarters marked a significant milestone in the journey towards enhancing its performance in intelligence provisioning for better national defence and security.
“This building stands as a testament to the fulfillment of the cardinal requirements of the staff of this agency for optimal performance of their duties.
“The agency is taking a bold and ambitious step by initiating what we call the Defence Intelligence Agency Technology Center in preparation for the current and future challenges and warfare”, he said.
“This is in order to give our nation a chance of survival in the fast approaching complex world of technology.
“Therefore, we have started incorporating artificial intelligence and data analytics into our processes in a flexible and scalable manner until we graduate into full implementation of all of the processes,” Undiandeye said.
Defence Headquarters (DHQ) declared yesterday that the killing of military personnel by citizens had become worrisome and unhealthy to the military high command.
It made a quick reference to the killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama in Delta State and a recent attack on soldiers at the Banex Plaza in Abuja.
It said such conduct lowers the morale of troops.
At a media briefing in Abuja, Director, Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Maj Gen Edward Buba, said “the unprovoked killings of 17 personnel in Okuama in Delta State, coupled with the recent assault of unarmed personnel in Banex Plaza in Abuja is worrisome and leaves much to be desired.
“These occurrences are unhealthy for our national security, counter productive and amount to self sabotage”, he said.
“Surely, it is no way to treat any human, certainly not a military personnel that places self in harms way to protect citizens or to safeguard the nation.
“The military has demonstrated high sense of discipline and professionalism in the face of the untoward attacks. Our professionalism must not be mistaken for weakness”, he said.
Buba further stated: “indeed, we know that to win this war, we needs the support of people. We also hope that the people would equally realise that, they need the military to win the war to guarantee their safety.
“Accordingly, it goes is without saying that this must not repeat itself as it jeopardizes our common interest. If troops err, report them and the military justice system will address the matter.
“We are at war, and citizens must realise that they also have a responsibility by their actions and utterances to support troops to keep the morale and fighting spirit of troops at optimal at all times.
“During otherwise is unpatriotic and amounts to self sabotage. Overall, we would continue to fight until the terrorists is defeated on the battlefield and help our nation flourish again”.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, yesterday, disclosed that the commission  secured  3,175 convictions and recovered  N156, 276,691,242.30  between May 29, 2023 and May 29,  2024 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office.

He spoke  in Abuja at the launch of Zero Tolerance Club at University of  Abuja

Olukoyede, who spoke through the Secretary to the Commission, Mohammed Hammajoda said the EFCC  also recovered  $43,835,214.24,  ÂŁ25,365.00,  €186,947.10, 51,360.00, C$3,750.00 , A$740.00,  ÂĄ74,754.00, R35,000.00, 42,390.00 UAE Dirhams, 247.00 Riyals and 21,580, 867631 Crypto Currency.

Speaking further, the Chairman stated that, though the EFCC put up impressive performance within the year, involvement of youths in internet fraud continued to pose serious concerns to every stakeholder in the anti-graft war.

“In spite of this commendable performance, the commission is deeply worried about the increasing involvement of young people, including students, in cybercrime, popularly called yahoo yahoo.  Hundreds of suspects are arrested monthly, with many of them ending up in jail”, he said.

He called on students of the University to stay away from internet fraud, stressing that conviction for fraud “ is a burden that will leave a life-long scar on the fortunes of these youths”. 

He further stated that there was no justification for cybercrime anywhere.

“There is no justification that will make yahoo yahoo acceptable. Contrary to the impression in some quarters, being a fraudster is not synonymous with creativity or being smart.

“As students,  you are expected to channel your creative energies into useful engagements and not get entangled in cheating others of their resources,” he said.

Also speaking,  Director of Public Affairs Department of the Commission, Wilson Uwujaren, said the commission was at the University not only to inaugurate Zero Tolerance Club, but also to mobilise youths against the ills of corruption. 

“The blessings that God has given Nigeria has not really translated into wealth for all of us and for some of us who are a little bit older, we have cause to express worry about the future of our children and the future of our youths. 

“This is why the EFCC is here today not only to launch a zero tolerance club for you, but to also sensitise you on why it is important for you to embrace the fight against corruption,” he said. 

The club, he further explained,  “is a platform of continuous conversation on why our nation has to fight and win the war against corruption”.

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, charged the youths to be productive and avoid doing anything that would destroy the good name or image of their families.

He further tasked them to be productive like their counterparts in the developed nations where talents  are used for creativity and innovation rather than indulging in internet fraud. 

He commended Olukoyede and management of the commission for finding the University of Abuja worthy for a zero tolerance club.

In his presentation on the ills of cybercrime,  Assistant Commander of the EFCC, David Ife, advised youths to channel their energy towards productive and beneficial purposes for themselves and the nation at large, pointing out that criminality offered no gain to anyone.

Head,  Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit of the Commission, Aisha Mohammed said the essence of the launch of the club in universities was to develop, nurture and empower future leaders to be proactive and  be “Ambassadors of the commission through education and by guiding them to propagate the core-values  of anti-corruption in their family, neighbourhood, schools, communities, societies and the country at large”.

The launch was concluded with the presentation of the manuals and magazines of the commission to the patron of the club. 

A signage was also presented to the school.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

As the nation marks the first-year anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Nigeria Police Force said it arrested 32,000 crime suspects in one year. It said police operatives apprehended 4,826 armed robbery suspects, 3,078 kidnap suspects, 2,479 suspects for rape/sexual crimes, 1,243 suspects for unlawful possession of firearms, 3,523 suspects for cultism, 3,381 suspects for murder/homicide, 13,402 suspects for other offenses. It said police operations also led to the rescue of 1,750 kidnap victims, the recovery of a significant cache of illegal items, including 2,566 firearms, 19,510 rounds of ammunition, and 1,475 vehicles/motorcycles nationwide.

Similarly, the police prosecuted 29,152 criminal cases across the country within the year.

Parading 19 crime suspects in Abuja, Force Public Relations and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said said the police dispensed with 17,000 cases in the past one year.

“Out of these, 17,679 cases have been conclusively dispensed with, while 11,576 cases are still undergoing trial. Additionally, 51 cases are currently under appeal at the respective appellate courts. “Impressively, 16,200 of the dispensed cases have led to the conviction of suspects, who have received various forms of punishment for their criminal acts”, he said.

Olumuyiwa said “Police has spared no effort in ensuring that crimes and criminality is reduced to its barest and this has led to salient and significant progress in the fight against all forms of crimes in the country as the Police has intensified its operations and made remarkable strides in ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians”.

The police also paraded 19 suspects involved in various illicit activities. Among these is a case of kidnapping involving one Muhammad Abubakar aged 24 and Shehu Muhammad aged 35 both from Zamfara State.

“The duo were apprehended in possession of an AK-47 rifle and some magazines, through a coordinated effort between FID-IRT operatives and local vigilantes in Asawa village, Kogi State.

“These suspects have been responsible for a series of robberies in Benin and multiple kidnappings in Okene, Kogi State. They received a total of N3.3 in ransom from four operations”, he said.

Kingsley Nwezeh writes about extra measures put in place by the military and security agencies culminating in considerable decline in security skirmishes across the country since President Bola Tinubu assumed office about a year ago.

On his assumption of office on May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu listed a secure nation as one of his priority areas.

Prior to his assumption of office, the country, under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari, had become a river of blood of the innocent with rampaging insurgents, armed bandits, kidnappers and agitators running amok all over the country.

Thousands of citizens including the personnel of the Armed Forces were killed in the North-east, Benue, Plateau states while thousands were kidnapped across the country. Some paid the supreme price while others parted with huge sums of money as ransom paid to kidnappers.

On Tinubu’s assumption of office, Nigerians, were, therefore, full of expectations that the state of insecurity in the country will abate.

But the killings have continued in Plateau, Benue and other parts of the country with close to 500 citizens killed so far while hundreds of school children were kidnapped in Kaduna and Zamfara States even as armed bandits have continued to wreck havoc in the North-west.

It must be noted that the armed forces have battled non-state actors across the country even with record numbers paying the supreme price.

In a recent statement, President Tinubu said the security situation in the country has improved. He said though it may not have solved all the security problems confronting the country, government was working hard to ensure that Nigerians have peace of mind in their homes.

“Since our administration took over the mantle of office, security has improved. Silently, we have worked to free captives from abductors.

“While we can’t beat our chest yet that we had solved all the security problems, we are working hard to ensure that we all have peace of mind in our homes, places of work and on the roads,” he said.

But Plateau State remains a centre of killings by herdsmen causing indegenes to disagree with the president.

“It is disheartening to witness the continual cycle of devastation without meaningful intervention. The promises of protection seem hollow, and our plight grows more desperate each passing day”, laments Fatima Agwai, a resident of a besieged village in Plateau.

“The time for mere rhetoric has long passed. We require concrete action, tangible measures that will stem the tide of violence and restore a semblance of peace to our lands,” asserts Umaru Yakubu, a community leader in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State.

But the Beacon Security Intel Nigeria, a security and  intelligence gathering outfit that keeps a tab on violence in Nigeria in its “April, 2024 Nigeria Security Report” said the security environment in Nigeria remained challenged.

“In the review period, April 01- 30, 2024, the security environment in Nigeria remained challenged mainly due to the dire socio-economic circumstances occasioned by food inflation, and a cost of living crisis that

continued to trigger social unrest and impact the structural deficiencies that predispose some residents to criminality while also impacting the operational uncertainties for private individuals, business organisations, and communities despite efforts by the government at the federal and subnational levels.

“Additionally, the period experienced prevailing, persistent, dynamic, and multifaceted security challenges

affecting various regions of Nigeria and resulted in varied typologies of security challenges.

The dashboard shows Nigeria’s monthly security incidents, abductions, and fatalities for the reporting period of April 01- 30, 2024, identifying periodic trends and impact analysis based on abductions and

fatalities trends on a regional and State basis in the inset”, it said.

“Compared to the previous reporting month, March 2024, there was a significant decline of 63.63% in the number of abducted persons in April 2024, despite this decline, notable spikes were observed in Cross

River, Delta, Federal Capital Territory Abuja, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ondo, Oyo, Rivers, and Zamfara states tied to armed banditry in predominantly the North-west and North-central and criminality in the Southern

regions”, it said.

Beacon Intel also stated that “the lethality of incidents and the resultant fatalities remained high, with a significant increase of 34.44% with notable spikes observed in Anambra, Bayelsa, Borno, Enugu, FCT, Kano, Kogi, Lagos, Niger, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara states tied to Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs)

activities predominantly in the Northern regions; security forces operations against threat actors in the North-east and North-west; and road transport accidents in North-central and South-west.

“Civilian casualty accounted for 49.50% of the total fatality count, especially in the North-west and North-central regions

tied to domestic issues i.e., transport accidents.

“It should be noted that variances in monthly occurrences in the security landscape are common in Nigeria. In addition, the uncoordinated approaches to managing the various security threat elements, particularly in the northern regions, where poorly thought out measures or very little effort is put into addressing the root causes of the security challenges, continue to produce consequences that are in themselves triggers of insecurity”, it said.

On the density distribution of abductions, it noted that “in the comparative analysis between April 2024 and March 2024, we observe shifts in several critical

metrics, indicating evolving trends within Nigeria’s security landscape.

In April 2024, there was a notable

decline in violent occurrences, with 691 incidents recorded. This marks a 10.72% decrease compared to the

774 incidents documented in March 2024.

“April 2024 witnessed a significant 63.63% decrease in abductions between March 2024 and April 2024, with the numbers dropping from 855 to 311. This could be

attributed to the government’s efforts to tackle insecurity, especially in the country’s Northern regions.

“April 2024 recorded a further surge in fatalities, with the number climbing to 1,097 from 816 in March 2024. This marks an alarming 34.44% increase, underscoring the urgent need for more robust measures to safeguard civilian lives and restore peace”, it said.

Beacon Intel further maintained that the complex interplay of terrorism, banditry, and ethnic militia activities continues to drive these concerning trends, underscoring the multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security challenges.

“Despite ongoing security operations, the perpetrators often operate with impunity, exploiting existing grievances and

socio-economic disparities to perpetrate violence and advance their agendas. “Addressing these root causes

and implementing effective strategies remains imperative to mitigate the escalating security risks and protect the well-being of Nigeria’s populace”, it said.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces to embark on aggressive recruitment and rearmament in order to contain armed hostilities across the country.
Worried by the insecurity in the country, Tinubu had constantly demanded to know when the insecurity will come to an end and received assurances from defence ministers and service chiefs that the end was in sight.
Speaking at a ministerial media briefing in Abuja ahead of the one year anniversary of the Tinubu-led government, Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, said the president ordered the armed forces to embark on massive recruitment exercise to ensure that more personnel were on ground to deal with insecurity.
He said the president also ordered the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to embark on more manufacture of arms and ammunition for effective containment of security challenges.
He said government was committed to the deployment of technology to contain armed banditry.
“He has directed that we recruit more so that there will be more boots on the ground.
“More arms will be manufactured in the next one year.
We are also relying on technology heavily and we assure you that in the no distant time, this will be over”, he said.
“We have been collaborating with the people in our intelligence gathering efforts
“We will work diligently to end security challenges in the country.
President always asks when will this end and say we are walking on it.
“Recruitment has improved for the armed forces. We are going to recruit more, same with police, civil defence and the military”, he said.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon, has called for a new political system that takes into cognisance Nigerian culture and tradition.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo made a similar call penultimate week, calling for a home grown system of government he called “Afro-cracy”.

Gowon, who expressed support for the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government, said in the quest to embrace democratic rule, the country adopted the presidential system of government with components that created high cost of governance.

Gowon spoke while receiving a delegation of the Hon Kingsley Chinda-led parliamentary caucus campaigning for a return to parliamentary system of government as a result of the high cost of governance associated with the present system, and the need for a responsive and responsible system of government,  at the Yakubu Gowon Center in Abuja.

“I believe in democracy. All my actions as a soldier supported democracy. I initiated policies that reduced high cost of governance.

“As you rightly pointed out, presidential system of government didn’t consider our culture and tradition because we wanted democracy”, he said.

He said the country had witnessed restructuring several times hence efforts made to ensure that agitations made for such exercise did not lead to a break up of the country.

“Any other restructuring to make the country better, I am all for it. Do you believe in your country or not? If you do not believe in your country then nothing you do will work.

“If we have a problem, we have to solve it together. The American presidential system we borrowed, we swallowed hook, line and sinker”, he said.

He, however, warned that a return to   parliamentary system devoid of the culture and tradition of the country would be retrogressive.

“Yes, we need a change but remember if you go back to regionalism, the time has passed”, he advised.

The Hon Kingsley Chinda-led group had listed the high cost of governance associated with the presidential system of government, the need for a responsive and responsible government system as the rationale behind the drive to change the system of government.

Earlier in his remarks, Hon Kingsley Chinda said the group was concerned about the shortcomings of the presidential system of government hence the decision to tap from wealth of knowledge of the former leader.

“If a lawmaker is both minister and in parliament, the cost of governance in that area will be reduced”, he said.

In his remarks, Hon Abdussamad Dasuki said a significant change in the system was required.

He lamented that in spite of several changes to the constitution, “nothing has changed”.

Other lawmakers present at the meeting are Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, Hon. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Kwamoti Laori, among others.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Tuesday, hosted members of the House of Representatives pushing for the reintroduction of the parliamentary system of government in Nigeria

House Minority Leader,  Hon Kingsley Chinda, who led the group of lawmakers had projected the high cost of governance associated with the presidential system of government, need for an accountable and responsive government as the rationale behind the drive to change the system of government.

Backing the lawmakers, Obasanjo agreed to the need for a system of government that works, and advocated Afro-cracy, a system of government that takes into cognisance the culture,  tradition and way of life of Nigerians and Africans.

He further declared that western democracy had not delivered the goods.

“Our problems started from the colonial masters. They gave us what they have.

“So now you are taking the right step. Sunak is a prime minister (UK), who is not voted for. Even for them, liberal democracy is failing”, he said.

“Our constitution started on a faulty base. It’s a product of their culture and tradition. Western democracy has what is called opposition. They have loyal opposition because they are loyal to the monarchy.

“We had thriving kingdoms. We rule ourselves with concensus. If you commit an abomination you will be punished”, he said.

The former Nigerian leader called for a return to the African way of  governance.

“Let us look at our lives. Our lives are characterised or symbolised by communalism.

“If we now come back home, we will get it right. You can call it Afro-democracy not democracy of opposition. We can move and agree to the structure we are going to put in place”, he said.

Obasanjo called for a system of government that is based on ideology.

“There is the need for ideology. They change parties as women change wrappers.

“What are you going to do and it can be done and it must be done and that is what you are doing

If you do it well, we will have that critical mass.

“Something that encompasses our culture, our tradition, our way of life. You can call it Afro-democracy or whatever you call it.

“Let’s resource, let’s see debate, let’s dialogue. Don’t let them pervert our own culture and tradition”, he said.

He, however warned the proponents of parliamentary system of government to note that the project may not materialise immediately.

“What you are doing, don’t expect result tomorrow. If you expect results tomorrow. You may be disappointed. It may or may not happen in our life time but we need something authentically African.

“The same thing we are saying  that western democracy is not working for us. It has not delivered. They are also taking a second look at it”, he said.

Earlier in his remarks, Hon Kingsley Chinda said the group was concerned about the high cost of governance associated with the presidential system of government hence the decision to tap from wealth of knowledge of the former leader.

“We seek a home grown parliamentary system of government because we believe that the system we practice  can get better. 

“We are concerned about the high cost of governance in our country today. We talk about how to reduce the cost of governance.

“We want to tap from your wealth of knowledge and your  support”, he said.

Other lawmakers at the meeting include Abdussamad Dasuki, Olawale Raji, Kabir Ibrahim Tukura, Abdullahi El-Rasheed,Umar Yusuf Yabo, Abdulmaleek Danga,  and Esosa Iyawe.

Others are Aliyu Aminu Garu, Shehu Dalhatu, Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Muhammed Bello Shehu, Gwacham Maureen, Joshua Audu Gana, Blessing Amadi, Engr M.B Jajere, Afam Victor Ogene and Kwamoti Laori.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

daru, declared yesterday that the federal government was committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to protect the country’s defence infrastructure.

Badaru spoke at a seminar organised by the Defence Space Administration in Abuja, themed, “Protecting Nigeria’s Defence Infrastructure: The Roles of Emerging Technology.”

The minister said in an evolving world, where advancement in technology was reshaping the landscape of national security, it was imperative for the country to adapt and innovate effectively to protect its defence infrastructure.

That was as Chief of Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi Shinkafi, said as part of its mandate, Defence Space Administration had conducted research into space vehicles and satellites, protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace, as well as provision of satellite imageries and remote sensing data to the field units.

He said, “All of these are aimed at helping in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, and other forms of criminality in Nigeria.”

The minister said as part of the renewed hope agenda, the President Bola Tinubu government was committed to containing threats to national security and protecting the defence infrastructure.

Badaru stated, “In today’s rapidly evolving world, where advancements in technology are reshaping the landscape of national security, it is imperative that we adapt and innovate to effectively protect our defence infrastructure.

“As we have witnessed the emergence of new and sophisticated threats, ranging from cyber-attacks to space-based challenges, it is crucial that we stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of emerging technologies to fortify our defences and ensure the security of our nation.”

The minister said the theme underscored the pivotal role that emerging technologies played in enhancing the resilience and effectiveness of the defence systems.

He said, “From artificial intelligence and machine learning to quantum computing and space-based technologies, the possibilities are endless for us to leverage upon so as to strengthen our defence infrastructure and safeguard our nation’s sovereignty.”

Meanwhile, Shinkafi said, “The DSA is mandated to provide resilient and affordable space and cyberspace capabilities for the protection of the defence infrastructure of the nation through a robust support for the armed forces, other security and law enforcement agencies.

“Since its establishment, the administration has been making efforts towards actualising its mandate. These includes research into space vehicles and satellites, protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace, as well as provision of satellite imageries and remote sensing data to our field units.

“All of these are aimed at helping in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality in Nigeria.”

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, declared yesterday that the federal government was committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to protect the nation’s defence infrastructure.

He said in an evolving world where advancement in technology was reshaping the landscape of national security, it was imperative that the nation adapted and innovated to effectively protect its the defence infrastructure.

This came as the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi Shinkafi, said as part of its mandate, Defence Space Administration had conducted research into space vehicles and satellites, protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace as well as provision of satellite imageries and remote sensing data to our field units.

He said “all of these are aimed at helping in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality in Nigeria”.

The minister said as part of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu, government was committed to

containing threats to national security and protect the nation’s defence infrastructure.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, where advancements in technology are reshaping the landscape of national security, it is imperative that we adapt and innovate to effectively protect our defence infrastructure.

“As we have witnessed the emergence of new and sophisticated threats, ranging from cyber-attacks to space-based challenges, it is crucial that we stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of emerging technologies to fortify our defences and ensure the security of our nation”, he said.

“As we have witnessed the emergence of new and sophisticated threats, ranging from cyber-attacks to space-based challenges, it is crucial that we stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of emerging technologies to fortify our defences and ensure the security of our nation”, he said.

The minister, who spoke at a seminar organised by the Defence Space Administration in Abuja themed: “Protecting Nigeria’s Defence Infrastructure: The Roles of Emerging Technology”, said it underscored the pivotal role that emerging technologies play in enhancing the resilience and effectiveness of our defence systems.

“From artificial intelligence and machine learning to quantum computing and space-based technologies, the possibilities are endless for us to leverage upon so as to strengthen our defence infrastructure and safeguard our nation’s sovereignty”, he said.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi Shinkafi, said as part of its mandate, Defence Space Administration had conducted research into space vehicles and satellites, protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace as well as provision of satellite imageries and remote sensing data to our field units.

“The DSA is mandated to provide resilient and affordable space and cyberspace capabilities for the protection of the defence infrastructure of the nation through a robust support for the armed forces, other security and law enforcement agencies.

“Since its establishment, the administration has been making efforts towards actualising its mandate. These includes research into space vehicles and satellites, protection of Nigeria’s cyberspace as well as provision of satellite imageries and remote sensing data to our field units. All of these are aimed at helping in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality in Nigeria”, he said.

•Secured 500 convictions, collaborates with FBI to combat crime

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede,  yesterday declared that cybercrime remained a threat to national security.

He said internet crimes had become a threat to the development of the nation.

He restated the commitment  of the commission to the fight against the scourge.

Olukoyede made the assertion  when he received a delegation from the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) at the corporate headquarters of the commission in Jabi, Abuja.

“As a matter of fact, a consultant was saying that cybercrime has assumed the third largest GDP in the world. It is a sort of crime that we should not take lightly and comes from the readiness from these countries and law enforcement agencies to collaborate, to share information in such a way that each country will take responsibility for what they are supposed to take responsibility for,” he said.

Olukoyede affirmed that EFCC’s operations against cybercrimes were focused,  relentless and fruitful. 

“EFCC,  apart from the Police , is one of the prominent, specialised anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria that has the mandate to investigate cybercrime and we have been doing that.

“In the last few months, we have secured over five hundred convictions in cybercrimes and over the years we have had cause to collaborate with FBI, NCA and other prominent law enforcement agencies in the world in the area of combating cybercrime”.

“We are much ready to do more and also to encourage the heads of the world to give access to information”, he said.

Earlier in his presentation,  leader of the delegation,  Mr. Craig Jones. explained that Interpol was working as a neutral law enforcement agency with private partners across the world to detect and break criminal networks serving fraudsters.  

He disclosed that cybercrime have become global security threats with massive impact.

“I think many countries now recognise that cybercrime is actually a national security threat to countries and this goes hand in hand with financial crimes, because the main motivation of cybercrime normally for the criminals is that financial gain and the impact that it makes on the countries and our communities is massive”,  he said. 

To this end, Jones explained that Interpol continued to identify countries with criminal networks in order to assist them to break such networks.

He also disclosed that a cybercrimes convention is being negotiated with the United Nations (UN) to draw global attention and commitment to the fight against the menace.

•Hints 2019 security strategy under reviewĚý

•Declares public engagement must change

•Terrorist negotiator seeks transfer to Kuje prison

Kingsley Nwezeh and Alex Enumah in Abuja

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday, said negative use of the social media constituted both local and global threats and, as such, presented an immediate national security priority.

Ribadu disclosed that the National Security Strategy (NSS) was last reviewed in 2015, a situation that gave rise to the launch of the 2019 version, which he said was now under review.

Ribadu spoke in Abuja at a meeting with spokespersons of organisations under the umbrella of Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee.

He directed media managers in the defence, security and response agencies to change their approach in engaging with the public and countering disinformation from enemies of the country.

At the same time, the detained terrorist negotiator, Mohammed Tukur Mamu, begged a Federal High Court, Abuja, to order his release from the custody of the Department of the State Services (DSS) to the Correctional Centre in Kuje, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The NSS document is reviewed every five years in view of the changing dynamics of security threats in the country.

Ribadu said members of the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee must be proactive and strategic in national security communication management.

He said the spokesmen in the security sector must address the worrying use of the media and social media platforms in creating division between the citizens and governments at various levels.

Ribadu also listed preponderance of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation as threats to national security and public engagement.

He stated, “Across the world, we have also assessed the adept use of social media platforms by those who seek power to shape public opinion against citizens. This threat is both global and local and presents an immediate national security priority.

“The urgency to prepare and be proactive in our national security strategic communication management is now, and the spokespersons have a critical role to play.”

Ribadu asserted that the National Security Strategy 2019, currently under review, identified strategic communication as an element of national power.

He hinted that the strategy should be integrated into all operational aspects, including information operations, psychological operations, public diplomacy and public relations, so as to project the country’s national power and values.

The NSA also called for the adoption of a plan of action to engage Nigerians, build trust, and counter violent extremism.

He charged the spokespersons to synergise and coordinate efforts to deny media space to terror groups and criminal elements, like Boko Haram and armed bandits, bent on stifling citizens’ freedom to life, dignity and security.

Ribadu said in engaging with the public, communicators in the security sector should adopt strategies that took into account the personal sacrifices of service personnel.

He said, “Upon the sweat and blood of service personnel and the men and women who protect us daily, we must build a narrative of resilience and mobilise our people.

“We must tell their stories and sing their praise as part of a broader national strategic communication programme.

“As spokespersons, you have a critical role to play in effective governance communication to project our results and reach audiences at home and abroad.

“Countering fake news will require that we are ahead of the news and proactively update the public.”

The NSA promised to ensure that, going forward, government communication aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s vision and directives, and the messages were well-coordinated and in line with national security objectives and values.

Mamu Seeks Transfer to Kuje Prison

Detained terrorist negotiator, Mohammed Tukur Mamu, yesterday, begged a Federal High Court in Abuja, to order his release from the custody of the Department of the State Service (DSS) to the correctional centre in Kuje.

Mamu, in an application moved on his behalf by his lawyer, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, specifically urged the court to vary the order remanding him in custody of the DSS.

The federal government is trying Mamu over alleged complicity in the Abuja-Kaduna train attack in 2022.

At the resumed trial, yesterday, his lawyer alleged that the order of the court made on December 19, 2023, that he be allowed access to his personal physician for medical treatment was not complied with by DSS.

Mohammed stated that Mamu was allowed access to his physician only once, when a report of comprehensive medical examination on him was submitted to the DSS.

He alleged that since the submission of the report, Mamu’s physician had not been allowed to access him and that he needed urgent surgical operations in any hospital in the county.

The lawyer further claimed that Mamu’s health had since deteriorated and that he might lose his life any moment if he was not moved out of DSS custody to Kuje prison.

He promised regular attendance at the trial in the terrorism charges, adding that he could only stand trial when alive.

There was a mild drama during the proceeding, when a federal government lawyer, David Kaswe, who was billed to respond to Mamu’s request, suddenly disappeared in the court room without any excuse or notification.

The situation forced the court to stand down the proceeding for over one hour, yet the prosecution counsel did not show up.

Justice Inyang Ekwo, who expressed shock over the lawyer’s attitude to the court, said, “I am aware that the prosecution counsel was in this courtroom this morning.

“The miracle of his disappearance is, however, beyond my understanding. This court stands on the side of justice and the antics of the prosecution will be tolerated for today’s proceeding only.”

Ekwo, however, invoked the rule of the court and ordered that the processes filed by the lawyer against Mamu’s application be deemed adopted.

The judge subsequently fixed May 20 for ruling on whether to move the defendant out of DSS custody to Kuje prison or not.

•Governor Mbah: Assets to be deployed for the benefit of Enugu people

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, handed over 14 properties initially forfeited to the federal government and now ceded to the government and people of Enugu State.

This was sequel to the request by the Governor Peter Mbah Administration and approved by President Bola Tinubu.

The transfer of the properties to Mbah, was performed by the Chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, at the corporate headquarters of the commission in Jabi,  Abuja.

This was even as Governor Mbah assured that the recovered assets would be deployed to the optimum the benefit of the people of Enugu State.

Speaking before the brief handover ceremony, Olukoyede, who disclosed that the road to the forfeiture dated back to 2007, stated that event spoke of the mutually beneficial relationship  existing  between the federal and state governments.

“What we are witnessing today testifies to a symbiotic relationship that should exist between the federal government and the state governments.

“The essence of our meeting here today is for us to handover properties that were forfeited to the federal government, which of course belong to Enugu State people back to the people”, he said.

“It shows that governance can work in Nigeria. Our people deserve the benefits of good governance and that is what is being evidenced here today.

“If you look at the history of this particular matter, it takes us back to 2007 when we started the prosecution. So we are looking at about 17 years since the matter has been on.

“Eventually some of the properties were forfeited and since then, the EFCC has been managing those properties even though the titles of quite a number of the properties have been revoked by the Enugu State government”, he added.

The EFCC chair further declared: “we are witnessing here today is the official handing over of the properties to the people of Enugu State through His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah”.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Mbah expressed gratitude for the  handover and thanked the EFCC chair and the commission for ensuring that the people of his state reclaimed their common patrimony.

“I would like to express my profound gratitude for the event we are witnessing today.

“The importance and significance of this event can never be lost on us and we do not also take it for granted. So, I want to take this opportunity to convey my profound gratitude and deep appreciation to the chairman and members of the EFCC team that have brought us to where we are today”, he said.

“This is a journey that began several years ago and we are marking a formal closure to that journey here today.  A journey that saw the successful prosecution of certain companies in possession of assets belonging to the people of Enugu State,” he said.

The governor who noted that the properties were forfeited not to his state but to the federal government expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for making it possible for them to be returned to the government and people of Enugu State.

“Those assets were forfeited to the federal government. And this brings me to another gratitude that I want to convey here today. I want to acknowledge and recognise the important role played by the President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Without the proactiveness and speed at which he acted on our request to cede these assets back to the people and government of Enugu State, we wouldn’t have been here today. So I want to thank him most sincerely for granting our request for these assets that were forfeited to the federal government to be ceded back to Enugu State.

The Enugu State Chief executive further asserted that “those properties would be used for the benefit of the people of Enugu state.”

“All the assets without any exemption, and they would be deployed to optimum use for the benefit of the people of Enugu state,” he stressed.

He lauded Olukoyede’s initiatives at making the EFCC a strong institution and cautioned against attempts by some individuals to distract the commission.

“I will not end this remark without acknowledging the work the EFCC chairman is doing in strengthening this very important institution. It is important that we do not weaken our institutions.

“Thank you very much for all the great work you and your team are doing and particularly for the effort that you have put in to make today a reality,” the governor stated.

The properties comprise houses, transmission equipment for radio and television stations, a building for medical operations, among others.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will arraign  former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in court next week, ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ has learnt.

The former minister will face charges in connection with an ongoing investigation related to fraud and money laundering amounting to N8,069,176,864.00.

Sirika was at the Federal Capital Territory Command of the anti-graft agency around 1:00 pm on Tuesday.

Upon his arrival, he was grilled by the operatives of the EFCC over alleged fraudulent contracts he authorised for a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, which is allegedly owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.

Abubakar Sirika is a deputy director at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

A source close to the investigation said Sirika was questioned with regard to ongoing investigation by the agency.

“We invited him to ask him questions in relation to our investigations.

“He will be charged to court next week”, the source said.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Army Friday handed over the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe, to the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone.
It was in Okuama Community under Ewu Kingdom that the killing of 17 military personnel took place.
Speaking at the handing over of the traditional ruler, the Director Army Public Relations, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the Nigerian Army Headquarters reviewed every available information on the incident which showed that no evidence of culpability was established against the monarch but also noted that there was insufficient evidence to exonerate anyone at this stage.

“Following the gruesome and reprehensible killing of 17 Nigerian Army personnel in the Okuama community of Delta State on 14 March 24, a manhunt was launched for those suspected to have perpetrated, directed, supported, or knew about the incident with a view to bringing those culpable to justice.
In this light, HRH Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe the King of Ewu Kingdom, in whose domain the dastardly act took place, surrendered to the Nigerian Police, who in turn handed him over to the Nigerian Army.
He stated that since his surrender, the Nigerian Army had painstakingly reviewed every available information on the incident “and has come to some preliminary observations and inferences, one of which is that, while culpability has not been conclusively established against the traditional ruler, there is insufficient evidence, to exonerate anyone at this stage.
“Nevertheless, on the intervention of Distinguished Senator Dafinone, representing Delta South and his vouching for the monarch’s character.and the fact that the monarch voluntarily turned himself in, for questioning, it has been decided that His Highness be released to the Distinguished Senator, who has agreed to act as surety for his release on the condition that be will always assist the Nigerian Army and other agencies of government investigating the Okuama killing incident to have access to the monarch whenever needed”.
Nwachukwu said the army was handing over the royal father to the lawmaker as a known national political figure.
“The Nigeria Army hereby releases the HRH Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe the king of Ewu kingdom to Distinguished Senator Dafinone representing Delta South as a responsible national political figure.
“Members of the public and international community are to note that the release of the traditional ruler speaks to NA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and justice.
“The Nigeria, therefore, wishes to, by this gesture, encourage others to make themselves available for questioning and that they are guaranteed fair and decent treatment and will be strictly subjected to constitutional provisions for handling such cases if found culpable”, he said.

•Appeal Court to hear case April 22Ěý

•Ex-gov urges Tinubu to call anti-graft operatives to order

•We’ll no longer tolerate obstruction of our operations, agency warns

Kingsley Nwezeh, Alex Enumah in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, laid siege to the Abuja residence of a former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in a bid to arrest and arraign him for alleged fraud and corruption, committed during his tenure which ended few a few months back.

Gunshots were heard at the Wuse Zone 4 residence of Bello, after his successor in office, Ododo,  visited him at a time the EFCC laid siege to the Wuse, Abuja, residence of the former governor.

The serving Kogi State chief executive was alleged to have smuggled Bello out of his residence, which gave rise to the confrontation between the EFCC operatives and the security personnel guarding the governor.

There were reported gunshots around the former governor’s premises

ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ gathered that operatives of the commission barricaded the residence of the former governor early in the day.

It was gathered that the anti-graft agency restricted movement  around the house located at Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4 in the nation’s capital.

“EFCC barricades Bello’ house in Abuja. No movement in the area. They are yet to gain access,” a source said.

Another competent source close to the investigation earlier told ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ  that operatives of EFCC  were at the Wuse Zone 4 residence of the former governor.

“We are at his residence. We know he is there so we are waiting”, the source said.

The move, however, came on the heels of two conflicting judgements of courts for and against his arrest.

While Justice I. A. Jamil of a Kogi State High, Court had in a judgement restrained the EFCC from harassing, detaining or prosecuting the former governor, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a ruling delivered same day, ordered the anti-graft agency to arrest and produce Bello for arraignment in court today.

The Commission had mentioned Bello as one “at large” in an ongoing trial of the current Chief of Staff to Governor Usman Ododo and one other.

Meanwhile, hearing in the appeal by EFCC against Justice Jamil earlier order is expected to come up on April 22, at the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal.

Before the substantive judgement delivered yesterday, Justice Jamil had while ruling in an exparte application on February 9, 2024, restrained the anti-graft agency from taking any action against the governor.

The Kogi State High Court judge issued the order while delivering judgement in a suit marked: HCL/68/M/2020.

“By this order, the EFCC is hereby restrained from arresting, detaining and prosecuting the applicant,” he said.

But Justice Nwite in a ruling in an ex-parte application filed by the Commission on April 17, 2024, issued a warrant of arrest on the former governor.

In the motion marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024, EFCC prayed the court to permit the service of the charge and the proof evidence on Bello through a substituted means.

In addition, the Commission sought another order seeking the immediate arrest of Bello for arraignment.

EFCC’s reliefs partly read: “An order granting leave to the complainant/applicant to effect service of the charge together with the proof of evidence on the defendant by substituted means to wit; by pasting the charge at the last known address of the defendant within the jurisdiction of this honourable court being: 9, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

“An order directing and/or issuing an arrest warrant for the immediate arrest of the defendant for the purpose of bringing him before this honourable court for arraignment.”

Delivering ruling, Justice Nwite, granted the request of the anti-graft agency and ordered the immediate arrest of Bello.

He also directed that the former governor be produced before him on Thursday April 18 for arraignment.

“It is hereby ordered as follows:  That an order of this honourable court is hereby made directing and/or issuing a warrant for the immediate arrest of the defendant to bring him before this honourable court for arraignment. That case is adjourned to the 18th day of April 2024 for arraignment,”Nwite said.

The EFCC, beside appealing the ruling barring it from arresting Bello, had also asked the appellate court to vacate the order.

“Your lordships will find that the Ex-parte interim orders of injunction which restrained the Appellant from performing its statutory functions under the EFCC Act 2004 as amended was made without jurisdiction, in that the learned trial Court did not have jurisdiction to issue the said orders against the Appellant, on the grounds that the respondent has no fundamental right from arrest and prosecution for corruption and corrupt practices,” the Commission had said.

In the motion on notice marked CA/ABJ/PRE/CV/165MI/2024, dated February 27 but filed February 28, the appellant, faulted the decision of the trial court, on the grounds that it was a body created by statute to carry out functions specified in its Establishment Act.

Their lead counsel, Chief Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, argued that under the Act, the EFCC is empowered to investigate and prosecute economic crimes as set out under sections 6 and 7 of the EFCC’s Act.

The EFCC in the appeal, apart from insisting that the trial court lacked jurisdiction to restrain it from arresting Bello, claimed that the judge by the order intended to “castrate” it and by so doing “now constitute a clog in the progress of the Appellant/Applicant’s performance of its statutory functions and duties under the EFCC Act 2004 as amended.

The anti-graft agency argued that by its establishing act, its powers, “include the powers of the police and they are wide and cuts across several legislations promulgated to fight financial crimes.”

It pointed out that by going to court to be shielded against criminal investigation and prosecution the respondent is interfering with the powers given by the Constitution to law officers in the control of criminal investigation.

“No amount of semantic or using judicial process can grant safe landing. Whatever orders made when the court lacks jurisdiction is a null and void orders.

“We, therefore, most respectfully urge this honourable court to allow this appeal and to set aside the interim orders made by the trial Court on February 9, 2024 in the interest of justice,” the EFCC said.

Meanwhile, Bello’s media office has called on President Bola Tinubu to the Anti-graft agency to order and obey the rule of law.

In a press statement, it stated that despite the subsisting court order by a Lokoja High Court, the operatives of EFCC had consistently wanted to embarrass the former governor.

It recalled that, “About 9:30am today, the 17th day of April 2024, persons who described themselves as officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrived the Wuse Zone 4 Residence of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello to effect his arrest.

“This is despite a subsisting Order of injunction granted on 9th February 2024 by the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Alhaji Yahaya Bello v. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, restraining the Commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting Alhaji Yahaya Bello, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.

“The EFCC was duly served with that Order on 12th February 2024 and on 26th February 2024; the EFCC filed an Appeal (Appeal No.: CA/ABJ/CV/175/2024: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission v. Alhaji Yahaya Bello) against the said Order to the Court of Appeal Abuja division.

“The Appeal was accompanied by a Motion for Stay of Execution of the Order of the High Court which the Court of Appeal adjourned for hearing till the 22nd day of April 2024.

“Furthermore, judgment in the substantive case between Alhaji Yahaya Bello and the EFCC is to be delivered at noon today in Lokoja.

“Contrary to all of the above, the EFCC has now laid siege to the home of H.E Yahaya Bello seeking to arrest him in contravention of the extant orders!

“It is a surprise that an agency led by a lawyer could flagrantly disobey a subsisting court order by taking actions contrary to the reliefs granted.

“We are aware of the total commitment of the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the rule of law and can say categorically that the leadership of the EFCC might have offered the agency on a platter of gold to desperate politicians to convert to their score settling tool without minding the effect on its integrity and the image of Nigeria as regards the rule of law.

“A situation where law enforcers disregard the rule of law is a definite recipe for anarchy, which will adversely affect every aspect of the nation’s economy.”

Responding, the EFCC, yesterday, warned it would no longer tolerate the obstruction of its operations.

In a statement last night, it  stated: “The Economic and Financial  Crimes Commission wishes to warn members of the public that it is a criminal offence to obstruct officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties.

“Section 38(2)(a)(b) of the EFCC Establishment Act makes it an offence to prevent officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties.  Culprits risk a jail term of not less than five years.

“This warning becomes necessary against the background of the increasing tendency  by persons and groups under investigation by the commission to take the laws into their hands by recruiting thugs to obstruct lawful operations of the EFCC,” it said.

The statement noted that, “On several occasions, operatives of the commission have had to exercise utmost restraint in the face of such provocation to avoid a breakdown of law and order.

“Regrettably, such disposition is being construed as a sign of weakness.

“The commission, therefore, warns that it will henceforth not tolerate any attempt by any person or organisation to obstruct its operation as such will be met with appropriate punitive actions.”

•Says nation’s security better imagined than experienced without military operationsĚý

•Air strikes kill 30 terrorists

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja
Ěý

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, yesterday, declared that sustained onslaught of the Armed Forces had put terrorists on the run across the country.

He said without operations of security forces, the security situation in the country was better imagined than experienced.

This came as air strikes killed 30 terrorists in Lake Chad.

The Nigerian Air Force Headquarters said, in a statement, that the air interdiction conducted by the Air component of Operation Hadarin Daji(OPHD) executed precision air strikes on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists nestled within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad which killed 30 terrorists.

Lagbaja said sustained military operations contributed significantly to stabilising the country’s security.

Lagbaja, who spoke at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff First Quarter Conference 2024 said security situation would have been better imagined than experienced without the intervention of the security forces

“But for our concerted efforts, the insecurity that would have developed across the country is better imagined than experienced.

“Our continuous injection of trained troops and specialist equipment into the North-east theatre for specialised operations such as Mountain Sanity II, Lake Sanity II, and Desert Sanuty III have continued to complement efforts to degrade ISWAP/JAS terrorist groups by the Theatre Command.

“These efforts have greatly improved the security situation in the North-east and have expectedly enhanced the trust and confidence of the public towards our troops,” he said.

The army chief asserted that  intensified offensives to eliminate armed bandits and other criminal elements in the North-west and North-central regions were yielding positive outcomes.

“We have continued to project forces in Operations Hadarin Daji, Forest Sanity, and Whirl Punch while ramping up offensives to eliminate bandit enclaves.

“These operations have destroyed criminal hideouts, neutralised scores of bandits, and subjected the remaining ones to situations where they are mainly on the run,” he said.

Meanwhile, air strikes killed 30 terrorists in Lake Chad.

The Nigerian Air Force Headquarters said, in a statement, that the air interdiction conducted by the Air component of Operation Hadarin Kai (OPHK) executed precision air strikes on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists nestled within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad, which killed 30 terrorists.

“In a decisive blow against terrorism, the Air component of Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) has executed a precision airstrike on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists nestled within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad.

“The operation, conducted on 13 April 2024, yielded significant success as the Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) post-strike conducted revealed the neutralisation of over 30 terrorists.

“Among those neutralised were some senior commanders such as Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari.

“Additionally, numerous vehicles, motorcycles, and logistical assets were destroyed, severely hampering the terrorists’ operational capabilities,” it said.

The statement said, “Intelligence gathered after the air strike further indicated that the aerial bombardment effectively obliterated a key facility within the Kolleram enclave, which served as a hub for the terrorists’ food processing activities, including grinding machines.”

•Iran warns of ‘decisive’ strikes in reaction to any Israeli counterattackĚý

•Step back from the brink, UN warns

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja with agency reports

There are strong indications that Israel’s response to Iranian attack might be imminent, an Israeli official said yesterday.

Speaking after Israel’s war cabinet met for several hours, the official said Israeli decision-makers believed it was important for any response to closely follow the attack.

Several diplomatic and military options were examined during the cabinet meeting, the official said.

“Any response will be coordinated with the Americans,” the official added.

This came as Israel and Iran clashed at an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council yesterday. Tehran insisted it did not seek further escalation after launching the barrage of 300 drones and missiles, but warned of more “decisive” strikes in retaliation to any Israeli counterattack.

UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, said it was time to “step back from the brink” as a chorus of world leaders urged restraint.

President Joe Biden had warned Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, against launching new strikes on Iran, and said the US would not participate in any offensive actions against Iran. But Biden entertained fears that Netanyahu was trying to drag the US into a wider conflict, US officials said.

Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossein Abdollahian, warned that if Israel launched an attack, the regime’s next response “will be immediate, stronger and more extensive”.

Abdollahian made the comment during a call with the UK foreign minister, David Cameron, yesterday, according to a state news report.

He reiterated Tehran’s position that the assault on Israel was within the country’s legal right to respond to the strike on its diplomatic building and blamed the region’s tensions on “the destructive role of the occupying Israeli regime”.

Cameron confirmed his call with Abdollahian in a post on X, and said he formally condemned Iran’s retaliatory strike on Israel.

He also discussed the seizure of a Portuguese-flagged ship, which the Revolutionary Guards seized in the Strait of Hormuz.

“I made clear that Iran must stop these reckless attacks, de-escalate and release the MSC Aries,” Cameron wrote.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, has called on the Armed Forces of Nigeria to remain committed to the security of the nation.
This came as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, declared that securing the nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, remained a duty the armed forces was bound to perform and service “we must render to our fatherland”.
He spoke as the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, ordered tight security nationwide as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-fitri just as the Department of State Security (DSS)
called on the citizenry to be security conscious as well as report suspicious activities to security and law enforcement organisations.
A statement personally signed by the defence chief called on troops deployed across all theaters of operation to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic, and courageous in their service to our great nation.
“I call upon our troops deployed across all theaters of operation to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic, and courageous in their service to our great nation.
“Your sacrifices and unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria are deeply appreciated. We recognize the sacrifices you make, sometimes at great personal cost, to ensure the peace and security of our nation”, he said.
“I take this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians to extend their love and support to our Armed Forces and to remember in their prayers our fallen comrades.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria belong to all Nigerians, and our collective determination to address the challenges of insecurity is crucial for our national development”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, declared that securing the nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, remained a duty the armed forces was bound to perform and service “we must render to our fatherland”.
“For our colleagues who, due to operational commitments, are unable to join their family members and loved ones to celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitr, be assured that the Nation appreciates your sacrifice and service and I salute your sense of duty and dedication. “Securing our beloved nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, is a duty we are constitutionally bound to perform and service we must render to our fatherland.
“I hope you continue to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan and espouse the acts of charity, kindness, and patience, among other virtues emphasised during the fasting season”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, ordered tight security nationwide as Muslims across the country.
He said the directive was in the bid to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
“The IGP reaffirms ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety nationwide as Commissioners of Police (CPs) and tactical commanders across all states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), were tasked to intensify security measures in anticipation of the Eid-el-Fitr festivities”, he said in a statement.
Similarly, the IG directed supervisory AIGs and their respective CPs to ensure the thorough deployment of officers and resources to critical locations, particularly Eid prayer grounds and recreational centers, in order to instill confidence among citizens and fun seekers alike.
“Furthermore, the IGP has charged officers and men of the Force to conduct comprehensive assessments of areas prone to threats, implement rigorous stop-and-search procedures, conduct raids on identified black spots, and employ other anti-crime strategies aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring public safety throughout the country.
“While emphasing the importance of professionalism, the IGP has cautioned deployed personnel to remain vigilant and respect citizens’ fundamental rights as they fulfill their duties with utmost decorum and alertness”, it said.
The DSS statement reads: “The Department of State Services (DSS) wishes to celebrate the Eid-El-Fitr festival with the Muslim Ummah. It heartily congratulates them on the peaceful completion of the Ramadan, which is a period of fasting, prayer and reflection for the Muslim faithful worldwide. While joining them to thank Allah for the opportunity to complete this auspicious obligation, the Service shares with them, the core values of the festival which include love, mercy and compassion.
“These morals resonate deeply with the ideals of peace, harmony and generosity that are fundamental to our country’s collective good. As this joyous occasion is being commemorated, the Service urges everyone to celebrate responsibly, exemplify the true essence of the event and strive for common humanity based on harmonious coexistence, good conscience and neighbourliness.
“The DSS admonishes citizens to carry forward the spirit of charity, empathy and unity beyond the festivities and abstain from any acts that are capable of undermining these principles.
“Similarly, everyone is advised to be security conscious as well as report suspicious activities to security and law enforcement organisations. On its part, the Service will sustain collaboration with sister security agencies and indeed other stakeholders to ensure hitch free celebrations.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has said that the anti-graft agency recovered N30 billion in the case involving former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu.

Edu was suspended following the approval of N650 million into a private account.

Following the development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ordered an investigation into the allegations and subsequently suspended her from office.

She was later invited for questioning by the EFCC and detained. She was later released on bail.

She had also denied any wrong doing.

The agency was also investigating Betta Edu’s predecessor in office, Sadiya Umar-Farouk over N37.1 billion fraud as well  Ms Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme, an agency under the humanitarian ministry, over alleged financial misappropriation.

Shehu was arrested and questioned by the EFCC in connection with the movement of N44 billion  from the NSIPA account to some suspicious private and corporate accounts within the last four days in December 2023.

But speaking in an interview with “EFCC Alert”, a publication of the agency, the EFCC boss said N30 billion have so far been recovered since the commencement of investigation into the alleged  fraud case involving the suspended minister.

He said the recovered funds were already in the coffers of the federal government.

“Moreover, with respect to this particular case,  we have recovered over N30 billion, which is already in the coffers of the federal government”, he said.

“We have laws and regulations guiding our  investigations. Nigerians will also know that they are already on suspension and this is based on the investigations we have done, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has proved to Nigerians that he is ready to fight  corruption.

“It takes time to conclude investigations. We started this matter less than six weeks ago.

“There are cases that take years to investigate. There are so many angles to it and we need to follow through some of the discoveries that we have seen”, he said.

He said the agency was investigating 50 bank accounts where stashed funds were traced.

“Nigerians should give us time on this matter; we have professionals on this case and they need to do things right. There are so many leads here and there.

“As it is now, we are investigating over 50 bank accounts that we have traced money into. That is no child’s play. That’s a big deal”, he said.

Olukoyede said recent high profile investigation conducted by the agency was proof of its commitment to contain graft in the country.

“Then you ask about my staff strength. And again, we have thousands of other cases that we are working on. Nigerians have seen the impact of what we have done so far, by way of some people being placed on suspension and by way of the recoveries that we have made. You have seen that the programme itself has been suspended.

“We are exploring so many discoveries that we have stumbled upon in our investigation. If it is about seeing people in jail, well let them wait, everything has a process to follow.

“So Nigerians should wait and give us the benefit of the doubt”, he said.

Olukoyede also called  for a united front in the fight against graft.

“Nobody can fight the corruption war alone. So, we want Nigerians to believe in our capacity to fight this battle. We must also come together and agree that corruption is bad, and so when we are

prosecuting corrupt persons, Nigerians should believe in it.

“We expect Nigerians to also appeal  to their conscience, because the negative impact of corruption is all over for all to see”, he said.

He further stated that “we must  agree that what is wrong is wrong. I also appeal to other stakeholders – the National Assembly, the Judiciary to support us in this mission.

“Every Nigerian must be a corruption fighter. When you see something wrong, say something. Challenge corrupt politicians in your locality. Take them up.

Take your governors up on the allocations they receive and make them accountable. By so doing you will be supporting the fight against corruption”, he said.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have commenced investigation of Idris Okuneye, a.k.a Bobrisky, for allegedly spraying naira notes, Spokesman of the commission, Dele Oyewale, said in a statement issued by the commission in Abuja.
The statement said the anti-graft agency had invited the 31-year old following a video report of spraying and flaunting wads of new naira notes at the premiere of a movie, Ajakaju, produced by Eniola Ajao, a Nollywood actress and producer, at Film One Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos on March 24, 2024.
“Investigation also revealed that he had also committed the alleged offence at some other event centres and parties at different times”, it said.
Following the invitation by the commission, he arrived at the Lagos Zonal Command of the EFCC in the morning of Wednesday, April 4, 2024 for interrogation and volunteered his statements.
He will soon be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, the statement further said.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking Initiative (NACAT) yesterday called on the National Assembly and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to expedite the probe of officials of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Defence College (NDC) the  Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), among others, following its petitions against the officials before the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions.

At a media briefing in Abuja jointly addressed by  the Executive Director, Investigation, Tega Oghenedoro,  Operations Manager, Stanley Ugagbe, the group said the officials were allegedly involved in gross abuse of public office, among other infractions.

“We have intercepted several financial infractions committed by persons in public office. These infractions include money laundering, massive corruption, gross abuse of public office, owning and running private companies while in office and false assets declarations contrary to provision of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” it said.

The group further noted the trio of  Solicitor General of Nigeria, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba; the Commandant, National Defence College and Mr Olumuyiwa Olotu; Director of Procurement, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr Alex Enebeli, were found wanting in the area of owning and running private companies while in office.

“All petitions have submitted to the committee. We have also been briefed that the parties indicted have been invited. We urge the committee to remain steadfast in its duties to address the issues as stated.

“While we trust in the mettle and capacity of the NASS Committee, we also wish to draw the attention of the presidency to these infractions as well as the Nigerian public,”it said.

•Troops decimate five bandits, foil kidnapĚý

•Recover cache of arms, ammunition in Taraba

•Terrorists abducts 30 children in Katsina community, police rescue 28Ěý

•Joint operatives neutralise 18 bandits in Plateau

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja, Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

The Nigerian Army Headquarters, yesterday, said no casualty was recorded during the explosion that occurred at the  Ikeja Cantonment.

A statement by the Spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the explosion was triggered by the  burning of refuse and other inflammable debris by a farmer, who cultivated the farmland.

This came as troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army killed five insurgents, foiled kidnapping attempt and recovered substantial cache of arms and ammunition in Taraba State.

Unfortunately, no fewer than 30 young girls have been abducted by gunmen suspected to be terrorists in Kasai community in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

But the Katsina State Police command has announced the rescue of 28 out of the 30 children abducted by the terrorists in the community.

However, the statement by the army stated that the situation was under control as the Nigerian Army Engineers Explosive  Disposal (EOD) team were in the area of the farmland to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.

“This is to notify the general public that today Monday 1 April 2024, a minor explosion occurred within the Nigerian Army (NA) Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos. The incident occurred on a farmland near the Mammy Market within the cantonment.

“The explosion is suspected to have been triggered by the  burning of refuse and other inflammable debris by a farmer, who cultivated the farmland.

“Fortunately, no casualty was recorded in the incident. However, given that the cantonment was recently cleared and certified free of unexploded ordnances, we understand that there could be concerns among the general public as a result of the historical antecedent of explosion within the cantonment.

“The Nigerian Army, therefore, wishes to assure the public that the situation is under control as the Nigerian Army Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team has cordoned off the area of the farmland to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.

“We urge residents in the general area not to panic and assure them of their safety,” it said.

Meanwhile, troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army killed five insurgents, foiled kidnapping attempt and recovered substantial cache of arms and ammunition in Taraba State.

“In a significant operation aimed at maintaining peace and security in Taraba State,  troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army killed five violent extremists, foiled kidnapping attempts and recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition,” it said.

A separate army statement stated that the troops while acting on actionable intelligence on the plan of the extremists to kidnap some church members returning from church programme in Wukari along Tor-Tse and Takum Road acted decisively.

“Troops of 93 Battalion deployed in Wukari swiftly swung into action and tactically laid in wait for the violent extremists and the insurgents in the early hours of today April 2, 2024.

“The troops made contact with the extremist and engaged them in a fierce fun battle  leading to the killing of four extremists and recovery of two AK 47 Rifles, one pump action rifle and two AK 47 magazines,” it said.

Similarly, on March 27, 2024, troops while on patrol around Chanchanji Ward of Takum Local Government Area came in contact with suspected violent extremists.

“Troops responded with superior firepower leading to the killing of one extremist and recovery of one  locally fabricated FN pistol, two rounds of 9mm ammunition and one mobile phone belonging to the criminal,” it said.

Terrorists Abducts 30 Children in Katsina

No fewer than 30 young girls have been abducted by gunmen suspected to be terrorists in Kasai community in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

A resident of the community, Sani Mohammed, told ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ in a telephone interview, yesterday, that the hostages were kidnapped at a nearby farmland while searching for firewood for domestic use on Monday.

Mohammed whose son, Adamu, was among the abductees, said the victims were ambushed by the motorcycle-riding terrorists and whisked them away to an yet-to-be identified destination.

“Yesterday (Monday) our children numbering over 30 went to our nearby farms for their usual search of firewood for cooking but they were ambushed by bandits, who were crossing the community to their hideouts.

“They (bandits) kidnapped 30 children that went to the bush in search of the firewood. We had the voices of our children screaming for help so we mobilised and went there but the bandits overpowered us.”

He explained that efforts by members of the community in collaboration with vigilantes to rescue the abducted children from their abductors were futile because the hoodlums shot sporadically in the air to scare them.

Mohammed said the hooligans marched the hostages pulled from different farmlands into their enclaves because security forces did not arrive at the scene until several hours later despite distress calls to police and Nigerian Army.

He added that Kasai was once a bustling agrarian community but now sparsely populated and roads and farmlands were often avoided because of rampant kidnappings and killings by the criminals.

But the state Police command, has announced that it already rescued 28 out of the 30 children abducted by the terrorists in the community.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, in a statement, said the victims were rescued unhurt by operatives of the command deployed to the scene of the incident by the state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa.

“On the 1st of April, 2024, at about 1030 hrs, about 28 girls, who went to the outskirts of Kasai village, Batsari LGA, Katsina State, with intent to fetch firewood, were abducted by kidnappers.

“Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Police Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, psc+, swiftly deployed operatives to the scene, tasked with the unhurt rescue of the victims.

“The abductors, following the escalation of pressure and the concerted actions of the command in collaboration with all relevant security stakeholders in the state, ultimately released all the victims on the same day at about 2240hrs.”

Plateau: Joint Operatives Neutralise 18 Bandits

No fewer than 18 bandits were Monday reportedly killed and many guns recovered when security  operatives and vigilantes raided Zurak campani of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

According to sources from the area, the bandits were killed alongside their informants and some traditional rulers, whom the community felt had betrayed them.

This came two weeks after bandits attacked a market in the same Zurak Campani, where they had killed seven.

A youth leader in Wase, Shapi’i Sambo, confirmed the incident, stating that the criminals were killed in a combined operation involving security  operatives and Vigilantes, who tracked the bandits to their hideout.

He explained that the bandits were attacked while holding a meeting there.

“The incident occurred around 11 am while they were holding a  meeting in the area. It was a coordinated effort by security  operatives and  vigilantes from Wase and neighboring communities of Taraba State,” he said.

Another youth leader in the Wase,  Abdullahi Usman, who also confirmed the incident, said, “The bandits gathered in one place when suddenly, the security personnel and the vigilantes stormed the area.

“They had been targeted since after the recent attack on the market in the area. Based on credible information, they were confronted at one location. Their accomplices were also tracked down and killed.”

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Army Headquarters said Tuesday that casualty was recorded in a minor explosion that occurred in Ikeja Cantonment.
A statement issued by the Spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the explosion was triggered by the burning of refuse and other inflammable debris by a farmer who cultivated the farmland.
It said the situation was under control as the Nigerian Army Engineers Explosive Disposal (EOD) team were in the area of the farmland to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.
“This is to notify the general public that today Monday 1 April 2024, a minor explosion occurred within the Nigerian Army (NA) Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos. The incident occurred on a farmland near the Mammy Market within the Cantonment.
“The explosion is suspected to have been triggered by the burning of refuse and other inflammable debris by a farmer who cultivated the farmland”, it said.
“Fortunately, no casualty was recorded in the incident. However, given that the Cantonment was recently cleared and certified free of unexploded ordnances, we understand that there could be concerns among the general public as a result of the historical antecedent of explosion within the Cantonment.
“The Nigerian Army, therefore, wishes to assure the public that the situation is under control as the Nigerian Army Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team has cordoned off the area of the farmland to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.
“We urge residents in the general area not to panic and assure them of their safety”, it said.

•Reiterates loyalty to constitution, presidentĚý

•Says Easter allows for reflection on God’s abundant grace to nationĚý

•Troops vanquish 11 bandits in Zamfara, Katsina

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, yesterday, declared that the military establishment remained committed to defeating insurgents, armed bandits, and other non-state actors troubling the country.

Lagbaja reiterated the loyalty of the Nigerian Army to the country’s constitution and President Bola Tinubu.

His comments came as troops sustained the onslaught against armed bandits in Zamfara and Katsina states, killing 11 bandits.

Lagbaja, in his goodwill message at Easter, said the military was committed to routing non-state actors unsettling the country.

He stated, “The Nigerian Army remains committed, determined, and focused on ensuring the total defeat of insurgents, marauding bandits, and all other forms of external and internal aggressions disturbing the peace of the country.”

He said the Easter celebration “reminds us of the duties and sacrifices we must make towards God, humanity, and our beloved country.

“It also provides an opportunity to appreciate the love of God displayed through the sacrifices of our Lord Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind.”

Lagbaja said the welfare of military personnel remained his priority.

He said, “ln line with my command’s philosophy, to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities, I have ensured the implementation of quality training and equipping toward combating the myriads of security threats confronting the nation.

“Under my leadership, the Nigerian Army has continued to record tremendous successes in various operations at home and abroad. You all can attest to our achievements so far, especially in the ongoing Operation Hadin Kai in the North-east and other internal security operations nationwide.

“As we continue to push towards the final onslaught on the adversaries troubling our nation, I assure you that the welfare of officers and soldiers, including training and provision of the needed equipment, will always be prioritised to enable us to discharge our constitutional responsibilities effectively.”

Consoling the military on the recent death of their colleagues in Delta State, he urged them to remain committed to the discharge of their duties.

Lagbaja said, in a statement he personally signed, “While still grieving the recent unwarranted and gruesome murder of our colleagues in Okuama community of Delta State, which occurred on 14 March 2024, I urge you all to remain steadfast, diligent, and committed to the discharge of our constitutional responsibilities.

“I encourage you to continue to pray for the repose of the souls of our departed colleagues, who paid the supreme price for the noble cause of keeping our beloved country safe.

“I will continue to prioritise the welfare of our officers, soldiers, and families, including those of our departed colleagues.”

Meanwhile, troops sustained the onslaught against armed bandits in Zamfara and Katsina states killing 11 bandits.

A separate statement by Nigerian Army Headquarters said troops deployed for counterterrorism, counterinsurgency operations in Katsina and Zamfara states, in a series of coordinated operations, raided terrorists’ enclaves, resulting in the elimination of 11 terrorists.

The statement signed by army spokesman, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said, “In an operation in Zamfara State, on March 29, 2024,  troops successfully raided the den of a notorious terrorists’ kingpin, Hassan Yantagwaye, in Tsafe Local Government Area.

“Yantagwaye and his group have been responsible for kidnappings and acts of terrorism in some parts of North-west Nigeria.

“During the operation, troops overpowered the terrorists in an ensuing gun battle, neutralising three of them and recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition. Troops also destroyed the terrorists’ camps.”

The statement further said that in Katsina State, the troops, on March 30, 2024, engaged in a fierce gun battle with terrorists in Shawu Kuka, Shinda, Tafki, Gidan Surajo, and Citakushi in Kabai I and Kabai II within Faskari Local Government Area.

It said, “The troops neutralised eight terrorists and recovered three locally fabricated guns, military uniforms and a large quantity of stolen grains.”

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has announced the conferment of national honours on 18 members of the Nigerian Army who were killed in Delta State on March 14, 2024.
Speaking at the burial of the slain officers at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, Tinubu also announced the provision of housing facilities for the surviving family members and scholarships for all their children up to university level.
He also directed the payment of death benefits to the family members within 90 days.
The president also posthumously conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) on the Commanding Officer 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. A.H Ali; Maj S.D Shafa (N/13976); Maj D.E Obi (N/14395) and Capt U Zakari (N/16348).
The Commnder-in-Chief also conferred the honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on SSgt Yahaya Saidu (#3NA/36/2974); Cpl Yahaya Danbaba (1ONA/65/7274); Cpl Kabiru Bashir (11NA/66/9853); LCpl Bulus Haruna (16NA/TS/5844); LCpl Sola Opeyemi (17NA/760719); LCpl Bello Anas (17NA/76/290); LCpl Hamman Peter (NA/T82653); LCpl Ibrahim Abdullahi (18NA/77/1191); Pte Alhaji Isah (17NA/76/6079); Pte Clement Francis (19NA/78/0911); Pte Abubakar Ali (19NA/78/2162); Pte Ibrahim Adamu (19NA/78/6079) and Pte Adamu Ibrahim (21NA/80/4795).

More details later