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  • FEC approves N2 billion operational vehicles for NSCDC

    FEC approves N2 billion operational vehicles for NSCDC

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has allocated over N2 billion for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to purchase operational vehicles (NSCDC).

    Mr Rauf Aregbesola, the Minister of Interior, said this at the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s weekly FEC meeting.

    He stated that 27 Buffalo double cabin vans, 15 Toyota Hilux vans, and ten ambulance buses will be purchased.

    “Today, the Federal Executive Council approved a sum of N2, 024, 935, 000 only for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), also known as Civil Defence, to purchase 52 operational vehicles, broken down in this order as 27 Buffalo double cabin MT 2021 model, 15 Toyota Hilux 4 wheel drive, premium package 2020 model, and 10 Toyota Hiace ambulance buses, with full option, totaling 52 vehicles,” he said.

    Read Also:  Terrorists killed 40 Taraba residents and 6 soldiers, according to Senate

    He stated that the cars would be purchased to strengthen the NSCDC’s ability to battle crime and protect Nigerians’ lives and property.

    Minister of State for Power, Mr Jody Agba, also spoke, saying the council had authorised three contracts for the ministry to increase electricity supplies in several parts of the country.

  • Terrorists killed 40 Taraba residents and 6 soldiers, according to Senate

    Terrorists killed 40 Taraba residents and 6 soldiers, according to Senate

    Terrorists killed approximately forty people, including troops, in the southern portion of Taraba State, according to the Senate on Tuesday.
    Senator Emmanuel Bwacha raised a point of order, prompting the action (APC, Taraba South).

    During the Sallah break, Bwacha called the chamber’s attention to occurrences of banditry and terrorism in Southern Taraba.
    According to him, the terrorists arrived on motorcycles and slaughtered approximately 40 individuals, including soldiers who had been dispatched to protect the hamlet.
    The Senator expressed his condolences to military officials for the loss of their troops and officers in the line of duty.
    He urged the federal government to direct the appropriate agencies to give assistance items to the attack victims.
    Ahmad Lawan, the Senate President, urged Nigerians to support the military by providing the necessary motivation and information to help them combat insecurity.

    Read Also:  Navy Chief Calls for Comprehensive Database for Maritime Criminals

    “Let me also add that the military and our armed forces are trying their best,” Lawan said. “We have no choice but to help them in every manner we can.”
    We have been providing monies for our armed forces in the Senate and National Assembly, and I believe that this administration has provided them with more resources than any prior one to combat the different forms and repercussions of instability in the country.
    As a result, we will continue to provide such assistance. I also want to encourage all Nigerians to continue to support our armed forces because they are doing so much despite the fact that we do not have adequate resources to support them. However, I believe that citizen support for the military will energise and motivate them.”
    Following that, the Senate conducted a minute of silence for all those killed in Southern Taraba by terrorists.

  • Navy Chief Calls for Comprehensive Database for Maritime Criminals

    Navy Chief Calls for Comprehensive Database for Maritime Criminals

    Given the intensity and trans-national nature of marine crimes in the region, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), pushed for a database for maritime offenders, particularly pirates, yesterday.

    He believes that combating maritime crimes like as piraczzy, crude oil theft, and pipeline sabotage, among others, necessitates a more thorough record-keeping and data-gathering effort.

    Gambo explained that once criminals have been apprehended, convicted, and served their sentences, they typically relocate to neighbouring countries in the sub-region to continue their illegal operations, necessitating the creation of a complete database.

    The CNS gave a major presentation titled “Protecting Critical National Infrastructure: Tackling Maritime Crimes; Protecting Nigeria’s Ports” at the 10th SECUREX West Africa, an international security exhibition held in Lagos.

    “Despite the Nigerian Navy’s (NN) efforts to curb maritime crime, new difficulties continue to emerge as a result of criminals’ dynamic character,” he stated.

    “The severity and transnational character of maritime crimes in the region necessitates a more thorough record-keeping and data collection effort to identify perpetrators.”

    “Unfortunately, the lack of an effective database on known offenders has allowed perpetrators of marine crimes to go from one country to the next without being identified.”

    Read Also:  APC Has Caused Disunity in Nigeria, Atiku Laments

    “Some people who were convicted of marine crimes have continued their criminal operations in other nations undetected after their sentences were completed.”

    “There is a need to pay more attention to and address this gap within the West African sub-region.”

    ” Clearly, with better database and information sharing on people charged with marine crimes, it would be easier to monitor and catch them if they continued to commit crimes.

    “It is instructive to remark that, because events at sea are always influenced by events on land, it would be required to solve issues of unemployment, poverty, and illiteracy, lest dangers to critical infrastructure, particularly at sea, persist.”

    “Depending on where the naval forces are most effective, the threats may change in shape and structure.” This highlights the importance of developing a functional naval force in other GoG countries in order to establish a credible presence in our common maritime domain.”

    He added, however, that the navy has continued to enhance its procedures in terms of strategy, operational ideas, and doctrinal practises, as well as ensuring port facility safety through the Secured Anchorage Area initiative, which is run in partnership with the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA).

    Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy has detained 117 people and seized six vessels in the previous five weeks over alleged petroleum product theft, according to the CNS.

    The arrests and seizures, he added, were made by operatives assigned to Operation Dakatar Da Barawo (Stop the Thief), a resurgent campaign against crude oil thieves, unlicensed refiners, and pipeline saboteurs.

    Over 17,793,432 litres of crude oil, 5,490,670 litres of illegally processed AGO, and 129,000 litres of DPK, altogether valued at over N10.7 billion, were reportedly deactivated, 563 metal storage tanks crushed, and 341 dug out pits destroyed within the same period, according to him.

    “Nigeria’s maritime environment accounts for around 12% of the entire Gulf of Guinea,” Gambo added, emphasising the importance of the maritime industry to the country’s economic well-being. Over 85% of all trade with the rest of the globe is carried out by sea.

    “The country’s oil and gas reserves are estimated to be 36 trillion barrels and 182 trillion cubic feet, respectively, with a daily production capability of 2.4 million barrels and 8 billion cubic feet.

    “Additionally, oil corporations operate 5,779 wells, 9,717 kilometres of pipelines, 112 flow stations, 16 gas plants, and 126 offshore production platforms.”

    Read Also:  National Assembly and the HAJJ Savings Scheme

    “As a result, the maritime industry, together with associated infrastructure, plays an important role in Nigeria’s essential economic interests (albeit it is often overlooked), encompassing operations such as shipping, fishing, and resource exploitation, among others.”

    “The sector, which is known to house a variety of infrastructure, is critical to Nigeria’s survival, prosperity, and maintenance of her enviable place in the international community.

    “Any obstruction thereto, therefore, would have unfavourable ramifications for the nation’s economic existence and, by extension, the Gulf of Guinea.”

  • National Assembly and the HAJJ Savings Scheme

    National Assembly and the HAJJ Savings Scheme

    If every Muslim had their way, they would visit Mecca at least once in their lives to fulfil one of Islam’s five pillars, the spiritual duty of Hajj. But, of all the obligations imposed by Islam on Muslims, performing the hajj necessitates far more than just wishes. It necessitates a large sum of money, which only the wealthy can afford, and which the average Nigerian has been unable to raise unless relying on the state’s charity, wealthy family members, or relatives.

    The fact remains that hajj fares are relatively high, owing to global economic realities that have contributed to rising inflation. The fare was set at N1.5 million during the 2019 hajj activities, however it has now risen to N2.5 million in 2022. You can bet your bottom dollar that fares will skyrocket in the years ahead.

    Perhaps in recognition of these facts, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), whose statutory role is to organise and coordinate the transportation of persons from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia for the accomplishment of pilgrimage or Ummra, devised the Hajj Savings Scheme.

    With the scheme’s introduction in Kano in 2020, and its complete implementation in 2022 after presidential permission, intended pilgrims, particularly from states, will no longer have to struggle to pay immediate money, but will be able to work and save gradually in order to travel to Mecca.

    Because it provides long-awaited relief, the programme has received widespread support, as seen by the positive interest and contributions made by some prospective pilgrims in various states to the JAIZ Bank, which became the scheme’s joint promoter.

    In fact, as of March 2022, the scheme had over 4,000 enrollees, all of whom have had their accounts regularly credited with the proceeds that accrued in just one year, whereas those who had their initial deposits for the 2020 and 2021 Hajj with the State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards (SPWPBs), which had been adamant against NAHCON’s directives and existing laws to remit their savings to JAIZ bank, have yet to make such profit. Enrollees are more optimistic about performing hajj than they have been since the scheme began.

    However, this heartwarming tale of support and encouragement for regular Nigerian Muslims preparing to perform the hajj may be cut short shortly. Last Monday, the Senate passed a bill sponsored by Senator Ibrahim Danbaba (Sokoto South) calling for the suspension of the plan and the probable deposit of its savings in the Central Bank of Nigeria on second reading (CBN). Previously, the House of Representatives had taken similar action in response to a motion by Katsina State legislator Aminu Ashiru-Mani, who claimed without evidence that NAHCON’s recent directives to state pilgrims’ welfare boards, agencies, and commissions to migrate Hajj deposits made by intending pilgrims to the Hajj Savings Scheme platform with Jaiz Bank could allow for corruption and lack of accountability in the scheme.

    Read Also:  Osinbajo: New Nigeria Impossible without National Reawakening

    If these actions by the national assembly surprised you, you are not alone, especially when you consider the wonderful work that NAHCON has been doing to protect intending Muslim pilgrims from financial pressures to perform hajj, as well as the national economy from the colossal sums that the government sinks into the sponsorship of hajj for political patronage every year.

    You’d think that the facts deriving from the legislators’ likely examination of NAHCON and JAIZ bank’s books and records, and the revelation of clear indisputable evidence of mismanagement and embezzlement, would have influenced their actions. But actually, there is no such evidence; rather, what we read was only a warning of probable corruption “if the development (of enabling accounts of intended pilgrims or subscribers in the bank) is not addressed.”

    As a result, the following questions arise: how does JAIZ bank’s management of the intending pilgrims’ account lead to potential corruption? Are there any serious complaints from scheme members about their money being lost? What do intending pilgrims stand to gain if the scheme is suspended or the contributions of subscribers are transferred to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), especially given the fact that they will not be able to receive halal alerts (interest-free) of profits from the bank, nor will they be able to grow their accounts to the point where they are financially stable enough to embark on this journey? Will aspiring pilgrims/subscribers be able to use their usual log-in credentials to check on their accounts?

    When an organisation comes up with a good idea to help some struggling people strengthen their religion and you have no gratitude to offer, I believe the least you can do is remain silent. But this is Nigeria, where monetary motives, not philanthropic zeal, often drive some public initiatives.

    Concerned stakeholders must now take a firm stance against this pointless legislative adventure before it is too late, because if the national assembly gets its way, it will put an end to the dreams of many of the poor and struggling subscribers who have seen this scheme as a godsend, a scheme that is supposed to create a robust and healthy economy around Hajj anyway.

    The fact that the Council of Imams and Ulama has already expressed reservations about the National Assembly’s handling of this subject is telling. In a recent statement, the ulamas led by Shaykh Ibrahim Nakaka, Chairman of the Council, and Dr Yusuf Yakubu Arrigasiyyu, Secretary-General of the Council, expressed concern that the scheme, which was modelled after the Malaysian Tabung Hajj and had become a reference point for the country’s national economy, was about to be shut down.

    The Independent Hajj Reporters, a Civil Society Organization (CSO), has also urged the National Assembly to halt its efforts to amend the NAHCON Act, while also questioning whether lawmakers’ unusually sudden interest in the Hajj savings scheme will endanger Nigerians planning to perform the hajj in 2022.

    Read Also:  APC Has Caused Disunity in Nigeria, Atiku Laments

    Other stakeholders must raise the alarm now. Pressures must be applied to this assembly to persuade them to leave this scheme alone, because there are currently no clear, convincing facts to support their misguided actions, other than the fact that the current crop of legislators is purposefully undermining the scheme, either out of malice or ignorance of its background, philosophy, goals, and even operations. It would also not be incorrect to attribute excessive influence on the assembly to the SMPWBs, whose body language demonstrates their opposition to the scheme’s full adoption due to their unfounded fears that it will render them ineffectual.

  • APC Has Caused Disunity in Nigeria, Atiku Laments

    APC Has Caused Disunity in Nigeria, Atiku Laments

    Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President and presidential aspirant on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of inciting violence in the country.

    The American People’s Party (APC) has been accused of sowing discord among the country’s many groups.

    If elected president in 2023, Atiku promised to bring Nigerians together, describing the country’s apparent divisiveness as unprecedented.

    Read Also:  President Buhari will attend UN Conference on Desertification

    Last Sunday night, while engaging with PDP delegates from the state at the PDP state secretariat in Akure, Ondo State, the former VP revealed this.

    “The APC government has created a level of divisiveness in this country that I have never seen before,” he remarked. If elected, I will bring all of America together.”

    “The entire country has been screwed up by the current administration, including all areas of the socio-economic economy,” Atiku says, “and it requires a person who is experienced and nationally accepted to turn around the country’s bad status.”

    Unity, insecurity, the economy, education, and restructuring are among the five areas where the PDP presidential candidate said he will work if elected.

    Read Also: Osinbajo: New Nigeria Impossible without National Reawakening

    “I believe in a minimal federal government with states having more power.

    “We need to elect someone who has national acceptance and experience.” “We deserve the best for this country,” Atiku continued.

  • Osinbajo: New Nigeria Impossible without National Reawakening

    Osinbajo: New Nigeria Impossible without National Reawakening

    Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, the Vice President, said Wednesday that building a new Nigeria requires an active reawakening of public consciousness and trust in the youthful demography to lead the country.

    “The church plays a key role in moulding the country’s narrative,” he remarked. Faith is not apolitical since it is concerned with the overall wellbeing of the people.

    He spoke at the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement’s (Surulere District) second national symposium, headlined “The State, the Society, and the Church,” held at the church auditorium along Oshodi-Apapa road in Lagos.

    The symposium was attended by Mr. Babatunde Fashola, Minister of Works and Housing; Air Marshall Isiaka Amao, Chief of Air Staff; and Dr. Sunday Funsho, General Leader, Cherubim and Seraphim (Ayo Ni O).

    At the symposium yesterday, Osinbajo said that “the need to regain our sense of private and public values” lies at the heart of our continual struggle to align Nigeria’s and Nigerians’ potential with their lived realities.

    “Without an aggressive reawakening of our public consciousness; without a sense of collective values rooted in the very principles our faiths espouse, principles of honesty and hard work, mutual respect, cooperation, tolerance, and fidelity to the common good, the Nigeria of our dreams cannot be realised.”

    “I have an unshakable faith in the capacity of Nigerians to construct a country we can all be proud of,” the vice president stated as a pastor who has spent over two decades in public service.

    Read Also:  Lawan: National Assembly will not clash with Buhari

    “Like most of us, I’ve witnessed firsthand what Nigerians can achieve with the correct environment and assistance. The Nigerian people, particularly today’s youth, who are defying all barriers to claim their rightful place in the sun, are a beacon of hope for a new Nigeria.

    “We must rise up to meet them with the principles necessary to establish a sustainable future and motivate them to fulfil the moral necessity of doing good and honest work to the best of their abilities as a service to humanity and God.”

    He quoted Proverb 23:18 to say that “there is hope and a future for Nigeria.” People’s voices must rise in fervency of hope like never before in our country’s history.

    “When we do not live up to the standards of our office, we have a duty and a command from God Himself to question the moral conscience of leadership.” People’s ears and hearts are in our hands.

    “Through our own magnificent example, we must urge them to look to the future with optimism, and to find that hope in their God-given gifts, the strength of their character, the enduring value of honest work, and a patriotic dedication to Nigeria’s general well-being.”

    People of religion who comprehend the linkages between the state, society, and the church, Osinbajo added, have always been crucial to the overall state of affairs.

    “Even in a democracy like ours, where the church has no direct control over state levers, its power has never been questioned.”

    “First, its unique moral posture and power enable it to act as a moral arbiter between the people and their governments, inspiring all members of society to carry out their duties and commitments to one another with integrity and competence.

    “Secondly, the church possesses a subtle but tremendous political value, which politicians realise and have always courted, due to its proximity and direct effect on the people.”

    “The church may be a force for good by exercising its influence with integrity and a clear conscience.” This has happened all throughout the world and over time,” the vice president remarked.

    Fashola said the federation might improve by following China’s lead, which survived humiliation to become the world’s top industrial hub.

    “The truth is that our current infrastructure demands have outpaced our growth. When the Apapa-Oworonshoki freeway was built in 1975, I was 12 years old. Has it been expanded since 1975?

    “The Murtala Mohammed Airport was built at that period to handle around four million passengers a year, but it today handles nearly quadruple that.” Have we gone through that? Is it merely to make things better if we’re worried now? How far that goes is up for argument, as is the issue of choice and resources.”

    According to Amao, the church has a significant influence in society and the current socio-economic difficulties confronting the country, such as insecurity.

    He added that this circumstance necessitated a whole-of-society approach, implying that the church plays an important part in the creation of the new Nigeria.

    “These obstacles prevent the nation from achieving “unity and faith, peace and progress.” We are aware, however, that the vast majority of Nigerians are progressive, resilient, and peace-loving individuals.

    Read Also:  President Buhari will attend UN Conference on Desertification

    “As a result, more than ever before, the Church, Society, and the State must work together to realise the new Nigeria that we all desire.”

    “The Nigerian Air Force has acquired many combat aircraft and equipment to help surface troops in asymmetric warfare as well as locate and neutralise state foes, particularly in difficult environments.”

  • President Buhari will attend UN Conference on Desertification

    President Buhari will attend UN Conference on Desertification

    President Muhammadu Buhari will leave for Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, today, Sunday, May 8, 2022, to attend a United Nations-sponsored conference on the future of land, including desertification, drought, degradation, rights, restoration, and consequences for national and international economies.

    President Buhari joins international leaders at the Sofitel Hotel in Paris for the 15th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), with the subject “Land. Life. Legacy: From Scarcity to Prosperity.”

    The convention’s goal is to take action to guarantee that land, the planet’s lifeline, benefits current and future generations.

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    COP15 will bring together leaders from governments, the corporate sector, civil society, and other important stakeholders from around the world to push progress in the future of sustainable management of one of the most valuable assets, land, to accomplish the aspirational goal of land restoration and balance.

    The high-level section of the conference, which includes a Heads of States Summit, high-level roundtables, and interactive conversation sessions, will look into the connections between land and other major development concerns.

    The United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP 15) comes at a critical juncture in the struggle against desertification, land degradation, and drought. When a result, as the world enters the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, it will build on the findings of the second edition of the Global Land Outlook and provide a concrete solution to the interconnected concerns of land degradation, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

    Drought, land restoration, and associated enablers such as land rights, gender equality, and youth empowerment are among the conference’s major priorities.

    President Buhari will be accompanied on the trip by Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed Abdullahi, Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mahmoud Mohammed, and Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman H. Adamu, who is also the President of the Great Green Wall of Africa.

    Read Also:  Lawan: National Assembly will not clash with Buhari

    The National Security Adviser, ret. Maj. Gen. Mohammed Monguno, the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, are also on the President’s delegation to Abidjan.

  • Buhari says Kanu’s release will be decided by court

    Buhari says Kanu’s release will be decided by court

    President Muhammadu Buhari has told those calling for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), that Kanu’s release will be decided by a court of competent jurisdiction.

    He said this in Abakaliki during a two-day working visit to Ebonyi State to commission projects overseen by Governor David Umahi, during which he met with South-East leaders who demanded, among other things, Kanu’s release.

    In response, President Buhari stated that the case of Nnamdi Kanu will be decided by the courts, while also lamenting the zone’s growing insecurity.

    Read Also:  As Osinbajo, Bakare, Amosun pick nomination forms, INEC extends the primary deadline to June 3

    He reiterated that anyone other than security agents seen carrying an Ak-47 should be treated as a criminal, and vowed that terrorism and banditry must be eradicated for peace to reign.

    He denounced the recent killing of two soldiers, calling it “wicked” and “barbaric.”

    “I must express my deep concern about the deteriorating state of security affairs in the southeast,” he continued. “I was informed of the latest brutal assault by a gang of terrorists who prey on innocent and hardworking citizens in the last 48 hours,” he said.

  • As Osinbajo, Bakare, Amosun pick nomination forms, INEC extends the primary deadline to June 3

    As Osinbajo, Bakare, Amosun pick nomination forms, INEC extends the primary deadline to June 3

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) warned political parties yesterday that the June 3 deadline for naming candidates for the 2023 elections is still in place chevalier.

    The warning came after reports that the commission was being pressured to extend the primary deadline by several weeks.

    Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman (Information and Voter Education), reminded political parties that their primaries must be completed within one month of today (Thursday).

    According to him, the commission has received notices from all 18 political parties outlining the dates of their conventions, congresses, and primaries.

    This is in accordance with Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, according to Okoye.

    Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of Citadel Global Community Church in Nigeria, obtained the ruling All Progressives Congress’s Presidential Expression of Interest and Nomination forms (APC).

    On Monday, May 9, 2022, Bakare will make his formal presidential declaration at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja’s Central Business District.

    During the 2011 elections, he ran for Vice President against President Muhammadu Buhari as part of the Congress for Progressive Change. He is also the group’s Convener.

    “Having had the privilege of serving Nigeria in various nation-building capacities, I intend to take a step further in the service of our beloved country and of you, her worthy citizen,” he said in a statement.

    Senator Kabiru Gaya, who spoke on behalf of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, expressed confidence that his principal would win the primary election.

    He said the APC platform resonates with democratic tenets, and he welcomed a large number of aspirants to it.

    “Democracy is a numbers game,” he explained. Every contestant has met the minimum requirements. Everyone is eligible to compete. However, what we’re saying is that we should look down the line to see who has the best material. I’m confident that if we put them all together, they’ll vote for Osinbajo.”

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    “It is left to the party,” he said when asked about his preference for how the party chooses its candidate. If the candidates say this is what they want, I believe it will be a direct primary, with delegates coming to Abuja to vote for a candidate; an indirect primary, on the other hand, may be more bogus and take longer.

    “I believe we will do whatever the party and the candidates agree on.” The Electoral Act is extremely straightforward. It mentions consensus, as well as direct primary and indirect primary. That is fair even when everyone agrees.

    “When we got to the national chairman’s primary, we only had a small portion of that.” Everyone agreed. All candidates signed a letter expressing their support for Abdullahi Adamu, the national chairman. So, by God’s grace, we simply hope something like that happens.”

    Senator Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun Central Senatorial District also entered the presidential race yesterday, promising Nigerians better security.

    In Abuja, he announced his intention to run for president of the APC.

    “I am officially announcing my candidacy for the presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the presidential ticket of our great party, the APC.”

    “I do so, aware of the magnitude of the tasks that lie ahead in our country and the sacrifices that anyone who wishes to lead our country into the next phase must make,” he said.

    He pledged to build on Buhari’s security achievements.

    “In order to accomplish this, I will make human security the fundamental principle and ultimate goal of national security.” “Putting human security first and foremost as a direct principle of state policy would imply that national security and economic development would be the two dominant goals of my leadership,” he explained.

    He went on to say that he had spent the previous few months speaking with experts about Nigeria’s security challenges and how they could be addressed more effectively.

    Meanwhile, the APC North-South Patriotic Coalition (ANSPAC) has warned the ruling party not to run former President Goodluck Jonathan for president in 2023.

    The group, led by Mr. Toyin Rahim, marched peacefully to the party’s secretariat in Abuja, claiming that if the APC chooses Jonathan, it risks losing the election.

    The group expressed concern about rumours that some powerful APC figures were courting the former president to join the party and run on its platform.

    Read Also:  2023: Presidential Aspirant Drags PDP To Court Over N40m Forms

    “One of the most telling negative consequences of such an action is that the APC lacks anyone of electoral value who can win the election for us unless we smuggle in a former president we defeated seven years ago for his glaring incompetence as president,” it said.

    “There are presidential aspirants in the APC today who have a credible pedigree as well as enormous electoral value and capacity.” Smuggling Jonathan into our great party is not only unnecessary; it is also self-incriminating, implying that our party’s performance in office has been worse than that of an administration that Nigerians overwhelmingly rejected in 2015, when they voted APC.

  • More worries for telecoms subscribers as FG proposes 5% duty on recharge cards

    More worries for telecoms subscribers as FG proposes 5% duty on recharge cards

    While Nigerians are still adjusting to telecoms operators’ planned 40% hike in tariffs, it appears that more pain is on the way in the coming days, as the Federal Government has approved the collection of a 5% excise duty on telephone recharge cards and vouchers, according to the report.

    The directive was reportedly given by President Muhammadu Buhari.

    In a letter to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) claimed that economic challenges, rising energy costs, and the Russia/Ukraine war, among other things, forced them to raise call, SMS, and data rates.

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    The price floor for calls will rise from N6.4 to N8.95 under ALTON’s proposal, while the price cap for SMS will rise from N4 to N5.61.

    According to TheCable, the 5% charge is part of a new list of goods subject to excise duty included in the country’s Finance Act.

    Excise duty is a tax levied at the point of production. It’s also a type of indirect tax imposed on the sale or consumption of certain goods, products, services, or activities, such as tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, gambling, and so on, with the goal of discouraging their use and consumption. The list has been expanded by Nigeria’s Finance Act to include beverages and non-alcoholic beverages, among other things.

    According to the report, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, issued a circular instructing Nigerian Customs to create a tariff line for the collection of excise on mobile phones, electricity metres (components), and set-up boxes at 5%.

    The duty is expected to generate at least N150 billion for the federal government, with customs pocketing around N10 billion as a 7% collection fee.

    The circular is in line with customs’ other list of excisable items, which includes 5% excisable telephone recharge cards and vouchers.

    The collection was also said to be one of the new items included in President Buhari’s 2020 Finance Act. Despite the absence of a rate, it is clear that the President may have approved the collection of the duty at 5%, as the Act allows.

    According to Kehinde Aluko, a telecoms expert, determining telecoms tariffs is not something that can be done on the spur of the moment; it requires procedures. “Consultants will be contacted, and the process could take a year to complete.” That rigour was applied to the tariff they are currently using. So, even if their request is granted, it will be subjected to a lengthy process that will not allow for immediate implementation.”

    Read Also:  2023: INEC Insists On June 3 Deadline For Party Primaries

    “As difficult as the country’s challenges are, I believe telcos will be able to cope. They continue to report massive profits. Instead of raising tariffs, I believe they should investigate other avenues for generating additional revenue.”

    When contacted by NCC for confirmation, a senior official who requested anonymity said the commission could not confirm it, “but it is possible that such is in the pipeline.”

    “But I don’t know how far they’ve gone,” a senior ALTON official said. I’ll double-check everything and get back to you.”

  • Buhari’s visit: Broom sellers, others make brisk business in Ebonyi

    Buhari’s visit: Broom sellers, others make brisk business in Ebonyi

    Traders, particularly broom sellers, in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital, said Thursday that business was brisk following President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to the state.
    Buhari is in the state for a two-day working visit to inaugurate some of the state governor’s projects.

    The president will be in town for two days, from May 5 to 6.
    The Ecumenical Centre, Sparido Tunnel, Shopping Mall, and International Market are among the projects set to open.

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    Price increases in broom and foods were discovered during a visit to some markets and streets in the state.

    Some of the traders who spoke to the media on Thursday said the visit was a positive step forward for the state and their businesses.
    Brooms were sold for N300 a bunch before the visit, according to Joy Onu, a seller at the International Market Abakaliki local government area.

  • Iftar: Buhari’s meeting with Tinubu, Adamu, and others emerge

    Iftar: Buhari’s meeting with Tinubu, Adamu, and others emerge

    On Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari urged all political parties in Nigeria to put elections and election-related differences aside and join his administration’s fight against insecurity.

    The President, speaking at an Iftar dinner in Abuja with members of the business community and political party leaders, described insecurity as the country’s “common enemy.”

    According to reports, Buhari will host the leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for an Iftar dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday evening.

    “We will take much longer to finish the successful war we are waging against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping if we do not have widespread public support for our hardworking Armed Forces.” For progress and prosperity to be entrenched, our country must be kept safe.

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    “I look forward to seeing this spirit reflected in the relationship between the parties and the government, particularly as election season approaches,” Buhari said.

    The President recalled that the All Progressives Congress (APCNational )’s Executive Committee (NEC) had a huge success at its meeting last week, concluding with a clear message that the party will continue to push for the creation of democratic principles at all levels.

    “Today, we can proudly say that we have a political system that allows political parties of all views and persuasions, reflecting our nation’s diversity, to coexist and compete for elections at all levels of government without fear of institutional bias and pressure,” he added.

    On the ease of doing business in Nigeria, Buhari told the dinner’s captains of industry and political leaders that his administration had done an outstanding job in improving the business climate, urging the private sector to support the government’s efforts to reduce poverty and create jobs for the youth.

    “No administration has done as much as we have in creating a climate that is best suited for business, large and small, to thrive,” he said.

    “According to the globally recognised ease of doing business index, the ease with which business is conducted in the country has never been better than it is today.” We’ll keep working to improve it.

    “We’ll continue to rely on private sector support to boost economic growth and create new job opportunities for our burgeoning population.”

    “Employment is critical to our country’s stability and prosperity. Working together, the government and the private sector have the potential to transform people’s lives in ways that were previously unimaginable.”

    Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, the APC’s National Chairman, urged political leaders to make firm commitments to ensure peaceful and successful general elections in 2023.

    As leaders, Adamu said, they must take responsibility for ensuring peace and stability, as well as inspiring party members and Nigerians to follow the laws of the land when it comes to electioneering and elections.

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    The Chairman of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) and Coordinator of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Engr. Yusuf Yabagi, who described the President as a true democrat, said the Iftar event and the President’s invitation have introduced “credibility, respect, and admiration in the polity.”

    “The fact that political leaders from various political parties are seated with you today speaks volumes about your commitment to the project of growing democracy in this country,” he said.

  • In Ogun, mortuary attendant arrested for selling the head of dead minor for N50,000

    In Ogun, mortuary attendant arrested for selling the head of dead minor for N50,000

    Kushimo Lukman, a man described as a mortuary attendant, was arrested in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, for allegedly chopping off the head of a deceased boy.

    After exhuming the body and chopping off the head, Kushimo Lukman was apprehended by men from the Ogun State Government’s security outfit, the So-Safe Corps, on Tuesday morning.

    After dying of kidney disease complications at the Federal Medical Centre in Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, the deceased was said to have been brought for burial.
    On Monday, his body was said to have been buried in front of his parents, only for Kushimo to return to the grave and cut off his head.

    “A renowned mortuary attendant working with MABOD at Oke-Yidi, Abule Oloni, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital,” according to the So-Safe Corps.

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    Lukman, who lives at 9, Abule Oloni, Oke Yidi, Abeokuta, was arrested by So-Safe Corps officers while on routine patrol, according to spokesman Moruf Yusuf.

    “After he had beheaded the corpse of a male minor at the Oke Yidi cemetery in Abeokuta,” Yusuf said, he was apprehended.

    “The beheaded corpse was brought to the cemetery from the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, after he died due to complications from a kidney disease,” he told journalists during questioning.
    “The parents of the boy, who came from Ibadan, sought his assistance as a mortuary attendant to get the body buried,” the suspect was quoted as saying. “He buried the boy’s body inside the cemetery, in the presence of his parents, at about 19:00hrs on Monday,” he added.

    The suspect, however, was said to have returned to the cemetery at 6 a.m. on Tuesday “to severe the head of the buried boy, and he was caught after a fierce fight with the So-Safe officers, who eventually overpowered him.”

    “A fresh head was requested by one Chief Ifalonishe (AKA Lanroye) at the rate of N50,000,” Yusuf said, adding that “it was supposed to be delivered to him at a designated point within Abeokuta.”

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    Meanwhile, Soji Ganzallo, the corps’ state commander, has directed the corps’ operations department to ensure that the accomplices, as well as his numerous clients, are apprehended and brought to justice.

    The suspect had been handed over to the Ogun State Police Command, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and possible prosecution, it was learned.

  • 2023: ‘You Bought N100m Forms But Can’t Pay Workers’, Nigerians Blast Yahaya Bello

    2023: ‘You Bought N100m Forms But Can’t Pay Workers’, Nigerians Blast Yahaya Bello

    Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State paid N100 million on Tuesday for the purchase of nomination forms to run for president in 2023 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Governor Bello was the first aspirant to officially buy the form, according to Yahaya Bello Presidential Campaign Council Director of Media and Publicity, Yemi Kolapo, who added that the Kogi governor “is not known for betrayal.”

    Nigerians have taken to social media since the announcement to express their displeasure with the Governor’s purchase of the N100 million naira presidential forms.

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    A Twitter user suggested that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) look into some politicians who could afford such a large sum to purchase forms while many Nigerians went hungry.

    “Aren’t all of these people supposed to be investigated by the EFCC?” Why aren’t you doing anything about it? Nigeria is for all of us; there’s no reason why one man can eat for a day while others can steal N100 million to buy form. @afolabi kolajo remarked, “THIS IS UNFAIR, HONESTLY NOT FAIR.”

    “If our EFCC is ready to tackle corruption, they should go after any candidate who buys the nomination form for 100m,” Ademola Adegoke, a Facebook user, added. At the very least, the individual should be able to explain how he obtained the 100m.”

    “Where did he see N100 million as governor to be able to purchase the form?” asked another Twitter user, @GodwinOdiko.

    @I Am Ilemona wondered how Bello, whose administration owed salaries and pensions, “found N100m to buy APC’s presidential forms” despite his administration owing salaries and pensions.

    Read Also:  In Imo, troops neutralise gunmen, recover weapons

    “Clearly, Nigeria’s political setting is a showroom of wickedness, corruption, and abuse of power and office, where the poor masses are quick-driven into believing politicians,” Kalu Idika said. You can’t pay salaries or provide social services, but you can buy the right to vote.”

    Eden “Someone who can’t pay his state’s civil servants?” Samuel wondered. Who was it that did this to us? Isn’t it possible for God to be merciful to us? I’m confident that God will have mercy on us and heal this land of evil politicians.”

  • Nigeria at 61: Buhari’s aide is under fire for urging Nigerians to celebrate their country’s “greatness.”

    Nigeria at 61: Buhari’s aide is under fire for urging Nigerians to celebrate their country’s “greatness.”

    Nigerians have slammed Bashir Ahmad, President Muhammadu Buhari’s Personal Assistant on Digital and New Media, for his Facebook post urging them to celebrate Nigeria’s greatness on Independence Day.

    The president’s media aide reminded Nigerians of the October 1st event tomorrow, Friday, on his verified Facebook page.

    “Tomorrow, October 1st, is Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary,” it says. Let us all rejoice in our beloved country’s greatness.”

    The post, however, did not go down well with angry Nigerians, who stormed the comment section to confront Bashir, reminding him of the country’s economic and security crisis under Buhari’s regime.

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    The following are some of the responses that have been compiled:

    Dauda B Abubakar: “Where is greatness when blood is being spilled all over the country?” When people are unable to access their farms? What happens when students are not safe in their schools? PMB’s six years of failure and incompetence have shattered that sense of greatness.”

    Abdul Malik: “What do we want to celebrate?” Is it the hunger or the constant killings/kidnappings”?

    “What are you celebrating?” asks Amb Reuben.

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    In Southern Kaduna, there are dead bodies everywhere. “What exactly are you celebrating?”

    Makari Gali: “Poverty, insecurity, corruption, an unstandardized economy, incompetent leadership, political rulers’ selfishness, spiritual looters, or what else?”

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    “Alhamdulillah for independence, but when it comes to enjoying Nigerian wealth, the masses have nothing to show as a benefit to their own country”!

    “We have no greatness to celebrate,” says Maryam Ibrahim. Come to Sabon Birni or Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto, and you will never want to celebrate any nonsense independence.”

  • LG Polls: Nasarawa requested technical assistance from the European Union

    LG Polls: Nasarawa requested technical assistance from the European Union

    Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC) has requested assistance from the European Union Support for Democracy and Good Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) in order to hold a local government election on October 6, 2021.

    Mr. Hamza Fassi-Fihri, the EU-Project SDGN’s Coordinator, stated this in Lafia, the state capital, during a one-day EU-SDGN training of NASIEC staff and journalists on election administration, conflict management, and media and communication in preparation for the state’s upcoming council elections.

    “EU-SDGN believes in improving local elections because they are the closest to citizens,” said the project coordinator. We are honored that NASIEC has requested our technical assistance in conducting these local elections, which are the most representative of citizens’ realities.

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    “At this level, elected officials must be accessible, as citizens have the first platforms of engagement with their representatives that will facilitate constructive dialogue. And they’ll work together to find immediate solutions to their constituents’ problems.

    “Most of our goals are to provide stakeholders with opportunities as professionals in order to ensure a smooth democracy of the electoral process.”

    The overall goal of the training, according to Fassi-Fihri, was to teach general concepts and considerations about best practices in election administration and institutional communication.

    “The presence of the media is also important because this meeting allows them to learn more about activities surrounding an electoral event, understand the processes, and be best informed on the electoral constraints and context of operations, particularly ahead of the local government elections,” he says.

    The NASIEC Chairman, Mr. Ayuba Wandai, said in his welcome address that the training was organized at his request to train stakeholders, including journalists, on election administration.

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    He thanked EU-SDGN for footing the bill for the training and urged all participants to put what they learned during the training into practice, as well as after the state’s upcoming council elections.

  • New attacks in Kaduna killed 42 people and injured many more

    New attacks in Kaduna killed 42 people and injured many more

    Yesterday, the killing spree in Kaduna State continued.

    Following the killing of 42 people in two communities, there was outrage.

    Gunmen killed 34 of them in Madamai, Kaura Local Government Area, and eight others in Kacecere, Zangon Kataf Council, in retaliation.

    Gunmen stormed the ECWA Church in Gabaciwa, Kachia Council, last Sunday, killing one worshipper during a service.

    The Madamai and Gabaciwa violence was confirmed by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwan.

    Governor Nasir El-Rufai, he said, had condemned the killings and ordered security agencies to step up their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.

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    Six people were rescued from four houses set on fire by the gunmen, who also injured many people in Madamai, according to the commissioner.

    According to him, two of the arsonists were apprehended by troops who engaged them in a gunfight.

    “As of the time of this update, 34 residents have been confirmed dead as a result of the attack,” Aruwan said.

    “Seven more people were injured and taken to a hospital in Plateau State.

    “Governor El-Rufai has stated that the Kaduna State Government will cover the entire cost of treating injured victims.

    “In addition, security agencies briefed Governor El-Rufai on the roles played by the Chief of Kagoro, Ufuwai Bonet, and the member representing Kaura Federal Constituency, Gideon Gwani, in calming the situation and preventing a breakdown in law and order following the unfortunate incident.

    “The Governor praised them for their hard work and excellent leadership.

    “He also directed the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency to conduct an immediate assessment of the area in order to provide assistance to the affected households.

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    “The governor was deeply moved by the reports and condemned the heinous attack, which he described as an unspeakable act of wickedness that deserved the harshest form of punishment.

    “He expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and communities and prayed for the repose of their souls.

    “He called for calm and urged security agencies to step up their efforts in the fight against the indiscriminate killing of civilians.

    “He also directed security agencies to conduct prompt and thorough investigations into the heinous incident.

    “At this time, two suspects in connection with the attack are being questioned.

    “Security agencies are operating in the general area, and the government will keep citizens informed.”

    The Kacecere attack, according to the commissioner, was a retaliation by the gunmen for the killings in Madamai and Jankasa in the Zangon Kataf council area.

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    “The Kaduna State Government received reports from security agencies of an attack by unknown persons in Kacecere village, Zangon Kataf Local Government, resulting in the deaths of some citizens,” Aruwan said.

    “According to reports, this attack was retaliation for earlier attacks in Jankasa, in which one Mr. Yakubu Danjuma was killed, and in Madamai, in which 34 people were killed.

    “According to security agencies, the attacks in these two locations prompted unidentified assailants to retaliate against the Kacecere community, resulting in eight deaths, six injuries, and the destruction of several homes.

    “Governor El-Rufai also expressed his sadness over the reports and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for their souls to rest in peace.

    “The governor urged communities to use the law as a last resort and to avoid retaliation and other forms of violence. He also ordered thorough investigations into the incident by security agencies.

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    “At the time of this update, troops and police officers are on the scene, and the public will be briefed once official reports are received.”

  • Nigeria Can’t Afford a Third Wave of Covid-19 – Federal Govt Warns

    Nigeria Can’t Afford a Third Wave of Covid-19 – Federal Govt Warns

    The Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19 has warned that Nigeria can’t afford a third wave of coronavirus and can do everything to safeguard its land.

    Speaking in the national briefing of the PSC, the chairman and secretary to the authorities of the federation, Boss Mustapha, stated: “In another couple of weeks, the PSC will focus on three big things, boost testing particularly in the States; increase Oxygen reserve capacity in case there’s a third wave and also increase Vaccine acquisition drive.”

    On the travel ban against Emirates Airlines, the SGF stated: “For many times now, Nigeria has been discussing with the government of the United Arab Emirates on the resumption of flights between both nations.

    “The PSC will advocate the United Arabs Emirates to remove the country particular and discriminatory practices against Nigeria. Discussions are however ongoing and we can assure Nigerians that the outcome will be in the interest of the nation.”

    The SGF, while speaking on the ban of Nigerians, who violated COVID-19 travel protocol, said: “Nigerians must eschew sentiments by ensuring that friends, relations and associates arriving from countries of concern and indeed all countries obey the quarantine and article birth protocols. It’s our duty to make sure this occurs.

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    “Pursuant to the travel advisory issued, I wish to inform you that the PSC has initiated series of sanctions against the ones that have violated the 2021 Health Safety Regulations. To this end, the PSC has released the names and particulars of more than two hundred violators that evaded the quarantine requirement. This is considered a serious infraction and also the PSC will move to perform the following:

    Deactivate the passports of Nigerians involved, for a period of not less than one year; revoke the visas of thieves that have abused our hospitality, and prosecute the violators where essential.

    “Nigeria will continue to monitor the unfolding events and will cope with them as important.”

    Meanwhile, the PSC members took their next jab of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on Monday.

    The PSC chairman, while talking before being researched the jab, stated: “Some 12 weeks ago, that the NPHCDA commenced the management of this AstraZeneca vaccine across the country with roughly two million individuals vaccinated so far. We have since then intensified the production of awareness to achieve a decrease in vaccine hesitancy and encourage all qualified persons to emerge and take their next dose.

    “During the weekend, his Excellencies, the President and the Vice President received their second dose of this AstraZeneca vaccine. Today, members of the PSC will receive their second dose in this briefing. This transparency is to underscore the safety of the vaccine”

     

  • Gunmen kidnapped Scores of children abducted from Islamic seminary in central Nigeria

    Gunmen kidnapped Scores of children abducted from Islamic seminary in central Nigeria

    Gunmen kidnapped dozens of children from an Islamic seminary in central Nigeria, officials said that the most up-to-date in a series of such incidents hammering the populous African country.

    Some 200 children were in the college in Niger state on Sunday throughout the attack, the local authorities tweeted, including”an unconfirmed number” were taken.

    The abduction came a day following 14 pupils from a college in northwestern Nigeria was freed after 40 days in captivity.

    Niger state police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun reported that the Turks arrived on motorbikes in Tegina city and began shooting, killing one resident and injuring another, before kidnapping the children from the Salihu Tanko Islamic school.

    Among the college’s officials, who asked not to be named, said the attackers initially took more than 100 children” but later sent back those they considered too little for them, people between four and 12 years old”.

    The state authorities, in a string of tweets, ” said the attackers had released 11 of the pupils that were”too small and couldn’t walk” quite far.

    In a subsequent Twitter thread, the nation added that the governor Sani Bello had directed”security agencies to bring back [the] children whenever possible”.

    – ‘Bandits’ –

    Some 730 children and students have been kidnapped since December 2020 in Nigeria

    Such ailments have become a frequent way for criminals to collect ransoms.

    Since December 2020, prior to the assault on Sunday, 730 children and students had been kidnapped.

    On April 20, gunmen knew locally as”bandits” stormed Greenfield University in northwestern Nigeria and kidnapped around 20 students, killing a part of their school’s employees in the process.

    Five students have been conducted a couple of days later to force families and the government to pay a ransom.

    Fourteen were released on Saturday.

    Local media said that the households had paid a ransom totalling 180 million nairas ($440,000) for their launch.

    -‘Kidnappings must cease’ –

    Africa’s most populous nation has been plagued by kidnappings for years, with offenders largely targeting the prominent and wealthy.

    But more recently, the pool of sufferers has enlarged with the poor now also taken for ransom.

    Earlier this month, tens of thousands of protesters partially blocked a motorway into the capital Abuja following a spate of kidnappings in the region.

    Marching along the highway, a dozen young men chanted: “We won’t take this, kidnapping must stop!”

    The criminal gangs maintain camps in the Rugu forest which straddles northern and central Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Niger states.

    Their motives have been financial without ideological leanings, but there is growing concern they are being infiltrated by jihadists in the northeast waging a 12-year-old insurrection to establish an Islamic country.

    The kidnappings at the shore are also complicating challenges confronting Buhari’s security forces, battling an over decade-long northeast Islamist insurgency.

  • APC Chieftain, Ahmed Gulak Killed by gunmen In Imo

    APC Chieftain, Ahmed Gulak Killed by gunmen In Imo

    Gunmen, alleged to be in military uniform, yesterday shot dead an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Ahmed Gulak, in Owerri, Imo State.

    After the assassination, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to immediately bring the killers to justice.

    The youths gave only fourteen days to perform the investigation or risk being declared persona non grata across the whole northern soil.

    NYCN National President, Isah Abubakar, in a statement, said: “it’s indeed pitiful and saddened the continuous killing and lawlessness going on in the South East. Imo the State government must give an account of the people who murdered Gulak. The continuous killing of northerners and destruction of security facilities in Imo State will no longer be tolerated.”

    It said the government should take notice that it would not permit the killers of Gulak to go ahead, stressing that the governor, who’s the chief security officer, should bring those involved with the assassination to justice.

    The group urged that the Federal Government rise to its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property and behave appropriately to prevent the present situation from escalating to a civil war.

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    Buhari outraged, says resources be deployed to fish outside perpetrators

    In an announcement by Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, Buhari vowed that resources would be set up to fish outside the perpetrators.

    “Let me warn however that group of men and women who engages in these despicable acts should expect to go free. We’ll deploy all resources at our disposal to make sure that these callous and criminal factors are brought to justice”

    President Buhari expressed his”deep condolences to the family of the deceased, the people and government of Adamawa State in addition to his friends and partners throughout the nation.”

    He had been reportedly double-crossed by the gunmen while driving from Enyiogugu Mbaise place to the airport in a Camry car marked Texas BFT 2150 and taken twice in the mind. He was said to have died on the spot.

    The gunmen reportedly fled instantly and abandoned him and his car.

    Gulak, former political advisor to former President Goodluck Jonathan, and former manager, Adamawa State House of Assembly, led the committee that conducted the controversial APC governorship leader in Imo State in 2019 which saw the development of Governor Uzodimma since the party candidate.

    Confirming the incident yesterday, Imo State Police Command spokesman, Bala Elkana, in an announcement said bandits at the early hours of yesterday assaulted Gulak and others on their approach to the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri and killed him in the process.

    The state police command said the APC chieftain abandoned his room at Protea Hotel, Owerri without advising the police and other safety agencies in the nation of his motion.

    “Commissioner of Police, Abutu Yaro, has directed a discreet investigation into the matter as tactical and special forces are set up to cordon the area and arrest perpetrators,” the authorities said.