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Banks, 18 others, fined N125m for late filings

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For failing to submit their 2022 audited financial statements and quarterly reports for the first half of 2023 as required by Nigerian Exchange, at least eight banks and 18 other listed corporations have been penalised N125m.

Unity Bank, FBN Holdings, Access Holdings, Fidelity Bank, Jaiz Bank, Wema Bank, Guaranty Trust Holdings Plc, and Ecobank Transnational Incorporated were among the affected financial institutions.

The sanctions also had an impact on John Holt, PZ Cussons, Notore Chemical, Glaxo SmithKline Consumer Nigeria, Industrial Medical and Gases Nigeria, and Juli Plc.

The NGX’s post-listing regulations provide that quoted businesses must report their audited results 90 calendar days, or three months, following the end of the quarter. In accordance with the regulations, quoted businesses must additionally file interim reports no later than 30 calendar days following the conclusion of the applicable period.

 

According to the most recent X-Compliance Report published by the NGX’s regulatory arm, FBN Holdings was penalized for submitting its 2022 financial statements and its 2023 first quarter report late. The lender made payments totaling N3.3m for the second offense and N6.3m for the first.

Unity Bank paid N6.4m for missing its deadline to submit its 2022 results, and another N3.4m for missing it to submit its interim reports for the first quarter of 2023.

According to the report, Fidelity Bank, GTCO, and Wema Bank each paid fines of N2.7, N1.4, and N1.9 million.

Jaiz Bank, Ecobank, and John Holt each paid N600,000, N3.2m, and N3.2m in fines, respectively, while Access Holdings paid N2 million.

PZ Cussons received an N4.8 million charge from the NGX, Notore Chemical paid N500,000, and GSK—which just announced the closing of its business in Nigeria—also paid a N1.3 million fine for failing to submit its 2022 financial statements on time.

In addition, Industrial Medical and Gases Nigeria paid a punishment of N1.2 million, Juli Plc paid a penalty of N120,000, and NPF Microfinance Bank paid a charge of N1.8 million for their tardiness in reporting its 2022 audited accounts.

The agency also penalized Daar Communications N1.7 million, Champion Breweries N1.6 million, and Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc N1.4 million, respectively.

For the same offense, Regency Alliance Insurance and Thomas Wyatt Nigeria each paid fines of N1.4 million and N4.9 million, respectively.

Additionally penalized by the NGX for violating filing rules were Presco Plc (N24.8m), Ardova (N18.6m), and Universal Insurance Plc (N12.4).

Conoil and Caverton Offshore Support Group each received fines of N7.9 million and N5.7 million, respectively, for failing to submit their results within the allotted time frame.

During this time, Briclinks Africa Plc, a provider of telecommunications services, also paid a fine of N590,000.

David Adonri, vice chairman of Highcap Securities, claimed that the penalties were required to uphold the market’s integrity.

Numerous them concern corporate disclosures. Information drives the stock market. The listed corporations are required to reveal certain information when it is suitable. A corporation can file a request to the exchange asking for more time if it realizes that it might not be able to provide such information.

Supreme Court ruled in our favour to recruit police constables, PSC claims

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The Police Service Commission asserts that it has been granted permission by the Supreme Court to be the sole organization in charge of hiring constables for the Nigeria Police Force.

According to reports, since former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the hiring of 10,000 constables per year for six years, the PSC and the NPF have been engaged in a protracted legal dispute over who should be in charge of hiring police constables.

The PSC’s spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, asserted in a letter sent on Sunday that on July 11, 2023, the nation’s highest court would make a decision on the hotly contested issue and put an end to the conflict between the commission and the police.

However, Ani was unable to provide the Certified True Copy of the aforementioned judgment when our correspondent requested it on Sunday, so they were unable to do so.

According to Solomon Arase, Chairman of the PSC, who asserted that the decision was in the best interest of national security, “In the judgment, the Supreme Court ‘unequivocally pronounced’ the commission as an agency statutorily mandated to do so,” Ani said.

The PSC spokesperson clarified that, at the time of the ruling, efforts to settle the conflict amicably between the two significant institutions were already in motion and advanced.

Ani went on to say that it was very embarrassing for the government and other parties involved for the two parties to engage in such a pointless legal battle over a situation that required understanding, respect, and compromise.

He continued, saying that the decision “simply and legally cements the resolution of the issue in a win-win situation for the two institutions, which ordinarily cannot effectively function and deliver on their respective mandates without cooperation with each other.” He supported this claim with a quote from the commission’s director, Arase.

Therefore, it must be explicitly stated and shown that the judgment was made with our national security as a whole in mind. This emphasizes how crucial it is for governmental organizations to have strong working relationships and mutual trust.

Therefore, it is essential that all parties defuse the situation and steer clear of any hostilities, misunderstandings, preconceptions, and biases that were the cornerstone of the relationship between the Commission and the NPF, which was previously described as a no-love-lost one.

Ani cited Arase as saying, “He noted that the unnecessary imbroglio impacted negatively on the staff of the Police Service Commission and officers and other ranks of the Nigeria Police Force.”

He continued by citing Arase’s statement that a recruitment board had been established, that it would be presided over by the PSC chairman, consist of other important stakeholders, and would soon be inaugurated.

The PSC spokesperson added, “The board will screen applicants and make sure that only capable and qualified members of the public are hired into the NPF, reflecting also the principle of Federal Character.

Customs Service accuse valuation officers of bribery in vehicles importation

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The Nigeria Customs Service has charged valuation officers on imported cars at various commands with breaking the rules for inspecting, valuing, and releasing imported used cars.

This was stated in a circular with the title “Re Conduct of examination and release of used vehicles” that was dated August 24 and signed by C.K. Niagwan, Assistant Comptroller General for Tariff and Trade.

According to the service’s circular, imported vehicles should be referred to valuation seats rather than having the base value applied in order to verify the trim of the imported vehicle and assign the proper value.

Read Also: Niger Delta minister reaffirms commitment to serve region

The following was part of the circular: “It has been noted with great concern that examination and valuation officers are not adhering to the procedure for examination, valuation, and release of used vehicles. For the avoidance of doubt, all used vehicles must be examined before being sent to the valuation seat, where the trim of the imported vehicle will be confirmed and the proper value will be assigned rather than the base value. In light of the aforementioned, you are hereby requested to remind all examination and valuation officers of this procedure in order to stop further revenue loss. Make sure there is strict compliance.

Licensed customs agents have responded to this by stating that the new procedure will cause delays in the clearance of imported vehicles.

Remilekun Sikiru, the youth coordinator for the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, claimed that all of these issues should be handled by the Vehicles Identification Number used to clear imported vehicles.

The clearing of imported used cars will now take more time, according to Remilekun, the Chief Executive Officer of Sikremstar Logistics Limited.

“The normal VIN process is created with all the artificial intelligence, such as the trim, engine size, and the rest, but in Nigeria, the opposite is true. This new procedure essentially amounts to taking or reintroducing the outdated clearance procedure, which in my opinion goes against the principles of trade facilitation. And without a doubt, by using this process, jobs will take an additional 1-2 days to process, and it will involve human interference and open the door to extortion. It will also generate a significant amount of demurrage; the question is, who will be responsible for paying the demurrage? Why don’t we follow through on our promise and enter all of these chassis into the VIN valuation? For a very long time, we have been demanding this. Due to the government’s strict policies, imports have decreased significantly by up to 70%, and many freight forwarders, particularly young people, have stopped reporting to work. As this will worsen the process of trade facilitation, NCS should conduct a thorough investigation.

Read Also: Tribunal dismisses petitions against Kaduna PDP Reps

Babatunde Mukaila, a chieftain of the ANLCA, added, “We believe it is another customs ruse to discredit the VIN platform. We won’t accept it if you send us back to Egypt if your valuation officers are not acting properly. Instead, let them know and have them get back in line. We are not going to return to Egypt using their manual system, so we hope that Customs will reconsider in light of this response. Finally, he said.

Kwara gov laments loss of Army major who was killed by bandits in ambush in Niger

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The governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has expressed sympathy to the Nigerian Army and the residents of Eruku in the state’s Ekiti Local Government Area over the death of Major Segun Oni, who was recently killed in an anti-banditry operation in Niger State.

Oni, a highly decorated and forthright army officer, was assassinated on August 13, 2023, along with other soldiers, while commanding troops in an operation to put an end to banditry in some areas of Niger State.

He held the positions of Platoon Commander for the 72nd Special Forces Battalion, Company Second in Command for the Armed Forces Special Forces Battalion, and Second in Command for the Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Battalion at various points in time.

He received his military education at various institutions in South Africa, Belarus, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria.

Read Also: Ahmed And His Stamp Of Excellence In NYSC

He was awarded the River Niger Star, Golden Jubilee Medal, Centenary Medal, and General Operations Medal for his accomplishments, discipline, and labor.

The governor sends his sincere condolences to the family of the brave officer, the Nigerian Army, and to the Nigerian Defense Headquarters as a whole, according to a statement released on Sunday and signed by Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor’s chief press secretary. Both Kwara State and the nation as a whole will suffer greatly from his passing.

The statement continued, “The Governor prays God to rest his soul and comfort his family and everyone who mourns him.”

Nigerian Air Force aircraft departs Abuja for Paris, In midst of political crisis in Niger

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coic
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Due to a delay, the Dassault Falcon 7X with the registration number 5N-FGU left the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 4:18 p.m. instead of departing at the scheduled time of 3 p.m.

When this report was submitted, the cause of the delay could not be determined. SaharaReporters did establish, however, that the plane is scheduled to land at Paris-Le Bourget Airport at 10.42 p.m.

The plane traveled to Lagos, Abuja, Maiduguri, Kano, and Gombe in the preceding six days before landing in Abuja around 6 p.m. on Saturday.

The identities of those aboard the Nigerian Air Force plane and the reason for its departure for Paris are also unknown, but SaharaReporters has learned that it may have something to do with the political unrest that has gripped the Republic of Niger in the wake of the July 26 coup d’état that toppled Mohamed Bazoum, the country’s democratically elected president.

Given Niger’s proximity to Nigeria, many Nigerians have encouraged the Nigerian government to refrain from taking part in any military action there. There are rumors that the United States of America and France are pressuring the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), including the president of Nigeria, Tinubu, to consider military involvement in the event that ongoing negotiations fail.

The military junta in Niger has so far called the bluff of the regional bloc, which is led by Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and has imposed sanctions on the country and demanded the reinstatement of the ousted president.

Omar Alieu Touray, the president of the ECOWAS Commission, told reporters on Friday that the West African group was devoted to preventing the occurrence of coups in the area.

Touray urged the Niger junta to change its mind, saying that it was still possible for the military to do so and listen to reason because the other regional leaders would not support a coup d’état.

The community’s resolve to stop the coup d’etat spiral in the area is the main problem, according to the community.

According to Touray, a military operation is not a “invasion” of Niger or a proclamation of war.

He claimed that under the ECOWAS statutes approved by the members, such an intervention would be a legal use of force.

On Thursday, Tinubu stated that the coup d’etat in the Niger Republic was a serious situation that required him to manage the difficult task of preventing those in the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and those outside of ECOWAS control from worsening the political situation in Niger.

Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu’s special adviser on media and publicity, said this in a statement. He urged a group of Islamic scholars (Ulamas) who had been in talks with the Niger military junta to facilitate the return of constitutional authority to the ousted Bazoum to move forward with their ongoing discussions more quickly.

“I am in charge of a really grave issue. If you ignore ECOWAS, other people—those whose actions are beyond our control—will respond. I’m the one who’s suppressing those sides. I am what is stopping ECOWAS.

“Even as of this morning, I have received a deluge of phone calls on the military power and contributions of other nations. I instructed them to wait, though. The Nigerian President stated, “I will get back to you after my meeting with the Ulamas.

Following a briefing by the Ulama-affiliated Islamic clerics on their talks with the junta in Niger, Tinubu made his remark immediately after.

On Thursday, Tinubu ordered them to return to Niamey, the capital of Niger, where they can carry on their discussions with the coup leaders in an effort to end the nation’s political turmoil.

 

Niger Delta minister reaffirms commitment to serve region

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Abubakar Momoh, the minister of Niger Delta development, reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring stability in the nation’s oil-rich region in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja.

The minister urged the residents of Delta and Edo states to consider the difficulties they have faced and the achievements they have made over the years as they celebrated the 32nd anniversary of their creation.

As we commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the splitting of the former Bendel State into the states of Delta and Edo, today is a significant turning point in the history of our beloved region. This event is significant because it not only remembers our shared journey but also exemplifies the power of our unity and the future potential for advancement.

Read Also: Police detain 150 IPOB members as residents flee Imo, Anambra

“I extend my warmest greetings and congratulations to the extraordinary people of Delta and Edo states on behalf of the Minister of Niger Delta Development. We should take this opportunity to think back on the accomplishments we have made, the difficulties we have overcome, and the goals we have for the future of our states.

“The establishment of the Delta and Edo States has given us the opportunity to forge our futures, make the most of our resources, and cultivate our distinct identities. Thanks to the combined efforts of our citizens, we can now look back on these years and see the growth and development that have occurred.

Read Also: Ahmed And His Stamp Of Excellence In NYSC

“I am committed to making sure that the Niger Delta region continues to prosper and thrive,” he continued. Let’s use this anniversary as a call to action to cooperate for the betterment of our communities and a reminder of our shared goal. We can build on the foundation laid by our forebears and create a better future for future generations through cooperation, innovation, and a commitment to progress.

Stop cursing on electric workers, minister begs Nigerians

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Adebayo Adelabu, the minister of power, has pleaded with Nigerians not to curse at the people who provide energy.

As an alternative, he asked citizens to back them.

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes is located in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, where he made this appeal on Friday.

Adelabu stated that his plan for the ministry was to take use of the Nigerian Electricity Act of 2023, which created new opportunities for power provision and promoted cooperation between the federal government, states, and local governments.

The minister promised to strengthen the relationships between the public and private sectors and build on the foundation already established by his predecessors as he took charge of the ministry.

Electricity generation in Nigeria has been debundled according to the Electricity Act of 2023. In order to hasten the passage of the electrical law in their states, I will push all state governors.

And I want to guarantee that the Ikere Gorge dam produces 20 KVA of hydroelectricity. In order to access the water resources of the Ogun River basin, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority built the Ikere Gorge Dam, one of its key dams.

Niyi Ajewole, President-General of the CCII, had earlier counseled the minister to work with Governor Seyi Makinde to advance Ibadanland specifically and the state as a whole.

Ahmed And His Stamp Of Excellence In NYSC

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By Williams Ochonu

It is said that, “Leadership is often defined by one’s ability to inspire, influence, and drive positive change”. Ahmed’s journey is a testament to this definition, as he seamlessly embodies excellence in every endeavor he undertakes. From his early life to his current role in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC),

From a humble beginning, Yushau Dogara Ahmed has emerged as a beacon of excellence in his role as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). With his unwavering dedication and commitment to the betterment of Nigerian youth, Ahmed has left an indelible mark on the NYSC, and has become a symbol of inspiration for generations to come.

Born and raised in a small town in northern Nigeria, Ahmed’s journey to the top of the NYSC was not an easy feat attained on a platter of gold. Growing up in a modest household, he faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way.

Brig Gen YD Ahmed was born in Kagarko, Kaduna State on December 28, 1971. On that day, a new dream to the world was set on the pace and path which life has placed him in. Little did everyone knew that this gift of a child would later become a pillar that would support a great nation of over 200 million citizens.

Ahmed’s association with excellence can be traced back to his early life. From a young age, he exhibited a natural curiosity and determination to excel. Born into a family that valued education, Ahmed’s parents instilled in him the importance of hard work, discipline, and continuous self-improvement. As he progressed through school, his academic achievements were a testament to his dedication and drive.

With an existing burning zeal in him, he was not content with merely meeting expectations; Ahmed consistently went above and beyond. His insatiable appetite for knowledge pushed him to explore various subjects and develop a well-rounded skill set. This foundation of excellence in his school days has paved the way for his future leadership roles, setting the stage for his transformative journey within the NYSC.

Ahmed’s transition into the NYSC marked a new chapter in his life. Armed with his principles of excellence and leadership, he approached his role with unwavering dedication.

As he settled into his responsibilities, it became clear that Ahmed was not content with maintaining the status quo. He envisioned a revitalized NYSC experience that would have a lasting impact on the lives of the youth and the communities they served.

Ahmed’s passion for youth development and empowerment was evident from an early age. Recognizing the potential of the Nigerian youth, he dedicated himself to creating opportunities for their growth and success.

As the Director-General of the NYSC, Ahmed has implemented several transformative initiatives that have had a profound impact on the lives of Nigerian youth. One of his notable achievements has been the introduction of vocational training programs. Recognizing the importance of practical skills in today’s job market, Ahmed ensured that corps members receive training in various vocational fields. This has not only enhanced their employability, but has also empowered them to become self-reliant and contribute to the development of their communities.

In the bid to perfecting excellence in the scheme, Ahmed prioritized the development of leadership skills among corps members. Through the establishment of leadership academies and mentorship programs, he has provided young Nigerians with the tools and guidance necessary to become effective leaders in their respective fields. By instilling values such as integrity, accountability, and empathy, Ahmed has nurtured a generation of responsible and compassionate leaders who are poised to make a positive difference in society.

Ahmed believes that by nurturing responsible and compassionate leaders, the NYSC is contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria as a whole.

Ahmed’s leadership was characterized by innovation. He identified untapped opportunities within the NYSC framework and devised initiatives that maximized impact. From organizing community health fairs to launching skill development programs for underprivileged youth, his projects addressed pressing issues while fostering a sense of empowerment among participants. By combining creativity with meticulous execution, Ahmed elevated the NYSC’s relevance and reach.

Furthermore, Ahmed has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity diversity within the NYSC. Recognizing the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of Nigeria, he has championed initiatives that foster unity and understanding among corps members from different backgrounds. By creating an environment that celebrates diversity and encourages dialogue, Ahmed has not only strengthened national unity but has also nurtured a sense of belonging among young Nigerians.

Under Ahmed’s visionary leadership, the NYSC has witnessed significant improvements in its infrastructure and facilities. He understands the importance of creating a conducive environment for corps members to thrive. As a result, he has spearheaded the renovation and construction of NYSC camps across the country. These upgrades have not only enhanced the living conditions of corps members but have also provided them with access to modern facilities and resources necessary for their personal and professional development.

Ahmed’s relentless efforts and exceptional leadership have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally. His dedication to youth development and empowerment has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, as well as the gratitude of countless young Nigerians whose lives have been positively impacted by his initiatives.

Under Ahmed’s leadership, the NYSC has also witnessed significant improvements in its infrastructure and facilities. Recognizing the importance of providing a conducive environment for corps members, he has spearheaded the renovation and construction of NYSC camps across the country. These upgrades have not only enhanced the living conditions of corps members but have also ensured that they have access to modern facilities and resources necessary for their personal and professional development.

Ahmed’s journey to success is a testament to his resilience and determination. Coming from humble beginnings, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. However, it was his unwavering belief in the potential of Nigerian youth that fueled his drive to make a difference.

Just like the great Aristotle has said, “Excellence is not an act but a habit.”

Yushau Dogara Ahmed’s stamp of excellence as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps is undeniable. From his humble beginnings to his remarkable achievements, Ahmed has proven himself to be a true champion of youth development and empowerment. Through his innovative programs, inclusive leadership, and unwavering commitment, he has transformed the NYSC into a beacon of hope and opportunity for young Nigerians.

Ahmed’s approach to leadership was characterized by sustainability. His initiatives were not short-lived bursts of enthusiasm; they were carefully planned endeavors designed to create lasting change. By involving local communities, partnering with NGOs, and building networks of support, he ensured that his projects would continue to make a difference long after his departure.

Ahmed’s journey inspires others to embrace leadership roles with the same spirit of excellence. His story is a motivational tale shared within the NYSC and beyond, demonstrating the power of dedication and visionary thinking. As individuals read about his journey, they were empowered to take ownership of their roles and push the boundaries of what they could achieve.

Ahmed’s transformative impact on the NYSC has extended beyond his tenure. His commitment to excellence has laid the foundation for a lasting change within the organization. The culture of excellence he cultivated would continue to thrive, with successive batches of NYSC participants striving to emulate his dedication and passion.

For a fact, Ahmed has brought a new breed of excellence to the NYSC. His initiatives has served as models for future projects, ensuring that his legacy and that of NYSC would endure for time immemorial.

Ochonu, a public affairs commentator writes from Abuja.

NSA, CDS, Army chief visit Fubara, gov faults pipeline contract

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Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers State, has criticized the federal government for giving the pipeline surveillance contract to just one business and person.

The governor warned that such a development might have an impact on the region’s efforts to combat oil theft.

When a group came to meet him at Government House in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Fubara made this statement under the leadership of Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser.

Mele Kyari, group chief executive officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, had defended the government’s choice to award Tantita Security Services, allegedly owned by former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, the multibillion-naira pipeline surveillance contract.

In response to the delegation’s comments, Fubara criticized the government’s choice and said it was unacceptable. In order to get the intended outcome, he claimed that more persons from the many states and ethnic nationalities in the area should have been given the task.

“I believe that in order to solve the problems, we must look locally, but security of pipelines shouldn’t be left in the hands of one man,” he said. How is the pipeline in Onne LGA under the authority of someone from Kalabari? How is it possible for someone in Onne LGA to influence what occurs in Ogoni?

It’s not feasible right now. We need to think about hiring everyone who is important in the various communities.

Fubara noted that his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, took the threat of illegal oil refining head-on and claimed that the state had always been in the forefront of the fight against it.

Fubara asked Niger Delta leaders to band together and make sure that their two sons overseeing the petroleum ministries were successful in their respective portfolios, pointing out that everyone would gain from the new course being pursued by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He said, “Two of our sons, from the states of Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom, are in charge of the petroleum ministry. We want them to succeed. We must offer them the assistance they require. Given that we are already working on it, you shouldn’t have even considered arriving. You need to have merely given me a call to get the situation report.

However, he claimed that in comparison to its contribution to the national economy, the Niger Delta was not reaping the benefits it should. He instructed the group to speak with the appropriate persons in order to obtain the necessary data.

Ribadu had earlier stated that the Tinubu-led administration was prepared to handle everything properly in order to bring the country back on track.

According to Ribadu, the Federal Government has continued to value the crude oil and gas-rich region, thus it is taking all necessary steps to reorient the region.

We are here at Tinubu’s own request, the NSA declared. As the Minister of Defense stated, Mr. President’s commitment is the reason we are present. Mr. President thinks that this region of Nigeria does matter a lot. Of course, the Niger Delta’s inhabitants require peace as well as access to resources.

We have instructions from him. This is the entirety of federal power, as you can see. We have gathered here strategic people and offices. This demonstrates a dedication to and a conviction that, as the minister of defense put it, enough is enough. New chapter has begun.

“We think the time has come to act morally, and we’re going to do it,”

General Christopher Musa, the CDS, and Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, were also present in the delegation.

Muhammed Badaru, the Minister of Defense, Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, and Ekperipe Ekpo, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), were the others.

Police detain 150 IPOB members as residents flee Imo, Anambra

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Between January and August 2023, the Imo State Police Command reported that it had detained around 150 terrorists who belonged to the Independent People of Biafra’s Eastern Security Network, also known as unidentified gunmen.

Several Imo and Anambra state residents and some Nigerians of South Eastern ancestry who recently migrated to the South-Western part of the country have revealed how the insurgency brought on by the actions of the group known as the gunmen has caused a mass exodus of people from the Eastern part of the country.

Though the Anambra Police Command spokesperson was unavailable for comment, Henry Okoye, the police public relations officer for the Imo State Command, told our correspondent over the phone that the CP’s order to stop and search people has had a negative impact on IPOB/ESN activity.

The difficulty that we have been dealing with for more than three years, he remarked. The Imo State Police Command, however, is making every effort to secure the state under the direction of Commissioner of Police Mohammed Barde. Security has improved, and we’ve increased patrol.

“The CP has ordered tactical commanders and area commanders to deploy personnel and do feasibility policing and stop and search in important points in the state, and it has assisted in decreasing the activities of these IPOB and ESN people,” the CP said.

“We also have our SID officers who collaborate with the DSS, and this has assisted us in getting reliable information that has assisted us in raiding and dismantling multiple IPOB/ESN camps. Due to this, between January of this year and the present, we have detained more than 150 criminal members of IPOB and ESN as well as individuals responsible for armed robberies and kidnappings in Imo State.

Imo State is now more secure than it was. Only the areas along Oguta LGA and Okigwe, which are areas that share a border with other states, are an issue for us right now. We have already secured Owerri and are working to secure Orlu.

Some of these criminals used to go from nearby states, cause havoc, and then leave. However, with the backing of the governor, Hope Uzodinma, we are working to secure all state entrances in order to drive these criminals out.

While this is going on, some locals who spoke with our correspondent noted that markets are typically not as busy as they once were. They also stated that the IPOB-induced insurgency has given other criminal elements and groups the confidence to continue committing crimes like armed robbery, rape, assassination, and banditry.

Because of the actions of these IPOB members, the South-East is no longer safe. especially the state of Imo. Recently, these ‘unknown gunmen’ entered a Mbaise king’s palace and murdered the man. How about the average person, if a king is no longer safe?

“I used to live in Mbaise, but I currently reside in Akure, Ondo State, as I don’t feel comfortable there. I was born and raised in Imo State, where I lived there for more than 20 years till I moved out about two weeks ago, despite the fact that I am mostly Igbo and partially Yoruba. Johnson was the young man who made this claim.

I live here in Owerri, Imo State, said a young woman who only gave her first name, Ijeoma, out of dread of the masked gunmen. We haven’t slept a wink since their brutality began. Because they may show up at any time, especially on Mondays to attack and murder people, our markets are now deserted, and the majority of our stores are typically empty.

“Many individuals are currently escaping Owerri and scurrying to Lagos. Rape and robbery have also escalated in Owerri as a result of these factors. A guy and his wife were robbed of more than N2 million today (Saturday), and the well-known phone store SLOT was looted a few days ago. It now occurs on a regular basis.

A 31-year-old man who only went by the name Chinedu stated, “These IPOB men are not at least putting our minds at ease here in Anambra, Ihiala LGA, where I live. The market or the waterways are not peaceful places to visit. We hope the government will help us because it is exhausting.

In Awka, Anambra State, I reside. The insecurity has forced almost all of my friends and cousins to relocate to Lagos and Ibadan from Anambra. A second Anambra resident, Chukwudi, informed our correspondent, “Our businesses are no longer growing as many people now fear going to the market since they don’t know when the unknown gunmen may attack.

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