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COVID-19: Additional Life Support Ambulance Services: Nasarawa State lauds FRSC for uncommon gesture

Covid-19

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May 17, 2020

COVID-19: Additional Life Support Ambulance Services: Nasarawa State lauds FRSC for uncommon gesture

The Nasarawa State Government has conveyed its profound appreciation to the Federal Road Safety Corps for deploying additional 2 life support ambulances with complete team of personnel to the state, describing the gesture as, uncommon, indelible, unprecedented and indeed, a positive boost to the state’s capacity and efforts to combat the devastating novel coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement by Bisi Kazeem, the Corps Public Education Officer, the handing and taking over of the life support ambulances took place on Friday, 15 May, 2020 in Lafia, the State capital.

According to Kazeem, the State Government expressed its appreciation to the Corps through a statement contained in a letter signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Nasarawa State, Pharm. Ahmed B. Yahaya on behalf of the Government and good people of the State.

The Health Commissioner lauded the Corps’ continuous show of commitment and support towards the fight against the global health challenge, not only through deployment of personnel to enforce orders; but the provision of adequate ambulance services for the evacuation of identified coronavirus patients.

He stated that the kind gesture as demonstrated by the Corps would remain indelible in the history of the State.

Pharm. Ahmed B Yahaya noted inter alia that; ” I write to register his Excellency, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule’s profound and deep appreciation to you for your uncommon gesture by releasing two additional life support ambulances to the State in the fight against the dreaded coronavirus disease”.

The Corps Public Education Officer also quoted the Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi as saying that the Federal Road Safety Corps is committed to giving unlimited support to both the Presidential Task Force (PTF) and State Governments, at any point in time, in the area of personnel deployment and provision of life support ambulance services to battle the common enemy.

While advising the citizenry to keep faith with the government in the efforts to combat the pandemic, Oyeyemi assured that the Corps will not go to sleep and will continue to work round the clock to ensure that all tasks and responsibilities accruing to the Corps in the ongoing fight against Covid 19 are strictly carried out without any form of laxity.

350 terrorists killed, 500 wounded by Nigerian military in one month- Centre

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May 17, 2020

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350 terrorists killed, 500 wounded by Nigerian military in one month- Centre

No fewer than 350 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have been killed and over 500 wounded by the Nigerian military in the last one month according to the Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies (IPCTS).

IPCTS made this damning revelation in a well-documented report after a thorough research into the military’s activities in the northeast.

In the last one month, the Nigerian troops have earned plaudits in its final clearance operation and unsurprisingly, though, this comes since the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. T.Y Buratai relocated to the northeast.

Led by the COAS himself, the troops of Operation Lafiya Dole have continually carried out massive onslaught on the fleeing terrorists, which has left hundreds dead and factional leader Abubakar Shekau on the brink of submission.

In the report signed by Executive Director, Dr. Samson Bello, the institute revealed that the introduction of additional counter-terrorism methods, as well as a boost in military hardware have given the troops an edge.

However, it acknowledged that the Army Chief is the singular difference in the battlefield, coordinating the day-to-day operations and offensives against the terrorists.

The institute also observed that the presence of the COAS has served as a source of motivation to the troops, with his orchestration of top-notch operational strategies neutralizing the threats posed by the Boko Haram/ISWAP group.

With the troops on the cusp of victory, IPCTS, however, urged that the tempo is sustained as the jihadist might eventually surrender as the odds are well against them.

Read full report below.

Introduction:

The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies is a Think-Tank that coordinates intellectual activities for the promotion of global peace and prevention of terrorism across the globe. The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies has been at the vanguard of identifying the operational methods of the Nigerian Military in operation in North East Nigeria since 2009 when the Boko Haram group began a violent campaign in Nigeria.

Consequently, the Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies commissioned a research into the operations of the Nigerian Military in North-East Nigeria for January to April, 2020 and presents the following report.

The Nigerian Military as a State Actor and efforts to keep the peace:

RESCUE OPERATION FOR INNOCENT CITIZENS BEING HELD HOSTAGE:

The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies identified that the Nigerian Military had been actively involved in rescue operations across the North East involving the rescue of women and children, as well as older people that have been held hostage and used as human shields by the Boko Haram group.

A critical survey revealed that between 2018, 2019, and 2020 the Nigerian Military rescued a total number of 12,500 people from the captivity of Boko Haram in parts of Yobe and Borno State. From the figure, 80% were women and children, and 20% were aged people that needed urgent medical attention.

It was also observed that the Nigerian Military rescue operations were carried out in a fashion that has resulted in minimal casualties. The Nigerian Military also had a medical team that attended to those rescued from captivity before they are released to their various families.

NEUTRALIZATION OF TERRORISTS AND CRIMINAL ELEMENTS:

The Nigerian Military have been actively involved in the war against Boko Haram in North-East Nigeria, and that has seen several casualties from both sides. However, it was observed that the Boko Haram fighters have been at the receiving end of a continuous military onslaught that has led to the neutralization of Boko Haram terrorists, as well as other criminal elements.

The sustained military operations against the Boko Haram group also led to the death of scores of Boko Haram fighters. The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies identified that over 350 Boko Haram fighters were killed in the past month in North-East Nigeria, and over 500 sustaining life-threatening injuries.

COUNTER-OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN:

It was observed that the counteroffensives by the Nigerian Military had yielded positive results. The casualty figures recorded so far has been on the low compared to previous years where the Nigerian Military recorded heavy casualties from their operations.

The Nigerian troops have been able to sustain the tempo with the introduction of additional counter-terrorism methods, as well as a boost in their military hardware that gave them the edge and with superior firepower over the Boko Haram group.

It was also observed that the operational strategy of the Nigerian Military have indeed placed the Boko Haram fighters on the brink of defeat baring all unforeseen circumstances. As at concluding the research work, it was established that 762 Boko Haram fighters lost their lives in battle with the Nigerian troops led by the Military Chief in Nigeria, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai.

MOTIVATION:

In the course of the research work, it was observed that the military chief, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai has been leading the battle against Boko Haram. The military chief coordinates the day-to-day operations and offensives against the Boko Haram terrorists.

It was also observed that the presence of the military chief, Tukur Buratai has served as a source of motivation to the troops and this has been responsible for the gains recorded by the Nigerian Military in the war against Boko Haram in North-East Nigeria.

The presence of the military chief has continued to serve the purpose of motivation in the operations of the Nigerian Military in North-East, Nigeria.

The Non- State Actors (Boko Haram/ISWAP)

Loss of confidence by Shekau and his commanders:

In the course of extensive research in the operations of the Boko Haram/ISWAP, it was identified that the camp of the Boko Haram/ISWAP has been polarized along various lines. There are those opposed to the continued stance of Abubakar Shekau and want a truce with the Nigerian Military. There are also those who see the casualties as a sign that Abubakar Shekau has misled them so far, and there is a need for him to step down from his responsibilities as their supreme leader.

This situation has heightened the tension in the Boko Haram camp and further given the Nigerian troops the edge with sustained military offensives.

FATIGUE IN BATTLE AND LACK OF COHESION:

It was observed that the Boko Haram/ISWAP camp is experiencing fatigue which was occasioned by long hours of battle with the Nigerian Military. The fact that the Nigerian Military boast of more modern and advanced military hardware and tanks puts the Boko Haram fighters in terrible strain and the consequent result has been fatigue in battle and lack of cohesion.

It was gathered that this situation has led to the Boko Haram/ISWAP group splitting into many factions with most of the commanders that hitherto held sway no longer ready to continue.

POOR MANAGEMENT OF AVAILABLE RESOURCES AND GREED

Our team of researchers was able to gather that the Boko Haram/ISWAP group is having difficulties assessing funds and logistics. The group is struggling with the availability of limited resources at their disposal, and this has put a strain on their operational effectiveness.

There is also uproar amongst Boko Haram members that Abubakar Shekau is mismanaging funds meant for the execution of their offensive against the Nigerian Military as well as their allowances that have remained unpaid for a long time.

It was also gathered that Abubakar Shekau has been soliciting to his fighters not to down their arms in these critical times. However, the various pleas seem not to have been able to pacify the bulk of the fighters that have remained delusional zed daily.

REGIONAL COOPERATION

The Boko Haram crisis has assumed a regional dimension and this lead to the revamping of the Multinational Joint Task Force comprising of troops from Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroon. This regional collaboration has put the Boko Haram group in a dire situation as most of their routes for receiving logistic supplies have been taken over by troops from the Multinational Joint Task Force.

Nigeria:

The Nigerian government, by all indices the most significant contributor to the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force in terms of funding and troops. This commitment from the Nigerian government has enabled the operational effectiveness of the Multinational Joint Task Force.

Chad:

The contribution of Chad has been felt in recent times. The Chadian authorities on their part were able to secure the borders between Nigeria and Chad as well as the Lake Chad basin region. This action has deprived the Boko Haram group the luxury of launching attacks in Nigeria and retreating to the Islands on the Lake Chad Basin region from where they hitherto regroup and receive logistics supplies from external sources.

Niger:

The Nigerien authorities have shown commitment by deploying thousands of fighting troops to the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force. Nigerien troops have also fortified the borders between Niger and Nigeria from the Lake Chad Basin region.

Cameroon:

The Cameroonian government has also contributed troops and resources towards the success of the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force. Tremendous efforts have been made to secure Boko Haram cells located in the Mandara Mountains where they recruit and train their fighters.

Conclusion:

The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies after extensive scrutiny of the issues in the war against the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists concludes that the operational strategies of the Nigerian Military have proven to be effective in neutralizing the threats posed by the Boko Haram/ISWAP group.

We wish to state that if this tempo is sustained, the Boko Haram/ISWAP group might eventually surrender as the odds are against it.

The Institute for Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies commends the efforts of the Nigerian Military led

Effective Military Coordination As A Key Towards Ending Terrorism

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May 17, 2020

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Effective Military Coordination As A Key Towards Ending Terrorism

By Best Agbese

The history of the Boko Haram crisis in Nigeria dates back to 2009 when the sect began its violent campaign against Nigeria. However, before the 2009 Boko Haram uprising, Nigeria was bedevilled by ethno-religious conflicts with devastating human and material losses. But the Boko Haram uprising of July 2009 was significant that it did not only set a precedent but also reinforced the attempts by conservative Islamic elements at imposing a variant of Islamic religious ideology on a secular state.

According to Abimbola Adesoji in her work “The Boko Haram Uprising and Islamic Revivalism in Nigeria” she posited that the Boko Haram uprising was not the first forceful attempt to impose a religious ideology on a secular Nigerian society. However, like the first significant attempt and subsequent small-scale attempts, it widened the scope of the efforts at Islamic revivalism. More significantly, despite the brutal suppression of previous attempts, the gallantry of the Boko Haram soldiers, the spread and swiftness of its military organization and the belief of its leadership – and perhaps its membership that it could successfully engage a modern state in a military duel all show an extraordinary commitment to the cause.

I agree with her position that the way and manner the Boko Haram sect has been able to engage a modern state in a military duel successfully shows not only an extraordinary commitment, but it further reinforces the conspiracy theory that states that some external forces might be the brain behind the resurgence of the activities of Boko Haram over the years.

Having stated the above, it is pertinent to do a critical analysis of the Boko Haram crisis and how the Nigerian Military has fared. In doing that, emphasis must be placed on certain variables such as quality of weaponry, professionalism, political will and effective military coordination.

Starting with the quality of weaponry of the Nigerian troops, there is no doubt that the Muhammadu Buhari administration has made a substantial investment in the procurement of arms and ammunition for the Nigerian Armed Forces since 2015. This commitment potentially eliminated that public concern about the lack of modern weapons in the prosecution of the Boko Haram war. But it wasn’t enough.

The issue of professionalism was also a factor that hindered the progress in the war against terrorism in Nigeria. This is so because, before the coming of the Muhammadu Buhari administration, we were regaled with tales on how soldiers would embark on tactical retreat and scamper for safety when they come face to face with the Boko Haram fighters. I dare say that the morale of the troops was at the lowest ebb and this translated into the inability of the troops to lead a sustained offensive against the Boko Haram terrorist group.

The political leadership at that time didn’t wield enough political willpower in ensuring the defeat of the Boko Haram sect. In some quarters, it was said that the lackadaisical attitude by the political leaders was deliberate. Be that as it was then, the Boko Haram group grew in strength and numbers and they laid siege to the country.

The issue of effective military coordination is one that if taken seriously, Nigeria would win the war against terrorism in no distant time. A good example can be seen in the recent relocation of the Chief of Army Staff to the theatre of operations, where several accounts state that he has been coordinating the counter-terrorism operations.

It must be stated that the last few months have witnessed a sustained military onslaught against the Boko Haram terrorist group and this is could be attributed to the presence of the Chief of Army Staff in the trenches with the troops, as well as the cooperation of other services like the Air Force, the DSS and the Nigerian police.

This is indeed commendable and reinforces the views of renowned peace and conflict studies expert, Prof Isaac Olawale Albert, who asserted that these collaborative efforts are often complex, requiring integration of the full range of multiple missions and occasionally crossing the boundaries of civilian, intelligence, homeland security, and military agencies.

In these situations, cross-functional and cross-agency teams jointly apply centralized control and decentralized execution to coordinate adaptable and agile efforts against security threats posed by Boko Haram. He further asserted that centralized control and decentralized execution exerts control through clear guidance and accountability. It also increases execution ability and agility by delegating authority to those with the precise knowledge and capability to execute.

So, therefore, inter agency collaboration in the war against terrorism in Nigeria has created and leveraged on superior knowledge in the battle space, it has also enabled the decision of superiority, and reduced operational risk, while increasing the pace, coherence, and effectiveness of military operations.

The Chief of Army Staff is singled for commendation in this regard because he has demonstrated that effective military coordination is essential for the final victory over the Boko Haram/ISWAP group.

Another example of effective military coordination is the decision by Chad and Niger to expel Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist from the fringes of their countries. The implication of the above is that there would be no hiding place for training and regrouping.

This was made possible from the renewed commitment from the Multinational Joint Task Force at the instance of the Chief of Army Staff. Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, who has in recent times taken the bull by the horns by ensuring that there is effective military coordination in the theatre of operations in North-East Nigeria.

According to Ifure Ataifure, genuine leadership inspires confidence, trust and innate followership. It provides direction and sets the agenda, as well as defines timeframes of accomplishing identified targets. Nigerians often say an ideal leader is one who markets himself as servant-leader to the people. But it takes courage to resist the temptation of bossiness to condescend to such levels.

Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai in all gradations embodies the strength of leadership courage. Leading an Army to victories against terrorism and insurgencies in Nigeria is a grueling task. It demands much more than kitting troops; restocking armories’ and ferrying soldiers to the frontline for battles.

It requires courage to enforce Rules of Engagement (ROE), discipline, and implement indiscriminate redeployment of troops and even the courage to take the war to the doorsteps of the enemies. Gen. Buratai’s courage in leadership knows when to condescend to the level of his troops; knows when the spirit of his troops is dampened and what tonic he can administer to animate it.

This explains why he has made it a conscious policy to persistently visit troops at the frontline, spend nights and devote a good time to them in the open fields; hook them unto interpersonal interactions to understand their feelings and insight into their peculiar problems.

It is thus my considered opinion that the significant difference experienced so far in the war against terrorism in the North-East of Nigeria points in the direction of effective military control as led by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai.

Agbese is a PhD student working on Oil and War in the United Kingdom.

Troops apprehend Bassa Militia men in Nasarawa, recover arms

Security

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May 17, 2020

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Troops apprehend Bassa Militia men in Nasarawa, recover arms

Troops of Sector 3 deployed at Ondori in Doma LGA of Nasarawa State acting on credible intelligence that a group of Bassa armed militia were planning to attack some Tiv villages over land disputes.

Troops raided their camp located at Kpelebewa village in Rukubi area of Doma LGA of Nasarawa State.

Troops apprehended Seven members of the Bassa militia dressed in Red shirts in the camp. Items recovered include One locally fabricated machine gun, Six locally fabricated rifles, Two locally fabricated cartridge guns, One Dane gun, Two revolver pistols, Two Cartridge firing pistols, 57 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 29 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and 22 cartridges of ammunition. Other items are One dagger, poisoned bows and arrows, desert Camouflage head gears and pouch, Six phone handsets and some charms.

The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation to be handed over to the Nigeria Police.

The Military High Command congratulates the Troops and requests the general public to continue to provide the Armed Forces with credible information to facilitate its operations in the Country.

Troops kill 2 Gana led gang members, recover cache of arms in Benue

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May 17, 2020

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Troops kill 2 Gana led gang members, recover cache of arms in Benue

Two gang members of the wanted Benue notorious criminal, Gana have been killed by troops while others escaped with gunshot wounds in Benue State.

In a special operation, a combined team of Operation WHIRL STROKE Special Forces troops of Sector 2 deployed in Gbise and Zaki Biam in Benue State and Sector four from Taraba State carried out a raid operation on the hideout of the wanted notorious criminal named Gana in Mtan village in Utenge Council Ward of Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State on 16 July 2020.

Exploitation revealed that Gana narrowly escaped death with gunshot wounds.

Items recovered include: One locally fabricated machine gun, Six locally made rifles, Two locally fabricated cartridge guns, One dane gun, Two revolver pistols,Two Cartridge pistols, 27 rounds of 9mm ammunition Two Motorcycles, One Camouflage shirt, One generator set, One bag of gun powder and assorted charms.

Gana’s personal belongings, other items and thatched houses were destroyed.

COVID-19: Madagascar quits WHO, calls on other African nations to do same

Covid-19

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May 16, 2020

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COVID-19: Madagascar quits WHO, calls on other African nations to do same

Madagascar President, Andry Rajoelina is calling on all African countries to quit the World Health Organization (WHO), saying Europe has bad faith towards Africa.

Andry Rajoelina says, Europe created these organizations with the will to keep Africans dependent on them. Citing the current issue, he says Africa has found a medicine against Coronavirus but Europe thinks they have a monopoly of intelligence and so they refuse to acknowledge it. With this backdrop, he invites all African Nations to quit the international organizations in order for Africa to build their organization.

“My country Madagascar leaves all the organizations tonight and I call on other African Nations to do same”, says President Andry Rajoelina.

27 Armed Bandits Killed in a Coordinated Air Attack Along Katsina-Zamfara Border

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May 15, 2020

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27 Armed Bandits Killed in a Coordinated Air Attack Along Katsina-Zamfara Border

The Air Component of Operation HADARIN DAJI has killed over 27 armed bandits and destroyed some of their dwellings along the Nahuta-Doumborou Corridor on the border between Katsina and Zamfara States.

The operation was executed yesterday, 14 May 2020, sequel to credible intelligence reports indicating that a notorious armed bandit leader and his followers were harboured in a cluster of huts near a high ground in the area. Accordingly, the Air Component dispatched a Nigerian Air Force attack helicopter as well as a ground attack aircraft to engage the location.

Overhead the target area, several of the armed bandits were seen along with a large number of rustled cattle. The attack aircraft took turns in engaging the area, neutralizing some of the bandits while few escaped with injuries. Human Intelligence (HUMINT) sources later confirmed that no fewer than 27 bandits were neutralized as a result of the attack.

Edet Akpan Gate: Group Petitions ICPC over Delay in the Investigation of Forgery, Criminal Falsification Against Perm-Sec

News

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May 15, 2020

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Edet Akpan Gate: Group Petitions ICPC over Delay in the Investigation of Forgery, Criminal Falsification Against Perm-Sec

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Justice has petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over the undue delay in concluding and putting up to the concerned public, especially the media and Civil Society, the result of the investigation into the case of forgery and criminal falsification of Civil Service information against Mr. EDET SUNDAY AKPAN, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel.

Speaking while leading a protest to the ICPC Friday, convener of the group Comrade KAbiru Dallah noted that the group is aware that Mr. Akpan parades questionable academic credentials and falsified his age of birth, while his Primary and Secondary School certificates are said to be missing from his records.

The group further called on the Commission to resolve the matter which is of interest to the public because it will lead to flushing other offenders out of the system, and bringing them to justice.

Below is the full text of the petition submitted to the ICPC

The Chairman

Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)

Plot 802, Constitution Avenue

Central Business District

Abuja.

Dear Sir,

A LETTER OF PROTEST OVER THE UNDUE DELAY IN CONCLUDING AND PUBLICIZING THE RESULT OF THE INVESTIGATION INTO THE CASE OF FORGERY AND CRIMINAL CIVIL SERVICE INFORMATION FALSIFICATION AGAINST MR. EDET SUNDAY AKPAN OF THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF MINES AND STEEL.

We, in the Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Justice write to vehemently protest the undue delay in concluding and putting up to the concerned public, especially the media and Civil Society, the result of your investigation into the case of forgery and criminal falsification of Civil Service information against Mr. EDET SUNDAY AKPAN, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel.

We are aware that this matter was brought before your commission since February 5, 2020. It is our firm belief that this kind of matters can be concluded in few weeks, since the issue there in are quite straightforward. It is important to deal with such a matter speedily in order not to erode the confidence of younger Patriot Civil Servants whose spaces are occupied by people that lied to remain in Civil Service above the time allowed by law and Civil Service Rules.
May we further remind you of some of the details of the case. Mr. Akpan parades questionable academic credentials and falsified his age of birth. His Primary and Secondary School certificates are said to be missing from his records. This appears to be for an obvious reasons of their non-existence or to hide a falsified date of birth. A group of Concerned Civil Servants brought the matter before you in February this year.
The said Mr. Akpan joined the civil service in Akwa-Ibom State where record is said to show that his original Date of Birth is 1958. He transferred his service to Federal Government in 1999 with the same record of Date of Birth. However, in his IPPIS, he entered his Date of Birth as 1962. This is a deliberate criminal falsification to help him overstay in service.
For the avoidance of doubt, without certificates to authenticate, Mr. Akpan is said to claim that he started his Education at Qua Iboe Science Secondary School (Etinan Institute) in 1965. Two (2) related facts stand out. One, if Mr. Akpan was born in 1958, he ought to have retired 2 years ago. Two, if he was born in 1962, it was practically impossible that he started Primary (or even in some arguments, Secondary Education) in 1965.
The facts which the public is interested in your commission resolving are: when exactly was Mr Akpan born? When and where did he start school? What are the facts to authenticate his early school claims? And does his alleged Date of Birth and date of enrollment into primary school agree? That is, if it is true that he started primary school in 1965, could that be possible for someone born in 1962? And what is the authenticity of his other claims?
It should also worry all of us, including the ICPC that Mr. AKPAN is said to be protected by a powerful man in the political system as alleged. He too makes boast of this.
Consequently, we urge you to resolve this matter which is of interest to the public because it will lead to flushing other offenders out of the system, and bringing them to justice. We have to rid the system of these kinds of Viruses as we as a Country are also kicking CoronaVirus out of Nigeria.

We look forward to your speedy action!

Comrade Ibrahim Kabiru Dallah

Convener

’86 terrorists killed and scores of kidnapped victims rescued’ – Nigerian Military says

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May 15, 2020

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’86 terrorists killed and scores of kidnapped victims rescued’ – Nigerian Military says

The Armed Forces of Nigeria says it has killed over 86 Boko Haram terrorists and other criminal elements in the country in its various operations within the last week.

Coordinator Defence Media Operations (DMO) Defence Headquarters, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, said this whilst briefing newsmen on the operational activities of the military across the country Friday, in Abuja.

He noted that the terrorist group whose activities in the past years had ravaged and devastated the north eastern part of the country, has been decapitated with the new vigour and zeal of the Nigerian military thereby reducing the group to resort into mere criminals.

Gen Enenche said, the military will redouble its efforts in making sure they have no significant value and are cripplingly incapacitated with the continued offensive and onslaught it will launch against the group.

“I want to assure the general public that the Nigerian military will reduce the current criminality activities of Boko haram and ISWAP to hoodlumism”.

This, he said can only be feasible if the general public has given its due cooperation by providing the credible information to the troops to succeed.

He assured that the military will not stop until the criminal activities of Boko Haram/ISWAP as well as other crime related issues have been reduced to the barest minimum in the country.

On the UN alleged security alert that Boko haram might attack Lagos and Abuja during the Covid- 19 pandemic period, Gen. Enenche said, the military is more than prepared to tackling any criminal activity before it happens.

Full text of the briefing reads below;

UPDATE ON ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA OPERATIONS

In line with the resolve of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to update the general public regularly on its operations, I am to brief you this morning on our operations generally with emphasis on some of them. Let me stress that it is a joint effort of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies.

OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE

On 11 May 2020, eleven ISWAP fighters surrendered to troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Adamawa State. The repentant insurgents are being profiled for further action. This number of surrendered BHT/ISWAP fighters is an indication of the heat of our operational activities on the terrorists due to the renewed impetus in the theatre to end the criminality. There are indications that more terrorists are willing to surrender. One of such moves, was the dropping off of 72 family members of BHTs/ISWAP at the entrance of Ngala town in Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State on 10 May 2020 around 8.30pm, comprising 33 women and 39 children. All of them are in custody of troops for further action. It would be recalled that the De-radicalization, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme for ex-fighters under Operation SAFE CORRIDOR has recorded tremendous success. So far, 280 clients have successfully undergone the programme and reintegrated into the society, 25 of this number were repatriated to Niger Republic. Presently, 603 clients are due to pass out in June 2020. Other fighters are hereby encouraged to come out of the bush/hideouts to surrender. The military High Command is using this medium to request parents, traditional rulers, community, opinion and religious leaders to urge their wards and children not to succumb to inducements by the BHT/ISWAP for recruitment into their fold because the temporarily surviving terrorists are now in dire need of fighters.
Meanwhile, on 9 May 2020 troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE at Uvaha High Ground Area in Limankara, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State neutralized 3 suicide bombers attempting to infiltrate the defence location. Similarity, troops of 144 Battalion, 82 Division task Force Battalion, 26 Task Force Brigade and 271 Task Force Tank Battalion neutralized 18 Boko Haram Terrorists within the past one week. These operations took place at Gamboru Ngala, Firgi Mubi – Kamale Road in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State as well as Ngoshe near the Nigeria – Cameroon border. A total of 72 persons were also rescued from the Boko Haram Terrorists.
Also, on 9 May 2020, troops of 121 Task Force Battalion, at Pulka – Ngurosoye, near Bama town repelled BHT ambush and killed 20 terrorists, while on escort duty. Equally, on 13 May 2020, Operation LAFIYA DOLE troops killed 9 BHTs in an ambush at Mainok – Jakana axis in Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State. Two gun trucks mounted with anti aircraft gun were captured. In all 61 BHT/ISWAP criminals were neutralized in the Theatre, aside from those that escaped with gunshot wounds with narrow chances of survival.
In a swift operation, within this period, gallant Troop of Army Super Camp Mallam Fatori on 11 May 2020, conducted a clearance operation to Tumbun Fulani in Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State. Several terrorist were killed while their vehicles and logistics bases were destroyed.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE, on 12 May 2020, while responding to a distress call on suspected armed herdsmen infiltration at Agasha in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State neutralized 4 assailants. Troops recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, 4 magazines and 65 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition from them. The general public is hereby requested to continue to provide credible information to the Armed Forces of Nigeria, to facilitate our operations in this regard.
I am to warmly state that, the High Command of the Armed Forces of Nigeria congratulates the gallant troops for successes recorded and once more call on parents, traditional, opinion, community and religious leaders to advise their wards and subjects not to succumb to inducements by the terrorists, as the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains decisive to end the insurgency and other security challenges in the Country. Furthermore, the High Command wishes to thank the general public for their support and solicits for their cooperation towards providing credible and timely information that will facilitate proactive engagements in our operations.

Reviewed: How Shekau lied about ‘weeping audio’

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May 15, 2020

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Reviewed: How Shekau lied about ‘weeping audio’

Ahmed Shehu

More facts have emerged to prove that the audio recording in which the leader of the Boko Haram terrorists group, Imam Abubakar Shekau, was weeping and crying for mercy is not only recent but that the BH leader lied when he claimed it was done some “five years ago.’
Investigations by our correspondent revealed that the attempt to discredit the audio was in order to preserve the image of the Boko Haram leader which has been battered in recent times by reports of the devastation on his group  by the Nigerian military and the indication he sent out that he is about to surrender.
An inside source told our correspondent that when the audio leaked, Shekau was devastated and needed to do something to sustain his public image.
“His men no longer see him as indestructible owing to what he has been through this year alone and the audio tape confirmed his desperation and timidity which needed to be redeemed hence the attempt to discredit the audio,” said the source.
Fact Check by our team further revealed that the audio was actually done this year as the year 2020 stands out as one of the worst for the terrorist groups.
Our correspondent recalls that in March this year, more than 1000 of the Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were killed across the Chadian border by troops led by the Chadian President, Idris Derby Itno forcing many of them to flee to Nigerian territories.
Not long after they fled, the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, moved to the Northeast in what is now looking like the final push to crush the terrorists and in no time, the group started suffering series of defeats started with the killing of more than 100 of their fighting men and 20 commanders.
Nigerian troops sustained the heat right through to the next month of April and by May, no less than 500 of the terrorist groups top commanders and fighting men were slain and their key informants arrested.
Large cache of their arms were also seized and destroyed and many of their bunkers were blown off.
Our correspondent reports that it did not come as a surprise to many when an audio tape of the Boko Haram leader, Imam Abubakar Shekau weeping and crying for mercy and protection against Nigerian troops emerged due to the series of defeats he and his group have suffered within the last two months period.
Shekau, in the audio tape could be heard, asking “Allah” to protect him and his followers against the intensive fire power of Nigerian troops and lamenting what he called the “devilish act” of Nigerian military which e said has made the Holy month of Ramadan difficult for him and his followers to observe.
He could be heard in the 1:22 seconds audio, weeping that and saying that  “If it is the devilish act and wickedness [of the Nigerian military], may Allah protect us from their evil. Oh Allah, keep us firm on your religion. We are poor things who know nothing, oh our Lord, Allah.”
He continued: “We deserted Izala people to practice your true religion; we abandoned Tijjaniyya people to practice your true religion; we deserted the Shiites to practice your true religion; we forsook our parents, uncles and aunties to practice your true religion.
“It is because of your religion that we placed a knife on your servants’ necks; but today, they are trying to change us from one thing to another. Oh Lord, have mercy upon us during Ramadan; Oh Lord, have mercy on under the blessings of Ramadan.
“Oh Allah, give us victory over our enemies. Oh brothers, for Allah’s sake, obey Allah and help me with prayers. This does not mean I am angry.”
But shortly after the video went viral and Nigerians were celebrating that the end of Shekau and his followers had come, the Boko Haram leader tried to downplay the import of his ululation and cry for mercy saying the audio is not a recent one, but was made five years ago.
He said in the sequel audio that, “I made the statement during the Muslim month of Ramadan and between that Ramadan and this one is about five years.
“In that statement, I prayed to seek Allah’s support. Even today, I will not stop telling my creator about my lack of strength for him to give me strength.”
He added, “There is war of words, certainly. There is a war of arms, certainly. There is also a war of deceptions. Indeed, there are many ways to fight anyone, we all know this.”
It is obvious that Shekau is quite disturbed about his image as a result of the leaked audio as he threatened those he says were responsible for releasing it to the public.
But the attempt by Shekau to defend what is remaining of his battered image has not been helped by his explanation that it is an old audio. It had rather emphasized the desperation of the Boko haram leader to remain relevant in the wake of the recent onslaught agains him and his group.
Fact Check by our team revealed that the claim by Shekau that the audio is as old as five years cannot be true as nobody in the last five year has come up to indicate ever hearing such a tape until now.
A security expert explained that if the audio was done five years ago as a message to Boko Haram members who were scattered across four countries and different territories, there was no way the message would not have been intercepted or sourced by military intelligence for five good years.
He said similar recordings of Shekau shouting orders to his men or trying to encourage them in battle that were done in the past had all been intercepted and verified.
The security expert said there is every reason to believe that Shekau was lying when he said the audio was done five years ago because of the current circumstances his group is passing through coupled with the fact that there was no compelling reason for him to have wept five years ago.
Further investigations by our correspondent revealed that the Shekau claim of five years cannot be true because the 2015 or 2014 which he was referring to are some of the years that the terrorists unleashed their worst acts of terror on Nigeria.
It was in 2015 for instance that the Baga massacre which involved a series of mass killings was carried out by the group, in Baga and its environs, in Borno State between 3 January and 7 January 2015 in which over a thousand people in 16 different communities were either killed or remained unaccounted for.
It was in that carnage that  a military base that was the headquarters of the Multinational Joint Task Force containing troops from Chad, Niger and Nigeria was overran and over 35,000 people are reported to have been displaced, with many feared to have drowned while trying to cross Lake Chad.
Shekau had after the carnage, claimed responsibility for the massacre in a video he sent out not long after and it was recorded that in the year 2015, the group was responsible for over 6,000 deaths in 270 separate attacks.
The year 2015 was even more devastating for innocent citizens as in the previous year 2014, the group was responsible for the death 3,425 dead in 220 attacks though it was in that year that the group gained international attention after its fighters kidnapped more than 200 schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State and it was in August of that year that Boko Haram announced it had established a “caliphate” in Nigeria with headquarters in Gwoza.
The group however suffered defeat in April, 2015, when the general elections were postponed which allowed the then administration to intensify efforts and Gwoza, Boko Haram’s base was retaken by Nigerian troops.
But the heat was not sustained to the extent that the Boko Haram leader would be weeping.
When the current Chief of Army Staff was appointed in July of that year, the story began to change and though the group suffered series of  defeats after that ,many of them found safe havens in other neighboring countries like Chad and Shekau even bragged in many videos after that, that the group has not been sufficiently subdued.
The only evidence of a total defeat on the Boko from all sides only happened this year and this is why many believe that Shekau posted the second audio just to sustain his image a tough fighter which has since been eroded.
The audio tape has made many to believe earlier reports that the time is almost up for the terrorists and that the BH leader had actually indicated a willingness to surrender.