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Benue-Taraba move towards demarcation of interstate boundary

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Benue-Taraba move towards demarcation of interstate boundary

By Ede Ogaba Ede

In a conscious effort to fasten the definition and demarcation of the Benue /Taraba interstate boundary, the bilateral meeting of officials of the two states and that of the National Boundary Commission (NBC) today resolved to involve the governors of the two states more in the resolution of the issues and make available to them the comprehensive maps of the 1996 fieldwork based on the 1923/24 description so that they can expeditiously study and with input from stakeholders interface bilaterally on areas of concern to both sides.

The bilateral meeting which took place today in Abuja further resolved that after the interface, the two state governments shall report to the NBC not later than end of January 2020 after which the NBC shall convene another meeting to discuss the needs of the states as well as plan the way forward.

Benue State deputy governor, Engr Benson Abounu led Benue State team to the meeting while Taraba State delegation was led by Engr Haruna Manu. The acting Director General of the NBC, Surveyor Adamu Adaji led the NBC team.

In his welcome address, Engr Benson Abounu stressed the need for peace in the border corridor and highlighted the various efforts put by the two state governments into finding lasting peace in the area.

He called on the communities there to support the peaceful demarcation of the boundary and to see boundaries not as lines of division but as tools for administrative convenience.

He charged the leaders of the various communities to embark on massive sensitization of people in their areas to embrace and fully support the forthcoming demarcation exercise.

In his remarks, Taraba State deputy governor, Engr Manu, who also stressed the need for peace in the troubled area called on the people to change their concept of boundary and see boundaries as bridges of opportunities, and cooperation between communities not as barriers to development.

Also speaking, Surveyor Adaji thanked Governors Samuel Ortom of Benue and Arc. Darius Ishaku of Taraba State for their untiring support for the peace process. He enumerated the outlined activities planned towards the demarcation work and solicited the support of the states and the affected communities.

Breaking: Senate Passes 2020 Budget

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Breaking: Senate Passes 2020 Budget

By Bukola Olasanmi

The Senate on Thursday passed the 2020 budget before the National Assembly.

President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan had announced on Wednesday that the 2020 Appropriation bill before the parliament will be passed today the 5th of December.

He informed lawmakers at plenary shortly after the Public Procurement Act 2007 amendment bills were passed, which he believes, will complement the 2020 budget.

According to Lawan, the Public Procurement bill passed by the upper chamber is the icing on the cake on the eventual passage of the 2020 budget.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Shuaibu Isah Lau (PDP, Taraba North), in his presentation, said “certain amendments were made on the bills to encapsulate the ingredients of the varied views collated from experts and professionals, aimed at adding value to the Procurement Act.”

The Senate, in a clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, adopted the recommendations of the committee with slight amendments made to Section 1 under the Establishment of National Council on Public Procurement.

The Senate also adopted the committee’s recommendation on the issuance of Certificate of No Objection which shall be issued by a Committee of Directors of the Bureau to the chaired by the Director-General of the Public Procurement Bureau.

“The public procurement process in Nigeria has been a big bottleneck for some time, probably since it was passed.

“I believe that with this amendment, the procurement process will be faster and better, as will be the budget implementation process.

“Surely, this bill will have to go to the House of Representatives for them to concur.

Similarly, the upper chamber considered the recommendation of the committee to review upwards the mobilization fee from 15 percent to 20 percent for local contractors as insufficient.

Accordingly, Section 35 of the Act was amended to provide for not more than thirty percent mobilization for local contractors.

The amendment for an upward review of thirty-five percent mobilization for local contractors was initially proposed by Senator Jibrin Barau (APC, Kano North) and seconded by Ibikunle Amosun (APC, Ogun Central).

The Senate, however, settled for a thirty-percent review moved by Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) and seconded by Senator Rose Oko (PDP, Cross River North).

N7.65Billion Fraud: Ex Gov. Orji Kalu Jailed

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N7.65Billion Fraud: Ex Gov. Orji Kalu Jailed

Former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, who was prosecuted on a 27 counts by the EFCC has been jailed.

Kalu, now a Senator representing Abia North at the National Assembly, was jailed by a Federal High Court, sitting in Lagos and presided over by Justice Mohammad Idris. He was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for N7.65bn fraud.

Also convicted and sentenced are two other accomplices, his firm, Slok Nigeria Limited and Udeh Udeogu, who was Director of Finance and Accounts at the Abia State Government House during his tenure as governor.

The judge also ordered that Slok Nigeria Limited be wound up and its assets forfeited to the Federal Government.

 

Troops crush more Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents, rescue women and children

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Troops crush more Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents, rescue women and children

…upscale operations to decimate criminals nationwide

In what has now become a recurring decimal for the Boko Haram criminal elements across Operation LAFIYA DOLE Theatre, owing to the growing effectiveness of the Nigerian Army Super Camp Concept, some criminal Boko Haram elements mounted on 5 Gun Trucks and motorcycles attempted to infiltrate 112 Task Force Battalion troops’ location at Mafa in Mafa LGA of Borno State on 1 December 2019.

In a shameless display of poor training and tactics, the marauding criminals made themselves easy target, as they fell prey to the superior fire power power of the resilient and highly professional troops of the said Battalion.

At the end of the encounter which lasted for about 40 minutes, the criminals once again suffered heavy casualties in both men and equipment as they were seen retreating in dissaray with some of their dead and wounded. However, the dogged troops of the Unit embarked on a hot pursuit of the scampering insurgents and exploited their withdrawal route.

During the exploitation, troops recovered 3 Boko Haram bodies (2 of them strapped with suicide vests). Additionally, one Boko Haram criminals’ Gun Truck, one motorcycle, one Anti-Aircraft Gun, one PKT Gun, one Rocket Propelled Gun Tube were captured by the troops. Other items that were equally captured by the troops include 2 Rocket Propelled Gun bombs, 2 AK 47 Rifles, 25 Rounds of Anti-Aircraft Gun, 723 Rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 51 Rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 52 Rounds of 7.62 X 54mmR (PKT) ammunition, surgical kits, Boko Haram terrorists’ uniforms and warm clothing were also captured by the gallant troops.

ONE GUN TRUCK, BOKO HARAM UNIFORMS AND SURGICAL KITS CAPTURED BY TROOPS OF 112 TASK FORCE BATTALION, OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE IN FAILED INFILTRATION ATTEMPT ON THE TROOPS’ LOCATION AT MAFA IN MAFA LGA OF BORNO STATE ON 1 DECEMBER 2019

In a similar development, 2 female suicide bombers attempted to infiltrate the Defence Company of 26 Task Force Brigade Garrison location at Gwoza in Gwoza LGA of Borno State on 1 December 2019. Consequently, the eagle eyed soldiers deployed on sentry duty identified the criminal intruders and neutralized them before they could detonate their suicide vests.

In yet another development, based on credible intelligence, troops of 21 Special Armoured Brigade in conjunction with elements of the Civilian Joint Task Force conducted a robust Clearance Operation to suspected Boko Haram enclaves at Zua and Kotembe Villages in Bama LGA of Borno State in the early hours of 2 December 2019.

12 WOMEN AND 4 CHILDREN RESCUED BY TROOPS OF 21 SPECIAL ARMOURED BRIGADE DURING CLEARANCE OPERATION OF BOKO HARAM ENCLAVES IN ZUA AND KOTEMBE VILLAGES OF BAMA LGA OF BORNO STATE ON 2 DECEMBER 2019

Incidentally, the cowardly remnant Boko Haram criminals hibernating in the general area opened fire on the advancing troops from an ineffective range and fled in disarray towards Kerawa along the Nigeria- Cameroon boarder. Nevertheless, the gallant troops continued with their advance and bravely searched the area. It is gratifying to note that, 12 women and 4 children held captives by the insurgents were rescued and evacuated to safety.

Elsewhere, other ongoing Nigerian Army Operations and Exercises conducted across the country continue to yield positive results as our gallant troops continue to decimate the criminal gangs and deny them freedom of action.

TROOPS OF EXERCISE CROCODILE SMILE IV DISCOVERED A MAKESHIFT UNDERGROUND BUNKER IN THE HOUSE OF A NOTORIOUS SUSPECTED DRUG PEDDLER USED FOR STORING VARIOUS ILLICIT DRUGS IN LARGE QUANTITIES AT IPAJA LAGOS STATE

Relatedly, troops of 9 Brigade Garrison on Exercise CROCODILE SMILE IV, while acting on credible intelligence from some law-abiding citizens, conducted a successful Cordon and Search Operation in a resident of one notorious drug peddler in Ipaja area of Lagos State. During the Operation, troops busted and discovered a large underground makeshift bunker used for the storage of large quantities of different kinds of illicit drugs.

In a related development, troops of 146 Battalion on Exercise CROCODILE SMILE IV also neutralized one bandit while others are believed to have escaped with various degrees of gunshot wounds during an encounter at Lafarge Company general area in Akamkpa LGA of Cross Rivers State. Also, troops of 16 Brigade Garrison on Exercise CROCODILE SMILE IV arrested one armed robbery suspect and recovered one locally fabricated pistol at Tombia Roundabout in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Similarly, on 1 December 2019, acting on credible information, troops of 343 Artillery Regiment, Quick Response Force on Operation CROCODILE SMILE IV raided a cultists’ staging area along Ahoada Road, Elele in Ikwerre LGA of Rivers State. After a brief gun battle, the criminals retreated into the nearby forest. However, the troops neutralized 2 of the cultists and recovered one AK 47 Rifle, one locally made pistol and 30 Rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

In a similar vein, troops of 8 Division Garrison while conducting Clearance Operations, discovered a bandits’ logistics camp at Tagimba area in Gudu LGA of Sokoto State. However, the criminals fled the location before arrival of the unrelenting troops. Nevertheless, the troops destroyed their Logistics and exploited further ahead.

Also, same troops, while conducting aggressive fighting patrol along Katsina – Gusau Road, arrested 2 suspected bandits, recovered one AK 47 Rifle and 20 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

TROOPS OF 16 BRIGADE GARRISON ARRESTED ONE ARMED ROBBER AND RECOVERED A LOCALLY FABRICATED PISTOL AT TOMBIA ROUNDABOUT IN BAYELSA STATE

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai commends troops for their exceptional display of patriotism, professionalism and responsiveness. He however admonishes them to remain resilient and continue to be steadfast in the fight against criminal elements across the nation.

Human rights group decries growing spate of war crimes by IPOB, IMN

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Human rights group decries growing spate of war crimes by IPOB, IMN

….As terrorists groups continue to take laws into their hands

Following the gruesome murder of two police officers by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on Monday in Oraifite, Anambra State, human rights group have called for drastic measures to avert future occurrence.

The Coalition for Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria (CHRMGN) condemned the growing spate of war crimes perpetrated by proscribed sects – IPOB and the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

The coalition of human rights groups made this known at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday as a fallout from the killing of two police officers by IPOB members loyal to the Lawyer representing their leader Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement by convener, Gabriel Agibi, the groups revealed these radical sects are sponsored by enemies of Nigeria, with the ultimate aim of causing unrest in the country.

The recent killing of security agents, the coalition reckoned, follows IMN’s trend – as both have unapologetically committed crimes against humanity.

As a matter of national interest, the coalition urged Nigerians to disassociate themselves from IPOB and Shiites members owing to their violent and terrorist tendencies.

CHRMGN, therefore, called on relevant authorities in the country to bring the leadership of both radical groups to justice, else be faced with an upsurge of militant groups carrying out actions that would undermine national security.

The coalition further urged relevant authorities at the International Criminal Court to act to serve as a deterrent to others in the future.

Read full press statement below:

The Coalition for Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria converged this press conference in the light of the upsurge of the nefarious activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra that resulted in the death of police officers in recent times by its members loyal to the lawyer of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu. This is highly condemnable and an indication that the Indigenous People of Biafra and other militant groups might have perfected plans to cause mayhem in the country.

The Coalition for Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria sees this act as an affront to the collective sensibilities of Nigerians. It wishes to condemn it in its entirety as an act of terrorism that must not be tolerated by the relevant authorities in Nigeria.

This act has further reinforced the belief in some quarters that the activities of IPOB and its sister organization, the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), are being sponsored by enemies of the Nigerian state, with the ultimate aim of causing unrest in the country.

The Indigenous People of Biafra and the Islamic Movement of Nigeria are indeed beds of the same feather but with different nomenclatures, and with the same modus operandi of attacking and killing law enforcement officers carrying out their lawful duties.

The Coalition for Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to, through this medium, call on members of the general public to as a matter of national interest disassociates themselves from members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria due to their violent and terrorist tendencies.

These groups have constituted themselves into a clog in the wheel of progress in Nigeria, as evident in their conduct in times past that has resulted in the death of innocent Nigerians going about their normal businesses.

The IPOB and the IMN are organizations that have resorted to carrying out their nefarious activities with the use of dangerous weapons, which has resulted in the loss of lives of innocent and unarmed civilians, including women and children.

This recent attack follows that trend in the wickedly orchestrated plans by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria and their counterparts in IPOB to freely kill law enforcement agencies who carry out their legitimate duties.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria has, in times past, documented the several ways the Indigenous People of Biafra and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria have committed crimes against humanity and had indeed called on the international community to act by bringing the leadership of both groups to justice.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups wishes to use this medium to reinforce that call for the International Criminal Court to rise to the occasion by bringing to book the promoters as well as the sponsors of the nefarious activities of IPOB and the IMN in the overall interest of justice.

The importance of the International Criminal Court acting to bring the IMN and IPOB to justice cannot be overemphasized given the fact that if their activities are left to fester, more innocent Nigerians will fall victim to their violent tendencies, as well as law enforcement officers.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to recall that instance where the IMN attempted to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, when his convoy was ambushed in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The recent events had indeed proven that the IMN would have taken the life of the Chief of Army Staff when they attacked him, but for the superior firepower of officers and soldiers that promptly acted to rescue the Chief of Army Staff from danger.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to state in unequivocal terms that their actions violate global practices as the IPOB and IMN have shown in recent times that both are out to dismember the Nigerian State.

The relevant authorities in Nigeria must act in the interest of the over 200 million Nigerians by bringing the leadership of the IPOB and the IMN to justice, else we might be confronted with a more significant challenge in the future where there would be an upsurge of militant groups carrying out actions that would undermine national security and put innocent citizens in harm’s way.

The relevant authorities at the International Criminal Court must also act to serve as a deterrent to others in the future.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to states that Nigerians are indeed watching how the events would unfold.

NAOWA President donates relieve materials to less privileged in Kaduna, commissions boreholes in Jaji communities

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NAOWA President donates relieve materials to less privileged in Kaduna, commissions boreholes in Jaji communities

The Wife of the Chief of Army Staff, Mrs Ummu Khulssum Buratai and the National President Nigeria Army officers wife Association (NAOWA) has donated about 786 bags of grains comprising rice, maize and millet to beggars and widows in three different communities within Kaduna on Wednesday.

Other items donated include pasta, indomie, detergent, groundnut oil and wrappers.

While presenting the items at the different communities, Mrs Buratai said the gesture was part of the objectives of Nigerian Army Officer’s Wives Association, NAOWA and also to mark the ongoing COAS annual conference in Kaduna.

She assured the people of their continous support to them and promised to do more soon.

Mrs Buratai donates 786 bags of grains to Kaduna beggars , widows

Mrs Buratai however sought for prayers for her husband while in office for God’s continuous protection and Guidance in discharging his constitutional duties.

Receiving the items at the destitutes colony in Kano road, Kaduna, the Leader of cripples in Kaduna, Abdullahi Sama’ila appreciated the kind gesture and said, they are willing to stop begging if goverment supports them with capital to start off businesses.

Speaking on behalf of the beggers, Sama’ila explained that, they are tired of begging and want to start a good life if only they are empowered.

“Here in our midst, there are cripples who at some time were given Keke Napep tricycles to earn a living but that kind of support has not been sustained. Others contributed money and rented a shop but lack capital to run the shop”.

The Leader also appreciated Mrs Buratai’s gesture of donating tricycles for about 40 cripples. “Virtually all of us here crawl to support ourselves in this place but these tricycles will ease our movements. We are very grateful”.

Sama’ila also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff’s efforts in sustaining peace, especially in Kaduna. “Peace is very important. During crisis, we are the most affected because as people living with disabilities, we cannot escape from danger”.

Mrs Buratai donates 786 bags of grains to Kaduna beggars , widows

Receiving Mrs Buratai at Kadaure community, the district head, Alh Magaji Ibrahim said the donation of 150 bags of grains, wrappers, groundnut oil, pasta and detergent is commendable. He also prayed for the success of the Army.

While receiving the items, one of the beneficiaries, Salamatu Haruna who spoke in tears appreciated the gesture and prayed God to replenish their pockets a million folds..

Also at Kyauta community, the district head, Idris Zubairu received donations of 141 bags of grains and other items.

Group punctures allegations against military on recruitment of ex-Boko Haram members

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Group punctures allegations against military on recruitment of ex-Boko Haram members

…. lauds Army’s professionalism

The Advocates of Social Justice for All (ASJA) has rubbished reports claiming that the Nigerian Army recruited repentant Boko Haram members into the military.

The group made this known in an international press conference on Wednesday in Abuja to clear the air in what it described as “outright falsehood and highly misleading information pushed by enemies of the Nigerian state”.

In a statement signed by convener, Comrade Samuel Adadu, the group revealed that such speculation is a “ distraction to the on-going efforts of the Nigerian Army in the fight against terrorism and other militant activities in the country”.

Mr Adadu added that war merchants are angry that the military is making considerable gains in the fight against terrorism in the North-East.

According to the group, the recruitments into the Army is so rigorous that insurgents cannot in any way fit into its operational structure.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All, however, advised those bent on distracting the Nigerian troops in the Theatre of Operations to desist from such enterprise and instead channel their resources and energy towards other productive ventures.

Read full statement below:

This Press Conference is at the instance of the rumour that the Nigerian Army has recruited repentant Boko Haram fighters into the Nigerian Army.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All in fulfilment of one its mandate of ensuring social justice for all regardless of ethnic, religious, or political views sees the need to lend its voice to this debate to put issues in proper perspective for the benefit of the generality of Nigerians.

The rumour making the rounds that repentant Boko Haram members have been recruited into the Nigerian Army is an outright falsehood and highly misleading information been pushed by enemies of the Nigerian state.

To say there is no iota of truth in the rumour is an understatement. Instead, it is a part of a bigger plot to cause a distraction to the on-going efforts of the Nigerian Army in the fight against terrorism and other militant activities in the country.

The Advocates for Social Justice for All, as an organization conversant with the operations of the Nigerian Army in its quest to bring to an end terrorist activities in the country, views such rumours as the handiwork of distractors and agents of some international terrorist network.

The takeaway from the rumour is that war merchants are angry that the Nigerian Military is making considerable gains in the fight against terrorism in North-East Nigeria. As such, they must do everything possible to cause a distraction to suit their nefarious interests.

The Advocates for Social Justice for All indeed see the rumour of the recruitment of repentant Boko Haram fighters as indeed laughable and not in tune with reality given the fact that it has at various times monitored the rigorous recruitment process in the three arms of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, notably the Nigerian Army under the leadership of Lt Gen TY Buratai.

The quality of recruitments into the Nigerian Army is not a subject of debate because of the rigorous processes involved since Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai assumed leadership of the Nigerian Army.

It is indeed a statement of the fact that the repentant Boko Haram members cannot in any way fit into the operational structure of the Nigerian Army. As such, the rumour should be disregarded by all and sundry for lacking in merit and reason.

The Advocates for Social Justice for All, as well as other civil society organizations involved in the counter-insurgency operations of the Nigeria Army, is aware of the fact that recruitment of repentant Boko Haram fighters into the Nigerian Army is a figment of the imagination of sponsors of such malaise.

The Advocates for Social Justice for All states in unequivocal terms that the Nigerian Army has witnessed transparency and probity in its recruitment where not just federal character is being adhered to, and character and behavioral excellence have been deeply entrenched.

The Advocates for Social Justice for All wishes to advise those bent in distracting the troops engaged in clearance operations of Boko Haram remnants in North-East Nigeria to desist from further misleading the members of the unsuspecting general public in their ill-fated flight of fancy.

These rumour merchants should think of creative ways to push their half-truths because Nigerians are aware of their gimmick, which by all standard won’t stand the test of time.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All as an organization recognizes the sound leadership qualities of the Nigerian Army and states that it is only a matter of time for the remnants of Boko Haram would be flushed out from the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin region where they have taken refuge.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All wishes to encourage the leadership of the Nigerian Army to continue to churn out innovations that are geared towards preserving the territorial integrity of Nigeria at all times.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All also advises those bent on distracting the Nigerian troops in the Theatre of Operations to desist from such enterprise and instead channel their resources and energy towards other productive ventures.

Buhari unveils more indigenous war vehicles, promises enhanced security nationwide

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Buhari unveils more indigenous war vehicles, promises enhanced security nationwide

President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Kaduna unveiled Made-in-Nigeria Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles for Nigerian Army’s counter-terrorism and other operations across the nation.

The vehicles named Ezugwu MRAP were produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), an indigenous firm, for the Nigerian Army, and launched by the President at the opening ceremony of the 2019 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.

Speaking on the occasion, President Buhari praised the gallant efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces in routing terrorists and combating insurgency in the on-going operations in the North East.

He pledged that his administration will continue to support the military to achieve its goals in addition to prioritising their welfare and that of their families.

On the Ezugwu MRAP, which will be mass-produced by DICON, the President said: ‘‘I note the collaborative efforts of the Command Engineering Depot with relevant indigenous organisations to promote local content towards developing our military-industrial complex.

‘‘I am glad that the production of Ezugwu Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles which I will be unveiling today will join the infantry patrol vehicles that were earlier produced as testimony that our efforts are yielding positive results.

‘‘Additionally, your efforts in terms of capacity building, training and conduct of exercises are quite commendable.

‘‘I am aware that there are on-going field exercises such as Atilogwu, UDO 1, Exercise Akpatuma 2 and Exercise Crocodile Smile 4, among other civil-military cooperation activities.

‘‘These are impressive efforts geared at enhancing the operational efficiency of the army as well as facilitating a conducive security environment for social, economic activities to thrive.’’

President Buhari also paid tribute to military personnel who had paid the supreme sacrifice in defending the sovereignty of the country.

He urged the soldiers to abide by the ethics, ethos and code of conduct of the military, while ensuring that human rights and international humanitarian laws are promoted and respected in the conduct of military operations.

Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to do everything within its constitutional power to ensure the security and safety of law-abiding citizens, President Buhari said: ‘‘This is a commitment we have made and will continue to keep.’’

The President commended the laudable efforts of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Tukur Buratai, in transforming the Nigerian Army.

‘‘He has keyed into the Federal government Change Agenda and I particularly commend his thrust in the critical areas such as innovative and inventive approach to produce military hardware, infrastructural development, restructuring and reorganisations, among others, with significant results particularly in the on-going counter-insurgency operations and other operations across the country,’’ he said.

Later, the President inaugurated 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.

The hospital was upgraded to a level 4 United Nations hospital to cater for the medical needs of the military and civilian population in the country.

In his goodwill message, Gov. Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna said the State was privileged to play host to several military formations, units, schools and establishments, adding that this was beneficial in fostering synergy between the military and civilians.

The governor specifically commended the Nigerian Army for their roles in sustaining peace and security in Kaduna State, enumerating their efforts at restoring peace and stability in Southern Kaduna, in addition to decimating the capacity of cattle rustlers and kidnappers operating in the state and its environs.

Gov El-Rufai also lauded the army for playing a key role in confronting the menace of the outlawed ‘El-Zakzaky movement’, which had oppressed the people of Zaria for the last 30 years, as well as various corporate social responsibilities including medical outreaches and infrastructure interventions in Kaduna State.

In his remarks, the Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (Rtd) thanked the President for his continuous support to the Nigerian Army, adding that the Federal Government would continue to support the military ahead of the final onslaught on Boko Haram in 2020.

‘‘The Nigerian Army has had a hectic year with a lot of operations conducted to secure the territorial integrity of Nigeria. There is a need for a review of activities during this annual conference to prepare for next year’s final onslaught on Boko Haram,’’ he said.

Also speaking, Lt. Gen. Buratai emphasised that the current transformation of the Nigerian Army to its current status of a professional, highly-motivated, innovative and people-centric institution commenced in 2015 when the President was sworn in for his first term in office.

According to the army chief, the conference themed ‘‘Application of the Cutting Edge of the Nigerian Army in Tackling Contemporary Security Challenges’’, is aimed at evaluating efforts at achieving the overall objective of better positioning the Nigerian Army to face the task ahead in the year 2020 and beyond.

Edward Omaga appointed spokesman for International Human Rights Protection Service

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Edward Omaga appointed spokesman for International Human Rights Protection Service

The Chairman Board of Trustees/President of Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN), Barrister Edward Ejembi Omaga has been appointed as the Honourable Public Relations Officer of International Human Rights Protection Service – IRHPS in Nigeria.

In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, 2nd December, 2019 by the Media Officer of GICN, Miss Blessing Ehi Ogbanje, the appointment was conveyed in a letter dated 15th October, 2019 and signed by Bishop Joseph Rankin who is the International President of IHRPS based in Florida, USA together with his Nigerian counterpart Amb. Mrs. Blessing Joseph Afang, Esq.

Barrister Omaga hails from Benue State in the North Central Region of Nigeria. He studied Law at the prestigious Benue State University, Makurdi and was called to the Nigerian Bar on 8th May, 2007, having attended the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus. The People’s Barrister as he is fondly called by friends and associates has a deep interest in entrenching the tenets of good governance whilst seeing to the protection of the rights of vulnerable persons in the society.

The very vibrant lawyer was a students’ activist in his University days and equally served as the President of Legal Aid Club, during his compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year in Aba, Abia State.

Omaga practiced with Efere Ozako & Associates in Lagos and later relocated to Abuja where he practiced with a couple of law firms including R.A. Mom & Associates from 2009 to 2012, during which period he became more exposed to humanitarian activities. Until his appointment, Omaga was the Principal of Graylaw Solicitors, a litigation oriented law firm headquartered in Abuja with operational offices in Lagos, Makurdi and Kaduna.

Through his several engagements in civil cases, he took particular interest in defending human rights from a legal viewpoint which is very rare. His passion for humanity led him and other like-minded colleagues to form GICN in January, 2018 mainly for purposes of advancing human rights through pro bono service and fighting corruption, injustice and economic sabotage in Nigeria.

After the Official Inauguration of the National Executive Committee of IHRPS held on Friday, 29th November, 2019 at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja, Barrister Omaga accepted to serve the organisation with maximum dedication. He promised to bring his vast experience in public relations to bear by projecting the organisation positively. He finally thanked IHRPS for affording him yet another platform to further advance the cause of humanity.

At that event, a total of eleven pro bono lawyers and seven paralegals most of whom are staffers of GICN were also inaugurated to commence work for IHRPS immediately.

Red Cross and a handshake beyond the elbow

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Red Cross and a handshake beyond the elbow

By Timothy Onwe

In the over a decade, I have contributed to the national discourse, there has never been a time like now that I am writing with so much pain in me. The anxiety stems not from bodily harm, but that of disappointment from an organization that is on the ground in over 90 countries and prides itself as neutral, impartial, and independent.

This same organization, for inexplicable reasons, has so decided to veer off its core mandate of helping people affected by conflict and armed violence to delving into propaganda, illogical conclusions, and outright insinuation at the detriment of peace and tranquillity.

That organization is the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and its recent report that over 22,000 people are missing in North-East Nigeria as a result of the counter-insurgency operations of the Nigerian Military. I was dazed and could not come to terms with such disservice to Nigeria and Nigerians.

In my opinion, the ICRC went overboard with its statement, and I think the relevant authorities in Nigeria should do well to refute its report for the sake of tomorrow because if this is allowed, then we might be creating a monster that would constitute a clog in the wheel of progress in Nigeria.

As a start, the report by the ICRC is false. There is not an element of truth in it, and this fact must be clearly stated for all and sundry to understand because as it stands, quite a number have been misled to believe that the Nigerian Military has not lived up to its billing in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

Secondly, I believe that something is amiss somewhere for the ICRC to condescend to the level of impartiality and lack of objectivity in its framing of issues. I say this because, as one conversant with the counter-insurgency operations of the Nigerian Military, the ICRC report is a disservice to the on-going efforts to bring to an end the activities of Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria.

How the ICRC got to this level remains a topic of discourse. However, in the context of the counter-insurgency operations in North-East Nigeria, the ICRC got it wrong either by omission or commission. The tripod of neutrality, impartiality, and independence was missing in its entirety in the report by the ICRC.

This is on the heels that questions have been asked in certain quarters as regards the sincerity of purpose of international NGOs in the war against terrorism in Nigeria. And with this coming from the stable of the ICRC, that suspicion has been heightened. There is every reason to suspect that there is some interest working against the interest of Nigeria, and these interests come under various nomenclatures.

These interests look for willing tools to propagate half-truths and cause a distraction, especially where the Nigerian Military is making gains. Countless examples buttress this fact, and the recent outing by ICRC is an addition to that league of soldiers that want to see to the destabilization and disintegration of Nigeria.

The ICRC as an organization has failed woefully in this attempt because the attempt, as despicable as it is, is feeble and of poor taste. Unless they want to feign ignorance of the search and rescue operations of the Nigerian Military that has yielded tremendous results with the rescue of thousands of women and children that have been united with their families.

Like I stated earlier, I am in pain because I am still trying to figure the level of the conspiracy that has gone into the plot to discredit the counter-insurgency efforts in the country. I won’t say I am entirely disappointed, because in recent times there have been quite some revelations on the activities of some acclaimed NGOs such as Amnesty International and how they cut corners in return for pecuniary benefits.

I am therefore emboldened to state that the ICRC is no different from these groups that have deviated from their core mandate. For the ICRC, it is indeed a shame that should give critical stakeholders in Nigeria a cause to worry as to how these terrorist groups have been able to infiltrate the ranks of some credible international NGOs to actualize their nefarious agenda.

If this is not the case, how could one phantom that an organization such as the ICRC would be in the business of spreading outright falsehood without minding the implication of their actions? Some might want to argue that there is always a first time, but, no, because this is a wrong first time that dampens the morale of the military authorities and rubbishes all the gains made so far in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

The concept of psychological warfare, which is the planned tactical use of propaganda, threats, and other non-combat techniques during the war, should open our eyes to this stark reality that we are confronting and the angle the ICRC is coming from. They have been compromised, and this much is glaring; hence, the propaganda aimed towards giving the Boko Haram terrorist that advantage they could not gain in the battlefront due to the resilience and commitment of the military authorities in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

I could have fallen for the gimmick, but I didn’t because I am conversant with the happenings in North-East Nigeria, however, what about those out there not conversant and have been misled by this sheer propaganda?

This is my suggestion. The relevant authorities in Nigeria must rise to the occasion and nip this anomaly in the bud before it gets out of hand. They must begin the process of countering the narrative that is being pushed forward about the credibility of the military authorities in its counter-insurgency operations. And for the ICRC, this is a handshake beyond the elbow.

There is a need for retracing of steps in the interest of the sensibilities of Nigerians they have attempted to insult.

Onwe is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

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