Home Blog Page 350

Niger State Mourns as Local Government Chairman Dies in Minna-Suleja Road Crash

0

Danlami Abdullahi Saku, chairman of Katcha Local Government Area in Niger State, was sadly killed in a car accident on the Minna-Suleja car.

The tragedy occurred on Tuesday evening in Kwakwuti, while Saku was on his way to Abuja.

His unexpected death has caused shockwaves throughout the state.

Read Also: Nigerian Army detains Miyetti Allah leader in Nasarawa

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed sincere grief for the tragedy, calling it terrible.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor expressed condolences to the late chairman’s family, the people of Katcha, and the state as a whole, urged everyone to remain strong in their faith.

Nigerian Army detains Miyetti Allah leader in Nasarawa

0

Alhaji Bello Badejo, President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, a Fulani socio-cultural organization, was arrested in Keffi, Nasarawa State, by soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 117 Guards’ Battalion.

Bodejo was arrested on Monday after a reported confrontation between Fulani pastoralists and a retired soldier, which injured the former serviceman.

An unidentified source in Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore voiced alarm about Alhaji Badejo’s extended arrest, calling it a troubling repeat.

According to the source, Badejo was detained for more than six months earlier this year after a similar incident.

According to the source, the present incident started when Fulani pastoralists allegedly clashed with a retired Air Force officer in Tudun Wada, Karu Local Government Area.

He stated that the retired commander recruited soldiers from the Keffi barracks, who arrived in the neighborhood and fired sporadically before capturing an unspecified quantity of livestock.

Read Also: Nigerian Army arrests Miyetti Allah leader in Nasarawa

He also stated that on Monday, when Alhaji Badejo returned from a trip, soldiers invaded his office at the Maliya cattle market in Tudun Wada and held him.

“These pastoralists are neither his children nor his employees, yet he was apprehended because he is the President of the socio-cultural organization, seen as the father figure of Fulani herdsmen,” a source explained to the Daily Sun.

According to reports, Alhaji Badejo may have been transferred to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) for additional examination.

This arrest follows a similar event in January 2024, when Badejo was detained by the Department of State Services for forming the Nomad’s Vigilante Group in Nasarawa State.

Authorities had voiced concern that the group’s actions could spark widespread unrest.

Police neutralize bandit, apprehend six suspected kidnappers, robbers in Kaduna

0

The Kaduna State Police Command has neutralised one alleged bandit and arrested three others.

The Command’s Spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the development in a statement made in Kaduna on Tuesday, adding that the command captured three more suspected armed robbers.

According to him, on October 8, at around 2:45 p.m., a surveillance squad from the Kasuwan Mata Police Division, acting on valid information, successfully raided a brothel on Nupe Street in Zaria’s Kasuwan Mata neighborhood.

He stated that during the operation, Adamu Yahaya, 35, was captured.
“A thorough search of his person led to the discovery of a locally fabricated pistol, a live cartridge, and a pair of handcuffs in his possession,” the officer stated.

Hassan said that preliminary investigations had begun and that the suspect remained in police custody, where he was quizzed.

The PPRO further disclosed that on October 8, at approximately 10:30 a.m., a Barnawa Division patrol unit intercepted two suspects while executing a stop-and-search operation.

“These two suspects have been identified as Andrew Emmanuel, a male resident of Gbagyi Villa, Kaduna, and Mendwas Peter Bulus, a male resident of Television Village, Kaduna.

“During the search, they recovered one service weapon, two Infinix phones, and a quantity of dry leaves presumed to be Indian cannabis.

“The suspects confessed to being armed robbers operating within Kaduna,” according to him.

The police image maker stated that more investigations were undertaken to determine the full scope of their actions and identify other collaborators.

According to him, on December 9, based on solid intelligence, the Dan-Magaji Division police surveillance squad spotted three people acting suspiciously along the Kano-Kaduna expressway.

“During interrogation, the suspects gave unsatisfactory answers, forcing a comprehensive search. During the search, authorities discovered 216 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and one round of 7.62x39mm live ammo,” he explained.

He identified the suspects as Buhari Suleiman of Labar Road, Jaji, Kaduna; Jamil Yakubu of Dungun Sambo, Dandume, Katsina State; and Aliyu Abdullahi of Tushen Jaji, Kaduna.

He claimed a preliminary inquiry found that Jamil Yakubu had purchased 50 rounds of 9mm ammo a week prior.

Read Also: Senate directs reinstatement of sacked NRC worker, payment of entitlements

The spokesperson stated that on December 10, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Damakasuwa got credible intelligence concerning a potential bandit attack on civilians in the Tudu Gishere area.

According to him, when they arrived at the location, they engaged the robbers in a ferocious battle, in which one unnamed bandit was killed while the remaining suspects fled into the adjacent bushes with bullet wounds.

Hassan stated that Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna, praised the police for their successful activities.

“The CP urges the public to continue providing the police with credible information to help the continuous fight against crime across the state,” according to him.

Senate directs reinstatement of sacked NRC worker, payment of entitlements

0

The Nigerian Senate has rejected the dismissal of a member of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).

The Senate asked the Corporation on Tuesday to restore a former District Engineer, Engr. Aniekan Paddy Ukpe, whose appointment was terminated in March 2023.

The Red Chamber further ordered that the former District Engineer be paid all outstanding entitlements, stating that there was no evidence linking him to the vandalism of railway rails within his jurisdiction.

Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, raised the issue before the Senate.

The lawmaker’s report to the Senate arose from a petition submitted by the Engineer, who claimed that the Corporation had wrongfully terminated his appointment.

In his plea, Engr. Ukpe stated that he was the Senior Civil Engineer in charge of the North Central District, which included Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa states.

He described how he learned of the railway track vandalism that occurred on September 19, 2022, at Kamuru Station in Zonkwa, Kaduna State.

After receiving the information, the Engineer stated that he immediately issued a verbal telegram report to the District Manager and filed a formal complaint with the police.

He stated that this resulted in the arrest and punishment of the perpetrators, two of whom were sentenced to two years in prison.

According to Ukpe’s petition, rather than being complimented by the District Manager, he was accused of underreporting the incident.

Read Also: Reps advocate increased funding for Defence Agency

The District Manager questioned him and then sent the case to an investigation committee.

He claimed that the committee’s findings were biased and riddled with anomalies, which led to his dismissal without a fair chance to defend himself.

The NRC, represented by its Managing Director, Engr. (Dr.) F.E. Okhiria, justified the termination by claiming dereliction of duty.

According to the NRC, Engr. Ukpe delayed reporting the occurrence to his superiors and was complacent in handling the situation.

The corporation claimed that his acts breached the Railway General Rules of 1964, which justified his firing.

Reps advocate increased funding for Defence Agency

0

The House of Representatives’ Committee on Defense has emphasized the need for more funding for the Defence Intelligence Agency.

Babajimi Benson, Committee Chair, spoke as he led members on their first oversight visit to the DIA headquarters in Abuja.

Benson stated that the DIA is vital to the nation’s security architecture, and the visit emphasizes the need of intelligence-driven approaches in solving multiple security concerns.

He stated, “There are three intelligence agencies in Nigeria: DSS, NIA, and DIA. The DIA’s budget should be increased as it provides both internal security and external intelligence.

Read Also: Bamidele: Tinubu sleeps well because Akpabio leads Senate

“So, they’re the only agency with those two caps. DSS is simply Nigerian, NIA is foreign, but DIA handles both. However, when comparing the budgets of the three organizations, it is surprising that DIA receives the least funding.

“So, we’re here today to examine what they’ve done with what little they have, but there’s a need to increase what they get so they can compete with DSS and NIA. This is the recommendation we are bringing away, and we will make certain that Mr. President, father of the nation, sees it.

“He should take DIA as his baby because they have so much potential. As you can see, insecurity has decreased dramatically in Nigeria, and the DIA has played a crucial role,” Benson added.

Bamidele: Tinubu sleeps well because Akpabio leads Senate

0

Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has complimented Senate President Godswill Akpabio, noting that one of the reasons President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sleeps well is owing to Akpabio’s effective leadership in the Senate.

Bamidele made the remarks on Monday while speaking on behalf of a group of senators who had convened at Akpabio’s Abuja home to celebrate his 62nd birthday.

According to a statement from Akpabio’s media office, the gathering was impromptu, but notable attendees included the National Assembly Management team, led by the newly appointed Clerk, Kamoru Ogunlana; political associates; Akpabio’s friends; and Senate President’s office staff, led by Chief of Staff Sylvester Okonkwo, who presented a birthday card and gifts on the team’s behalf.
Others who attended were Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Deputy Governor of Edo State Philip Shaibu, and important private individuals.

Senator Bamidele praised Akpabio for his leadership, saying that his colleagues are pleased with his performance as Senate President.

Read Also: Breaking: Immigration names centre after President Bola Tinubu

“I know one of the reasons he (President Tinubu) can sleep well is because he has you (Akpabio) as the President of the Senate.”He trusts you. He depends on you. He relies on you and takes your comments seriously.

“Mr President of the Senate, we are all really proud of you. I’m standing beside my coworkers. I’m always honored to speak on their behalf, and I’m confident that I’m saying exactly what they expect.
“We are extremely proud of you. Senator Bamidele stated, “We just want to thank you for who you are and the kind of leadership you provide.”

When asked to offer a toast on behalf of former and current governors, Senator Adam Oshiomhole, a two-term Edo State governor, remarked, “This evening, I’m asked to give a toast to a man who was elected President of the 10th Senate.” His Senate leadership reminds us all that no matter what platform we were elected on or whose party we represent in the 109 Senatorial Districts, once we arrive in the Senate, we become a symbol of one Nigeria.

“And in a moment like this, to speak of a man who had the appetite to tolerate debates and remind us that Senators are not meant to stammer and that democracy manifests better when there are controversies, not meant for the faint of heart, we must have the courage to face issues, debate them, build consensus, and reach an agreement in the national interest. You do not shy away from severe problems. That was the message he (Akpabio) delivered to us last week.”

Akpabio responded by thanking his colleagues and other well-wishers for their gesture, despite the fact that he had no plans to celebrate his birthday.

Breaking: Immigration names centre after President Bola Tinubu

0

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has named its command and control center after President Bola Tinubu.

Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, the Controller General of the NIS, made the announcement during the President’s inauguration of the Centre in Abuja on Tuesday.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the Nigeria Immigration Service and our nation’s progress. It is an honor and privilege to be here.

“Today, we gather to commission the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex—BATTIC—here at the NIS Headquarters,” says Nandap.

“This cutting-edge facility exemplifies Nigeria’s innovative approach to digital transformation and national security.”

“BATTIC is more than just a building; it is a leap forward, a bold step in modernizing our immigration infrastructure, and a powerful tool in our ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s borders, manage migration effectively, and enhance national security” , the Chief of the Guard stated.

Mrs Nandap praised the President for the Service’s changes and his support for the initiatives, stating that the Centre has been certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and integrated with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

She also praised the National Security Adviser to the President, the Ministers of Interior and Aviation, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for their contributions to the project’s success.

According to the Immigration Commissioner, the scheme will ensure the integrity and accountability of those entering Nigeria.

Read Also: Osita Okechukwu: PDP lucky to escape Buhari, Tinubu probe

“Each of these components has been rigorously built to match international standards, ensuring that Nigeria not only keeps up with global trends but also emerges as a pioneer in migration data management.

“With BATTIC, we are setting a new standard for the use of technology to secure our borders and strengthen national security.

“BATTIC’s objective is centered on its capacity to efficiently manage and analyze diverse quantities of data using cutting-edge technologies.

“Please allow me to showcase some of the important operations and features of this extraordinary institution.

Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) Analysis.

“This allows us to analyze passengers’ risk levels even before they arrive in Nigeria or leave their place of origin.

“Detection of Suspicious trip Patterns: By examining trip data, we can identify abnormalities that could suggest potential security threats.

“The complex will enable real-time video surveillance to monitor unmanned border areas throughout the federation, providing a continual eye on border activity.

“Integrated Communication Platform: BATTIC will enable seamless communication at all levels, including Border Patrol Units, Border Control Posts, State Commands, Service Headquarters, and the Ministry of Interior.”

“Cross-Reference with National and International Watchlists: Data will be cross-checked against a variety of national and worldwide security databases, including INTERPOL, to ensure that no security threats are overlooked.

“In essence, BATTIC will serve as the central hub for our digital infrastructure, dramatically enhancing our surveillance capabilities, streamlining migration management, and strengthening our national security framework.”

Osita Okechukwu: PDP lucky to escape Buhari, Tinubu probe

0

Former Director General of Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, has urged PDP leaders to consider themselves fortunate that they have not been investigated by consecutive All Progressives Congress, APC, administrations.

Okechukwu, an APC chieftain, was responding to the PDP’s resignation notice after the opposition party won Ghana’s presidential election.

Debo Ologunagba, spokesperson for the PDP, “The verdict of the people of Ghana in this presidential election is a signal to the APC that its days are numbered, as the power of the people in Nigeria just like in Ghana, will surely prevail, end the APC’s oppressive rule, and return Nigeria to the path of good governance, security, political stability, and economic prosperity on the platform of the PDP in 2027.”

Responding in a statement released on Tuesday, Okechukwu stated that after reading the above statement by the PDP’s spokesman, his only submission “is that the PDP clan should thank Almighty God that Buhari and Tinubu out of sheer statesmanship refused to probe the planlessness and squandermania of sixteen locust years of PDP.”

According to him, the country had yet to recover “from the humongous culture of impunity and trust deficit planted in our soil by the PDP, to name a few.”

Read Also: Controversy erupts over Jigawa Court’s death sentence for couple, siblings

He stated, “Corruption governed the privatisation of our power value chain, which is critical to industrialisation.

“The 2007 general elections were blatantly rigged, and the primary beneficiary, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, publicly recognized the wrongdoing that defined his triumph.

“Conscienceless sale of parliamentary and ministerial quarters, the rent which annually drains our coffers.

“The neglect of $23 billion Greenfield Refinery, which could have saved over $70 billion expended on importation of refined petroleum products and which simulated the economic hardship of today.”

Okechukwu recalled “efforts made by the Buhari’s administration to reopen talks on the Greenfield Refinery, which the Chinese regrettably rebuffed.”

He stated that “we cannot in a hurry forget the deliberate breach of the president’s rotation convention from north to south, as well as the complete disregard of Section 7 of the PDP’s constitution, which expressly mandates zoning.”

“The PDP should not offend Nigerian sensibilities by presuming that we are morons who will soon forget how they put us in danger.

“Rather they should thank Almighty God that Buhari and Tinubu did not want to probe them and that’s why Nigerians cannot decipher the difference between the two political parties.”

Controversy erupts over Jigawa Court’s death sentence for couple, siblings

0

Hassan Isah (55), Adama Yahaya (42), Abdullahi Yahaya (35), and Maryam Daso Yahaya (28), the convicted individuals, reside in Kwan-Dole Village in Jigawa State’s Mallam-Madori Local Government Area.

Speaking about the decision, Jigawa State Judiciary Director of Protocol and Publicity Abbas Rufa’i Wangara emphasized the importance of the ruling in upholding the rule of law and advancing justice.

According to Wangara, the court was persuaded beyond a reasonable doubt by the evidence that was given, which included confessions from the prisoners, a medical report, and five witnesses.

Opinions on the case have been mixed. Human rights advocate Hajiya Fatima Mohammed hailed the ruling as a human rights triumph and a warning against jungle justice.

Law student Aminu Bala expressed similar opinions, highlighting its function in reducing vigilantism.

Alhaji Yusuf Abdullahi and other community members, however, voiced their concerns about the death penalty and called for a balance between justice and the cultural ideals of reconciliation and forgiveness.

Read Also: Shehu Sani urges Lawmakers to avoid being executive’s rubber stamp

Mustapha Kashim, the defense attorney, has stated that he intends to appeal the decision in a week.

Kashim alluded to procedural issues in the trial when he maintained that justice must take into account the requirements of the victim, dependents, and society.

Through an analysis of the trial proceedings and the imposition of the death sentence, the appeals process will offer a new viewpoint on the case.

According to Kashim, “the outcome will have significant implications for the convicts and the community.”

In Kano, casualties as groups of thugs clash

0

The Kaduna Police Command has confirmed the deaths of two civilians in a battle between rival thugs in Kofar Mata and Yakasai Kano.

SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the development in a statement released on Tuesday.

He stated that the command promptly dispatched teams of police officers to the spot to prevent further breakdown of law in the area.

Read Also: Bayelsa govt calls for NCDMB engagement with grassroots stakeholders

According to the statement, Kano State Commissioner of Police CP Salman Dogo Garba paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected areas on Monday to obtain firsthand information and formulate strategies for dealing with the issue.

According to the PPRO, the command’s principal mission is to ensure the safety and security of all state residents.

“The Command will not tolerate thuggery and any form of criminal activities and will deal decisively with anyone who disrupts the peace in the state.”

According to the PPRO, during the visit, the CP engaged with community residents, local leaders, and police officers to obtain critical information and plan effective response tactics.

“The command will implement robust security measures in the affected areas to prevent further occurrence and restore peace and order,” it said.