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Category: Defence/Security

  • Gov Radda commiserates with families of Kankara bandits’ attack 

    Commiseration
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina  has commiserated with the people of Kankara Local Government Area over the bandits attack on Sunday, where no fewer than 20 people were killed.
    Radda, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Kaula, on Tuesday, expressed deep sadness over the attack on Gidan-boka village in Kankara Local Government.
    “This senseless violence tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, including brave members of our security agencies.
    “The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to families and loved ones of all those affected.
    “We join the entire state in praying for the repose of the souls of the departed and for comfort for the bereaved families during this difficult time,” the governor stated.
    Radda pointed out that the attack represented a significant setback in the ongoing efforts to ensure safety and security of all Katsina residents.
    The governor, however, recognised the tireless efforts of security forces, who continued to confront the criminals threatening peace in the state.
    He said that his administration remained  firmly committed to eradicating banditry and all forms of criminality within the state.
    According to the governor, the state government is actively working with the Federal Government and all relevant security agencies to implement a comprehensive security strategy to end the menace.
    He further pledged to continue to heighten security presence in Kankara and other vulnerable areas in the state for protection of people’s lives and property.
    The governor, therefore, urged anyone with information about the perpetrators of the attack to avail the authorities with such for necessary action.
    “This is a time for unity and resolve. We urge all Katsina residents to remain calm and cooperate with our security forces by giving them information about the criminals.
    “Together, we will prevail over these forces of darkness and build a safer future for our state,” Radda stated.  (NAN) www.nannews.ng
    ZI/CHOM/IU
    ==========
    Edited by Chioma Ugboma / Isaac Ukpoju

  • Defence ministry staff protest alleged manhandling of colleague

     

    Defence ministry staff protest alleged manhandling of colleague

    Protest

    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Civilian members of staff of the Ministry of Defence in Abuja on Tuesday protested against alleged  inhuman treatment of their colleague in Lagos by some military personnel.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the protesting workers locked the gates to the ministry preventing staffers and visitors from entering or exiting the premises.

    NAN also reports that the protesting staff displayed banners with inscriptions such as ”we say no to military brutality”, ”they brought in dogs to intimidate us”, “civilians are not slaves to the soldiers”, among others.

    A source, who spoke with NAN on the condition of anonymity, said the protest was in connection with the treatment meted out to a staff in the Lagos office.

     

    “A civilian, a staff in Lagos, interfered when he saw some soldiers punishing some students by making them roll in muddy water.

    “He was recording the incident when an army officer demanded for his cell phone. He refused and insisted that the phone was his personal property.

    “Some soldiers with the army officer said his (staffer)’s action was disrespectful to their superior and started beating the man.

    “The man is currently hospitalised in Lagos, That is why Staffers of the ministry here are protesting in solidarity with our counterpart in Lagos,” the source told NAN.

    The source recalled that a civilian staffer died not long ago after being tortured by some personnel of the Nigerian Navy in Lagos.

    “We are saying enough is enough,” the source said.

    He said that the management of the ministry had promised that such would not happen again.

    “But with this recent incident, it means that the promise was just mere talk.

    “This is the reason that the latest assault is being met with anger. We are feeling really bad about this Lagos incident,” the source said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Community engagement has reduced crimes in Kano – CP

    Community engagement has reduced crimes in Kano – CP

    Crimes

    By Aminu Garko

    Kano, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Kano State said that its community engagement strategy and preventive measures have reduced the level of criminal activities in the state.

    The Commissioner of Police, Mr Usaini Gumel, stated this at the Ungogo Local Government Area chapter Law Week held on Monday in Kano.

    “Our community engagement and preventive measures have not only reduced crime rates but also fostered a sense of security and trust among the populace.

    “Kano known worldwide for its political consciousness and proactivity provides an environment where policing efforts are always under public scrutiny, both locally and internationally.

    “Rather than seeing this situation as a hindrance, I viewed it as a catalyst for us to excel in our duties.

    “From the onset, I emphasised the importance of collective effort and community collaboration in promoting our policing activities,“he said.

    “Our strategy has been straightforward: engaging with the communities we serve, listening to their concerns, and working together to overcome emerging security challenges.

    Gumel  said the approach has enabled the police to effectively address socio-economic crime dynamics and create a safer environment for all residents of the state.

    He said that armed robbery, cell phone snatching, theft and sale of minors, inter and intra-communal thuggery and illicit drug dealings had reduced in the state.

    The commissioner said the  successes were  the result of a robust synergy with allied security agencies and the support of the larger community, including the state Government, traditional institutions, religious organisations and the NGOs.

    “A notable initiative under my watch has been the integration of repentant notorious youths back into the society. This non-kinetic approach has proven to be highly effective.

    “Over 718 influential youths have renounced their involvement in crime and surrendered their weapons.

    “I am aware that the State Government, under the leadership of Gov. Abba Yusuf, is currently working assiduously to support these individuals through scholarship and skills acquisition,” he said.

    He said 50 of the repentant youths had joined the Police Special Constabulary, and are presently assisting in crime prevention efforts in their respective local communities.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    AAG/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Our target is to set a world stage record for athletes-NTF

     

    Tennis

    By Aderonke Ojo

     

    Abuja, June 9, 2024 (NAN) Shammah Makpa, the Secretary General of Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), says the Federation`s target is to develop and set a world stage record for athletes.

    Makpa disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the ongoing International Tennis Federation ( ITF ) World Tennis Tour Junior J30 in Abuja on Sunday.

    He said the competition is a component of the federation’s plan for long-term growth of athletes.

    “ It serves as a means of providing a stage on which young athletes showcase their abilities before we choose the best among them.

     

    “ The selected  ones in the future would take over from  the aging ones.

     

    “ Prospective players  that excel exceptionally during this tournament will be eligible to compete in future competitions,” he said.

     

    Mapka said that having the competition in Nigeria  have saved the federation from sourcing for money  to transport  players abroad.

     

    “ By holding the tournament here, we were  able to accommodate more than 30 to 60 Nigerian players that chose to participate in the competition.

     

    “ This kind of competition  can only accept a maximum of six players if it is held outside  Nigeris,” he said

     

    NAN reports that Junior International Tennis Federation ( ITF) event is a flagship tournament to help junior players gain global rankings and points.

     

    NAN reports that ITF World Tennis Tour Junior J30 which started on June 5 ended today  at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

     

    STJ/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • NIS to unveil user-friendly e-visa channel

    The Comptroller General, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Kemi Nandap

    NIS to unveil user-friendly e-visa channel

    Visa
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 11, 2024(NAN) The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Kemi Nandap has announced plans to inaugurate a more accessible e-Visa application channel for short visits in line with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2020.

    Nandap said this in her address delivered at the graduation ceremony of the 12th Command Course of the Immigration Command and Staff College, in Sokoto.

    A statement by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO) Mr Kenneth Udo on Tuesday in Abuja stated that the CG was represented by Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) George Didel.

    The CG said that the new channel was designed to streamline visa processes adding that it was to also foster Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and boost tourism.

    She said:”we must embrace these reforms and implement effective internal control and monitoring mechanisms.

    “This is to track the presence and activities of all foreigners in Nigeria”.

    The CG reiterated her commitment towards the full implementation of the e-Border Project.

    This, she said included the installation of e-Gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja, and the integration of the Advance Passenger Information System (API).

    “As well as Passenger Name Record (PNR) to enhance border control and clearance systems.

    “These centres are expected to significantly improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination to enhance National Security.

    Nandap emphasised the need to revitalise NIS’s Divisional Offices and called for improved participation in Security Council Meetings.

    This, she said would be at State and Local Government levels, as well as other ad-hoc duties with utmost professionalism and interagency collaboration.

    Nandap charged formation heads to work assiduously towards ensuring the success of the automation of Passport application processes, which was intended to reduce human interface, curtail sharp practices, and enhance efficiency.

    She said the ongoing rollout of enhanced e-Passports would continue both locally and at the foreign missions until full transition was achieved.

    The CG urged all NIS formations to participate actively in the nationwide sensitisation campaign against irregular migration especially Smuggling of Migrants(SOM)

    She however , reiterated NIS’s commitment to capacity building for all Service cadres, stressing the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders in sustaining training and capacity-building programs.

    She pledged to improve the welfare of NIS officers through timely promotions, affordable housing, and health care schemes.

    Nandap urged the course participants to be agents of transformation and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

    The highlight of the event, was the award of the “Passed Command Course” (PCC) and to all participants, while directing staff received the “Dagger Merit Award (+)”, in recognition of their dedication and hard work.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • FG declares June 12 public holiday to mark democracy day

    FG declares June 12 public holiday to mark democracy day

    Declaration

    By Yahaya Isah

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, June 12, a public holiday to commemorate 2024 Democracy Day celebration.

    This is contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Ndayako stated that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated Nigerians on the occasion.

    He said that as the nation mark yet another democracy day in its history, Nigerians should all reflect on the efforts of our founding fathers and ensure that Nigeria remained a united country.

    Tunji-Ojo added that Nigeria should be more secured, peaceful and indivisible entity for the benefit of all.

    He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance.

    The minister said that President Bola Tinubu was committed to positive reforms to revive the nation’s economy and enhance security.

    Tunji-Ojo called on Nigerians and friends of Nigeria to appreciate the progress that had been made and look forward to a better future for Nigeria’s Democracy.

    He wished Nigerians a happy democracy day celebration.

    NAN reports that in June 7, 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari on directed that the nation’s Democracy Day will, henceforth, hold on June 12 of every year as against the current arrangement where the ceremony holds on May 29.

    Buhari also honored the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief Moshood Abiola, with the highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

    Buhari said further that, June 12, 1993, election was the freest, fairest and most peaceful election since Nigeria’s Independence.

    “June 12, 1993, was the day millions of Nigerians expressed their Democratic will in the freest, fairest and most peaceful elections since our Independence. That the outcome of that election was not upheld by the then military Government does not detract from its democratic credentials,” he said.

    President Buhari also conferred a national honour on Baba Gana Kingibe and recognised late Gani Fawehinmi for his role in the actualisation of the June 12 elections.

    The Abiola died in detention while struggling to actualise his mandate as contained in the annulled election.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    YI/OJI/SH

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    Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Sadiya Hamza

  • ROSOWA new president promises unity, oneness of purpose

    The New President, Road Safety Officers Wives Association (ROSOWA) Hajiya Nafisa Shehu with the former President, Hajiya Aisha Biu

    ROSOWA new president promises unity, oneness of purpose

    Mantle
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Hajiya Nafisa Shehu, the new president of the Road Safety Officers Wives Association (ROSOWA) has promised to promote unity and sisterhood among members.

    Shehu made the promise while taking over the  mantle of leadership of the association from the erstwhile President of the Association, Hajiya Aisha Biu in Abuja

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that it was Pursuant to the appointment of Mallam Shehu Mohammed as the new FRSC Corps Marshal.

    At the handing over ceremony, Shehu, commended her predecessor for her exceptional leadership and gave assurance of her resolve to build on the legacies handed over to her.

    She pledged her commitment towards promoting collaboration and strategic initiatives that would promote unity amongst members.

    Shehu appreciated God for the opportunity to serve, and implored members of the association to give her the necessary support to make her tenure a successful and impactful one.

    Speaking, Biu urged members to give her successor more support than she enjoyed during her tenure.

    NAN reports that the handing and taking over ceremony was carried out at the National Secretariat of the Association in Abuja.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • Bandits kill 6 security operatives, 20 others in Katsina – Police

    Bandits kill 6 security operatives, 20 others in Katsina – Police

     

    Bandits

     

    By Abbas Bamalli

     

     

    Katsina, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Katsina State has confirmed the killing of no fewer than 20 people, four police officers and two operatives of the state-owned Community Watch Corps by some suspected bandits.

     

    ASP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, the command’s Public Relations Officer, disclosed this in a statement in Katsina on Monday.

     

    According to him, the attack occurred on Sunday, at Gidan Tofa and Dan Nakwabo villages, all in Kankara Local Government Area of the state.

     

    He said, “Yesterday, June 9, 2024, bandits in their numbers, armed with dangerous weapons, attacked the villages, shot and killed 20 people, injured two, and ambushed our Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) patrol team.

     

    “The team was responding to the distress call, killing four police officers and two members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC).

     

    “The fact of the case is that on the same date, a distress call was received at the Kankara Divisional Headquarters.

    ”That bandits in their numbers, riding on motorcycles, armed with dangerous weapons, shooting sporadically, attacked Gidan Baki village, Kankara LGA, killing unsuspecting villagers.

     

    “Immediately, the nearest APC patrol team was dispatched to the scene. While en route to the village, the team discovered that the attack was actually on Gidan Boka village via Yar Goje village, all in Kankara.

     

    “The team quickly redirected towards the scene. Upon reaching Kurmeji village via Yar goje, the team fell into an ambush, where a firefight ensued between the team and the bandits,”  Sadiq-Aliyu  said.

    According to him, upon receipt of the information on the attack of the responding team, swiftly the DPO mobilised and led a team of operatives to the scene and restored normalcy.

     

    He explained that during preliminary investigation, it was revealed that the bandits attacked Gidan Boka village, killing 15 people and injuring two others.

     

    “They also ambushed our patrol team and killed four police officers, three Inspectors and one Corporal and two members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC).

     

    “Also, the bandits, while escaping through Dan Nakwabo village, shot and killed five persons. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation proceeds,” according to Sadiq-Aliyu.

     

    He revealed that the command has deployed additional operational assets to the area to work with all the relevant stakeholders towards preventing the recurrence of the attacks and ensuring the arrest of the perpetrators.

     

    The Commissioner of Police in the state, while expressing his utter dismay over the tragic incident, extended his condolences to the families and friends of those affected by the incident,”  Sadiq-Aliyu  said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

     

    AABS/BRM

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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • NSCDC, Tantita arrest 5 suspects with 250,000 litres of adulterated fuel in Ondo

    NSCDC, Tantita arrest 5 suspects with 250,000 litres of adulterated fuel in Ondo

    Arrest
    By Muftau Ogunyemi
    Akure, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a private security company, have arrested five suspects dealing in adulterated petroleum products in Ondo State.

    Mr Oluyemi Ibiloye, the Ondo State Commandant of the NSCDC, made this known in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, DSC Aidamenbor Daniel on Monday in Akure.

    Ibiloye said that the suspects – Orofin Olorunjuwon, Enigbewo Sunday, Ayeyiwa Ilumaro, Owoyemi Ete and Okorisa Noah, were arrested on Sunday at the Igbokoda waterways in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.

    According to him, the suspects were arrested with two large wooden boats filled with about 250,000 litres of adulterated petroleum products, three outboard boat engines and two pumping machines.

    “Meanwhile, the joint task force set the illegally acquired petroleum product ablaze on the high sea while the suspects and other exhibit are in custody for prosecution.

    “So, we have assured that the joint operation and routine patrol of the waterways will be a continuous exercise to rid state of economic saboteurs.

    “Also, the arrested suspects will be prosecuted according to our extant laws to serve as deterrent to other criminal elements,” Ibiloye said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    OMA/AYO/IKU
    Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Tayo Ikujuni

  • Sokoto: NCS auctions 11,270 L of petrol, intercepts railway tracks

  • Hunters’ service promotes 2 deserving officers

     

    Promotion

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) has approved the promotion of two officers who distinguished themselves through their commitment, diligence and patriotism.

    The Commander-General, Dr Joshua Osatimehin, announced this at the end of a four-day intensive leadership training workshop, organised by the management of the Service in collaboration with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), on Monday in Abuja.

    Osatimehin said the officers were promoted for their gallant performance in curbing crimes, arrest of criminals and intelligence gathering.

    Those promoted are Mmadunaeme David, who was promoted to the position of Commander, Operations and Ofodile Peter, who was elevated to the rank of Deputy Commander.

    The Deputy Commander General in charge of Technical Services, Dr John Metchie, congratulated the officers, saying they deserved recognition and promotion for their exceptional exploits.

    Metchie commended the CG for the gesture, adding that it would motivate officers and men of the service to put in more effort towards achieving the objectives of NHFSS.

    NHFSS is a registered umbrella body of Hunters in Nigeria with the mandate to support the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to protect lives and property in ungoverned areas like forests and bushes.

    The Bill for an Act to establish the Federal Government Security Service, to detect and prevent forest crime, has been passed by both Senate and House of Representatives and is currently awaiting the President’s assent. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/AMM

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru