Category: Defence/Security

Police

By Suleiman Shehu

Ibadan, June 5, 2024 (NAN) Abiodun Alabi, the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police in charge of South-West Zone, says the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) now need to put up more effective policing plans.

Alabi, during his official visit to the Police Command in Oyo State on Wednesday in Ibadan, said this would help them to tackle illegal mining, kidnapping and other crimes.

The DIG, who said he was visiting based on the Inspector-General (IG) of Police’s directive to appraise security in the zone, urged the officers to return to the drawing board.

“This will help you to see where there are challenges and how to address them,” he said.

Alabi, who is also in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), urged the officers not to rest on their oars.

’But you should redouble your efforts to enhance effective policing and effectively curb crime in the state.

“It is when there is visibility policing that criminals will be afraid to come out, but if you leave a vacuum they will come out to perpetrate their crime.

“Put more energy in crime prevention and detection and this will make the public to trust and appreciate our efforts,” he said.

Alabi further urged the officers to collaborate with members of the community and other critical stakeholders to get information needed to effectively perform their duty of protection of lives and property.

The DIG pointed out that policing was not a one man’s job, and officers should obviously note that they could not effectively do it except with the community’s collaboration.

“You must get members of the public involved, no matter how strategic you are. No matter your professionalism, if you don’t have information and intelligence, you will just be doing reactive policing, instead of proactive,” Alabi said.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Adebola Hamzat, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), Bello Adamu, highlighted the command’s achievements and challenges.

“We appreciate the DIG for this visit,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the DIG also visited the Oyo State Governor’s Office, where he was received by the state’s Deputy Governor, Mr Adebayo Lawal.

Lawal, who appreciated efforts of the police in the state, said the South-West states, including Oyo State, were facing security challenges such as kidnapping and armed robbery, among others.

He said Oyo State was endowed with solid minerals, which made it prone to security challenges due to activities of illegal miners who had infiltrated the forests in the state.

The deputy governor called for more deployment of police personnel to rid the state of kidnapping and other forms of crimes.

“The administration of Gov. Seyi Makinde has taken the issue of security seriously and has deployed a lot of logistics to police and other security agencies to ensure that the state is peaceful,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

SYS/FON/OLAL

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(Edited by Florence Onuegbu and Olawale Alabi)

Allegation

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Army (NA) has denied  allegation of mass killing in the South Eastern Nigeria, as alleged by Simon Ekpa, a self acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said that Ekpa, one of the  leaders of the IPOB terrorists had been carrying out  mischievous and systematic campaign of calumny against the  army.

He said that Ekpa had through spurious and unfounded claims, raised alarm in a viral video alleging that troops of Nigerian army were carrying out mass killing of innocent Igbos and dumping them in the river.

According to him, the report also contained some unimaginable and not well couched falsehood targeted at whipping-up negative sentiments against troops and inciting anarchy in the South East region.

“Contrary to the falsehood being spread from the devious propaganda machinery of the desperate and self-serving terrorists’ leader, the army wishes to state that it has conducted a comprehensive investigation on the allegations made by the devious infamous leader and his associates.

“Accordingly,  we wish to  categorically refute these baseless claims by throwing more light on the occurrence.

“In the first  instance, the troops in the video footage are not personnel of the Nigerian Army as the  insignia visible on their berets clearly identifies them as personnel of the Nigerian Navy, who were engaged in a routine test firing of a weapon system mounted on a vehicle.

“In order to ensure safety of other road users and commuters, the troops took precautionary measures by halting vehicular movement along the road, until the test firing was safely concluded.

“Observers were also kept at a safe distance, maintaining transparency and prioritizing the safety of all involved,” he explained.

Nwachukwu said that preliminary findings also indicated that the occurrence took place in the South West region of the country and not the South East as advertently portrayed by the alarmist propagandists.

He added that there was no evidence to support the assertion that individuals were being shot at in the river, nor had there been any report from local communities regarding the discovery of corpses in the area.

“Consequently,  the army wishes to enjoin the public to disregard the unfounded claims and irredeemable falsehood  being propagated by Simon Ekpa and his associates, whose apparent objective is to disseminate misinformation and incite unrest,” he added.

Nwachukwu said the army and indeed,  sister services and other security agencies  remained steadfast in their commitment to maintaining peace and order, ensuring safety and security of all citizens in the country.

According to him, the Nigerian army is vigilant and prepared to counter any attempt to destabilize the southeast region.

“We reaffirm our dedication to protecting the lives and livelihoods of all Nigerians and will continue to work tirelessly to uphold peace and order.

“We encourage the public to seek verified information and not be misled by those who aim to incite violence and disorder.

“We salute the courage and patriotism of well-meaning and law-abiding ndigbo, domiciled in the South East and across the nation.

“Despite the brazen atrocities and threats being perpetrated by Ekpa and his terrorists group, these patriotic Igbos have  continued to build bridges of peace and harmony across the country and promoting our national ideal of a united Nigeria.

“The Nigerian army remains a pillar of stability and security, committed to the well-being of the nation and her people,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/CHOM/MNA

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

Lagbaja inaugurates NAOWA multipurpose complex in Abuja

Inauguration

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 5, 2024 (NAN) The President, Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Maria Lagbaja, on Wednesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art multipurpose complex built by the Army Headquarters (AHQ) Garrison Chapter, Mambilla Barracks, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the complex which serves as the Secretariat for the NAOWA AHQ Garrison chapter comprises offices, a conference hall, and a vocational training centre.

The edifice was named after the NAOWA President, the wife of Chief of Army staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as Maria Lagbaja Skills Acquisition Centre.

Lagbaja, in her remarks, said that the complex marked another significant milestone in the advancement of NAOWA.

She said it was also a testament of hard work, dedication and in line with her vision of unwavering commitment to unity and service for the betterment of humanity.

She said the facility would provide the much needed conducive environment, for meetings and gatherings of NAOWA members under the AHQ Garrison.

Lagbaja appreciated the Commander, AHQ Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Koko Isoni, the chapter coordinator and members for their consistent support to the association.

She called on NAOWA members to come up with innovative projects and initiatives that would contribute positively to the growth and development of the association.

The Commander, AHQ Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Isoni, commended NAOWA for the centre and for their commitment to the growth and wellbeing of the widows of fallen heroes, youths and the vulnerable in the Balak community.

He urged them to continue to collaborate with other relevant non-governmental organisations to further develop and enhance capacity building in the barracks and surrounding communities.

“It is our hope and desire that this centre will fulfil the purpose for which it has been established.

“In the light of the above, I wish to reiterate that the AHQ garrison will continue to support the activities and programmes of this noble association that has continued to make us proud, both nationally and internationally,” he said.

The Coordinator of Chapter, Mrs Pearl Isoni, said that the complex was possible because of hard work and the unwavering commitment to the betterment of the barracks community.

She said the centre, as a hub for innovation and creativity, would foster growth, unity, connections, and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential.

“More importantly, this building will act as a catalyst for positive change, providing resources, support and inspiration to all who walk through this door.

“As we stand on the threshold of this new chapter, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, collaboration, and determination that brought us to this moment.

“In commissioning this centre, we are not just opening a door, we are opening endless possibilities for the future of the youths and women, who come here to learn skills to better their lives and our barrack community,” Isoni said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/CEO/AMM

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Edited by Chidi Opara and Abiemwense Moru

We must work together to flush out criminals – CAS

Criminals

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has stressed the need for concerted efforts by all to flush out criminal elements from Delta and environs.

Abubakar said this on Wednesday in Asaba, while interfacing with Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta during a courtesy visit to the governor.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Abubakar also emphasised the need to also emplace effective civil-military cooperation where all parties could work as peace and security stakeholders.

He said that meaningful development would be difficult to attain without a peaceful environment, with negative consequences on the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.

The CAS called on residents of the state to continue to cooperate with security agencies in their concerted efforts to rid Delta of all criminal elements.

He thanked the governor for his disposition and firm support to the Armed Forces and the NAF in particular.

According to him, the priority the governor has been giving to security in Delta, especially in the last 12 months has fostered a more conducive environment for sustained socio-economic activities.

The Air Chief also thanked the governor for the allocation of a large expanse of land with Certificate of Occupancy to the NAF, at Osubi, measuring about 66.6 hectares.

According to him, this is for the development of a full-fledged NAF Base which signifies a landmark event in the history of Delta and NAF relations.

Responding, Oborevwori commended Abubakar for the commitment of the NAF in fighting the scourge of insecurity bedeviling the nation.

He said that the visit was a testimony to the strong bond and partnership between the state and the NAF.

The governor assured the CAS that his administration would soon commence the construction of the road leading to the 66.6 hectares of land allocated to the NAF.

He promised to allocate another parcel of land for the construction of Post-Service Housing Scheme for retiring NAF personnel in the state.

Oborevwori condemned in its entirety, the unfortunate incident of March 14, which resulted in the loss of lives of some personnel of the Nigerian Army at Okuama Village.

Highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Certificate of Occupancy for the 66.6 hectares of land at Osubi by the Governor to the CAS. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/DCO/JPE

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Joseph Edeh

Rain: FRSC urges motorists to ensure clear windscreen, functional wipers

FRSC
By Aderemi Bamgbose
Ore (Ondo State), June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has advised motorists to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before putting on the roads during this rainy season.

Mrs Yetunde Adesina, the FRSC Unit Commander in Ore, Ondo State gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Ore.

Adesina said that motorists must ensure clear windscreen, functional wipers, brake system, headlamps, rear lights, traffic indicators, side glasses, while driving during the rains.

She also urged motorists to desist from using expired tyres and maintain normal speed limit to avert crashes.

According to her, the rain is fast approaching and we need to intimate motorists on safety measures to avert crashes on the highway.

“Motorists must ensure that their windscreen and vipers are in good order for them to see clearly while driving during the rains.

“Use of expired tyres too are very dangerous during the rains because of the slippery roads and motorists must also desist from speeding during the rains to avert crashes,” she said.

Adesina urged motorists plying Ore-Benin; Ore-Ondo and Ore-Okitipupa expressway to obey traffic rules and regulations as FRSC personnel would always enforce the law and arrest offenders. (NAN) (www.nanews.ng)
BAA/AYO/IKU
Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

Police arrest 32-year-old woman over alleged child abuse

Arrest
By Deborah Akpede
Lagos, June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Lagos State has arrested a 32-year-old woman, Funmi Faith, for allegedly maltreating and inflicting injury on a child.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed her arrest in a post shared on his verified X handle at @benHundeyin on Wednesday.

In a video that went viral, the woman after beating the girl and inflicting several injuries on her body asked her to bathe outside.

Hundeyin said that the suspect was apprehended on Tuesday.

“The woman captured in a now viral video maltreating a female child has been arrested.

“She was arrested by the Oke-odo Police Divisional on June 4,” he said.

The image maker said that the child has been handed over to the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development for proper care and shelter.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

DOA/CEO/IKU

Edited by Chidi Opara/Tayo Ikujuni

Repentant Boko Haram members helping in counterinsurgency  – Yobe Govt

Counterinsurgency
By Nabilu Balarabe
Damaturu, June 5,2024 (NAN) The Yobe Government on Wednesday said repentant Boko Haram members are assisting in counterinsurgency operations in the state.

Retired Brig.-Gen. Dahiru Abdulsalam, the Special Adviser on Security to Gov. Mai Mala Buni, made this known while briefing newsmen in Damaturu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abdulsalam was reacting to concerns raised by some residents over the involvement of repentant insurgents in security operations in Geidam town.

“ There is no government that will take any decision that is to the detriment of its people. Government is committed to ending insurgency so that we can have peace.

“ We have these repentant Boko Haram insurgents called ‘ hybrid force’ that have been assisting security agencies in conducting operations in Damaturu, Goniri and Buni Yadi.

“ First, they assist with information about insurgents, through their sources that are still with Boko Haram and ISWAP.

”Secondly, they assist with information about Boko Haram and ISWAP collaborators and suppliers,” he said.

The official said repentant Boko Haram operatives were deployed to Geidam to assist in containing the infiltration of terrorists and their collaborators in the commercial town.

“ In Geidam, there are people engaging in business activities on behalf of Boko Haram. There are those that supply food, fuel and other essentials to the insurgents.

“ The hybrid forces had identified persons having links with Boko Haram leadership and their supply chain, As a result of this, 12 people have been arrested, interrogated in Geidam and transferred to Damaturu,” Abdulsalam said.

Abdulsalam called on residents of Geidam to cooperate with security agents in dislodging terrorists and blocking their supply routes.

“ The major requirement of Boko Haram is fuel, food and medicine. That is why they attack hospitals, break shops and steal materials.

“ So these are the logistics they need that they continue to disturb us and innocent individuals,” Abdulsalam said.(www.nannews.ng)(NAN)

NB/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza