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Category: Security

  • Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue 21 victims

    Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue 21 victims

    Nigeria Police in Katsina state has foiled three simultaneous kidnap attempts on three quarters in Jibia Township of the state and rescued 21 abducted victims.

    ASP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, the command’s spokesman, who disclosed this in a statement in Katsina on Friday, said the efforts were in collaboration with the army, members of the State Community Watch Corps, and Vigilantes.

    He said: “In a swift and coordinated response, we successfully foiled simultaneous bandits’ attacks at Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters in Jibia Township, Katsina State, on Nov. 7.

    “At about 9:15 p.m. on Thursday, suspected armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on the two communities.

    “However, the swift response of the joint security team led by the DPO Jibia repelled the attackers, resulting in a fierce gun duel that lasted for over an hour.

    “The superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security team eventually forced the bandits to retreat with unspecified casualties as the operation resulted in the successful rescue of 16 victims trapped by the bandits.”

    Mr Sadiq-Aliyu regrettably said that another five persons rescued sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack, and they were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

    The police spokesman added that: “Sadly, one member of the state’s security outfit, and a vigilante member lost their lives during the encounter, paying the ultimate price,” he said.

    The spokesmen assured that further development would be communicated in due course.

    “The command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, while working closely with all relevant stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators of this dastardly act.”

    “The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Aliyu Abubakar-Musa reassures the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state,” Mr Sadiq-Aliyu said.

    He urged the citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call the command’s emergency numbers: 0815 967 7777, and 0707 272 2539.

  • Tinubu Announces Death Of Army Chief, Lagbaja

    Tinubu Announces Death Of Army Chief, Lagbaja

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.

    This was made known in a statement on Wednesday morning by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    Onanuga stated that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.

    Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

    His distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.

    On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

    Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

    He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.

    An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.

    Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

    President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.

    He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation

  • #ENDBADGOVERNCE Arrests: NCoS Refutes Claims of Juvenile Detention in Adult Facilities

    #ENDBADGOVERNCE Arrests: NCoS Refutes Claims of Juvenile Detention in Adult Facilities

    The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has countered reports suggesting it detained minors involved in recent #EndBadGovernance protests within adult custodial facilities in Abuja.

     Following the protests, 76 individuals were arraigned, with the court ordering separate detention for underage defendants in a juvenile center and adult detainees in standard facilities.

    Speculations surfaced that the Kuje Correctional Centre lacked juvenile-specific accommodations, raising concerns over possible mixed detentions. 

    NCoS responded, clarifying that its policies and the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019 strictly prevent juveniles from being housed alongside adults. 

    It further stated that overcrowded facilities have the authority to reject new inmates, ensuring adherence to proper procedures.

    The NCoS urged the public to disregard misinformation, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to best practices and the protection of detainees’ rights.

  • Collapse of suspects in court scripted for media attention-Police

    Collapse of suspects in court scripted for media attention-Police

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has alleged the collapse of six suspects arraigned with 70 other individuals on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony was deliberate and scripted to draw negative media attention.

    It however said medical aid was promptly provided to them, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.

    This was contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Friday, November 1.

    The statement reads: “The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recently arraigned 76 individuals in court on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony.

    These serious allegations encompass offenses such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security.

    In managing the detention and arraignment of these suspects, the NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.”

    The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court.

    Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions.

    “Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to draw negative attention.

    Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.

    “While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons.

    Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

    “This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offenses.

    As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences.

    However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.”

    On Friday, 76 suspects, primarily minors showing signs of malnutrition, were arraigned related to the #EndBadGovernance protest.

    Six of them collapsed and were quickly taken out of the courtroom. After their arraignment, the court granted bail to each minor at N10 million.

  • Carrying arms will solve the nation’s security problem – Ned Nwoko

    Carrying arms will solve the nation’s security problem – Ned Nwoko

    The lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Ned Nwoko, has defended his proposed bill allowing Nigerians to bear arms for self-defence stating that it could serve as a deterrent against criminal activities, particularly kidnappings.

    When asked if Nigerians carrying arms will solve the nation’s security problem, Nwoko, in an interview with Channels TV on Wednesday, said, “Oh, it will. It will.”

    Nwoko then shared a personal story of loss, recounting how his Senior Legislative Aide (SLA) was killed in a kidnapping incident last November.

    “The estate was attacked by kidnappers going from house to house. When they got to their door, my SLA told his wife to hide with the children. He opened the door to talk to them, and he was taken away. We never saw him alive again,” he said.

    Reflecting on the tragedy, Nwoko argued that armed citizens could discourage criminals from operating so freely.

    “If he had a gun, or if others in the community had guns, would the kidnappers have had the audacity to go door to door? That wouldn’t happen,” he said.

    However, Nwoko clarified that his proposal includes strict regulations.

    “For you to have the license to have a gun, you must go through a training school, a shooting school, which is a training school. You must get confirmation from two doctors that you have a sound mind.

    “You must get reports from the DSS and from the police. You must also be confirmed by your local traditional ruler that you are who you are,” he said, adding that only qualified individuals would be allowed to carry arms under his plan.

  • Shettima’s plane attack by ‘foreign object’: Shehu Sani calls for probe

    Shettima’s plane attack by ‘foreign object’: Shehu Sani calls for probe

    Senator Shehu Sani has called on the Nigerian government to demand a full investigation from the U.S. authorities following an incident involving Vice President Kashim Shettima’s aircraft at John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport in New York.

    According to a statement from presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga, the vice president’s plane was struck by a “foreign object” that damaged the cockpit window, forcing the cancellation of Shettima’s planned trip to the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit in Samoa.

    Writing on social media, Sani stressed the need for transparency and accountability from the U.S., given JFK Airport’s status as a high-security aviation hub.

    He noted that such an event was unprecedented and highlighted the importance of investigating the circumstances thoroughly.

    Senator Sani also expressed gratitude for the safety of Shettima and all those on board.

    His words: “The incident at JFK Airport in New York, where a “foreign object” was reported to have hit and damaged the cockpit window of the VP Shettima’s plane, must be treated seriously.

    “Nigeria must demand a thorough investigation and explanation from the US. Such an incident in one of the most tightly secured aviation spots in the world is unprecedented.

    “We thank the Almighty for the life of the VP and other crew and staff.”

  • Nigeria Set To Become West Africa’s Ammunition Hub

    Nigeria Set To Become West Africa’s Ammunition Hub

    The House of Representatives Committee on Defence has outlined a vision for Nigeria to emerge as a key supplier of ammunition and military equipment for West Africa.

    This follows the recent enactment of the DICON Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    This legislation empowers the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to manufacture ammunition and other military hardware domestically.

    During an oversight visit to key military establishments, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), the Committee Chairman, Hon. Babajimi Benson, emphasized DICON’s progress in producing firearms and military gear.

    He noted that this capability not only enhances the operational efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces but also reduces dependence on foreign suppliers.

    Benson, who played a crucial role in advancing the DICON Bill through the National Assembly, highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency in defence production for Nigeria’s sovereignty.

    He urged DICON to focus on innovation and research to ensure the highest quality in its military outputs.

    The goal is not just to meet domestic needs but also to establish Nigeria as a regional leader in defence exports, thus supporting economic growth.

    Reflecting on the purpose of the oversight visit, Benson reported that the Committee was impressed with the institutions’ management, stating they have managed to excel despite economic challenges.

    The NDA continues to train disciplined officers for national and international service, while the AFCSC cultivates strategic leaders critical to national security.

    DICON has been recognized for its advancements in producing locally made firearms, which enhances the operational capacity of Nigeria’s military.

    The Chairman reiterated the interconnectedness of these defence agencies, which collectively fortify Nigeria’s national security.

  • No leadership vacuum during COAS leave, Army affirms

    No leadership vacuum during COAS leave, Army affirms

    The Nigerian Army has stated that the absence of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has not created any leadership vacuum within the service.

    The Army explained that Lagbaja is on official leave, and necessary protocols have been put in place for the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, to act on behalf of the COAS during his absence.

    In a statement on Saturday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasised that Lagbaja’s absence is not affecting the operations of the service.

    He said, “There have even been insinuations that there is a leadership vacuum, with officers confused about what to do. Nothing could be further from the truth.

    “To be very clear, the Nigerian Army is a highly structured establishment with well-laid-out procedures and processes for dealing with different circumstances. Before proceeding on leave, necessary protocols were put in place for the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, to act on behalf of the COAS while he was away.

    “This is not peculiar to the NA, as there have been instances where unforeseen human frailty kept service chiefs away for about three months, and their Chiefs of Policy and Plans held sway in their absence. Claims of a leadership vacuum in the NA at present are therefore mere speculation, as all routine and scheduled activities of the service are on course.”

    Explaining that promotions for officers have not been stalled by the COAS’s absence, Onyema added that the results of the Captain-to-Major promotion exam had been released following the approval of the Chief of Policy and Plans.

    He said, “Indeed, in line with its Forecast of Events for 2024, the Nigerian Army recently conducted the Captain-to-Major Practical Promotion Examination in Akure. Subsequently, and in line with extant procedures, the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command, Major General Kevin Aligbe, announced the results after due authorisation by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), who currently represents the Chief of Army Staff during his absence on leave and medical check-up abroad. Additionally, the Master Warrant Officer to Army Warrant Officer Promotion Exercise is currently ongoing in Jos.

    “This follows a similar exercise held for Warrant Officer to Master Warrant Officer (WO-MWO) in Kaduna. The results of these exercises are expected to be released in the coming days, pending final reconciliation between the respective Corps and the Army Headquarters Department of Personnel Management.”

    Also, contrary to the insinuation that the COAS’s absence due to his leave has caused undue delays in the release of the WO-MWO promotion exercise results, Onyema clarified that it has never been the practice for the COAS to personally sign postings or promotions for officers and soldiers in the Nigerian Army.

    “The appropriate departmental chiefs perform these functions routinely.

    These Departmental Chiefs, demonstrating their unwavering commitment, are fully carrying out their responsibilities in line with the COAS Command Philosophy.

    “The Army Headquarters, therefore, enjoins the general public to remain confident in the NA and be assured that the service remains on top of the security situation in the country and is ever ready to defend Nigeria against any aggression on its land territory,” he added.

  • Senate Advances Bill to Establish National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation

    Senate Advances Bill to Establish National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation

    In a move that further crowds up the governance architecture, the Nigerian Senate is about to pass a bill establishing a National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation.

    The bill, first introduced on May 29, 2024, is designed to enhance drug awareness, curb substance abuse, and provide rehabilitation services for drug users across the country.

    The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, to Coordinate and Promote Drug Awareness, Prevent Substance Abuse, and Facilitate the Rehabilitation of Drug Users and for Related Matters, 2024 (SB. 449),” is sponsored by Senator Sani Rufa’i, representing Kano Central.

    In his presentation, Senator Rufa’i highlighted the importance of the bill, stating that it would strengthen ongoing programs aimed at drug awareness and provide much-needed support to combat the increasing drug crisis.

    According to the senator, the institute will serve as a key platform to address the pressing challenges of substance abuse in Nigeria and offer structured rehabilitation to users.

    The bill received widespread backing from other senators, including Abdul Ningi, Adamu Alero, and Peter Nwebonyi, who all spoke in favor of its swift passage. They emphasized the need for urgent action to tackle drug addiction, citing its direct link to rising crime rates, banditry, and insecurity in the country.

    The lawmakers also called for more stringent penalties, even suggesting that drug abuse should be treated as a capital offense.

    After deliberations, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, which has been tasked with reviewing the proposal and reporting back to the Senate in four weeks.

  • Details of meeting between oil Marketers, DSS Emerge

    Details of meeting between oil Marketers, DSS Emerge

    The Director General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Ajayi, addressed the grievances of Nigeria’s oil marketers regarding rising petrol prices and outstanding debts owed to them.

     This meeting followed a significant increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which reached N1,030 per liter due to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPC) adjustments.

    Chinedu Ukadike, spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, provided insights into the discussions held. 

    He noted that the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, agreed to issue bulk purchase licenses to the marketers, allowing them to procure petrol directly from Dangote Refinery. 

    Additionally, the NMDPRA committed to releasing N10 billion to settle outstanding debts owed to the marketers. 

    Ukadike stated that the DSS’s involvement was crucial in addressing the marketers’ concerns over high petrol prices and financial challenges within the oil and gas sector.

     He encouraged members to continue their operations while the situation is being resolved.

    The backdrop of this intervention comes after the marketers threatened to halt operations due to the ex-depot price set by NNPC, which they deemed unmanageable compared to retail prices.

     Furthermore, the marketers raised concerns about NNPC’s debt of over N15 billion owed to them.

     The situation has intensified since Dangote Refinery commenced petrol distribution with NNPCL as its primary off-taker on September 15, 2024.