Troops neutralizes 36 terrorists, arrests 137 gunmen

By Emmanuel Daudu, Abuja

Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations has stated  that the military  neutralized 36 terrorists, arrested 137 gunmen, 3 gunrunners, 2 kidnappers, 6 collaborators, 15 perpetrators of oil theft and recovered the sum of N3,177,650.00 as well as rescued 140 kidnapped hostages.

He made the disclosure on Thursday  while addressing journalists during the bi-weekly press briefing held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja-Nigeria.

In his words, “In the course of operations across the country troops recovered a total number of 37 weapons and 370 ammunition. The breakdown is as follows: 16 Ak47 rifles, 6 pump action guns, 6 dane guns, 3 fabricated rifles, 2 locally made pistol, 199 rounds of 7.62mm             special, 6 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 9 AK47 magazines and 2 G3 magazines, 8 vehicles, 45 motorcycles, 32 mobile phones, 925 machetes, 151 machete sharpeners. Others  include: 61 dugout pits, 32 wooden boats, 87 storage tanks, one speedboat, 32 cooking ovens, 3 outboard engine, one generator, 2 pumping machines, 36 illegal refining sites, 310,700 litres of stolen crude oil, 14,675 litres Automotive Gas Oil, 49,000 Dual Purpose Kerosine and 5 litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

However, he noted that
the military has no greater priority than to restore normalcy and put an end to security challenges across the country.
“The men and women of the military have answered a call to duty to fight the perpetrators of these evil to submission. We are in a good fight, and must flush them out from amongst us”.

While giving details of the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria across the federation, he has this to say, “Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (North East); Troops of Operation HADIN KAI conducted offensive operations in Konduga and Bama LGA of Borno State. A sting operation was also carried out within Maiduguri metropolis while air interdiction was conducted in Gwoza Local Government Area of the state.

“The operations resulted in neutralized terrorist, rescued hostages and the arrest of terrorist collaborators. Others include, recovery of weapons and arrest of a notorious gang member.

“Troops Neutralized Terrorists and Recovered Arms.
(1) On 27 July 23, troops ambushed Boko Haram/Islamic State of West Province terrorists at Shetimari in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State. As a result, 2 terrorists were neutralized, while one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 rifle magazine, 6 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo and one mobile phone were recovered.

“(2) On 30 Jul 23, troops in conjunction with Hybrid Forces ambushed suspected BH/ISWAP terrorist at a check point at KUBTARA Village in DIKWA Local Government Area of Borno State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized one terrorist and recovered one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 rifle magazine and 5 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo

“Rescued Hostages.   On 26 July 23, following intelligence report concerning terrorist activities at Hashime Village in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State. Troops conducted a raid. Rescued 5 kidnapped hostages and recovered a motorcycle and among other sundry items.
c.​    Arrest of Notorious Criminal Gang. On 25 July 23, troops conducted a sting operation on hideout of notorious criminal gang known as Malians. The gang were hibernating at Jiddari Polo, Gwange, Kaleri, Zannari and Gamboru areas of MMC of Borno State. Troops arrested 14 suspects, recovered one axe, 3 knives and 3 mobile phones.

“Arrest of Suspected BH/ISWAP Terrorist Logistics Collaborator. On 27 July 23, following intelligence report on infiltration of notorious terrorist logistics collaborator into Maiduguri metropolis. Troops conducted a sting operation and made an arrest. The suspect admitted to be a courier that conveys arms, ammo, and other sundry logistic items to terrorists at their hideouts. The suspect confirmed   links with foreign arms network.

“Surrendered of BH/ISWAP terrorist fighter. On 30 July 23, one ISWAP fighter identified as YAHAYA UMARU surrendered to troops with one AK 47 rifle and 2 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo. Accordingly, between 26 July and 1 August 2023, a total of 313 terrorists comprising 12 male adult, 138 female adult and 162 children surrendered to troops at different locations within the theatre of operation.

” Air Interdiction. Air component of Operation HADIN KAI acquired target of terrorists gathering at a hideout in Wulade. The target was attacked with bombs and rockets, degrading the terrorist.

“In the course of operations, troops of Operation HADIN KAI recovered; 2 AK47 rifles, 8 rounds of 7.62mm special, one motorcycle, 4 mobile phones, 5 litres of PMS, one axe and one knife. Troops also neutralized 9 terrorists and arrested 19. Troops arrested 6 terrorist collaborator/courier and rescued 12 hostages. 

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL)

“Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN conducted fighting patrols and raids on criminal hideouts in Mangu and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau and Katsina-Ala LGA in Benue States. Same was carried out in Jema’a Local Government Areas of Kaduna States. In the course of the operation, troops arrested criminal suspects including a kidnapper and recovered arms and ammunition.

“Details are as follows:
a. Fighting Patrol. On 25 Jul 23, troops fighting patrol to Washina, Kombili and Changal general areas in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State made contact with suspected herder militias. The herder militia were assaulting Kombili village but fled on sighting troops, abandoning a motorcycle.  Troops cordoned and searched the general area and recovered one locally made gun.

“Raid Operation.   On 26 Jul 23, troops raided Rugan Basiru Village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State and arrested 10 suspects. Troops also recovered 2 AK 47 rifles, 3 Dane guns, 15 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo and a pair of military uniform belonging to a dismissed soldier identified as Bashir Abass. Preliminary investigation revealed that one of the recovered AK 47 rifle belongs to the dismissed soldier who is at large with 2 terrorists members.

“Arrest of Wanted Kidnapper.   On 26 Jul, troops arrested a wanted kidnapper at Jagindi Village in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The suspect was involved in the kidnap of a woman that was released after the payment of a Three Million Naira (N3,000,000.00) ransom. Suspect is in troops’ custody for further action.

“Arrest of Suspected Criminals. Between 27 and 28 July 23, troops arrested 3 suspected criminals in Bokkos and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Plateau and Benue State respectively. Troops recovered one locally fabricated pistol, 8 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammo, one cartridge, 3 mobile phones, Jack knife, Diver License, 4 ID cards, one torch light and 2 ATM cards.

“In the course of operations, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN recovered 3 AK47 rifles, 3 dane guns, one locally fabricated pistol, one locally made gun, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special, one cartridge, 3 mobile phones, a pair of camouflage, jack knife. Also, troops arrested 10 suspects.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE (NORTH CENTRAL)

“Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized terrorist and arrested some of their collaborators in Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State. Troops did same in Takum and Wukari Local Government Areas of Taraba State. Troops equally rescued kidnapped hostages and recovered arm and ammunition.

“Arrest of Suspected Terrorist Collaborator.   On 25 Jul 23, troops fighting patrol made contact with terrorists at Kasar Village in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. During the encounter, troops arrested a suspected terrorist and recovered one pistol, 4 rounds of 7.62 mm NATO ammo including assorted charms. Similarly, troops raided suspected terrorists’ hideout at Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State and arrested 2 suspected terrorist informants/collaborators.

“Troops Neutralize Terrorist.   On 27 Jul 23, troops responded to distress call on the activities of notorious terrorist leader alias Full-Fire. Troops made contact with the wanted terrorist at Kyayor and Gindin Mangoro general areas in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.  Following the fire fight, troops neutralized one terrorist while others fled. Troops recovered 2 x G3 magazines, 40 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo, one woodland camouflage trouser, one vehicle, one motorcycle and a pair of black boots as well as destroy the terrorists’ camp.

“In the course operations, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recovered one pistol, 40 rounds of 7.62mm special, 4 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 2 G3 magazines, one vehicle, one motorcycle, one mobile phone and a pair of black boots. Additionally, troops neutralized one terrorist, arrested 13 suspects and rescued 9 kidnapped hostages.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST)

“The operational activities of troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI resulted in the rescue of kidnapped hostages as well as the arrest of some terrorists in Jibia, Matazu and Funtua Local Government Areas all in Katsina State. Troops also, foiled attacks on farmer, conducted several air interdictions and recovered arms and ammunition in Maru and Zurmi Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

“Rescue of Civilian Hostage.    On 25 July 23, troops responded to information on terrorists’ attack at Solar – Faru close to Malamawa Village in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State. Troops overpowered the fleeing terrorist and rescued 20 hostages being kidnapped.

“Arrest of suspected terrorist.    On 26 July 23, troops in conjunction with Nigerian Police raided terrorists’ hideout at Kogon Village in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The operation resulted in the arrest of 4 suspected terrorists and the recovery a motorcycle and 80 livestock. In a separate development, and based on a tip off. Troops arrested a terrorist with gunshot wound along with 3 of his associates at Funtua General Hospital in Funtua Local Government Area of same state.

“Troops Foiled Attack on farmers.  On 26 July 23, troops responded to information of terrorists attack on farmers along Road Dansadau – Dandalla in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Troops made contact with the terrorists causing the terrorist to flee. Troops exploited the general area and recovered one AK 47 rifle, 4 AK 47 rifle magazines and 2 rounds of 7.62mm special abandoned by the terrorists.

“Air Interdiction. On 25 July 2023, the air component of Operation HADARIN DAJI acquired and conducted air interdiction on Tuareg terrorist s’ camp in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.  The target was engaged as one of several operations to degrade and disrupt terrorist activities in the area.

“In the course operations, troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI recovered one AK47 rifle, 4 AK47 rifle magazines, 2 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one motorcycle and 80 livestock. Troops also rescued 20 kidnapped hostages.

OP WHIRL PUNCH (NORTH WEST)

“Troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH carried out fighting patrols to Chikun and Kajuru Local Government Areas of Kaduna State. Accordingly, troops arrested a bandit collaborator/ logistician, rescued kidnapped hostages and recovered weapons and ammunition.

” Arrest of Suspected Bandit Collaborator/ Logistician. On 24 Jul 23, following intelligence, troops arrested one suspected terrorist’s collaborator and logistician at Tundun Wada Village in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The suspect is cooperating with security agencies to expose others.

” Fighting Patrols.  On 27 Jul 23, troops conducted fighting patrol at Kajuru, Kujeni, Gidan Barde and Kuzo Hill in Kajuru and Chikun Local Government Areas of Kaduna State respectively. Troops invaded and destroyed a terrorist camp close to Gidan Barde and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 2 fabricated rifles, 16 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo and 3 motorcycles.

“Air Interdiction. The air component of Operation WHIRL PUNCH conducted acquired target on terrorist camp at Hanawanka. The camp is a Boko Haram Terrorist camp in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.  The terrorists were neutralized with bombs and rockets.  The operation is one of several conducted by the air component.

“In the course of operation, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized 11 terrorists and recovered 2 fabricated rifle, 16 rounds of 7.62mm special, 3 motorcycles and 80 livestock. Troops also arrested 16 terrorist, logistic suppliers or collaborators and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION DELTA SAFE (SOUTH SOUTH)

20. Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE sustained the momentum against the activities of crude oil theft. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites.

a. Troops Destroy Illegal Refining Sites

“(1) Troops discovered and destroyed 61 dugout pits, 32 wooden boats, 87 storage tanks, 3 vehicles, 126 cooking ovens, 3 outboard engine, one speedboat, 2 motorcycles, one generator, 2 pumping machines and 36 illegal refining sites.  Troops also recovered 310,700 litres of crude oil, 14,675 litres of Automotive Gas Oil, 49,000 litres of Dual Purpose kerosine, one weapon, 3 ammunition and apprehended 22 suspects engaged in crude oil theft.

“(2) On 24 Jul 23, troops during anti-illegal bunkering op intercepted and destroy one wooden boat loaded with 1000 litres of product suspected to be stolen crude oil at Wellhead Cluster Opukushi Community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

“In the course of operations, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE destroyed 61 dugout pits, 32 wooden boats, 87 storage tanks, one speedboat, 32 cooking ovens, 3 outboard engine, one generator, 2 pumping machines, 36 illegal refining sites. Troops also recovered 310,700 litres of stolen crude oil, 14,675 litres Automotive Gas Oil, 49,000 Dual Purpose Kerosine and 5 litres of Premium Motor Spirit and apprehended 15 perpetrators of oil theft.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION UDO KA (SOUTH EAST)

“Troops of Operation UDO KA conducted raids on camps/hideouts of Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network gunmen at UMUNNEOCHI, Anambra West Local Government Area of Abia and at Mmiata Anam Forest in Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“Troops also arrested suspected gunrunners, rescued kidnapped hostage and recovered arms and ammunition at Onitsha North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“Raid.   On 24 July 23, following kidnaping incident along Road NGODO – ISUOCHI in UMUNNEOCHI Local Government Area of Abia State. Troops conducted a raid and rescued 9 victims in the general area. The rescued victims have since reunited with their families, while the gun men are on the run.

“Raid Operations. In a separate operation, on 24 July 23, troops raided suspected Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network hideout at Mmiata Anam Forest in Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State. During the firefight, troops neutralized one suspect while others fled. Troops recovered one AK 47 rifle with 35 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo, one Dane gun, one locally made hand grenade, one pumping machine, one chainsaw, rain coats/boots, NP uniforms/boots, Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network uniforms and assorted drinks. Troops also destroyed 3 vehicles and 9 motorcycles. Troops Arrest High Profile Gunrunner.

“(1) On 27 Jul 23, troops arrested a high-profile gunrunner within Onitsha general area in Onitsha North Local Government Area of Anambra State. The arrest was based on credible intelligence that revealed him to be a major supplier of arms and ammo to an arms syndicate based in Benue and Taraba States.

“(2) Same day and in a separate operation, troops at Abia – Imo States boundary check point in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State arrested 2 suspected criminals and recovered one locally made pistol and a vehicle. 

“(3) On 28 Jul 23, troops raided some shops at Onitsha Main Market in Onitsha North Local Government Area of Anambra State. During the operation, troops arrested one suspected gunrunner and recovered 6 Pump action guns, 925 machetes, 151 machete sharpeners, 1,080 sickles, one speaker and the sum of Two Hundred and Eighty Thousand Naira (N280,000.00) only.

“In the conduct of operations, troops of Operation UDO KA recovered one AK47 rifle loaded with 35 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6 pump action guns, one locally made pistol, one dane gun, one locally made hand grenade, 4 vehicles, 9 motorcycles, 925 machetes and 151 machetes sharpeners.

“Others are: 1,080 sickles, Nigerian Police uniforms and boots, Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network uniform, one speaker, rain coats and boots and a chain saw.

“Troops also apprehended 3 gunrunners and rescued 9 kidnapped hostages. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.

” Overall, troops will sustain the momentum in tackling the security challenges and shall continue to fight the perpetrators to submission. It is expected that well-meaning Nigerians would continue to support the military and in deed stand with the military to flush out the perpetrators of these dastardly acts from amongst us. Together will can flush them out.

“In Nigeria of today, it is not enough “to see something and say something” as is popularly stated. There are more people than know things happening around them, than those who are waiting to see first before reporting. Consequently,  “know something, say something and be assured the military will do something”.

You Have Shown Excellence, World-class Performance in Accountancy, UNESCO Laureate Tells Dr. Mudathir as he bags Crown University’s Honorary Doctorate Degree

His Royal Highness (H.R.H) Duke Of The Kingdom Of Atlantis in Singapore and Vice-Chancellor Crown University, USA, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has lauded the excellent performance of Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada in the field of Accountancy & Management as former Oyo State Accountant General as he bags Crown University’s Honorary Doctorate Degree in Islamic Science & Theology which the globally recognized cértificate was presented to him by UNESCO Laureate.

The media learnt this today being Sunday, July 30, 2023 from World Acclaimed Distinguished research Universities Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu in a press statement personally signed by him, which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State capital by his Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity and Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as UNESCO Laureate tasks Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada on more service to humanity.

IEQAB’s Award-winning Five Stars Global Professor has applauded the hardwork, dedication to service God and humanity, Professional excellence as shown by Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada who had served Oyo State Government as former Accountant General. Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu alsi noted that Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada, who doubles as the CEO of Chief Imam Oluyole Estate Extension had recently bagged “Life Fellowship Awards and Outstanding Intellectual of The 21st Century from ICWLS”.

Speaking further, he noted that the Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada bing also bagged “Most Notable Top Distinguished Chief Imam of The 21st Century Awards” from the Leadership of International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS). He added that Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada’s experience, dedication to the service of God and humanity in all spheres of life will help in the fulfillment of the Crown University Intl Chartered Inc.’s vision and mission statement.

UNESCO Laureate & Vice Chancellor, Crown university Int’l Chartered Inc., USA presented Crown University’s honorary doctorate degree certificate to Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada, former Accountant General of Oyo State, Nigeria.
Prof Aremu while thanking Dr Mudathir Atanda Bada on support, service to God and humanity and other development, which he said has helped in the towards the fulfillment of Crown University’s vision and mission statement on global quality higher Education as he urged Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada who bagged Honorary Doctorate Degree from Crown University to be good Ambassador of the institution anywhere in the World for sustainable growth and development of the society and the world at large.

The statement by VC CUICI, USA reads in parts: “I, UNESCO Laureate and CUICI VC commend Dr. Mudathir Atanda Bada, who is the recipient of global recognized honorary Doctorate Degree certificate in Islamic Science & Theology to be good Ambassador of the institution anywhere in the World for sustainable growth and development of the society and the world at large. I also commend his efforts and excellent performance in the Accounting Profession & Management Sciences. I commend him for his wonderful job. I urge you to keep it up as a very good Ambassador of Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc. which is a global recognized university”.

“The Crown University International Chartered in Inc. USA is a global recognized private research university which offers professional vocational training and higher education. It serves as an autonomous global recognized university, offering education and practical skill in the courses taught at its official partner’s constituents campuses at government regulated universities worldwide and online operation”.

“Crown University International Chartered Incorporated Inc. Entity is duly incorporated under the International Laws of 1704,1776 and 1787 in United States of America with chartered file number: 7594662 as a worldwide recognized teaching and research university with International Trade Mark registered of logo with an international trademark order of receipt number: 668383, Customer number:270163 in United States of America”.

UNESCO Laureate gives daughter out in Marriage

Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, His Royal Highness (HRH) Duke of The Kingdom Of Atlantis in Singapore, H.E, UNESCO Laureate & Vice-Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA with its teaching hospital campus located at Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, South South America and other partner constituents campuses at government regulated universities worldwide and online operation, has given out daughter’s hand in marriage stating that he is glad to have witnessed the wedding of his virgin daughter and complete Qur’an Memorizer.

The UNESCO Laureate, Prof. Sir. Bashiru Aremu made the statement on Saturday, 29th of July, 2023 during the Wedding Reception held at the Muslim Jama’at Mosque, off Iwo-Ibadan Express Way, Behind Baskay Hotel, Odo Ori, Iwo, Osun State.

While speaking further, he said, Marriage is a state of being united as spouses in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law. God designed marriage for three primary purposes: companionship, procreation, and redemption.

The Media aide to the UNESCO Laureate, Comr. Bieni Victor also disclosed in a press release signed by Prof. Sir. Bashiru Aremu on Sunday 30th July 2023 stated saying, ” “First and foremost I must thank the almighty God, Allah for the success of yesterday’s Marriage ceremony as I’m very happy to have given out another of my virgin daughter and complete Koran Memoriser in marriage. I must also thank the Fathers of the Day, Royal Fathers of the Day, and our family members -the Bride & groom’s families, friends, and Well-wishers for their support and gracing the marriage ceremony of our son and daughter”.

“I use this medium to pray that Almighty God, Allah will give them a true love for a fruitful union, stable family, and lasting relationships. I equally task the husband and wife on true love. In Islam, we learned that Love is a gift from the creator for his creation. It is put into the hearts of humankind and brings joy. True Love is when you with that Allah is pleased with the one you love. Good friends are like treasures! Valuable don’t lose it! True Love is not just finding someone who completes you but who inspires you. Happy marital bliss!”.

However, he charges the couple, Hafizoh Fateemah Adeola Aremuola, the virgin daughter of UNESCO Laureate & Vice-Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA & Mr. Soliu Ogunfuyi to be role models in the younger generation in their marriage.

Ag. IGP Visits Arase asPSC, NPF set to set up Joint Committees tasked to iron out Friction areas

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase, CFR, retired Inspector General of Police,  today Thursday, August 3rd, 2023, received in audience the acting Inspector General of Police, Dr. Olukayode Egbetokun who was visiting the Commission for the first time since his assumption of office.

Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations on  Thursday, August 3rd 2023, in a press release disclosed that the PSC Chairman and the visiting acting IGP had a one-hour fruitful discussion on several issues that will progress the two federal government Agencies in the area of advancing the security sub-sector of the nation.

The meeting agreed to set up Joint Committees to look into areas of likely friction in the operations of the two agencies.
The Meeting also agreed on the setting up of the  Recruitment Board that will include all the strategic stakeholders in future recruitment exercises.

The Commission and the Police also pledged that the welfare of Police Officers will be paramount henceforth.
The two leaders also decided to jointly work together to ensure that issues of discipline are handled expeditiously so that those found wanting are adequately punished and others not found wanting are freed to continue with their career progression. They also agreed to ensure that Police Promotions are prompt and based on merit, seniority, and availability of vacancy.
Dr. Arase said the Commission will continue to collaborate with the acting Inspector General of Police to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police.

Wike never contributed to APC growth in Rivers – Rivers Party leaders

Leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, have said that former governor Nyesom Wike is not responsible for the impressive growth of the party in the state.

The leaders, in a document released to newsmen on Thursday, said that APC’s growth had been organically steady since 2015 that the party came into being.

The leaders, who stated that the release of the document was to put the records straight, said that the party surpassed its votes of 2015 during the 2019 elections, when Wike was governor on the ticket of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

They stressed that APC experienced natural, internal growth over time, and because of the efforts of party technocrats in the state, it narrowed and eventually surpassed the lead that PDP had since 2015.

”Our growth patterns have been consistent since the 2015 presidential onslaught against Rivers APC.

”Our growth from 2015 to 2019 was 23.8 per cent, closing the huge gap of 2015 presidential election.

“Then the 2023 presidential election came in with additional 80,881 votes in favour of APC in Rivers State.

“The question is, where is the helping hand of former Gov Wike, can he claim to have helped Rivers APC with
only 80,881 votes, when our growth showed organic growth since 2019?”

The group further asked whether that those singing Wike’s song that he helped Rivers APC, that where were the 1,487,075 votes he carried in 2015 in favour of PDP out of the 2,537,590 registered voters in Rivers.

They also asked where the 472,971 votes Wike got for PDP in 2019 presidential election out of the 3,215,273
registered voters in Rivers State were.

”Can a non partyman takeover a national ruling party in a state, simply because they claim to have helped the national party in his state with just 80,881 votes when such claims couldn’t be substantiated with empirical data?

“Such is the calamitous quagmire Wike, and his sponsored detractors have caused to their political dynasty.

“There is evidence to prove that Wike did not work for APC, Wike lost his polling unit and lost his ward.

“When he found that his political career was gone, he decided to pitch his tent with APC, just to have a comfort zone to rob APC in Rivers State.

The group further cleared the air that the difference between APC performance between 2015 and 2019 was 82,000 votes. The same difference between 2019 and 2023 is 80,000 votes.

“None of his so called PDP members worked for us. Some secretly for Labour Party and others did for PDP in their respective polling units.

“These efforts are projected to result in the complete takeover of the state by the APC in 2027,” they stated

They therefore expressed optimism that with the combined efforts of party technocrats in Rivers, along with the able leadership of President Bola Tinubu, they expected significant progress in the nation’s growth.

GOCs Commit To Cooperation And Closer Working Relations

By Emmanuel Daudu

General Officers Commanding (GOC) 82 and 6 Divisions have committed to cooperate and work even more closely. This commitment was made when the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army Major General HT Dada led some commanders from his Division on a courtesy visit to the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army Major General Jamal Abdussalam, today 1 Àugust 2023 at Port Harcourt Barracks, Rivers State.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Iweha Ikedichi, Acting Deputy Director
Army Public Relations, in a press release he signed, said, the GOC 82 Division, while speaking, stated that  the need for cooperation couldn’t have come at a better time than now owing to the activation of  Operation UDO KA, targeted at the entire South Eastern States. The operation aims at check mating the activities of separatist group Indegenous People of Biafra and its teeth arm the Eastern Security Network. Considering that traces of the group’s activities cut across the operational boundaries of both Divisions calls for cooperation, Major General Dada added.

Responding, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army Major General Jamal Abdussalam thanked the GOC 82 Division for the visit. He described the relationship between 6 and 82 Divisions as that of siamese twins whose destinies are inter twined.

Major General Jamal Abdussalam commended the vision and foresightedness of the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja in Operation UDO KA noting that it would give the needed bite to the fight against separatist groups in the South Eastern region.

He pledged the commitment of the Division through the availability of all resources and platforms that would aid the operation. He noted that already the Division was in cooperation with 82 Division, noting that the visit would deepen it.

Highpoint of the visit was the exchange of souvenirs, group photographs, and a visit to the Division’s mascot.

NCC, BPSR to Embark on Digitization of Govt Processes

By Emmanuel Daudu

For a start, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta and the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Arabi have penned a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly work towards accelerating the digitisation reform process in government.


According to Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs, in a press release on 1st August, 2023,
Speaking at the event, which took place at the NCC’s Head Office in Abuja recently, Danbatta said collaboration between the two organizations is consistent with NCC’s Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) to  partner and collaborate with relevant stakeholders.

He noted that the MoU will enhance efficiency and productivity as it adequately captured the roles of enabling policies and implementing institutions, which are key features of digital transformation.

He also said the Commission will continue to drive broadband penetration, which provides the backbone upon which such process will thrive.

According him, “It is for this reason that the Nigerian National Broadband Plan document, made adequate provisions for the deployment of broadband infrastructure across the country. It is this same infrastructure that will drive services that will result in the transformation of governance as well as the key services sector in the economy,” he said.

Danbatta said at the completion of the process, governance will be paperless, chief executive officers would be able to deal with their mails without necessarily signing most things offline because virtually everything will be done online.

“Indeed, the transition will be worth it, as the process is associated with efficiency, which naturally results from operating a paperless system of governance or administration at the level of entities such as the Bureau for Public Service Reforms and the Nigerian Communications Commission,” he said.

“We attach a lot of importance to the way and manner we collaborate with sister agencies of government to give translation or to ensure the actualisation of that important item of our Strategic Vision Plan that is strategic collaboration and partnership, it explains why we are signing this an Memorandum of Understanding.

In his response, Arabi revealed that the Bureau took the decision to work with the Commission in driving the reforms for the adoption of emerging technologies as a result of NCC’s  emergence as the first organization to win the  Platinum Award of BPSR, exceeding expectations in the way it conducts its businesses.

“Historically speaking, this partnership had begun in 2016 when the Commission became the first agency of government to undergo the BPSR online Self-Assessment Tool (SAT). Remarkably, at the end of the assessment, NCC emerged as the first agency to be rated Platinum Organisation by the Tool, having exceptionally exceeded expectations in all good practices built around nine domain areas” Dasuki stated.

Underscoring his submission, Arabi said, “Given the successful outcomes of the workshops and conferences NCC organized in collaboration with BPSR on the Distributed Ledger Technologies (the Blockchain) in 2022 in Lagos and Abuja, the MoU is providing a window of opportunity to consolidate efforts to deliver strong and resilient public service that will lead a well-functioning federal system wherein zero tolerance for corruption is made practicable.

“The MoU will also help in fostering of a high degree of cooperation between Federal and State governments in improving service delivery and addressing Transparency International Corruption Perception Index to significantly improved safe and secured environment that encourages economic growth and investment.”

Arabi said that efforts to improve equitable and unhindered access to government information and services through the Federal Government’s Scorecard for ranking websites of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are producing a direct impact on the socio-economic development of the country.

Tafa Balogun, A Great Leader And Mentor-Arase

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase
has described the late former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Tafa Balogun as a great leader and mentor whose strength, courage, inspection and kindness, provided immense opportunities for all those who knew and worked with him while he was alive.

According to Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and  Public Relations in a press release on
Wednesday, August 2nd 2023, he said, Dr. Arase revealed this while eulogising Alhaji Tafa Balogun on the first year remembrance anniversary of his death.

He also described him as a strong, dynamic and hardworking boss who invested hugely in the lives of many vulnerable and underprivileged Nigerian in the pursuit of justice.

According to the PSC chairman, Alhaji Balogun was one of the greatest persons he’d been opportuned to serve under his leadership, adding that even after his demise, his good deeds still speak for him both in and out of the Police Force.

“I am grateful to have had him as a boss. He was an essential part of my career as a police officer and I remember him always with pride and honour”.

Dr. Arase further stressed that though the loss of Balogun can never be recovered, he prays he would find the reward of leading a kind life as he dwells happily with the Saints in heaven.

He also enjoined the family to be comforted in the faith that Alhaji Tafa Balogun is in a better place, and prayed for the continued repose of his soul.

Danbatta Advises Businesses to Adjust with Disruptive Technologies

By Emmanuel Daudu

Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Prof Umar Garba Danbatta, has advised businesses to adjust to the potentials of disruptive technologies which have been adopted across the globe for enhanced productivity and sustainability.


According to Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs in a press release signed on Sunday, he told industry leaders and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) innovators, who gathered at the 2023 edition of the Information, Communication, Technology and Telecommunications (ICTEL) expo organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Lagos, that advancements made in the global ICT industry have become business and enhancing.

Danbatta, who was represented by the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau at the Commission, Mr. Alkasim Umar, said technology has always played a significant role in shaping the world people live in. He, however, said that in recent years, advancements have accelerated at an unprecedented rate.

The NCC helmsman said as the world grapples with the 4th Industrial Revolution driven by the Internet, advancements in many facets of ICTs, are fundamentally changing all aspects of people’s lives and reshaping economic, social and cultural paradigms across the world.

He listed such disruptive technologies to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Technology, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Fifth Generation (5G) and other emerging technologies which have demonstrated the potential of transforming industries and business models.

“Today, we find ourselves amid a digital revolution, where the boundaries between physical and virtual worlds are blurring.  So, as we navigate the era of tech disruptions, it is crucial for businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing landscape. Companies that are agile and willing to experiment with these emerging technologies will gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries,” Danbatta said.

The NCC CEO further assured that the NCC’s strategic management plan represents the Commission’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to transform industries and drive positive change. “By embracing tech disruption, we are empowering individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive in the digital age. Together, let us build a Nigeria where technology is a catalyst for inclusive growth, innovation flourishes, and the benefits of connectivity reach every Nigerian,” the EVC said.

President of LCCI, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, who appreciated the Commission’s efforts in providing a predictable telecom regulatory environment, noted that the theme of this year’s edition of the ICTEL Expo had been carefully chosen considering the far-reaching impact disruptive technologies are having on businesses around the world.

NCC’s Zonal Controller, Lagos, Engr. Yomi Arowosafe, who was part of the team to the well-attended ICT Expo, received an LCCI Appreciation Award presented to Prof. Danbatta, by the Vice President of LCCI, Leye Kupoluyi, in recognition of Danbatta’s contribution towards the success of the 2023 ICTEL Expo held on July 25 – 26, 2023 at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

No Room For Violent Protests In Nigeria – IGP

As IGP Orders Watertight Security Across Nigeria, Appeals for Calm

In a press release signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra,
Force Public Relations Officer,
Force Headquarters,
Abuja, on Tuesday, said, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, is deeply concerned about recent developments regarding planned nationwide protests by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC). While being mindful of the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in our Constitution, the IGP urges all parties involved to ensure that the planned demonstrations are conducted in a peaceful manner to prevent being hijacked by miscreants, owing to the previous ugly experiences of such protests in most major cosmopolitan cities in the country. The IGP, however, acknowledges the grievances raised by the labour unions and the importance of constructive dialogue, which is sine qua none, in addressing these issues.

In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common grounds on the planned protests. A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the period of the planned protests as all necessary measures to facilitate the peaceful conduct of these demonstrations have been emplaced.

However, it is hereby reaffirmed that any attempt by miscreants to exploit the situation for violent purposes viz-a-viz vandalism, gangsterism, and extortion will be met with firm, professional and commensurate lawful approach. The Police will not tolerate any act that threatens the peace and well-being of our country.

In light of the potential challenges posed by the planned protests, the Nigeria Police Force is fully prepared to deploy all available resources to maintain law and order and to protect the lives and property of our citizens. The IGP therefore calls on all officers to be vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct during this period.

The Police boss urges all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and other civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances, while also reemphasizing that the Police is committed to ensuring a secure and conducive environment for open dialogue, constructive engagement and mutual understanding for a seamless exercise of civil rights.