Transition Monitoring Group Raises Concerns Ahead of Edo Governorship Election

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has raised serious concerns over the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in Edo State, scheduled for September 21.

TMG Chairman Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani) outlined several issues that could jeopardize the credibility and safety of the electoral process during a press conference held on September 10, 2024, at the CISLAC Conference Room in Abuja.

Rafsanjani identified major concerns including the undemocratic conduct of political party primaries, the growing use of violence and hate speech, and the increasing prevalence of political thuggery.

He cited specific incidents, such as voter intimidation during the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and the assassination of a police officer during a political clash in July, as troubling examples of escalating violence.

The group condemned the deployment of armed thugs to intimidate political opponents and the destruction of campaign materials.

TMG also highlighted incidents of non-election-related violence, such as cult group clashes and communal crises, that could further disrupt the electoral process.

The group further criticized the practice of vote trading amid economic hardships, calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take immediate action against such practices.

TMG emphasized the importance of political parties conducting fair and transparent primaries and expressed concern over the increasing trend of court decisions determining election outcomes, rather than the will of the electorate.

The group called on all stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and citizens, to work together to ensure a peaceful, credible, and transparent election in Edo State.

The organization also announced a comprehensive observation plan for election day, which includes deploying trained observers across the state to monitor and report any incidents. TMG urged citizens to reject vote-buying and actively participate in the election to uphold democratic principles and prevent electoral manipulation.

Nigerian Youths Can Drive National Defense, Security, and Development – Badaru

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has underscored the crucial role that Nigerian youths can play in advancing national defense, security, and development through strategic empowerment and government policies.

Speaking at a lecture titled “Leveraging Nigeria’s Digital Economy to Enhance National Security: Youth Empowerment and Job Creation” for participants of Executive Course 46 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru, Badaru emphasized the strong connection between youth empowerment, national security, and the digital economy.

Represented by his Special Adviser (Technical), Major General A.T. Jibrin (Rtd), he stressed the importance of effective implementation of government programs to unlock the potential of young Nigerians as catalysts for positive change.

He pointed to existing programs, such as the Graduate Internship Scheme (GIS), Youth Initiative for Sustainable Agriculture in Nigeria (YISA), Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YouWIN), National Directorate of Employment (NDE), and N-Power.

Badaru asserted that these initiatives could significantly transform Nigerian youths into drivers of national development if properly executed.

With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 25, Badaru highlighted the critical need to harness this demographic dividend.

Citing the impact of digital mobilization during events like the Arab Spring and Nigeria’s #ENDSARS protests, he stressed the importance of constructive youth engagement in national discourse.

The Minister acknowledged the limitations of past empowerment programs and called for their faithful and consistent implementation.

He emphasized that genuine youth empowerment is essential to strengthening national defense and security.

Badaru also discussed the vast opportunities for youth empowerment and job creation within Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy.

The Minister called for collaboration among multiple stakeholders, targeted interventions, and supportive policies to address challenges such as the digital divide, skills gap, and unemployment.

“By investing in digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing skills development, and promoting entrepreneurship, Nigeria can unlock the transformative potential of its youth demographic, drive sustainable economic growth, and ensure a safer, more secure future for its citizens,” he added.

Group calls on Supreme Court to release certified Copies of Kogi, Bayelsa judgement urgently

The Civil Society Group known as Kogi Youth Frontier, under the leadership of Comr Ibrahim Dangana Danjuma, is raising a significant concern regarding the delayed release of the certified copies of the Supreme Court judgements concerning the Kogi and Bayelsa governorship elections. This call for the swift release of the certified copies is driven by the belief that any delay in making these essential documents public may indicate an intentional withholding of crucial information related to the court’s rulings, ultimately casting doubt on the transparency of the judicial process.

The group highlights that the delay in the release of the certified copies of the judgements could potentially signify a deeper issue of compromised or flawed judgement within the Supreme Court. This notion of a miscarriage of justice at the highest level of the judiciary system reflects a concerning lack of integrity and impartiality within the judicial system, thereby raising valid questions about the fairness and accuracy of the legal decisions being made.

The Kogi Youth Frontier emphasizes the critical role of ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law in society, particularly emphasizing that it is a moral obligation incumbent upon the President to guarantee justice for all. They believe that history and divine judgment will ultimately hold the President and his government accountable for their actions or inactions in safeguarding the principles of justice and fairness within the legal system.

A powerful condemnation of self-interest and corruption clouding the lens of justice is expressed by the group, warning of the dire consequences that ensue when laws are manipulated or disregarded in favor of personal gain or ulterior motives. This strong statement serves as a poignant reminder that the sanctity of justice must be preserved at all costs to prevent the erosion of humanity’s fundamental values and principles.

In a proactive stance, the Kogi Youth Frontier calls upon the citizens of Edo and Ondo states to rigorously scrutinize the activities of key institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with the aim of averting any potential recurrence of judicial improprieties witnessed in previous electoral cases like Kogi and Bayelsa. This call for vigilance and oversight underscores the group’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that justice prevails in all facets of governance and decision-making.

Furthermore, the demand for the release of the certified copies of the Supreme Court judgements concerning the Kogi and Bayelsa cases is made with a specific intent for these documents to serve as seminal reference points for future elections. By making these judgements readily available to the public, the group seeks to establish a transparent and accountable precedent that can guide future electoral processes, promote fair and just outcomes, and maintain the integrity of the judiciary in resolving electoral disputes.

In conclusion, the Kogi Youth Frontier’s call for the swift release of the certified copies of the Supreme Court judgements resonates with a broader theme of transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance and legal proceedings. Their advocacy for justice, their condemnation of corruption, and their proactive stance on safeguarding the electoral process underscore the group’s commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, rule of law, and fairness in the pursuit of a just and equitable society.

Ondo State governor lauded over 100 women appointments as it upscales Gender Equality index in Nigeria

In recent years, the conversation surrounding gender equality has gained significant momentum worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. The appointment of over 100 women to various positions of influence by the Governor of Ondo State, lucky Aiyedatiwa, is a landmark development that stands as a beacon of hope for achieving gender parity in leadership roles.

It is against this backdrop an international NGO, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria lauds the governor of Ondo State, H.E. lucky Aiyedatiwa over the amplification of Goal 5, Gender Equality of the SDGs through the appointment of 100 women in his cabinet.

The country representative, His Excellency, Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan who made this known to the media in a press release he signed on Monday disclosed that the move is commendable and should be expanded upon as it ultimately promotes societal development, economic growth, and sustainability.

“To fully appreciate the significance of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s appointments, it is essential to understand the historical landscape of gender inequality in Nigeria. Traditionally, Nigerian society has been patriarchal, with men often dominating leadership positions across political, social, and economic spheres. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2021, Nigeria ranks 116th out of 156 countries, demonstrating a substantial gender gap in various sectors, including political empowerment, educational attainment, health, and economic participation.

“This patriarchal structure has discouraged women from participating fully in governance, often limiting their potential and contributions to the society. According to the United Nations, women in Nigeria face numerous challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, which contribute to entrenched gender inequality. The ramifications of these barriers extend beyond individual women to affect families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

“The appointments made by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa represent a significant stride toward correcting this historical imbalance. Empowering women through representation in government roles not only addresses gender disparity but also allows diverse perspectives to be included in decision-making processes. The greater the representation of women in leadership, the more likely policies will reflect the needs and voices of the entire population, including women.

“Research has shown that women leaders often bring different leadership styles and priorities to governance—emphasising collaboration, social welfare, and public health. These different perspectives are crucial in creating balanced policies that address various societal issues. For instance, women leaders are often more attuned to social issues affecting families and children, such as education and health care. Therefore, appointing women in governance can lead to more effective policies that benefit broader sectors of society.

“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s decision to appoint over 100 women aligns with efforts to enhance the Gender Equality Index in Nigeria. The Gender Equality Index, developed by the UN Development Programme, assesses gender-based disparities in various areas such as economic participation, educational attainment, health, and political empowerment. By appointing more women in leadership roles, Ondo State is not just addressing inequality but is also setting a standard for other states to aspire to.

“A study conducted by the International Labour Organization indicated that increasing women’s participation in the workforce could potentially add trillions of dollars to the global economy. This finding underscores the economic implications of gender inclusivity and why it is crucial for not just ethical but also economic reasons that more women are given opportunities in leadership—which Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s actions have endeavoured to support.

“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s appointments would lead to more comprehensive and inclusive policies benefiting entire communities. Therefore, the ripple effect of these appointments will transcend gender equality and aid in societal upliftment”, Kolawole added.

APC Launches Progressive Institute, Promises Enhanced Participatory Government

By Emmanuel Daudu



The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje led the party’s National Workings Committee, NWC members to the  unveiling of the newly established Think Tank and Resource Center of the party, The Progressive Institute (TPI).

The centre was unveiled on Friday at Ladi kwali Hall of Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja.

According to a statement signed by Wale Abideen,
Head, Media and Strategic Communication Unit, the Progressive Institute, TPI, disclosed that the APC National Chairman affirms that the Institute would serve as the official Policy Think Tank of the Party and shall undertake research and advice the Party on the performance of policies and programs of all APC governments.

“It shall provide the platform for robust discussion between the Party, Nigeria’s Academic Community, the civil society and the media as part of a deliberate effort to promote inclusiveness and ownership.

“The essence is to enhance the policy capacity of the Party, especially to enable it to provide policy advice and suggestions for the consideration of Governments elected on its platform.

“Both functions are to enhance the Party’s ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate of leadership recruitment and setting broad policy agenda for governments elected on its platform through the Party manifesto and ideology.

“Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, this Event is also to formally announce that the Institute’s management has been constituted.

“I am proud to say that our Leadership has assembled some of Nigeria’s best to constitute the management team. I am confident that they will perform even beyond our expectations.

“Finally, I urge everyone, including Nigeria’s developing partners, the Academic community, the non-state organizations and other relevant stakeholders to support this new initiative as our Party’s contributions to enriching our polity through more transparent leadership recruitment, a more inclusive public policy process, as well as an enhanced good governance system” he stressed.

In his introductory address, the Director General, DG of the Institute, Dr. Lanre Adenayo stated that the Progressive Institute is poised to emerge as a center of excellence in education, research, and innovation, contributing to the advancement of Nigeria democracy. He maintained that through collaborative partnerships and cutting-edge initiatives, the institute aims to tackle fundamental challenges and propel positive change in the nation’s political landscape.

Governor Hope Uzodinmma of Imo State and Chairman, Progressive Governors Forum in his inaugural lecture titled: Sustaining Progressive Ideology as a Bedrock of Democracy ‘, the establishment of the institute is an indication that the APC is a party that means well for the common man because it embraces welfarism above capitalism.

Other speakers at the event includes Senator George Akume, Secretary to the government of the Federation, SGF, Senator Jibrin Barau, Deputy Senate President, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State, Bishop Matthew Kukah.

Others are Mr. Yun, representative of Chinese Ambassador , Alhaji Aliyu Bello, APC Chairman, Nassarawa state who spoke on behalf of APC States chairmen, Prof. Julius Ihonvere, House Leader, Hon. Mohammed Lawal Nalado, Chairman , IPAC..

The Unveiling ceremony was performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by Alhaji Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture.

The event was attended by top government officials, Civil Society Organizations, Non-state Actors and members of the Diplomatic Corps including Kogi Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu, Minister of science and technology, Uche Nnaji, Minister of state FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmud, former deputy governor of kano State, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna among other dignitaries.


The Progressive Institute is registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a Company Limited by Guarantee and it has been duly certified by the Ministries of Justice and Education.

Int’l NGO congratulates Taiwo Ilesanmi over new appointment

By Aminu Maryam

World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has congratulated Pastor Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila over appointment as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on Multimedia.

The international NGO in Nigeria made the statement in a release signed by its Country Representative, H.E., Engr Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan.

According to the statement signed on Saturday, the 7th of September, 2024, the country representative stated that the appointment is a well-deserved achievement that recognizes his immense talent, dedication, and expertise in the field.

“As the Country Representative of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, I have had the privilege of witnessing your exceptional work as a prolific and consummate writer, publisher, and author. Your ability to convey complex ideas in a compelling manner has not only enriched the literary landscape but has also contributed to creating a more informed and enlightened society.

“Your appointment as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on Multimedia is a testament to your outstanding contribution to the field of multimedia and your commitment to promoting sustainable development through the power of communication. I am confident that your skills and expertise will greatly benefit the government as they work towards achieving their development goals.

“I would also like to commend you on your unwavering dedication to driving positive change within your community. Your leadership and passion are inspiring, and I have no doubt that you will excel in your new role. Your appointment serves as an inspiration to the younger generation, showcasing the rewards of hard work, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

“On behalf of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, I would like to express my profound congratulations once again on your appointment. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact you will make in your new role and to continuing our collaboration in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.

“On this noteworthy occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, Pastor Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila on this well-deserved appointment.

“The value of effective communication in governance cannot be overstated. According to the World Bank, clear communication enhances transparency and accountability in public institutions. Writers, especially those with a robust public engagement background, excel in the art of storytelling, which is essential in translating policy into relatable narratives that resonate with citizens.

“Writers like Gbamila can bridge the communication gap between the government and the people, ensuring that information is disseminated in a format that is not only informative but also engaging. This fosters a sense of ownership among citizens regarding governmental initiatives, which is crucial for their successful implementation. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization supports this view by stating that “effective communication practices in governance can play a significant role in promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

“Please accept my best wishes for a successful and fulfilling tenure as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on Multimedia,”he added.

TungbaFM Program Manager Inducted into Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria

Oladigbo Olalekan Efficient, the Programmes Manager at Tungba Communications Ltd, was formally inducted into the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) of Nigeria on Thursday, September 5, 2024. The prestigious event took place at the Civic Center on Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos, attracting a notable assembly of industry professionals.

Oladigbo Olalekan, who oversees operations at Tungba100.9FM in Lagos and Tungba90.3FM in Osun State, joined a distinguished group of over six hundred new members at the induction ceremony.
This milestone marks a significant advancement in his professional journey, reflecting his dedication to the field of human resources and personnel management.

The CIPM induction is a testament to Efficient’s commitment to enhancing his expertise and contributing to the standards of the personnel management profession in Nigeria.
His successful completion of the institute’s demanding examinations is a clear indicator of his proficiency and readiness to embrace the responsibilities that come with the credential.

Olalekan Efficient is an active and influential figure in the media sector. He currently serves as the 2024 National Chairman of the Nigeria Guilds of Investigative Journalists Electoral Council. His leadership in this capacity further highlights his commitment to integrity and excellence within the journalism profession.

Olalekan Efficient’s induction into CIPM is expected to enhance his capabilities in managing and developing human resources, aligning with his ongoing efforts to foster professional growth and operational excellence within Tungba Communications Ltd. The integration of advanced personnel management practices will likely contribute to the company’s continued success and innovation in the broadcasting industry.

The CIPM induction ceremony not only celebrated the accomplishments of the new members but also reinforced the institute’s role in advancing professional standards and practices in personnel management across Nigeria. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, his contributions to both the media and HR fields are anticipated to make a substantial impact.

UNESCO laureate Aremu heads African Climate Change Council endorsed Anloui Said Mohamed  as Head of Comoros for UNACCC  


UNESCO Laureate Prof. Bashiru Aremu has appointed endorsed Anloui Said Mohamed  as Chairman for Board of Trustees and Patron for Comoros of Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council, UNACCC.
This is contained in a statement on Saturday by Aremu, made available to newsmen by his Executive Assistant on Media, Publicity, and Communication Matters, Bieni Emenike.
UNACCC is an official partner of the United Nations and a global CEO-led organisation of more than 200 leading businesses and partners working together to accelerate the transition to a sustainable world.
We commend endorsed Anloui Said Mohamed   for a well-deserved appointment, while also applauding his role in ensuring the establishment of UNACCC in Comoros  and work to support Headquarters for the African continent with 57 Nations.
 “This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your dedication to education, awareness, and sustainable development.
“As you embark on this new journey, we wish you immense success in revolutionising education and the promotion of the sustainable development goals across Comoros   and  the African continent.
“Your expertise will undoubtedly inspire positive change and foster a brighter future for Comoros  and Africa at large.”
endorsed Anloui Said Mohamed ,’s appointment letter also indicated that the organisation plans to composed the  country Board of Trustees and  national council members who will work assiduously to support UNACCC’s mission in Comoros  .
Together, we can make a meaningful difference and create a lasting impact.
“Please accept our congratulations on this new beginning as we look forward to witnessing the transformation and welcoming the collaborations that will follow,” he added.

Nigerian Senator Bags ICWLS’s Global Golden Five Stars Awards, Life Fellow Member of ICWLS

Senator Patrick Ayo Akinyelure Commends ICWLS On Global Awards, Expresses Happiness On Recognition As “Salute Most Notable & Top Distinguished Senator of Rare Fame of The 21st Century”.

UNESCO Laureate Congratulates Nigerian Senator, Patrick Ayo Akinyelure On Global Contributions To Political, Legislative & Public Administration Sectors Development.

International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), World society with chartered file number: 5705811, Reg no:/ ICWLS/ 019, Decree No: Americas/IN/019/2023 with its Certificate issued under the laws of the United States of America as legal tender document both for public and private, an official partner of United Nations Global Compact, has honored a former Nigerian Senator, Patrick Ayo Akinyelure with Global Golden Five Stars & Life Fellow Member Awards In Political, Public Administration & Legislative Sectors as “Salute Most Notable & Top Distinguished Senator of Rare Fame of The 21st Century”.

The media learnt this today being Saturday, September 7, 2024 in a press statement personally signed by Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, the World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society, ICWLS, which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as UNESCO Laureate Commends former Most Dstinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on contributions to society; Political, Legislative & Public Administration excellence nationally and Internationally.

UNESCO laureate pen-ultimate weekend decorated Sen. Patrick Ayo Akinyelure in his office at Abuja as former Nigerian Senator bagged global honor as Life Fellow Member of this great internationally chartered body, ICWLS.

ICWLS-nternational Chartered World Learned Society is a worldwide independent organization, self- governing, pan- discipline educational charity group that provides expert scholarly advice on research, professional, public issues related to economic, cultural, sciences, engineering, health sciences, arts humanities and social sciences which is made up highly distinguished scholars and seasoned Professionals.

Sen. Patrick Ayo Akinyelure has commended the leadership of ICWLS for the global honor by “International Chartered World Learned Society-We do confirm and acknowledge him with noble rank to enjoy all the rights, honors and privileges, thereunto appertaining, thereof for his outstanding contributions in Political, Public Administration & Legislative Sectors”.

The press statement by Aremu reads in part: “On behalf of the International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), I, VC CUICI, USA, UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu uses this medium to felicitate with the former Most Dstinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as “Salute Most Notable and Top Distinguished Senator of Rare Fame of the 21st Century”.

“The VC, CUICI, USA is a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom. He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikurun, Osun State, Nigeria to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India. CUICI VC, is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.

*ABOUT SEN. PATRICK AYO AKINYELURE. Patrick Ayo Akinyelure is a Nigerian banker who was elected to the Nigerian Senate for the Ondo Central district in Ondo State in April 9, 2011 elections running on the Labour Party ticket. He was subsequently re-elected to the same position)”.

“Ayo is an approved tax practitioner of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. He was Group Executive Chairman of the Allover Group, a microfinance lender, from 1994 to 2010. He defeated heavy weight Politicians in Ondo State as he emerged two-time Nigerian Senator Representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Ondo State”.

“Patrick Ayo Akinyelure was Labour party candidate for the Ondo South Senatorial seat in April 2007. In July 2008 an Election Petition Tribunal in Akure nullified the election of Senator Gbenga Ogunniya of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) based on Akinyelure’s petition. Ogunniya succeeded in appealing this decision”.

“In April 9, 2011 elections, Akinyelure ran again and this time was elected with 113,292 votes, ahead of Gbenga Ogunniya of the PDP with 41,783 votes”.

Nigerian Military Clarifies Viral Terrorist Video and Addresses Destroyed MRAPs Incident

Emmanuel Daudu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) of Nigeria has provided clarifications on two recent incidents involving the military’s operations in Zamfara State and a misleading terrorist video circulating on social media.

On August 29, 2024, around 5:00 pm, troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Zurmi in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, conducted a fighting patrol to disrupt terrorist activities in Kwashabawa Village.

While en route to the village, troops engaged with the terrorists.

During the engagement, two of the troops’ Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles became immobilized due to the swampy terrain caused by heavy rainfall. Despite attempts to recover the MRAPs, the troops were forced to dismount and demobilize the vehicles to prevent them from being captured and utilized by the terrorists.

This action highlights the challenges posed by weather conditions on ground operations.

The DHQ addressed a viral video released by a terrorist group, which falsely claims to show the mass killing of civilians in a mass grave. The DHQ clarified that the incident depicted in the video did not occur in Nigeria, but in a neighboring African country that is also battling terrorism. The military emphasized that the video is part of a propaganda effort by the terrorists to mislead the public and distract from their setbacks.

The DHQ also refuted rumors of the abduction of 150 people in Gobir, Sokoto State, categorically stating that the supposed abduction is a fabricated story aimed at undermining the successes of the Nigerian military and masking the terrorists’ weaknesses.

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, urged the public to remain vigilant against misinformation, disinformation, and fake news propagated by terrorists as part of their psychological warfare tactics.

He emphasized that while the dynamic nature of war presents unpredictable challenges, Nigerian troops maintain the flexibility to adapt and remain committed to achieving the strategic objective of winning the war.