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Buhari seeks help from U.S. over rising insecurity

Published

5 years ago

April 28, 2021

After being assailed by unrelenting insecurity across the regions of the country and yielding to calls for international collaboration, President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday sought the help of the United States government to contain the situation in the country.

During a virtual meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State, Mr. Anthony Blinken, Buhari stressed the need for the U.S. to consider relocating its Africa Command (AFRICOM) from Stuttgart, Germany, to Africa, nearer the Theatre of Operation, while urging the international community to support Nigeria and the sub-region in tackling growing security challenges to avoid spillovers.

President Buhari said: “The security challenges in Nigeria remain of great concern to us and impacted more negatively, by existing complex negative pressures in the Sahel, Central, and West Africa, as well as the Lake Chad Region.

“Compounded as the situation remains, Nigeria and her security forces remain resolutely committed to containing them and addressing their root causes. The support of important and strategic partners like the United States cannot be overstated as the consequences of insecurity will affect all nations hence the imperative for concerted cooperation and collaboration of all nations to overcome these challenges.

“In this connection, and considering the growing security challenges in West and Central Africa, Gulf of Guinea, Lake Chad region and the Sahel, weighing heavily on Africa, it underscores the need for the United States to consider re-locating AFRICOM headquarters from Stuttgart, Germany to Africa and near the Theatre of Operation,’’ he said.

The spate of attacks, which had been worsening in weeks, got to a frightening crescendo in the last 72 hours as a reign of terror descended in all the six geo-political zones of the country.

SENATORS yesterday expressed fears that the Boko Haram insurgents might overrun the nation’s capital, Abuja because of the attacks the deadly group had launched on neighbouring states. On Monday, governor of Niger State, Sani Bello, revealed that Boko Haram terrorists had taken over about 50 communities in the state, adding that the terrorist group is just some two hours away from Abuja. His counterpart in Nasarawa, Governor Abdullahi Sule, had also lodged similar complaint of Boko Haram cell in the state.

Senator Smart Adeyemi (APC, Kogi West) was moved to tears while contributing to the debate. He said: “Insecurity is a serious problem in Nigeria. There comes a time where we cannot but speak the truth irrespective of sentiments. Mr President, we need not run away from the fact that more than ever before in the history of our nation, this is the worst instability we are facing. In fact, this is worse than the civil war. The answer is very simple. We cannot pretend that we are capable of confronting the situation in our hands. We need foreign support now.”

The spate of attacks, which had been worsening in weeks, got to a frightening crescendo in the last 72 hours as a reign of terror descended in all the six geo-political zones of the country.

As a way of addressing the issue, the Senate resolved to send its leadership to meet with President Buhari, but no date has been fixed for the meeting. The decision followed a motion moved through a point of order by Musa Sani from Niger State. After a long debate, the Senate resolved that the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, will lead other principal officers of the upper legislative chamber, to meet with Buhari.

It also resolved to summon the newly-appointed service chiefs to brief them in a closed-door session on steps so far taken to salvage the situation. No date has however been announced.

The Senate similarly urged its committee on Foreign Affairs to liaise with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National Intelligence Agency (NIA), on the implications of the fallout of the death of the President of Chad, Idriss Deby.

Sani had while leading the debate, said: “Unfortunately, these repeated attacks are taking place amidst absence of slightest hindrance, resistance or confrontation from the authorities concerned.

Musa informed his colleagues that about 42 communities across the two local government areas of Shiroro and Munya have so far fallen under Boko Haram control with about 5,000 villagers already displaced in the last three days.

Confirming the conquest of some towns by Boko Haram, Musa said: “I can authoritatively confirm that the Boko Haram terrorists have mounted their flags in many of the villages they have captured such as Kaure, Alawa, and Magami. Inhabitants of these areas have been abandoned and left to their fate, thereby compelling them to wallow in perpetual agony and abject misery.”

Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, in his submission, said the government has lost its legitimacy to lead. He said since the primary responsibility of government is to protect the people, that has not been done.

He said: “We have made beautiful suggestions and have had retreats on insecurity. Unfortunately, the recommendations haven’t been implemented. We need to do something about this and very fast too. If we need to shutdown Niger State or the Senate in order to find solutions, let us do that.”

Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Sabi Aliyu Abdullahi, warned that Abuja is the next target of the terrorists if Niger State is not immediately rescued from their grip.

A retired army Colonel and Senator from Gombe State, Amos Bulus, said Boko Haram terrorists are already moving into Abuja from every corner. He warned that something huge is going to happen if nothing is done. He didn’t reveal what would happen.

Olubunmi Adetunji said: “We need to have a private session with President Buhari who is the Commander-In-Chief. We need to end this huge embarrassment. We are gradually snowballing into a full-blown war. Enough is enough. I propose that a delegation should meet with Buhari and find a solution.”

AGAIN, after 47 days, bandits, who abducted the 39 students of the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, Afaka, Kaduna, have released another video of the abducted students of the school. The bandits had shortly after the abduction of the students on March 11, 2021, released a video of the victims and demanded N500 million as a ransom for their release.

Out of the 39 students, 10 had so far been released, the remaining 29 of them. But as a result of the policy of the governor Nasir El-Rufai administration against payment of ransom or negotiation with bandits, it had made the bandits now negotiate with the parents directly.

In the latest video, a pregnant student simply identified as “Hajiya” pleaded with her parents for rescue, adding that for days, they have been without food.

Also, another woman abducted by the bandits, said to be a wife of a naval officer, featured in the video. The woman said to have been abducted from Trikaniya in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, said her husband is a military officer based in Warri, Delta State. She too pleaded with the Federal Government to come for their rescue, saying that the bandits had earlier agreed on N30 million as a ransom for their release.

WORRIED by the prevailing insecurity in the Northeast, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, again visited the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday where he sought to “tell President Buhari the truth.” Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, Zulum decried the recent terrorist attacks, which have caused the lives of many soldiers in the state.

The governor said it behooves him to visit the seat of power in Abuja and tell the president the whole truth about the situation in the region. “I think it is my own responsibility to come and say the truth to Mr. President, let him know what is going on in the entire Northeast sub-region.”

While noting that the situation was pathetic, Zulum emphasized the need for support to help the area to get rid of insurgents. He further lamented that thousands of people have fled their homes and left many communities in the area deserted. “It’s very pathetic. Few days ago, Damasak was attacked, hundreds of people started fleeing Damasak and now Geidam is almost deserted. Many people have left Geidam.”

GOVERNOR of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, in his review, declared that Nigeria has totally collapsed. The governor said the baffling state of insecurity and the unchallenged killings of citizens by outlaws in parts of the country is a clear manifestation of a failed nation, which was a sequel to bad leadership. Wike stated this at the Government House, Port Harcourt on Tuesday when he had an interactive session with traditional rulers, political and opinion leaders of Andoni nationality.

He said: “Nigeria has totally collapsed. Look at, today, what happened in Nasarawa and Benue states, how they slaughtered people on the road. See what is happening in Niger State and the APC governor there is crying, saying he has been talking to the Federal Government but nobody has listened to him. And that Boko Haram has come to take over the state, which is closest to Abuja.”

The governor recalled that when he raised the alarm of the looming danger of insecurity, it was politicised, some persons in the opposition dismissed it as mere politics. But, ironically states controlled by the All Progressives Congress (APC) are now the worst hit.

According to him, instead of leaders being bold to speak against the ills in the land and sincerely pursue solutions to them, they indulge in sycophancy. “Look at Kaduna and Imo states, there is insecurity everywhere. The only anger I have with Imo governor is this: I don’t know how people politicise things.”

The governor thereafter imposed night curfew at all entry and exit points with Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Imo states. The lockdown is necessitated by recent security breaches and deadly attacks on security personnel by unknown gunmen. Wike in a state broadcast said the curfew takes effect from Wednesday night.

The governor said: “The Government of Rivers State has decided to restrict night movements in and out of the state from the land borders. Consequently, a night curfew is hereby imposed and no person or vehicle is allowed into and out of Rivers from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. from today (Wednesday) until further notice. We wish to advise that those who have any legitimate need or reason to come into or go out of the state to do so before 8:00 p.m. when the curfew shall come into force daily.”

RISING from a four-hour executive session yesterday, the House of Representatives has asked President Buhari to declare a state of emergency on security following the ongoing killings and general uprising in the country. Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila, who read out the resolutions, summoned the national security adviser, Babagana Monguno, to appear before it.

Also to appear before the lawmakers are the service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, and heads of para-military agencies in the country.

THIS is coming after unknown gunmen in the early hours of Tuesday attacked the Federal High Court Abakaliki, burning some sections of the building. Confirming the attack, the police spokesperson in the state, DSP Loveth Odah, said the hoodlums came in large numbers and set a section of the court ablaze, noting that firefighters quickly intervened and quenched the fire.

She noted that the gunmen scaled the court perimeter fence to carry out the attacks, adding that two security guards were also injured during the attack. The court’s library and the security post were badly torched.

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Kwara Customs Hailed For A Clean Operational Record

Published

2 days ago

August 14, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara Area Command, has received commendation from the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘B’, Nsikan Patrick Umoh, for maintaining a clean operational record and upholding professionalism in the discharge of its duties.

ACG Umoh gave the commendation during an oversight visit to the Command’s headquarters in Ilorin as part of her tour of operational commands within the zone.

Addressing officers and men of the Command, Umoh was excited that since she assumed office, her headquarters had not received any adverse report against the Kwara Area Command.

She said the record was a reflection of the discipline, integrity and professionalism demonstrated by personnel in their daily operations.

“I want to commend the leadership and personnel of the Kwara Area Command for their exemplary conduct, discipline and dedication to duty,” she said.

The Customs boss, who delivered the goodwill message of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, urged officers to maintain high standards of professionalism both on and off duty.

She warned personnel against involvement in illicit drugs, sharp practices and other activities capable of tarnishing the image of the Service.

Umoh also called on officers to strengthen unity and teamwork, describing the Service as one family working towards a common goal. She assured them of the continued support of the zonal and Service headquarters.

Earlier, the Acting Area Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi, highlighted the major achievements, operational milestones and administrative successes recorded under his leadership.

The visit also featured an interactive session between the Zonal Coordinator and major trade stakeholders, including representatives of freight forwarding associations, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and major excise factories such as ITC and SANICA.

During the engagement, Umoh commended the existing relationship between the Command and the business community, while responding to concerns surrounding cargo clearance procedures, examination timelines and regional trade competitiveness.

The stakeholders also received clarifications on issues affecting their operations, with the Customs official assuring them of the Service’s commitment to facilitating legitimate trade.

The oversight visit ended with an inspection of the Command’s administrative offices, warehouse and residential barracks.

Umoh expressed satisfaction with the level of orderliness, environmental cleanliness and discipline observed across the facilities.

The Command said the visit further reinforced its commitment to professionalism, trade facilitation and effective service delivery in Kwara State.

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OUR LAND IS NOT FOR SALE, CATHOLIC PRIESTS TELL FG

Published

3 days ago

August 13, 2026

Our Reporter

By our Correspondent

The Nigeria Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese, has strongly rejected the decision of the Federal Government to include Benue State in the pilot implementation of its National Ranching Policy.

The association said it was particularly concerned that Benue State, which it described as an already bleeding and targeted state, was included in the policy, which is initially kicking off at the Wase Grazing Reserve in Plateau State.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. Fr. Joseph Terfa Beba, the NCDPA expressed concern over what it described as the apparent exclusion of the Benue State Government from the decision-making and approval process.
The association said had the elected leadership of Benue State been genuinely consulted, it believed the state government would not have consented to any arrangement capable of undermining the rights, dignity, security and ancestral heritage of its people.
“We cannot accept a policy imposed upon a people whose communities have suffered killings, displacement, destruction and prolonged insecurity,” the association said.
It warned that ranching must not become a disguised instrument for land grabbing, forced occupation or the permanent displacement of indigenous communities.
The priests also cited the position of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Bishop Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, saying he had “consistently and courageously spoken against this injustice, culpable silence and every agenda that threatens the ancestral lands of our people.”
The association called on the Federal Government to respect the constitutional rights of the people of Benue State and engage the state government, traditional rulers and community leaders transparently before proceeding with the policy.
It also urged the government to ensure that displaced persons are enabled to return safely and take possession of their ancestral lands before any discussions concerning already existing designated ranching structures in parts of the state and the country.
The NCDPA maintained that Benue was predominantly an agrarian state and not a pastoralist society, arguing that ranching was therefore not viable in the state.
“Ranching in Benue State is therefore NOT VIABLE, and WE REJECT THIS PROJECT IDEA WITH ALL LEGAL AND SPIRITUAL RESOURCES,” the priests declared.
The association said there was no land in Benue for commercial ranching, stressing that ancestral homes should not be treated as bargaining chips.
“Our land is not for sale and has never been on sale. There is no land in Benue State for commercial ranching. Our ancestral homes are not bargaining chips.
“Our people must return home. Benue must not be enslaved through policy. There will be no surrender of our ancestral heritage in whatever form or guise being proposed or presented,” it said.
The association urged the Federal Government to address the concerns of Benue communities and prioritise the safe return of displaced persons before implementing any ranching arrangement in the state.

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Foundation To Immortalise Late Ex-Oyo Gov Alao-Akala Unveiled

Published

3 days ago

August 13, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

A fresh initiative aimed at preserving the legacy of service, compassion and grassroots development associated with the late former Oyo State Governor, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, has been launched with the inauguration of the Alao-Akala Transformation Movement (ATM).

The movement, chaired by the late governor’s wife, Chief (Mrs.) Oluwakemi Alao-Akala, has been formally inaugurated in Ogbomoso as part of activities marking the posthumous celebration of the former governor, who died in 2022.

Speaking at the event, Oluwakemi said ATM was established to transform Alao-Akala’s philosophy of leadership and philanthropy into sustainable programmes capable of improving the lives of people across communities.

“This is not merely the inauguration of an organisation; it is the birth of a movement inspired by service, compassion, integrity and selfless leadership,” she said.

She stressed that ATM was neither a political party nor a partisan platform, noting that membership was open to people irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity or religious background.

“Service to humanity knows no political boundary,” she declared.

According to her, the movement emerged after months of consultations involving members of the Alao-Akala family, political associates, community leaders, professionals, youths and admirers of the late governor.

She disclosed that the inaugural planning meeting was held at the family residence in Ibadan in March 2026, with subsequent meetings taking place every Tuesday at the movement’s headquarters.

Oluwakemi, who disclosed that ATM had already attracted members from the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, other parts of Nigeria and the Diaspora, explained that one of the movement’s major priorities was to sustain and expand Alao-Akala’s philanthropic legacy through interventions targeting widows, vulnerable families, students and other less privileged members of society.

“By the grace of God, we shall continue to deepen these interventions while introducing new initiatives in youth empowerment, educational support, healthcare, community development, leadership mentoring and social welfare,” she said.

The ATM chairperson appealed to individuals, corporate organisations, development partners and other well-meaning Nigerians to support the movement financially, professionally and through volunteer services.

She said the objective was to ensure that Alao-Akala’s legacy did not remain confined to speeches and annual commemorations but was translated into practical interventions that would positively affect communities.

As part of activities preceding the inauguration, members of ATM visited the Adebayo Alao-Akala College of Health Sciences in Ogbomoso and the Adebayo Alao-Akala Comprehensive Health Centre in Yaku Community.

Oluwakemi said the visits underscored the movement’s commitment to preserving the late governor’s contributions to healthcare, education and rural development.

She also explained the postponement of the inauguration, which was originally scheduled for June 3, 2026.

According to her, the event was postponed following the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Yawota and Esin Ele communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

“We considered it inappropriate to celebrate while families were in distress,” she said.

She expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local security volunteers and other agencies for their roles in securing the release of the abducted victims.

She also honoured security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation, praying for the repose of their souls and strength for their bereaved families.

The inauguration attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the Alao-Akala family, supporters and representatives from across Oyo State.

Among those present were Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Oyo State; his running mate, Hon. Michael Adesoye; and the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, among other dignitaries.

Born on June 3, 1950, in Ogbomoso, Alao-Akala began his career in the Nigeria Police Force before venturing into politics.

He served as Chairman of Ogbomoso North Local Government, Deputy Governor of Oyo State and later Governor of the state.

His administration was associated with projects in road infrastructure, education, healthcare, rural development, agriculture, youth empowerment and security.

His name remains particularly associated with the Adebayo Alao-Akala College of Health Sciences in Ogbomoso and the Adebayo Alao-Akala Comprehensive Health Centre in Yaku Community.

Beyond political office, he was also known for philanthropy, with interventions reaching widows, students, artisans, traditional institutions, religious organisations, youth groups and other vulnerable members of society.

Oluwakemi said ATM provided an avenue for the family and admirers of the late governor to ensure that his values continued to inspire younger generations.

“The Alao-Akala Transformation Movement belongs to everyone who believes in compassionate leadership, peaceful coexistence and sustainable development,” she said.

“Together, we shall preserve a worthy legacy and transform lives for generations yet unborn.”

The inauguration also featured the presentation of a documentary titled “Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala: A Legacy of Service”, goodwill messages from representatives of the Alao-Akala family, traditional rulers, political associates, friends and well-wishers, as well as a message from the Oyo State Government.

The vision, mission and objectives of ATM were formally presented by Mr Ademola Alao-Akala, while Hon. Olamiju Alao-Akala, MHR, delivered the vote of thanks.

Oluwakemi urged members and supporters to remain committed to the ideals of the movement, stressing that its ultimate goal was to turn Alao-Akala’s record of service into sustained humanitarian and developmental interventions.

“Akala Ni Joo, ATM! Akala Ni Jare, ATM! Ise Rere ’O Dura,” she declared.