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PUBLISHER OF ALJAZIRAHNIGERIA PETITIONS PMB, OTHERS OVER ATTACK BY GOV YAHAYA BELLO’S AIDES

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Also petitioned on the attack include, the National Security Adviser, Inspector-Geneal of Police, the Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS) and the National Human Rights Commission.

Mr Bassey in the petition, which was dated October 21, and signed by his lawyer, a Principal at Beacon Chambers, Barr David C. Maduka, demanded amongst others the publication of an unreserved apology in two National Dailies within 14 days.

He also wants a thorough investigation into the complaint to unravel the officers who perpetrated the “dastardly acts” as well as discipline, prosecute them and ensure the law takes it’s full cause.

He added that he will file an appropriate suit against the appropriate authority of the Nigerian Police Force is after 14 days his demands are not met to seek legal redress.

The Aljazirah Nigeria publisher further appealed to President Buhari and other government officials copied in the petition to look into his complaint with the view to “take a decisive action”.

Read the full petition below:

21st October, 2019

His Excellency,
President Muhammadu Buhari,
Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Presidential Villa,
Abuja

FORMAL COMPLAINT OF THE CRIMINAL ACTS OF ASSAULT, MOLESTATION, DEHUMANISATION AND THREAT TO LIFE PERPETRATEDE AGAINST OUR CLIENT MR ETIK BASSEY WILLIAMS (A JOURNALIST/PUBLISHER OF ALJAZIRAH NIGERIA NEWSPAPERS) ON FRIDAY 18TH OF OCTOBER, 2019 BY THE POLICE SECURITY AIDES ATTACHED TO GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO

The above subject matter refers.

We are a Firm of Barristers and Solicitors of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, carrying out our legal practice under the Firm name of Beacon Chambers and our office address is as sated in the above Letter head.

Our legal services have been retained by Mr. Etuk Bassey Williams, hereinafter referred to as our Client on whose behalf and instruction we write your good office. It is our Client’s brief that he resides at number 12, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, F.C.T., Abuja. On Friday 18th October, 2019, at about 7:55 p.m., he was driving back to his aforesaid residence on the said Benghazi Street when he realized that the entrance to his apartment had become impassable and the whole street clustered with vehicles that were packed by the Police Security Aides attached to Governor Yahaya Bello. It is pertinent to state here that Governor Yahaya Bello’s private residence is directly opposite our Client’s afore stated residence.

Our Client on seeing that the street was huddled with vehicles packed by the said Police Security Aides, to the extent that he was denied access to his abode, he quietly alighted from his vehicle and approached the Police Security Aides he saw at the gate of Governor Yahaya Bello’s apartment. On getting to them, our Client politely requested and pleaded with them to remove at least one of the vehicles that blocked the entrance to his house so that he can gain access to his residence. Immediately, our Client opened his mouth to request for the evacuation of any one of the aforesaid vehicles, all the Police Security Aides (attached to Governor Yahaya Bello) pounced on our Client and collectively dealt terrible blows and beatings on him to the extent that he sustained severe bruises on several parts of his body and his clothe was also badly torn.

When the said assault on our Client was on going, our Client had to exclaim these words: “I am a Journalist, what wrong have I done to deserve all this dehumanization”, yet the said Police Officers were not deterred rather they became more aggravated and shouted “we must kill you today”. Our Client was fortunate to escape by the whiskers when he luckily ran out from their barbaric grip and escaped into his premises through the pedestrian door, yet the said Policemen chased after him. What saved our Client was that he quickly locked the gate of his compound, despite this the Policemen in question kept banging on his gate and demanded that he should come out at once and further threatened to kill him whenever they set their eyes on him. In the course of all this brouhaha, one of our Client’s friend (Mr. Paul Ella Abechi, the immediate past NUJ Chairman Abuja Chapter and former Special Adviser to the Hon Minister of Finance on Media & Communications) arrived on the scene and he was almost lynched by the same Policemen because they thought he had come to defend our Client, but he was fortunate to wriggle himself out by pacifying them. However, the Policemen still demanded that our Client’s friend should “go into that compound and bring out that journalist” (those were their exact words).

The same Policemen further threatened to the hearing of our Client that they must kill him if they ever lay their hands on him. Subsequently, after about (40) minutes when tempers had calmed, our Client sneaked out of his residence and went straight to the Wuse Zine 4 Police Station to lodge the captioned complaint of criminal assault, dehumnisation, molestation and threat to life. Our Client was later advised by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Police Station that since his assailants are Policemen and the security aides to a serving Governor, he should go and lodge a complaint at the Provost Marshal’s office at the F.C.T. Police Command, Garki, Abuja. It is quite paramount to note that since the aforesaid incidence of the 18th October, 2019, our Client has been hiding, has been a fugitive (on the run) and has out of austere fear of imminent harm to his person refused to return back to his house up till today. We were further informed by our Client’s private Security (one Master Isaac) that the same Policemen kept mounting surveillance and watch out for our Client with a view to further hurt him.

In view of the foregoing, we hereby demand on our Client’s behalf for the immediate publication of an unreserved apology in two (2) National Dailies by the Nigerian Police Force for all the criminal, inhuman and unjustifiable brutality that was meted on our Client by some Officers and men of the Nigerian Police Force on or before the end of fourteen (14) days from the date of the receipt of this letter. Copies of the aforesaid Newspaper publications when published should be forwarded to our captioned office address. We further demand for a thorough investigation in this present complaint, unravel the officers who perpetuated these dastardly acts, discipline them, prosecute them and ensure the law takes its full cause. We also demand to be carried along with the process of any investigation, discipline and prosecution of the aforesaid culprits. Where any of our afore stated demands is not met, we will immediately after the aforementioned fourteen (14) days file an appropriate suit against the relevant authorities of the Nigerian Police Force so as to seek necessary legal redress on behalf of our Client for the criminal and dastardly acts perpetrated against him by the Police Officers attached as Security Aides to Governor Yahaya Bello.

Sir, we most vehemently urge you to use your good office to passionately look into our complaint in this letter and take a decisive action in respect of same. We earnestly anticipate your prompt compliance with our above stated demands. Do have our utmost regards. Thank you Sir.

Yours faithfully,

For: Beacon Chambers,

BARR. DAVID C. MADUKA,

Principal, Beacon Chambers.

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion

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Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.

In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.

According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.

“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.

The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.

Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.

“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.

Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.

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Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity

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A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.

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