Plateau Killings: How 300+ Were Massacred, Tinubu Orders Security To Move In As Police Confirms Casualties

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December 27, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to immediately move in, scour every stretch of the zone, and apprehend the culprits linked to a mass killing in Plateau state.

The Christmas Eve attacks in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State, resulted in the tragic loss of many lives, estimated at over 300.

President Tinubu, who gave the directive on Tuesday, while condemning the genocide in very strong terms, also directed the immediate mobilization of relief resources for surviving victims of what he described as “primitive and cruel attacks” as well as medical treatment for the wounded.

While condoling with the government and the people of Plateau State, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the envoys of death, pain, and sorrow would not escape justice.

Meanwhile, Plateau state Police command has disclosed that 96 persons were confirmed dead and over 200 houses destroyed by the assailants. Also destroyed were eight vehicles and 27 motorcycles. However, unofficial reports put it at over 300 deaths.

Police spokesman in the state, DSP Alfred Alabo, who stated this on Tuesday in Jos, said “On Dec. 24, at about 10 p.m., gunmen attacked 15 villages in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas simultaneously.

“Findings from the assessment of the incident in Bokkos revealed that the 12 villages were attacked; more than 79 persons killed and 221 houses were set ablaze. Twenty-seven motorcycles and eight vehicles were equally burnt down.

“Three communities were attacked in Barkin-Ladi where 17 persons were killed.

“Investigation and monitoring are still on and further development will be communicated soon.”

He listed communities attacked in Bokkos Local Government Area as Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat and Butura Kampani.

Alabo stated also that communities attacked in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area were NTV, Hurum and Darawat.

Obi: Security Forces Are Protectors, Guardians Of Our Freedom

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James Orji

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December 25, 2023

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Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has paid glowing tributes to security forces, particularly those who paid the supreme price while on duty.

Obi praised the nation’s gallant security operatives who recently lost their lives in Plateau state. Over 70 security men were believed to have lost their lives during terrorists attacks on the state.

In his Christmas message to Nigerians, Obi expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, adding that security agencies are ” the guardians and protectors of our freedom as a people.”

He said those who give up their lives must be assured that their heroic duty would not be forgotten.

Obi said, “The men and women of our armed and security services come to mind. The soldiers in various battlefronts of insecurity, the policemen and women in patrol in our cities and highways, the Civil Defense Corps, and Department of State Security operatives.

“These illustrious citizens are often lost in our thoughts and prayers both as leaders and fellow citizens yet they remain the guardians and protectors of our freedom as a people.

“I am thinking of those who in the call of duty have to spend this festive season away from the comfort of home and the embrace of loved ones. I am referring to those who face the risk of the supreme sacrifice to protect and defend the freedom of our dear nation and the liberties that come with our democracy.

“Let us spare them our thoughts and prayers this season. Let them be reassured that their labors are appreciated by a grateful nation.”

Plateau Christmas Eve Attack: Gov Solicits Communities Support Against Gunmen

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James Orji

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December 25, 2023

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Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state has called on the people of the state to report any suspicious movement to security agencies.

The state helmsman spoke following the violent attack on some communities in the state on Saturday and Sunday.

The attack by those yet to be identified by security agencies, led to the death of many people.

Many properties were said to have been razed and looted by the gunmen who raided two communities, Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local governments Areas, LGAs on Christmas Eve.

In a statement by Gyang Bere, the chief press secretary to the governor, he urged the people of the state to remain calm while security agencies fished out those responsible for the attack.

The governor said collaborative effort by communities and security agent is what is required to stem the tide of communal violence, adding that the state government is poised to end the protracted violence.

The statement said, “Highlighting the importance of collective collaboration among rural communities, the Governor assured that proactive measures will be taken by government to curb the ongoing attacks on innocent citizens.

“Wishing swift recovery to those injured, Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to pursuing peace and unity.

“He reassured the public that these goals remain top priorities, with continuous efforts until the desired results are achieved.”

The state has been the centre piece of communal attacks lately.

Uzodimma: Nigeria Will Recover From Socio-economic Challenges

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The Source

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December 25, 2023

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The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has expressed confidence that soon, Nigeria will recover from her current socioeconomic difficulties.

He said the reforms being put in place by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government reinforces his confidence that the country’s tomorrow will be better for the citizens.

The Governor spoke Monday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Ozuh Omuma in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State where he was joined by family, friends and associates to worship on Christmas Day.

In his remarks after the Church Service, Governor Uzodimma said he was delighted that we are celebrating another Christmas season – a period of rebirth and time to show love to each other, to families, communities, Local Government, State and the Nation at large.

He reiterated his earlier message to Imo people to show love to State, Nation and humanity on Christmas, expressing optimism that the current economic challenges in the Country, occasioned by the reforms and policies of President Tinubu will in a couple of months be a thing of the past.

Urging Nigerians to exercise patience with the government, the Governor noted that with the Port Harcourt Refinery coming back on stream and the exchange rate also showing signs of stability “Nigerians will soon smile.”

He, however, used the opportunity to solicit total support for the President whom he said “is determined to deliver on his electoral promises and mandate.”

Regardless, Governor Uzodimma reminded Nigerians that the period of Christmas should be a season we ought to use to examine our consciences with regard to how far we have fared in our attitude, make amends in areas of our failure as well as continue to improve on the areas of our successes.

“It is a period of showing love to the family, and even to our wives and children. It is a season that should provoke a new attitude, and I think, of collectively building our State and not to destroy it.”

He advised those who have penchant for destructions and killings of innocent citizens to desist from such “because God sees all we do in life, being omnipresence.”

He also prayed that as 2023 is fading away, “it shall be well with us while the New Year will usher in new things in our lives.”

On (in)security, the Governor assured that there will be no more insecurity in Imo State, emphasising that anybody who continues to troubleshoot in the State in the name of insecurity, given what had happened in the past four years as regards his efforts to reposition the State, should consider being foolish.

“The good days are ahead.”

In his homily, the Rev. Fr. Alexander Ihenebo from Ahiara Mbaise Diocese said Nigerians should, at this time, ask themselves “what they are bringing to the table and not what they are taking away from the table,” in a message he captioned “Ukwuoma ihe onye ji bia” (Good legs what one comes with).

The clergy challenged the congregation to continue to be positive about Nigeria, saying that with the birth of Jesus Christ all things have been made new.

The Church Service was marked by various gift presentations to the Governor and his wife, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, by the St. Rose Lima Parish for their contribution in elevating the status of their area in different ways.

The Church was attended by important personalities from Imo State and outside.

Obi @Christmas: “Let Christmas Help Us Appreciate The Essence Of Our Creation”

By

The Source

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December 25, 2023

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The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to use the season of Christmas to appreciate God’s mercy on us as a country.

In a Christmas message on his X-handle platform, Obi noted that the people are going through immense hardship but should not allow it to stop them from using the season to appreciate God for his numerous blessings.

“My Dear compatriots,

I wish you all a Merry Christmas as you join Christendom to celebrate the anniversary of Jesus Christ.

“This season epitomizes love, peace, and joy for all mankind. These are values and longings that unify our common humanity in a feast of love.

“This is why I wish to share the spirit of this season with all our compatriots irrespective of station, circumstance, and persuasion.

“I fully appreciate the difficulties of these times in our dear country.

The hardship in the country and the biting effects of bad government policies and poor governance have dampened the hopes of most Nigerians.

“The difficulties and challenges of this moment should not however hinder us from appreciating the essence of our creation and the importance of seeking God’s mercy at all times.

“Furthermore, our current setbacks should not stop us as a people from aspiring to overcome present difficulties and realize the full potential of our blessed country.

“I, therefore enjoin you to use this great feast to offer special supplications to God for our country so that we can have the opportunity of joining others in the global community to give thanks to God for the abundant gifts he lavished on us as a nation.

“As leaders, we must embrace the spirit of this season which emphasizes charity.

“For leaders, charity underlines compassion for the people in their present hardship.

“For us as a people, charity means sharing with our neighbors and the less privileged our material blessings.

“On this unique occasion, I wish to reassure our people that our adversity shall not persist for too long as we look forward to a New Nigeria.

Merry Christmas to all. PO

“Obi’s Heart Goes to Security Operatives at Christmas As Terrorists Wreak Havoc In Plateau”

By

The Source

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December 25, 2023

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The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi has spared a thought for the nation’s security operatives amid the havoc in Plateau where over 70 people are reportedly killed by terrorists.

Obi in a special Yuletide message to the uniformed operatives, noted that they are being overstretched by the increasing incidents of terrorism and criminal violence across the country.

“As we celebrate this season of peace and love and the approach of a new year, I like to spare a thought for our compatriots in uniform.

“The men and women of our armed and security services come to mind. The soldiers in various battlefronts of insecurity, the policemen and women in patrol in our cities and highways, the Civil Defense Corps, and Department of State Security operatives.

“These illustrious citizens are often lost in our thoughts and prayers both as leaders and fellow citizens yet they remain the guardians and protectors of our freedom as a people.

“I am thinking of those who in the call of duty have to spend this festive season away from the comfort of home and the embrace of loved ones. I am referring to those who face the risk of the supreme sacrifice to protect and defend the freedom of our dear nation and the liberties that come with our democracy.

“Let us spare them our thoughts and prayers this season. Let them be reassured that their labors are appreciated by a grateful nation.

According to him “Great nations are built by rulers, citizens, and the protectors of freedom.

“Therefore, to all our illustrious heroes, please accept the prayers and thoughts of your compatriots and the appreciation of a grateful nation for your services and sacrifices.

“God bless you all for what you do for us all.”

What Nigerians Expect From Newly Promoted Military Officers – Matawalle

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Ayodele Oni

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December 25, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has charged the newly promoted military officers that Nigerians look up to them to confront banditry and make Nigeria free from incessant attacks.

A statement by the Director of Press, Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, stated that the minister told the officers that Nigerians look up to them to rid the country of the ravaging insecurity.

Recently, the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force boards approved the promotion of 217 senior officers.

Matawalle, in his congratulatory message to the officers, emphasized that they have a critical role to play in addressing the prevailing challenges of insecurity.

According to the statement, “The promotion of these officers is a testament to their unwavering dedication and meritorious service to our beloved nation. Their achievements reflect the values of discipline, bravery, and professionalism that define the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“As you ascend to higher ranks, the nation places an even greater trust in your capabilities. I charge each of you to redouble your efforts and collaborate across services to decisively tackle the security challenges facing our country.

“The Nigerian people look up to you, our newly promoted Generals, to bring an end to the insecurity that has plagued certain regions. Your leadership, strategic vision, and dedication will be pivotal in restoring peace, unity, and prosperity to our nation.”

Matawalle, however, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces with the necessary resources and support.

He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the newly promoted officers to lead with integrity, courage, and excellence.

Compensate Victims Of Criminality – Bishop Kukah Urges President Tinubu

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Ayodele Oni

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December 25, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has opined that distribution of palliatives by government would not solve the problems confronting the country.

Kukah pointed out that President Bola Tinubu has no excuses if his government fails to address the pressing issues facing Nigeria.

Kukah, who stated this while delivering his Christmas message in Sokoto on Monday, noted that neither history nor God would forgive the President if he failed.

The message tagged ‘Time to Reclaim Nigeria’s Greatness,’ touched on unity, nation-building, insecurity, politics, among others.

He stated that “Palliatives will not resolve Nigeria’s problems. The problems are deep and structural. Please do not be afraid to reset the template of power, regardless of the cultural or historical myths. We are tired of promises and stories. We want evidence we can see and touch.”

He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to use his wealth of experience to end the ugly “instrumentalization of religious, ethnic or regional identities.”

He also appealed to Nigerians to continue to have faith in the country and be hopeful.

Kukah said: “Now, the government must devise strategies for achieving reconciliation, which has eluded us. Our injuries are not invisible.

“Many national conferences have been held to chart a way forward. The trove of grievances and hopes is there, and all the government needs to do is to dust them up. No need to reinvent the wheel or attempt some new diagnosis.

“Mr. President, Sir, congratulations and a happy Christmas. Now, you have what you prayed for, what you dreamt of, what you longed for.

“For the better part of over 20 years, you have plotted to be our President. For years, you campaigned for a new Nigeria through restructuring or overhauling the defective machinery of the Nigerian state.

“For years, you fought the military and other forms of dictatorships. For years, you fought for the victims of a deep state. For years, you sought to create an egalitarian society.

“For years, you sought a just society. For years, you have built networks with individuals, communities, and institutions. Now is harvest time.

‘You are in the driving seat now. Under your watch, Nigeria must turn the corner. Under your watch, we must end the ugly instrumentalization of religious, ethnic, or regional identities.

“You have had enough time to think of the answers to many questions that are crying for answers. Your future and that of our country is in your hands.

“Mr President, you have no excuses before God or the people of Nigeria. Neither God nor history will forgive you if you fail. This is our moment, our date with history. Now, all eyes and ears are on you. Our prayers for a united country are with you.

“We have seen the first faltering steps of policy decisions, which have elicited a mixture of controversy, anxiety, and praise. This is to be expected. You have promised us a Renewed Hope Agenda, but know that hope has worn thin in our dear nation.

“Nigerians have almost lost hope in the fact that a government can really and truly care for them. Nigerians have lost hope in the fact that our politicians will put our interests first and find a way to deal with the cancer of corruption.

“We had lost hope in being united again, given the seeds of division that had been sown. Ignite our hope again, Sir.

“We now have seen some renewed hope in your effort to run an inclusive government. We want an end to partisanship.

“The problems of Nigeria are deep-seated, and they are based on a culture of corruption that has become the foundation stone of governance. This evil structure has to be dismantled

“Mr. President, the killings of Nigerians by whatever name must end and end now. These senseless killings, abductions, extortions, and kidnappings have to end, and the sacredness and sanctity of human life must be restored. Blasphemy laws have no place in a democracy. We are not in a theocracy.

“Those who take life by whatever means must be fished out and punished. A culture of compensation to victims must be institutionalized and states must take full responsibility while criminals or those who hide them are fished out.

“We cannot go on this way. The seeds of hatred that have sprouted in Gaza show us the consequences of allowing a culture of distorted narratives to grow among us.

“You must rid the public service of criminals who have turned the opportunity to serve into an ignoble enterprise.

“We concede that there are millions of decent men and women who genuinely wish to serve but are crushed by the dead weight of corrupt ogas at the top who use corruption as their oxygen! This surgery must happen if you are to succeed in any of your dreams of delivering much-needed services to our people.”

Rivers Crisis: Gov Fubara Lauds President Tinubu’s Intervention As Clarke Insists It’s Needless

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Ayodele Oni

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December 25, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Rivers state Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has thanked President Bola Tinubu for his intervention in the near crisis, which almost truncate the peace of the state.

Fubara, who commended Tinubu on Monday, noted that the president’s intervention has brought lasting peace to the political crisis in the state.

“As I had earlier promised, the mantra of our administration is continuity and consolidation. I wish to reiterate that nothing shall constrain us from our path in our commitment to provide a steady flow of the dividends of democracy in all positive ramifications for our people.

“I most heartily thank all the good people of Rivers State and all men and women of goodwill, even those beyond our shores, for the massive love and support we have received and continue to enjoy before and during the recent travails that challenged the peace of our state and stability of our government.

“Let me also use this opportunity to express our profound gratitude to our dear President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for wading into the near-crisis that almost punctuated the prevailing peace in our dear State.”

However, elder statesman, Edwin Clarke insisted that President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in the Rivers State crisis was needless.

Clarke while speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today said Tinubu’s action is against the country’s constitution.

The Convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) insisted that he would be a dead man if he does not alert Tinubu that he is going in the wrong direction.

He said, “Mr President is the President of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and I am one of those giving him that support.

“But as a father, I will be a dead man if I fail to mention to Mr President: ‘This action you are trying to take is not in the right direction; is anti the constitution.”

According to him, “Public opinion” against the deal Tinubu brokered, the Nigerian leader has to reconsider the action.

“So, I am pleading with Mr President not to be carried away with the ambition of one person.

“I sincerely, on behalf of the people of the South-South, the Niger Delta, and the Rivers State people, plead with Mr President to: ‘Please, reconsider the action that has been taken!’ Nigerians are not happy.”

NGF Speaks On Alleged Fraud, Assures Partners Of Necessary Action

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Ayodele Oni

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December 25, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Nigeria Governors Forum, (NGF) has assured development partners that allegations of financial impropriety against senior officials of the body are being handled by security agents.

NGF, in a statement by the legal department stated that one Abdulrazaq Barkindo, that raised the allegations has seized to be director of media and public affairs of the body.

“We assure the public, all our development partners and friends that there is no crisis whatsoever rocking the NGF or its Secretariat.

“The reckless allegations made in the publication and credited to Mr Barkindo are already being investigated by the Police and also a subject matter of a suit pending before a court of law.

“As a law-abiding organization, we shall co-operate fully with the Police in their investigation and ensure the prosecution of any individual that is behind this unwarranted attack.

“We want to assure our concerned friends and development partners who have been waiting anxiously for our comments, that there is no substance whatsoever in the allegations contained in the publication.

“Our refrain from joining issues is as a result of the need not to do or engage in any activity that may interfere with or prejudice the on-going investigation and court action instituted by Mr Barkindo.

“We also want to use this medium to appeal to all well-meaning Media houses not to allow their platform to be used by disgruntled elements in the dissemination of falsehood as we shall not shy away from vigorously defending our reputation and goodwill.

“We wish to reiterate that Mr. Abdulrazaque Bello Barkindo is no longer an employee of the NGF. Anyone dealing with him on account of his employment at the NGF does so at his/her own risk.”