Home Blog Page 602

Nasarawa Govt Pledges Support For Vulnerable Persons During Emergencies

April 19, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Nasarawa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, particularly in times of emergencies.

Newly appointed Director-General (DG) of Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA), Benjamin Akwash stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lafia.

The DG explained that the state government has taken steps to enhance the resilience of its citizens to disasters through various initiatives to mitigate the effects of disasters.

He added that the government aims to provide livelihood support, food security services, and grants to poor and vulnerable households.

Akwash emphasised that the Governor Abdullahi Sule-led administration has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations since its inception in 2019 and is committed to sustaining this support.

He added that the government has taken proactive measures to prevent emergencies and ensure timely and effective responses when they occurred.

“In the event of an emergency, the government, through our agency, provides timely and effective support to those affected to enable them to recover from the situation.

“This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to protecting the well-being of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.”

Akwash also appreciated Governor Sule for appointing him to serve the state in this capacity and promised to deliver on his mandate with the utmost sense of responsibility.

He explained that the mandate of the agency is to coordinate emergency preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts within the state.

“This encompasses preventing, mitigating, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from various types of disasters, whether natural or human-induced.

“In essence, our role is to ensure the safety and well-being of Nasarawa State residents in the face of emergencies.”

Kogi Set To Begin Mining Operation, Acquires 15 Licences

Ayodele Oni

April 19, 2025

Usman Ahmed Ododo - Governor of Kogi State — Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo.

By Ayodele Oni

Kogi State Government has acquired 15 mining licenses preparatory to go into full scale mining business.

Special Adviser on Media to Kogi State Governor, Ismaila Isah, who disclosed this, assured local communities in the state that they will soon experience major economic transformation with the commencement of mining operations and new infrastructure development projects in the state.

Isah, who spoke in Abuja, revealed that with the recent acquisition of 15 mining licenses, the Kogi state government is poised to reinvigorate the economy in local communities across the state.

The Governor’s spokesman said youths will take the lead in the emerging solid minerals economy in Kogi state.

“Kogi has over 32 mineral deposits, all in commercial quantities. The state government has floated a special purpose vehicle (SPV), under the solid minerals development company, to open up the mining sector to foreign and local investors.

“We have acquired 15 mining licenses and ready to go into full mining business.

“Our approach is to make these mining activities community-owned. We are encouraging communities to float cooperatives that will allow them become critical stakeholders in the mining sector.

“Aside the usual corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts that companies present to our people, we want communities to have a say in the running of mining activities in their lands.

“We will also ensure our youths play critical roles in the mining operations. The state government has unveiled plans to train 25,000 youths to take the lead in the mineral exploration we are embarking upon.”

Isah said that Governor Ododo is currently in China where he is holding discussions with the international community on investment opportunities in Kogi state.

According to him, aside from direct investment, Governor Ododo is also discussing about platforms for technology transfer and manpower exchanges towards enhancing skills and technology that will enable development of critical sectors like mining, agriculture, healthcare, education, power and transportation.

He confirmed that Governor Ododo is willing to open up the state’s mining sector to investors that are genuine and willing to align with state’s development agenda.

“We run a very smart government with smart people on board. Some of them have been in government for well over eight years and are grounded in the business of governance.

“We are selling the vast potentials of our state including our large expanse of fertile lands and mineral resources.

“Kogi is home to some of the most brilliant human beings in the world. We are reputed as a state where most of our human resource exports have done very well, both from the pre-independence era up to this time.

“We have readily available human resources to support investors interested in Kogi state.”

BREAKING: Many Feared Dead, Others Trapped In Rubbles As Restaurant Collapses In Lagos

Akinwale Kasali

April 19, 2025

Equal Rights Resturant Buidling Collpased in Lagos

By Akinwale Kasali

The building housing Equal Rights Restaurant located at Oremeta Street, Ojodu, Lagos, has collapsed. This happened Saturday morning.

Many people are feared dead while many others are trapped in the rubbles of the uncompleted storey building.

The Restaurant is Located at the Lagos-Ogun border, Ojodu-Berger, the gateway to Lagos for travelers coming from Benin City or Ibadan axis.

Rescue mission is ongoing.

Details Later…..

For Declaring Her Wanted, ABC Transport Owner’s Daughter, Petitions IGP, Demands Apology

Adesina Soyooye

April 19, 2025

By Adesina Soyooye

For declaring her wanted, Ihuoma Julia Nneji, daughter of Frank Nneji, owner of ABC Transport Company, has demanded an apology from the Nigerian Police Force, NPF and a retraction of what they put out.

A few days ago, not a few people were perplexed when the news broke that Ms Nneji has been declared wanted by the National Cyber Crime Centre, Abuja.

But in a strongly worded petition to the Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun, Ms. Nneji has given the NPF-NCCC 48 hours to retract and issue a written public apology to her or she would head to the Court to seek legal redress.

The demand for a written apology and retraction was made through her Solicitors, Pillar-Rest Attorneys. It asked the IGP to direct the NPF-NCCC to remove the Special Police Gazette Bulletin declaring their client “Wanted”.

The NPF in the bulletin said it declared Ms. Nneji wanted over alleged cybercrime, criminal defamation, and cyberstalking. This was released late Tuesday.

Shared on the NPF’s official Facebook page, the notice directed that Ms Nneji be arrested and handed over to the nearest police station or the NPF-NCCC headquarters in Abuja.

The petition by Nneji’s Lawyers, dated April 16, 2025, was entitled: “Report of Unlawful Public Declaration of Ihuoma Julia Nneji “Wanted” by The Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre Unit In Breach of Her Fundamental Rights”, and

signed by Oyaje James Oyigoga Esq.

Addressed to the IGP through the Director, NPF, National Cyber Crime Centre, Abuja (NPF-NCCC),

the solicitors, said the declaration of Ms Nneji as a Wanted Person, constitutes a breach of her fundamental rights protected by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The petition pointed out that the notification of same has been widely published in all platforms and media outlets and therefore, demands a retraction anywhere it may have been disseminated.

Other demands by the solicitors include a written apology to Ms Nneji “for the reputational damage, emotional trauma and unlawful declaration by the police.”

A demand that “a written undertaking that our client’s rights shall no longer be infringed upon” was also made. However, “failure to comply with the above within the stipulated time will leave us with no option than to initiate appropriate legal proceedings to enforce our client’s fundamental rights, including, but not limited to, a claim for exemplary and general damages, and a motion for public retraction and injection. This, we will do without further recourse to your office”.

The letter described the action of the police in declaring her wanted as reckless. The lawyers pointed out that that before the widely circulated publication, Ms Nneji “was neither invited for questioning nor informed of the allegation against her in detail, nor given any opportunity whatsoever to respond to any petition or complaint allegedly made against her.

“Our client is a public figure who hails from a well-respected home and can be reached via her contact details, family or legal representatives.

“This action taken by your office is a direct violation of our client’s constitutionally-guaranteed rights and is both unlawful and reckless”.

Ms Nneji, the Lawyers also noted, “had filed an action against the petitioner, Barr. Henry Uzochukwu, on October 29, 2024, for defamation of her character, which suit is currently pending before the court.”

Ms Nneji’s lawyers, however, pointed out that the petitioner had “likewise initiated a civil suit against their client, which is currently pending before the court, to which Nneji has also responded.

“Our client is a decent properly raised and law-abiding citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who has continued to conduct her personal and professional affairs with utmost decorum.

“We are aware that the action of the Nigerian Police Force declaring our client wanted without inviting her or availing her an opportunity to be heard and respond to the allegations contained in the petition is a violation of her constitutional rights as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999.”

There has, so far, been no response from the Police or IGPs office.

Shettima Not Blocked From Aso Villa-Presidency

Tosin Olatokunbo

April 19, 2025

In recent times, there has been deliberate and well-planned orchestration of falsehood against the Vice President’s person and office in many multidimensional forms. These mischievous and fabricated reports are all in a bid to cause confusion and insinuate a total clash in the Presidency. These reports seek to mislead the public into believing there’s discord at the highest levels of government.

The latest in this string of disinformation is a report claiming that the Vice President has been refused entry to the Villa. This is a feeble attempt to traduce the person and office of His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON. For the record, NOTHING OF THE SORT EVER HAPPENED.

The recent publication by some obscure blogs alleging that armed military units have barricaded the Vice President from accessing the Presidential Villa is not only the wildest expression of wishful thinking but a clear indication that the purveyors of these tales have exhausted both ink and imagination. It is a story so far removed from reality that it can only be entertained by those unfamiliar with the inner workings of the Nigerian government.

Earlier this week, the Presidency dismissed similar fake news regarding responsibility for the circulation of campaign posters bearing the images of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. These stories reflect a desperate attempt to undermine the President and his Deputy’s fidelity to the rule of law and our constitution. Let it be known that those pushing these falsehoods do so in vain.

It is understandable, though regrettable, that the mischief-makers continue to underestimate the strength of the bond and goodwill between the President and the Vice President. However, their questionable sources or habitual reliance on misinformation have once again led them astray. These fairy tales they publish serve no purpose beyond mischief and distraction.

The Vice President remains focused on his duties and on supporting the President in achieving the aspirations of Nigerians. He does not have the luxury of time for distractions, particularly those born of the imagination of individuals intent on creating smoke where there is no fire. He’s not and will never partake in their media circus. It is a futile pursuit, even by the standards of the morally indifferent.

We commend Nigerians across all divides who continue to express goodwill towards this administration and who have taken it upon themselves to fight the spread of fake news. Your trust and support are deeply appreciated. The covenant between this government and the citizens of Nigeria was made possible through a legitimate and constitutional process. No amount of falsehood or manufactured tension can shake the foundation of that democratic mandate. Not under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

We encourage the public to disregard such malicious publications and the media to continue seeking information from credible sources and to approach sensational claims with the caution they deserve. This we owe ourselves collectively as a nation.

Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
19th April, 2025

Court Awards Diezani N500m In Damages

Adesina Soyooye

April 19, 2025

By Adesina Soyooye

A former Nigerian Minister for Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been awarded the sum of N500 million by a Bayelsa High Court.

The whopping sum was awarded to her in damages for a documentary Is It Your Money? where she claimed she had been libelled.

The defendants in the case are Chude Jideonwe, Judith Audu, Eromo Egbejule, YNIIJA Limited and Capital Film Productions Limited.

Mrs Alison-Madueke had asked for the sum of N5 billion in damages for the libellous production.

She had asked the Court to order the defendants to retract the libellous documentary and to tender an unreserved public apology to be published in three national newspapers in Nigeria and another which is widely circulated in the United Kingdom, where she lives, as well as in the United States of America.

She, also, asked the Court to grant a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants or anybody associated with them in whatever capacity from running any part of the documentary.

Alison-Madueke was Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum, and the first woman to hold that office,(till date) during the Goodluck Jonathan Administration. Before she was appointed to a Cabinet position in Nigeria, she was an Executive Director in Shell Petroleum. She left Nigeria in 2015 when Jonathan lost his second term bid for the Presidency.

Since then, she has been living in the United Kingdom where she has been under the searchlight of Nigeria’s anti-graft Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for offences bordering on alleged corruption. She, strongly, denies all the allegations.

Peter Obi Sends Poster Boy, Alabi Quadri Back To School

Adesina Soyooye

April 19, 2025

By Adesina Soyooye

“Despite all he has been through, his only dream is to return to school and complete his education, and I will make sure he gets it. I am committed to it”

Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General Elections, has vowed that those responsible for the ordeal of the teenage boy, Yusuph Quadri Alabi who, in raw admiration, stood in front of his Campaign vehicle in 2023, must answer to their acts of wickedness.

This is as Obi has promised Quadri that he would take up the responsibility of his education.

Quadri is a child of destiny. The teenager sprang to national consciousness when in 2023, amidst a mammoth crowd, managed to block Obi’s vehicle while the Labour Party Presidential Candidate was on a Campaign tour of Lagos State.

The picture captured of that incident was iconic. It melted hearts. The teenager, with his hands outstretched, gazing into Obi’s eyes as if his life is dependent on Obi, and a smiling Obi, looking straight back into his eyes.

Disarmed by the picture, a number of Obi’s fans and loyalists gifted Quadri with some money. But the gifts instead of bringing joy to Quadri and his poor family, brought sorrow.

In the Amokoko area of Lagos where he lives with his widowed mother, he became a target for urchins who wanted a share of the monetary gifts. His family was forced to buy a cow with which they hosted them so as to have peace. But the urchins wanted more. They threatened fire and brimstone if Alabi failed to share all he got.

In January, they carried out their threats. He was on his way from where he does some menial jobs when the urchins accosted him. They dragged him to the Amokoko Police Division and falsely accused him of being one of the bad boys who engage in street fights.

Surprisingly, the Police detained the 17-year old, and falsely filed a charge of armed robbery against him along with three other fellows he never met before. To nail him, the Police, also, criminally, falsified his age from 17 to 18 years.

Hauled before an Apapa Magistrate Court, Alabi was thereafter thrown into the Kirikiri Prison. For three months, he was there, just languishing until his story became public.

Lawyers picked interest with Activist-Lawyer, Inebehe Effiong as the lead. Obi, once he heard the sad fate which befell the teenager, picked more than a passing interest. He contacted Inebehe who was already on the case.

On Thursday, April 16, the Magistrate, based on the advice of the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP, threw the case out. The teenager is innocent, the Court declared.

Then the good news: Celebrating Quadri’s freedom on his X page, Obi decided to be responsible for the teenager’s education. In a discussion with Quadri when he was taken to Obi by Inebehe after his release, Obi said what was most important to the teenager was to go back to school and get educated. In Obi, once it concerns education, Quadri has found not only a father, but a mentor. Not surprisingly, Obi has taken up his education.

Disclosing this on X, where he posted the photograph he took with Quadri during the visit, where he, also, appreciated the Lawyers who fought for his release – Inebehe Effiong, Dele Farotimi, Hassan Nurudeen – Obi wrote: “I listened to Quadri today (Friday), and one thing stood out clearly: his unwavering desire for education.

“Despite all he has been through, his only dream is to return to school and complete his education and I will make sure he gets it.

“His determination is not just inspiring, it is a call to action, and I am committed to ensuring that he gets the education he desires and deserves.

“In addition, we must not stop at his release. Those responsible for this illegal incarceration must be held accountable. As we strive to build a Nigeria where fairness and integrity prevail, we cannot afford to allow such acts of criminality to go unpunished.

“I once again thank the Lawyers and everyone who stood and remained unrelenting for Justice.

“Together, we will build a Nigeria where education, freedom, rule of law, equity, and justice, care, and protection of the less privileged in our midst will stand as the foundation of our democracy.”

Meanwhile, on release on Thursday, Quadri and his mother slept in a hotel for fear of attack by urchins in his area. The ultimate is to relocate the family from that environment. Lawyer Inebehe, immediately, took that up with an appeal to good-hearted Nigerians to help with funds. And, within two hours of that appeal, the account which was provided, had already been credited with the sum of N3 million (Three million Naira, and counting).

Umahi’s Double Standards: Betrayal Of Integrity And Democratic Principles

The Source

April 18, 2025

By Abraham Amah

In a functioning democracy, the voice of public office holders carries the weight of influence, direction, and national consciousness. When that voice becomes inconsistent, contradictory, and opportunistic, it not only erodes public trust but also exposes a deeper crisis of character. Such is the case with Nigeria’s current Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, whose recent statements have become a study in political doublespeak and shifting allegiances.

In a viral statement just recently, Umahi claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “inherited an economy on life support.” While this may reflect the realities of Nigeria’s economic condition, it is a striking departure from Umahi’s glowing tributes to former President Muhammadu Buhari. Not too long ago, Umahi described Buhari as the best president Nigeria ever had, lavishing praise on him for “uniting the nation,” “transforming infrastructure,” and “showing integrity.” He once prayed publicly for “another president like Buhari” to lead the nation.

What exactly does David Umahi want? Why such an extreme shift in narrative? Is it that he suddenly discovered that Buhari’s policies brought the economy to its knees? Or is it that his new loyalty to Tinubu requires a scapegoat to explain the weight of unfulfilled expectations? These contradictions are not born out of sincere concern for Nigeria; they are the hallmarks of a man who speaks from the expediency of political survival, not the anchor of principle.

For those who have followed Umahi’s career over the last twelve years, this is not new. From his days as Deputy Governor under the PDP in Ebonyi State, to defecting to APC in 2020 after benefiting immensely from the same PDP platform, Umahi has been known more for tactical realignments than ideological consistency. He praised PDP to the heavens while in power, only to call it “corrupt” after he jumped ship. Today, it’s Buhari who is being subtly discredited—tomorrow, it might be Tinubu.

This is the tragedy of Nigeria’s political class—where loyalty is seasonal, and integrity is transactional. Umahi, who once organized elaborate rallies in praise of Buhari, is now disowning that same legacy to endear himself to the Tinubu administration. This isn’t governance—it is desperate survivalism masked as patriotism.

Nigeria’s problems are real. Our economy, infrastructure, security, and national unity require urgent, focused, and credible leadership. They do not need politicians who will say anything, align with anyone, and shift narratives just to stay relevant in the corridors of power. That kind of leadership breeds cynicism, not hope.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must be warned—the likes of David Umahi do not serve anyone’s long-term interest. Today he flatters, tomorrow he blames. As soon as power slips from your hands, he will be the first to say you failed the country. Such people are not nation-builders; they are political chameleons who see governance only as a ladder to personal elevation.

When a man speaks in one direction today and the opposite direction tomorrow, he becomes a danger to truth, loyalty, and leadership. There can be no transformation from such a man, no foundation for unity, and certainly no moral authority to lead in any sector of public life.

It is important to note that when Nigeria’s economy truly began its downward spiral under the Buhari administration, Umahi was silent. He did not speak when Nigerians suffered from inflation, currency crashes, and subsidy mismanagement. He did not speak when insecurity spread or when ASUU was on strike for months. Instead, he praised Buhari and called him “father of modern Nigeria.” Now that the heat is on, he conveniently shifts blame to maintain favor with the current administration.

This double standard is not only dishonest—it is dangerous. It creates a false narrative that deceives the public and manipulates history. If leaders cannot own their past endorsements, then they cannot be trusted with future visions. Umahi’s conduct is, therefore, not a slip—it is a pattern. And that pattern must be condemned by all who value truth and leadership with integrity.

I urge the Nigerian people, and especially members of the political class, to reject political sycophancy dressed as patriotism. We must demand accountability not only in policy but also in speech and loyalty. If we continue to elevate individuals who have no ideological spine, we will continue to recycle leadership that thrives on falsehood and deception.

Let the record reflect that the voice of David Umahi has lost credibility. He cannot claim to be speaking for Nigeria when his statements are designed only to appease whoever holds power at the moment. Leadership must be grounded in values—not vanity, and certainly not opportunism.

Nigeria must rise beyond the deceit of those who serve no one but themselves. If we must make progress as a nation, we must choose truth over tactics, substance over soundbites, and character over convenience.

Elder Amah is a Political Analyst & commentator

PANDEF Calls On NASS To Checkmate The Excesses Of Rivers Sole Administrator

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 18, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Pan Niger Delta Forum PANDEF, on Friday, April 18, 2025, appealed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to take urgent steps towards reversing most of the unconstitutional and illegal measures and appointments taken in Rivers state by the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas rtd.

The Forum, also, lauded the National Assembly for its decision to constitute a Committee to monitor the implementation of the State of Emergency declared in Rivers State by the President.

The Source reports that Abbas, earlier in the week, inaugurated a 21- member committee ,charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the state of emergency in the state is carried out in line with the resolutions of the House ,during the approval of the emergency proclamation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

There have been growing concerns about the activities of Admiral Ibas, especially, in the area of appointments, and dismantling of democratic structures.

In an open letter dated Friday, April 18, 2025, addressed to Speaker Abbas , and signed by its Chairman Amb. Godknows Igali, PANDE , reiterated its opposition to the state of emergency imposed on the State.

The Forum, while calling for the immediate reversal of the controversial decisions and appointments made by the Sole Administrator, also demanded for the restoration of democratic institutions in the State.

The apex socio-cultural body of Niger Deltans, insisted that state of emergency under whatever guise will not provide solution to the festering crisis in Rivers state.

“On behalf of the leadership and people of South- South geo-political Zone, we, the Pan Niger Delta Forum PANDEF, the apex socio-political body of Niger Deltans, extend our profound appreciation to you, and the leadership of the 10th House of Representatives for your courage and foresight in constituting and promptly inaugurating the Ad-Hoc Committee to provide oversight on the current state of emergency in Rivers State, particularly, as it concerns the roles and functions of the suspended Rivers state House of Assembly.

While we acknowledge that this action aligns with the constitutional responsibilities enshrined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended), we are convinced it is also a testament to the visionary and focused leadership that the House of Representatives has demonstrated under your stewardship.

“The decision to offer impartial and dispassionate oversight in Rivers State has, as you may have observed, been resoundingly applauded by patriotic Nigerians across the country.

“It is especially heartening that the Chairmanship of the Committee has been entrusted to Professor Julius Ihonvbere, a globally respected scholar, accomplished public servant and principled politician whose integrity and character are widely acknowledged.

“We extend this commendation to the over 20 members of the Committee, many of whom also embody these exemplary qualities.

“We trust that they will collectively deliver the highest standards of national service in carrying out this crucial assignment.

“PANDEF has consistently opposed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which we believe does not align with the constitutional criteria for such a measure.

Despite political disagreements by individuals, peace has been maintained in the State – unlike in several other parts of the country where security and human lives are under constant threat.

“Indeed, so to say, not even a fly has been harmed in Rivers State, and economic activities remain intact.

“Nonetheless, we continue to urge the good people of Rivers state and, indeed, the entire South-South region to uphold the peace ,and under the current unusual circumstances ,to cooperate with the imposed Administrator.

“That said, we must reiterate our firm position that the appointment of the Sole Administrator is not only a constitutional aberration, but also a serious dent on Nigeria’s democratic image, and its standing within the international community.

“In the light of the above, we hold the expectation that members of the newly inaugurated Ad-Hoc Committee will seize the opportunity to etch their names in gold by providing effective oversight of the Administrator’s actions, and where appropriate reversing some of the unlawful measures he has undertaken since assuming office .

“A case in point is the arbitrary dissolution of duly constituted democratic institutions, followed by rather whimsical and capricious reconstitution of same.

“The Administrator’s pattern of governance has included the appointment of Sole Administrators for Local Government Areas, Heads of Government Agencies without due process and democratic norms.

“It would not be surprising, therefore, if he proceeds in due course to appoint Permanent Secretaries of his choice.

“Similarly, his decision to cancel ,or suspend all ongoing procurement processes, ostensibly to implement his own preferred projects and priorities, raises serious concerns about governance integrity and fiscal transparency”, part of the PANDEF letter reads.

The body emphasized the need for the Ad-Hoc Committee to be encouraged as part of its responsibilities to put machineries in motion for the effective resolution of the political crisis in Rivers state .

According to PANDEF, the task of resolving the crisis should be pursued with a sense of urgency, diligence and unwavering neutrality .

It is the conviction of the Forum that normalcy be returned to Rivers State, owing to its pivotal status as one of the economic nerve centres of the country.

“Again, Boko Haram Kills Two Soldiers, Many Civilians In Attack On Gworza Military Formation

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 18, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Two soldiers, and a number od civilian have been reported dead in a deadly insurgents attack on the new settlement of Yamtake Community in Gworza Local Council of Borno State.

Locals said some suspected Boko Haram elements launched a surprise midnight attack on Thursday, April 17 ,targeting a Military formation ,as well as civilian population.

According to local sources ,the attack which occurred at about 11:30pm on Thursday night could not be controlled early enough due to late arrival of reinforcement efforts .

Two soldiers ,land several civilians were said to have been killed, while a significant damage was inflicted on the Military Facility in the new settlement.

“We are waiting for the reinforcement team to return but we leant that two of our men and other civilians were killed”,a Military source stated.

Although as at the time of reporting, the Military hierarchy were yet to react to the situation, however Senator Ali Ndume,while expressing regrets over the loss of two soldiers and some civilians, lauded the efforts of the Military in repelling some of the attacks on the area in recent times.

Senator Ndume who is representing Borno South In the Senate, informed that Yamtake is one of the communities recently resettled by the Borno State Government to accommodate displaced persons.

He, however ,expressed sadness over the killing of soldiers and innocent civilians .

The All Progressive Congress Senator while sympathizing with the families of the victims, commended the Military Commander of the Gwoza Military base, Brigadier General Nasir Abdullahi and the troops for their steadfastness, gallantry and resilience in the face of the security challenges.

Particularly, he expressed satisfaction with the way troops have been defending Gworza an integral part of his constituency.

However, Ndume lamented the frequency of the attacks in recent times, noting the urgent need to beef up security through the establishment of armed community defence units across the security- challenged areas of Borno State.

The Source reports that Thursday’s attack came on the heels of several others both in Gworza and other parts of Borno State in the last few weeks, a development that has forced Governor Prof Babagana Zulum to raise alarm.

1...601602603...2,913 Page 602 of 2,913