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“You Are Provoking The Peace Of The Land”, Group Tells Rivers  Administrator

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Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

An advocacy group, the Centre for Constitutional Governance, CCG, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, accused the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Marshall Ibok- Ete Ibas, rtd, of provoking the peace of the State.

The Centre described the suspension of all political office holders in the State and members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC, as amounting to  overstepping the bounds of his mandate.

The Source reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had, on March 18, 2025, appointed Ibas as the  Sole Administrator of Rivers State after declaring a State of Emergency that swept the elected Governor, Deputy and members of the State House of Assembly out of office.

The action which the President premised on the need to avoid a possible breakdown of law and order, has been sharply and widely condemned by an overwhelming majority  of Nigerians for what they say it is- a power grabbing exploration.

In the last 48 hours, Ibas has suspended all political appointees including the Secretary to the State Government, and Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

He also announced the dissolution of the Governing Council of the State’s University, and the RSIEC.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its Executive Director, Dr Ahmed Abdullahi, the CCG, accused the Administrator of embarking on a power grabbing mission with his tampering of institutional foundation in the State.

“The Administrator is not just overstepping his mandate, he is provoking the peace of the land.

“His actions threaten the very foundation of democracy, and if not stopped, could have lasting consequences for the entire nation.

“The dissolution of RSIEC and the University Governing Council is not just an overreach of power, it is an out right violation of the Constitution.

“These institutions are insulated from political interference for a reason: to safeguard democracy and ensure both academic and electoral integrity.

“What the administrator is doing amounts to executive lawlessness.

“This is not just an administrative decision, it is a blatant power grab. By dismantling the governance structure overnight and tampering with statutory institutions, the Sole Administrator is effectively freezing democracy in Rivers State.

“If unchecked, this could set a dangerous precedent for the Country. The Rivers State people are watching in shock as one man dismantles their institutions with the stroke of a pen .

“This is a painful reminder of the Military era when decrees and edicts replaced democratic processes .

“The Administrator’s actions are a direct insult to the sacrifices of our heroes who laboured hard for our democracy”, the CCG noted.

The Group, therefore, called on all relevant authorities, including the National Assembly, Judiciary, Civil Society organizations and men and women of conscience to urgently wade in.

It warned that the uncontrolled wielding of power by the Administrator could spell doom not just for the peace of Rivers State, but also could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

According to CCG ,the National Assembly must not play the ostrich while Rivers State is made a field for political experiment.

The Judiciary, it further posited, must act to stop the ongoing power grab and overreach in the State.

“Return Home To Your Parents, Not Boyfriends”, Bauchi Coordinator Tells Female Corps Members

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NYSC - Corps Members

By Ayodele Oni

The Bauchi State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC),  Mrs Yakubu, has urged female Corps members to return home to their parents after completing their service.

Yakubu made the call on Thursday, during the distribution of National Service certificates to corps members who completed the one year mandatory service.

Specifically addressing the 2024 Batch ‘A’ Stream 11 female corps members, she said, “Ladies, please remember that your boyfriends are not your parents. Do not say that after collecting your certificates, you are heading to your boyfriends’ houses.

“Go back home to your parents and celebrate with them. You have just completed your national service, and this is a moment to share with your family.”

She also encouraged corps members to put their skills to good use, particularly those acquired through the NYSC’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

“Even if you haven’t learnt anything from the SAED programme, it’s not too late. Instead of going home to sit idle, find something to do to support your parents. Use this last allowance wisely; invest in learning a trade.”

Yakubu further cautioned corps members against engaging in fraudulent activities such as internet fraud (yahoo yahoo), kidnapping, or ritual killings in pursuit of quick wealth.

“These are not the values NYSC has instilled in you. You have served to become responsible members of society.

“Represent your family well, be a good ambassador of Nigeria, your institution, and the NYSC.”

She also advised the corps members to carefully check their National Service certificates for errors before laminating them.

Air Peace Celebrates One Year of Lagos-London Operations with Milestone Achievements

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Air Peace Celebrates One Year

Nigeria’s flagship Carrier, Air Peace, is celebrating one year of its anniversary on the Lagos-London route with a splash and satisfaction.

In a statement signed by Dr Henry Ndiulo, Head, Corporate Communications Air Peace Limited, the Airline listed its many achievements and milestones, one year on.

The Statement, reads in part:

“Air Peace has continued to set the pace and revolutionize aviation business in Africa. The airline, which is arguably Nigeria’s leading airline, and West and Central African’s largest carrier proudly marks the first anniversary of its Lagos-London route, reflecting on a year of exceptional service, strategic partnerships, and significant contributions to the Nigerian aviation industry.

“This milestone not only marked the airline’s expansion into the European market but also signified a monumental achievement for Nigerian aviation. One year later, Air Peace’s London service has become a symbol of excellence, offering competitive fares, top-tier service, and a bespoke travel experience aboard its luxurious Boeing 777 aircraft. Since its inaugural flight on March 30, 2024, the airline has successfully operated over 662 flights on the Lagos-London route, transporting more than 136,661 passengers.

“Specifically, this achievement underscores Air Peace’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s international aviation footprint while delivering unparalleled service to passengers. Throughout the past year, the airline has implemented a series of customer-centric initiatives to enhance the travel experience, including:

“•  Generous Luggage Allowances – Ensuring passengers enjoy convenient and stress-free travel with ample baggage capacity.

“•  Streamlined Airport Transfers – Facilitating seamless connections and reduced transit times for travelers.

“• Exclusive Limousine Pickups – Partnering with SIMPLAA UK to provide premium limousine services, including a 10% discount on Gatwick Airport transfers.

“• Student Travel Discounts – Offering a 15% discount on economy-class tickets for students traveling between Nigeria and London.

“• Premium Passenger Rewards – Collaborating with top brands like Samsung to provide passengers with exclusive perks, including the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2.”

Speaking on the milestone, Chairman and CEO, Air Peace Limited, Dr. Allen Onyema, expressed pride in the airline’s achievements over the past year. “The launch of our Lagos-London route was a historic moment for Air Peace and Nigerian aviation. One year later, we have not only sustained operations but also thrived, delivering top-tier service, expanding passenger benefits, and contributing to the Nigerian economy. This success reaffirms our vision of making international travel more accessible and affordable for Nigerians.”

While stressing the need for national support, Dr. Onyema stated that sustaining the London service requires the backing of Nigerians.

This sentiment encapsulates the airline’s mission: to elevate Nigerian aviation on the world stage and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic and cultural diplomacy.

Air Peace’s presence on the Lagos-London route has had a positive impact on Nigeria’s economy and aviation sector. By increasing connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, the airline has:

“• Created jobs within the aviation industry and related sectors.

“• Boosted tourism and business travel, supporting economic growth.

“• Strengthened Nigeria’s position in international air travel, reducing reliance on foreign carriers.

“• Encouraged healthy competition in the aviation market, leading to better fares and improved services for travelers.

The airline remains committed to expanding its global reach and further strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the international aviation landscape. Plans for additional long-haul routes and service enhancements are underway as Air Peace continues to set new standards in African aviation.

“As Air Peace celebrates this remarkable milestone, the airline extends its gratitude to passengers, partners, and stakeholders for their unwavering support. Travelers can look forward to even greater experiences as the airline continues to innovate and elevate air travel in Nigeria and beyond.

New Minimum Wage: Gov Oyebanji Increases Subvention To Judiciary, Others

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Biodun Oyebanji - Ekiti State Governor

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has approved an increment in the monthly subvention to the Judiciary and the legislative arm of government as well as the educational institutions in the state.

A statement by  special adviser, media to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, explained that the increment, which amounts to N438.9 million monthly, is to enable the institutions take care of the new minimum wage and the attendant consequential adjustment for workers.

Beneficiaries of the increment include the  Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, Ekiti State High Court of Justice; Ekiti State Judicial Service Commission, and Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission.

Others are Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, (EKSU); Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH); Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere Ekiti; Ekiti State Polythecnic, Isan Ekiti; College of Health Technology, Ijero-Ekiti and Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and associated Institutions.

Similarly, the Governor also approved payment of the outstanding 2020 leave bonus to local government workers, in fulfilment of his promise to defray all outstanding entitlements of workers inherited from previous administrations.

While restating the commitment of his administration to the wellbeing and welfare of workers and retirees, Governor Oyebanji promised that efforts are being made to ensure payment of all outstanding entitlements including gratuities in line with the continuity and shared prosperity agenda of the government.

The governor urged workers in the state to remain focused on excellent service delivery and to see themselves as strategic stakeholders in the Ekiti Project.

President Tinubu Marks 73rd Birthday In Abuja With Prayers

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Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu, will be 73 years old on Saturday.

The President is expected to join fellow Muslims at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday for a special prayer session for the nation.

He will also use this occasion to thank God for preserving and supporting him in the onerous task of piloting the nation’s affairs.

According to Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu’s birthday coincides with the holy month of Ramadan and comes two months before his administration’s second anniversary.

“On this significant day, the President will dedicate himself to spiritual reflection and supplication for Nigeria’s continued peace, progress, and prosperity.

“Choosing a prayer session reflects President Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s spiritual and moral well-being and his commitment to seeking divine guidance, insight, and strength in leadership. He believes collective prayer is a powerful tool for guiding the nation towards progress and harmony.

“President Tinubu invites the public to join the prayer session in spirit by offering prayers at their places of worship or wherever they may be, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to unity and shared destiny.

“He expresses profound gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support and goodwill as his administration works tirelessly to advance economic reforms, strengthen national security, and expand opportunities for all citizens.

“I am deeply thankful to Allah for the gift of life and the privilege to serve this great nation. As I mark another birthday and look forward to our second anniversary, my heart is filled with Renewed Hope for Nigeria. I urge all citizens to pray for divine guidance, unity, and healing for our land. Together, we shall overcome challenges and build a nation where every citizen thrives.”

The President reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating democratic gains, fostering economic recovery, and promoting national cohesion. He encourages citizens to remain steadfast in believing in Nigeria’s destiny as a beacon of hope in Africa.

Court Remands Teenager Over Rap3e Of 18-Year Old

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Court and Law

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

An Awka Chief Magistrate Court has ordered a 15-year old boy to be remanded in custodial Centre pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecution, DPP, for, allegedly, ra3ing an 18 year-old girl.

The order was sequel to the arraignment of the teenager  before the Awka based Children Se3ual and Gender-based Violence Offences Court on a-one count charge bordering on ra3e.

According to the prosecution team led by Inspector Chinyere Okechukwu, the accused committed the offence on March, 10, 2025 in Agbani, Umuawulu Community in Awka South Local Government of Anambra State.

Okechukwu informed that the mother of the victim had complained to the Police that she had sent her daughter on the fateful day to deliver food to some people working on her farm as well as to fetch firewood on her way back.

“On her way returning home, the defendant was said to have accosted her while she was carrying some firewood, overpowered her, tore her clothing, and subsequently had a carnal knowledge of the victim.

“After medical examination and enquiry at the Ntasi Sexual Assault Referral Centre at the General Hospital Enugu-Ukwu, a Medical Practitioner confirmed that the girl had been ra3ed”, the prosecution told the Court.

According to  Okechukwu, the offence is in breach of section 130 (2) (a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of 20022.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge, insisting that  whatever transpired between both of them was consensual.

Mrs U.E. Onochie, the Chief Magistrate consequently adjourned proceedings to May 7, 2025.

Senator Daniel Lashes Governor Abiodun Over Adoption Of TASUED By FG

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Gbenga Daniel and Dapo Abiodun

By Akinwale Kasali

“Your inability to fund the Institution led to this situation” – Daniel

Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District,  have slammed Governor Dapo Abiodun over his alleged inability to fund the Tai Solarin University of Education, TASUED, Ijagun, Ogun State. leading to the adoption of the Institution by the Federal Government.

He stated that the adoption of TASUED by the FG is an indictment of Governor Abiodun’s administration.

It would be recalled that the FG had on March 9th, 2025, announced the adoption of TASUED as a Federal University.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative on the University but viewed the step as an indictment of the State government for its inability to maintain the institution.

The open letter titled “Re: FG Takeover of Tai Solarin University of Education: Matters Arising”, dated 18 March, 2025, reads:

“This singular Federal Government initiative of our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a resilient visioner and creative leader, underscores the importance of the University in the overall development of the education system in Nigeria, as it also confirms that the vision of our administration was well founded with the establishment of the institution twenty years ago.

“However, let it be said that, as robust as this initiative is for that institution and the thousands of workers and students of that great institution, which many did not give any chance of survival when we conceptualised it, we also need to call the attention of your esteemed office to a slight downside in this acquisition and the overall effects on our dear state.

“One, it appears this unilateral takeover is an indictment on our state and the inability of the government to maintain the institution which has attained a global rating, especially when the budget of the state has now hit the one trillion naira mark. Our people will ask, What is the percentage of our budget that is being allocated to the development of education from such a humongous budget appropriation?

“It also needs to be emphasised that part of our vision for establishing the Tai Solarin University of Education was to provide employment to Ogun State citizens as well as increase the carrying capacities and admission quotas, thereby creating placement opportunities for citizens of Ogun State.

“I wish our people would not come to such hurried conclusions about government ineptitude as the reasons for this necessary acquisition when the State Government has abdicated its responsibilities to this institution.

“Before our administration took over in 2003, there were only two major state-owned institutions of higher learning in the state, vis-à-vis, the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, and the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta. Of course there are others, like the Tai Solarin College of Education, Ijagun, and the School of Health Technology, Ilese, supported by various technical colleges. But as an educational advantage, so to speak, Ogun State has a huge population of admission seekers, and the National University Commission (NUC) has a cap on the number of students who can be admitted in every admission cycle.

“The Olabisi Onabanjo University had, at the time, about a 3,500 carrying capacity. But with the establishment of TASUED, we were able to double the quotas of admission-seeking students of state origin, just as the state also has the capacity to create employment both in the appointment of vice chancellors and in administrative and academic staff.

“With this acquisition, Mr Governor, those quota advantages might have gone, as the federal government is now empowered to appoint the leadership of the institution, which may also come from anywhere in the country in line with the nature of our federal character system. Our students admission quota, no doubt, would have been abridged; they might benefit from the Catchment Areas system at best.

“We need to express our profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for coming to the rescue of TASUED, without which we are afraid the institution is wired for confinement to the dustbin of history due to the noticeable neglect and seeming abandonment.”

“It is also our fervent hope that your administration might pick up from the president’s magnanimous takeover to start looking in the direction of the remaining institutions of higher learning. Whatever might have been freed from the running of TASUED from the State’s budgetary allocation to education could as well be channelled to the effective running of other institutions like the four other ICT Polytechnics in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota; Abraham Adesanya, in Ijebu Igbo; Gateway ICT in Sapade, and the Dauda Adegbenro in Itori, as well as the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute in Oni, Ogun Waterside. All these institutions have equally suffered neglect and abandonment. With the state government’s clear initiative to run these institutions to their optimum capacity, we would have compensated for what we might have lost to the federal government with the acquisition of TASUED.

“Better still, in the event that the state government is unable or unwilling to fund these institutions, we might as well pray for the same ‘good fortune’ that befell TASUED to visit them, to save them from the clutches of the shame of abandonment.

“As a governor who is from the Ogun East Senatorial District, lest it be said that under your stewardship such specialized institutions like the GIPI and Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic went into extinction, you owe our people in Ogun East this minimum of attention.”

Late Governor Ajimobi’s  Daughter, Bisola  Dies In UK

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Late Abiola Ajimobi and daugher Bisola Kola-Daisi

By Akinwale Kasali

The family of late Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State and his lovely wife, Florence, has, again, been thrown Into mourning following the passing of his first child and eldest daughter, Bisola Kola-Daisi.

The 42-Year old  died in the United Kingdom after what waa said to be a brief illness.

The heartbreaking news of her passing came early Thursday morning, March 27, 2025.

The late Bisola was a  prominent figure in Nigeria’s luxury retail scene and a dedicated philanthropist.

She was not just known for her family legacy but also for her significant contributions to the business world.

As the Managing Director of Grandex Nigeria Ltd., a leading FMCG retail and wholesale chain established in 1984, and the founder of the prestigious Florence H. Luxury boutique, she carved out a name for herself in an industry often dominated by men.

Married to the well-respected Ibadan-born politician and Bank Executive Kolapo Kola-Daisi,

the late Bisola has three Children.

Taking to his Social Media handle, her husband expressed his devastation, stating: “The world has lost a shining star. Bisola was not just my wife, she was my partner in everything. Her spirit will live on in our children.”

Before her untimely death, Bisola served as a Special Adviser to Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Planning, showcasing her commitment to public service and economic development.

Tributes have  been pouring in from friends and colleagues who described her as a beacon of light, always ready to lend a helping hand and inspire those around her.

Her vibrant personality and unwavering dedication to her work and family will be sorely missed.

The Ajimobi family is now faced with the unimaginable task of mourning their beloved daughter while honoring her legacy in both business and philanthropy.

The Family is yet to announce details regarding the funeral arrangements.

Bisola’s death is coming five years after his father (Senator Abiola Ajimobi) passed on.

Stripping Governors of Immunity: A Risky Legislative Overreach

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Abraham Amah
Abraham Amah

By Abraham Amah

The recent move by the House of Representatives to strip governors of their constitutional immunity is a deeply unsettling development that risks destabilizing Nigeria’s federal governance structure. At first glance, the proposal may appear populist and rooted in accountability. However, a closer examination reveals that such a move could open the floodgates to distractions, politically motivated litigations, and ultimately impair good governance.

The principle of immunity for sitting governors, as enshrined in Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is not a license for impunity but a shield for uninterrupted service. Immunity ensures that governors can focus on delivering developmental projects, formulating policy, and managing their states without the constant threat of litigation, which could easily be exploited by political opponents or interest groups.

One must understand that immunity is not absolute. It is temporary. A governor can still be investigated while in office, and prosecuted after leaving office. This constitutional safeguard is a standard practice in many democratic jurisdictions to protect executives from being bogged down by endless legal distractions. Removing it completely for governors could weaken the executive arm of state governments and expose them to judicial harassment.

If passed, this amendment could lead to a dangerous precedent where political opponents weaponize the judiciary against serving governors. Imagine a situation where multiple cases are filed in various courts by aggrieved individuals or parties—not necessarily in the interest of justice but to distract or destabilize a governor’s administration. The ensuing legal battles would consume time, state resources, and leadership focus that should have been directed at improving the lives of citizens.

Nigeria’s development challenges demand full executive attention—be it in security, infrastructure, education, or health. Governors are at the forefront of driving economic growth and social development in their states. Saddling them with a barrage of court appearances, injunctions, and distractions could derail policy implementation and ultimately hurt the people they are elected to serve.

There is also the question of political timing and motive. Why now? Could this move be part of a wider agenda to weaken certain governors or curb the growing influence of strong state executives? Stripping immunity in a fragile democracy such as ours must be viewed with caution, especially when such powers can be abused in a politically charged environment.

It is important to note that immunity does not cover criminal behavior or abuse of office. Anti-corruption agencies can still investigate sitting governors and gather evidence for prosecution once their term ends. Furthermore, impeachment remains a constitutional tool for holding erring governors accountable while in office. The argument that immunity shields corruption is misleading and ignores these existing legal checks.

Rather than removing immunity, lawmakers should focus on strengthening institutions of accountability such as the EFCC, ICPC, state assemblies, and civil society watchdogs. Real reform lies not in creating more openings for litigation but in ensuring that those who abuse public office face swift and fair justice after due process.

We must not conflate accountability with vendetta. Stripping governors of immunity in our current political climate could create more instability than progress. Governors must not become pawns in legal chess games driven by opposition forces or disgruntled political actors. The long-term cost to governance, policy delivery, and institutional stability may far outweigh the short-term satisfaction of perceived accountability.

Indeed, this move could set the stage for a judicial gridlock in the states, where governance is suspended in favor of daily court drama. The people would be the ultimate losers. The legislature must weigh its constitutional responsibilities with wisdom and avoid populist distractions that could erode the delicate balance of power among the three arms of government.

In a country like Nigeria, where development is fragile and leadership capacity is in high demand, the focus should be on enabling effective governance, not encumbering it. Immunity for sitting governors is not a flaw in the Constitution—it is a functional necessity that enables executive focus and service delivery.

The National Assembly should rethink this proposal. Rather than remove immunity, let us strengthen our institutions, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that every public officer, including governors, remains accountable—through due process, not political witch-hunts.


Elder Amah, a frequent commentator on national issues, writes from Umuahia, Abia State

NAF Hits, Destroys Terrorists Fuel Dump, Ammunition In North East

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NAF Super Tucano Fighter Jets

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in sustaining its counter-terrorism operations tempo in the North-East, has announced that its forces destroyed explosives devices, fuel dump and various ammunition being stockpiled by terrorists groups.

NAF Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali revealed in a press statement on Thursday that NAF aircraft delivered coordinated strikes on terrorist strongholds at Warawara, near Wajiroko, and Chinene in the Mandara Mountains, Borno State, dealing a severe blow to insurgent activities.

According to the statement, guided by painstaking Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, NAF identified a number of terrorists stockpiling logistics and planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) around Wajiroko.

The Deputy Director revealed that the surveillance later tracked their movement to a concealed location housing a gun truck, ammunition stockpiles, and fuel reserves.

“In response, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) executed multiple waves of air interdiction (AI) missions. The first wave struck the terrorists’ logistics hub, destroying gun trucks and critical supplies.

“The other followed with sustained rocket and cannon attacks, ensuring the complete annihilation of terrorist’s assets.

“Later that day, NAF aircraft targeted another terrorist enclave at Chinene in the Mandara Mountains. Intelligence reports indicated that insurgents had relocated there following a previous air raid on Degbewa on 16 March 2025.

“Overhead reconnaissance confirmed the presence of active structures, prompting the execution of strikes that set terrorist hideouts ablaze. Fleeing insurgents were subsequently engaged and neutralized, further crippling their operational capacity.

“Battle Damage Assessment and corroboratory intelligence confirmed the neutralization of scores of terrorist fighters. The strikes also destroyed 4 terrorist gun trucks, 2 Toyota Hilux vehicles, and several makeshift shelters, forcing the insurgents to abandon their positions degrading their operational capabilities.

“These successful air interdiction missions underscore the NAF’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing insurgents, disrupting their logistics, and denying them safe havens. With sustained pressure on terrorist elements, the NAF remains resolute in its mission to restore peace and security in the country.”