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N47.9 Trillion Budget: Bold Plans Or Fiscal Gamble For Nigeria In 2025

November 21, 2024

The 2025 federal budget for Nigeria would definitely face numerous uncertainties that could hinder its success. At N47.9 trillion, it represents a 35% increase over the N27.5 trillion 2024 budget, signaling the government’s intention to drive aggressive spending. However, significant challenges such as overoptimistic oil production targets, exchange rate instability, heavy reliance on borrowing, and revenue collection inefficiencies raise doubts about its feasibility. As of August 2024, Nigeria’s budget deficit was 7.6 percent of GDP which was higher than the approved target of 3.8 percent. This was due to the country’s fiscal deficit as continued to increase.

The 2025 budget conceivability assumes an oil production target of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd) and a crude oil benchmark price of $75 per barrel. While the price aligns with global averages, the production target is highly optimistic. Historical data shows that Nigeria has struggled to meet similar targets due to persistent oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and infrastructure degradation. l would have suggested $68 per barrel and whatever the excess, above this price would be a plus. In fiscal planning, setting realistic revenue expectations is crucial for sound budgetary management. The approach of setting low revenue expectations with the aim of surpassing them can be viewed as prudent, as it creates a buffer for fiscal flexibility and reduces the likelihood of disappointment. However, overestimating revenues and then failing to meet those targets is generally considered a risky strategy for several reasons.

In 2023, Nigeria’s average daily production hovered around 1.2 to 1.4 mbpd, far below OPEC quotas. Meeting or exceeding the 2.06 mbpd target would require substantial reforms in oil sector security, transparency in operations, and investments in infrastructure. Without these, the oil revenue assumptions underpinning the 2025 budget risk being significantly overstated, potentially widening the deficit. The budget projects an exchange rate of N1,400 per dollar, significantly lower than the current rate of approximately N1,650. Reducing the Naira exchange rate from N1,600 to N1,400 is a desirable goal for Nigeria, as it would stabilise the economy, reduce inflationary pressures, and improve the purchasing power of citizens. However, achieving such a reduction is complex and would require significant structural changes.

Achieving this target will require bold interventions, including: Increasing Foreign Exchange (Forex) Liquidity. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) would need to tighten monetary policy and prioritise interventions to stabilise the naira. If these measures are not implemented, exchange rate volatility could erode the dollar value of budgeted expenditures, undermine purchasing power, and inflate the cost of servicing foreign debt. The 2025 budget proposes N13.8 trillion in new borrowing, equivalent to 3.87% of the projected GDP. This raises concerns about debt sustainability as Nigeria’s public debt continues to grow.

A significant portion of revenue is already allocated to servicing debt, crowding out investments in critical sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Given that much of Nigeria’s debt is denominated in foreign currency, exchange rate depreciation will further increase the cost of debt servicing, worsening fiscal pressures. The success of the 2025 budget would depend heavily on achieving ambitious revenue targets, particularly from non-oil sources. In 2024, non-oil revenue was projected at $4.69 billion, falling short of expectations. Without major reforms, the 2025 revenue targets may also prove elusive.

We should expand the tax base and improving collection mechanisms these are essential for increasing non-oil revenue. The rich should pay more and tax net should be expanded to address this issue. Reducing dependence on oil requires investments in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, alongside supportive policies to encourage private sector growth. Addressing corruption and inefficiencies in revenue collection agencies will enhance government earnings.Failure to meet these revenue targets would create a funding gap, necessitating further borrowing or austerity measures.

Nigeria’s inflation rate, currently among the highest in Africa, poses a significant challenge to the 2025 budget’s implementation. Rising prices erode purchasing power, increase the cost of goods and services, and reduce the real value of public spending. The government’s projection of 6.4% GDP growth in 2025 is highly ambitious, given Nigeria’s current economic challenges:

Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and weak institutions continue to stifle economic growth. Persistent security challenges, particularly in the northern and oil-producing regions, discourage investment and disrupt economic activity. Unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s private sector requires consistent policies, reduced regulatory hurdles, and improved access to credit. While growth is achievable with targeted reforms, the government must adopt a realistic outlook and address these structural barriers.

Several risks could derail the 2025 budget, including, revenue shortfalls, overestimated oil revenues and slow non-oil revenue growth could result in larger-than-expected deficits. Continued naira depreciation will inflate the cost of imports, debt servicing, and capital projects. The success of economic reforms depends on strong political will, which may be undermined by resistance from vested interests or public dissatisfaction.

The 2025 federal budget represents an ambitious effort by the President Bola Tinubu government to stimulate economic growth and address critical challenges. However, its success hinges on the resolution of long-standing issues such as oil production inefficiencies, exchange rate instability, over-reliance on borrowing, and inadequate revenue generation. Without bold and sustained reforms, the budget risks falling short of its objectives, exacerbating fiscal pressures and undermining public confidence. To ensure success, the government must prioritise transparency, fiscal discipline, and policies that promote economic diversification and resilience.

Olufemi Aduwo

Permanent Representative of CCDI to, United Nations

Chairman, AU -countries group, Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) of World Bank, A working member of World Bank independent integrity Group.

Email: [email protected]

www.ccdiltd.org

NB: Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity Ltd/Gte is registered in Nigeria with Corporate Affairs Commission as a non-profit and also in State of Maryland, United States as Center for Convention on Democratic Integrity lnc, as Federal tax-exempt non-profit organisation

Senator Ubah: Anambra Orders Closure Of Schools

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 21, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Ahead of the Friday November, 22, burial ceremony of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, the Anambra State Government has ordered all public schools in Nnewi, in Anambra South District to be shut down.

The State Government said this is to avoid pupils and students being caught up in a possible crossfire between State and non- State actors during the burial .

The Source reports that the Senator that represented the Anambra South at the National Assembly who died at a London medical facility on July 27, 2024, began his final journey with a valedictory session by the Senate on Tuesday.

He will be buried on Friday at his country home in Umuanuka Village, Otolo in Nnewi in Anambra South Senatorial Zone.

There are growing fears that unknown persons are aiming to use the burial as a launch pad to unleash mayhem on the State.

Already, a nebulous group had early this week warned against bringing the late Senator’s corpse to the South-east for burial.

Only on Wednesday evening November 20, the police and local vigilante operatives were engaged in exchange of sporadic gunfire resulting from mistaken identity.

The clash which took place at the Izuchukwu Junction on the Nobi/Nnewi Road was as a result of the vigilante members mistaking police operatives for unfriendly forces .

The Anambra State Police Command Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, SP, noted that the attack was not linked to non state actors whose earlier threat had provoked security agencies and locals to be on alert .

“The attack was not linked to non state actors or any attempt to disrupt the burial of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah”, Ikenga stated.

According to him, Police operatives were on an investigative mission when the clash broke out between the two friendly security agencies .

The shootings he further informed, led to the razing of a police operational vehicle-a Toyota Venza which was set alight by gunfire.

“Two innocent bystanders were injured and taken to the hospital ” he noted .

Although the police authorities said they have drafted operatives of the state’s Joint Security Forces JSF to provide adequate security before, and during the burial of the late Senator, apprehension over a possible disruption of peace remain palpable.

A circular from the state Ministry of Education on Thursday, November 21, directed all schools in the Zone to remain closed till Tuesday 26, November ..

Consequently, parents and guardians have been called upon to keep their wards at home, and adopt all necessary measures to prevent pupils and students from wandering on the streets throughout the period of the burial.

Ikechebelu Is Back As Acting VC Nnamdi Azikiwe University

Ayodele Oni

November 21, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Coming for the second time, Prof. Joseph Ifenayichukwu Ikechebelu is back as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state.

This was contained in a letter signed by Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the Permanent Secretary of Federal Ministry of Education and made available to journalists on Thursday.

The development followed the nullification of the appointment of Prof. Benard Ifeany Odoh as the 7th substantive Vice Chancellor on November 18.

Odoh is still laying claim to the position of the VC insisting that the Federal ministry of education has no power to terminate his appointment through a mere press release.

The letter of reinstatement of Ikechebelu reads:

“REINSTATEMENT AS THE ACTING CHANCELLOR, NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE

“Sequel to the approval of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR via letter Ref: PRES/84/EDU/10 dated 18th November, 2024 nullifying the appointment of Prof. Benard Ifeany Odoh as the 7th substantive Vice Chancellor of the University who was illegally appointed by the dissolved 10th Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, I am pleased to convey the approval of the Honourable Minister to reinstate you as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University with immediate effect.

“Consequently, you are directed to take charge of the administration of the University.

“Take note that henceforth any matter that requires the approval of the Governing Council shall be forwarded to the Honourable Minister of Education for his consideration and approval pending the re-constitution of a new Governing Council for the University by Mr. President.”

Ikechebelu had held the position on acting capacities before the university got enmeshed in its current crisis following the election of Prof Bernard Odoh as the VC.

Ikechebelu’s appointment followed the sack of Prof Odoh as the seventh VC of the university by President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Prof Odoh, Thursday, told the federal government to refrain from stoking unnecessary tension within the university.

Odoh also warned the education ministry to avoid overriding the powers of the courts, which are currently handling multiple lawsuits on the matter.

Odoh, through his Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Charles Otu, described the letter announcing his dismissal and the dissolution of the university’s governing council as “mischievous”, “strange,” and a “grievous attempt to set the institution on fire”.

According to him, the composition of the university’s governing council and his appointment as the seventh substantive VC followed all the due processes.

BREAKING: Senate Approves President Tinubu’s $2.2bn Loan Request

Akinwale Kasali

November 21, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

The Senate on Thursday approved President Bola Tinubu’s loan request of $2.2 billion to partially finance the ₦9.7 trillion budget deficit for the 2024 fiscal year.

The approval followed the presentation of a report by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, Aliyu Wamakko, during plenary.

Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, commended the committee for its swift action and thorough examination of the loan request.

In a letter read during the Senate and House of Representatives plenaries on Tuesday, Tinubu explained that the loan was integral to his administration’s fiscal strategy for the coming year.

“The Presidential request for $2.2 billion, equivalent to ₦1.77 trillion, is already enshrined in the external borrowing plan for the 2024 fiscal year,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated while reading the letter.

He further directed the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to expedite its review of the request and present a report within 24 hours.

“The Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Loans should, therefore, give the request expeditious consideration and report back within 24 hours,” Akpabio emphasised.

Although the deadline elapsed on Wednesday, the committee submitted its findings during Thursday’s plenary, leading to the loan’s approval.

Gov Radda Mourns FEDECO Pioneer Scribe, Kurfi

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 21, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda has described late Ahmadu Kurfi, the first Executive Secretary of the Federal Electoral Commission FEDECO, as rare breed and exemplary public servant .

Alhaji Kurfi, who was the District Head of Kurfi passed on Thursday ,November 21, 2024 at 93 .

Governor Radda, in a statement issued by his media aide Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, noted that the late FEDECO Scribe, dedicated his entire active life to the service of the country, and the evolution of democracy.

He asserted that Kurfi, will be most remembered by many Nigerians for playing a crucial role in the count down to the historic transition to civilian rule in 1979.

According to the Governor, the process culminated in the election of President Shehu Shagari as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He emphasized that late Kurfi’s critical role in successfully midwifing the 1979 transition to democracy ,represents an eloquent testimony to the immense contributions of dedicated civil servants to the growth and development of democratic institutions in Nigeria.

“Alhaji Ahmadu represents a generation of public servants who served Nigeria with unalloyed dedication, integrity and profound commitment to national development.

“As a senior civil servant at the Federal level, Kurfi held pivotal positions that were instrumental to successful national transitions, including serving as Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence during the tumultuous period of the 1966 coup and later as Permanent. Secretary in the office of the Head of Service.

“Kurfi made an indelible mark on Nigeria’s democratic journey as the first Executive Secretary of the Federal Electoral Commission FEDECO .

“In this crucial role, he was responsible for organizing the historic transition to civilian rule in 1979, a process that culminated in the election of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria” Governor Radda stated .

While praying for the repose of the soul of the dead, the Katsina State Governor also extended his deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, the people of Kurfi District, the Emir of Katsina,and the entire Katsina people.

BREAKING: Simon Ekpa Arrested, Charged With Terrorism

Akinwale Kasali

November 21, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

The self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, Simon Ekpa, has been arrested.

Based in Finland, Ekpa was arrested by the Finnish Police. Arrested along with four others, they are in custody, and Ekpa has been charged with terrorism.

A report from Finland informed that Ekpa is in custody on the orders of the District Court of Päijät-Häme.

Among other things, he is charged with suspicion of causing public incitement in order to commit a crime which borders on terrorism.

A statement on Thursday, November 21, published on its website, the Central Criminal Police, Finland confirmed it arrested five persons on suspicion of terrorist crimes.

The Police revealed that the main suspect (Ekpa), was arrested “on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent”. The others were arrested “for financing a terrorist crime”.

The Police further declared that: “Claims will be heard in Päijät-Häme district court today, November 21.”

The statement reads in part: “The detention demands are related to the preliminary investigation, in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian background, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.

“The police suspect that the man has promoted his efforts from Finland by means that have led to violence against civilians and authorities as well as other crimes in the region of South-Eastern Nigeria.”

The Head of the investigation, Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen from the Central Crime Police was quoted as saying that “the man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.

“Four other persons are suspected of financing the aforementioned activity. All five suspects of the crime have been arrested during the beginning of the week.

“International cooperation has been carried out during the preliminary investigation”.

Ekpa entered into national consciousness in Nigeria after the rendition of the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was arrested. That was when he introduced himself as a disciple of the detained IPOB Leader, and gave the impression that he had become the leader with Kanu in the custody of the Nigerian Government and being prosecuted in Court.

But Ekpa soon fell out with the IPOB Leadership over his conduct which IPOB said ran contrary to their ideals. He has disagreed with IPOB on a couple of issues, including the cancellation by IPOB, of the weakly sit-at-home order which has brought the economy of the South-east to its knees. While IPOB said stop, Ekpa said continue, and atimes, imposed it for days on end.

IPOB has since expelled him from the organisation, and holds him responsible for the inexplicable and unprecedented blood bath and mindless destructions in the South-east.

This is the second time Ekpa would be arrested in Finland. In the earlier arrest months ago, over issues, allegedly, unrelated to Terrorism, he was let go hours later.

The Nigerian Government had, on a couple of times, reported Ekpa to the Finnish Government.

Ekpa, until his arrest was billed to declare an independent Biafra Republic on December 2, 2024.

South West Speakers’ Conference To Address Strategies For Improved Lawmaking

Ayodele Oni

November 21, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, is leading other resources persons to a retreat for House of Assembly Speakers and principal officers in the south west, which holds at Ikogosi on Friday.

Ekiti Assembly Speaker, Adeoye Aribasoye, who disclosed this in Ado Ekiti on Thursday highlighted the importance of sharpening strategies for improved lawmaking and related roles.

Aribasoye, who is also chairman, south west Conference of Speakers, disclosed that the lawmakers would be drawing lessons and sharing thoughts with experts at the retreat which has the theme, “Strengthening Democratic Governance at Subnational Level”.

He added that the retreat, is supported by Policy & Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO).

“Speakers and resource persons for the retreat include former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and Lagos State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

“Dr. Abel Ochigbo, Dr. Umar Aminu, Mr. Ben Ekeyi, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Dr. Umar Aminu and Prof. Abdulganiyu Raji will be handling different sessions at the forum while the State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji is expected to lead a team of the executive arm to grace the opening session.”

The conference chairman analysed that participants would be taking in-depth sessions to unlock strategies for effective governance at states, seek concensus on legislative reforms to tackle state and regional challenges, and deepen collaboration among state legislative bodies in the south west.

He emphasized that the legislature occupied a most strategic space in shaping the future of the country through the instrumentality of lawmaking and proper oversight, highlighting the need to get them more equipped for the onerous responsibility.

Aribasoye, had at different fora, underlined the place of common legislation for regional integration and transformation, with the aim of improving food security, safety of lives and property, and upgrading critical sectors of common interest among other aspects.

Bribes for Appointments: CNPP Demands Independent Probe Of Allegations Within Tinubu’s Inner Circle

The Source

November 21, 2024

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP noted that the “allegations of bribery, misappropriation of funds, and the involvement of high-ranking officials in corrupt practices are not only disturbing but also pose a significant threat to the integrity of current administration of President Bola Tinubu.”

The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria stated that “the claims that Femi Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chief of Staff to the President, accepted a $1 million bribe in connection with the appointment of the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) are deeply troubling.

“Furthermore, the reported disappearance of $180 million from the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) under the watch of the current administration raises serious questions about the financial stewardship and ethical standards of those in power.

“We recall the grave warnings issued recently by former President Olusegun Obasanjo regarding the escalating levels of corruption in Nigeria.

“His concerns resonate now more than ever, as the nation grapples with the implications of these allegations. It is imperative that President Tinubu recognizes that the fight against corruption must begin within his own inner circle. If he is genuinely committed to eradicating corruption, he must take decisive action to investigate these claims thoroughly and transparently”, the CNPP stated.

The CNPP then called for “an independent investigation into these allegations, free from the influence of those implicated.

“We urge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant bodies to act swiftly and impartially to restore public confidence in our institutions. The Nigerian people deserve to know the truth, and those found guilty of wrongdoing must face the full weight of the law.

“Moreover, we are prepared to mobilize allied civil society organizations for a showdown if these allegations are not thoroughly investigated and appropriate punitive measures are not enforced. It is crucial that we send a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated in any form, especially within the highest echelons of power.

“The CNPP stands firm in its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. We call upon all Nigerians to remain vigilant and demand justice. The time for action is now; we must not allow the specter of corruption to undermine our democracy and the future of our great nation”, the CNPP concluded.

E-Signed,
Comrade James Ezema
Deputy National Publicity Secretary
Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP)

Anger Grows After Army General Shamefully Beat Up Couple In Abuja; Calls For His Probe Intensify

Tosin Olatokunbo

November 21, 2024

Major General GS Mohammed should be thoroughly sanctioned and disciplined if found guilty of assaulting a couple in Abuja, according to Nigerians.

The allegation should not be swept under the carpet by the military authorities those who spoke on the issue said on Thursday.

A video of General Mohammed alongside his aides allegedly attacking the couple in the nation’s capital recently went vital on social media, prompting well-meaning Nigerians to call for accountability on the part of the officers.

Nigerians’ demand is coming on the heels of assurance by the Nigerian Army that an investigation is currently going on to ascertain what actually transpired between the Two Stars General and the couple, Vershima Mker & Lami Jennifer Iorvihi.

Responding to the incident Army spokesman Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said the Army is aware of the alleged assault and has ordered an investigation to the issue.

According to Nwachukwu, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, COAS, has directed that the matter be investigated as soon as the video went viral, saying because “we don’t know what led to the exchange” it will be impossible to do something immediately.

He said, “The Chief of Army Staff has directed investigation into the matter. But we have not been able to ascertain the veracity of the video now because we were not privileged or privy to the incident that led to the altercation

“So I can’t make further comments other than the fact that the Chief of Army Staff has directed that it should be investigated. You know you can have a video of where there was an exchange but we don’t know what led to the exchange.

“Maybe when the army hears from the major general, then we will know what actually transpired. So right now, the Chief of Army Staff has directed that we should investigate it.”

Since the video went viral, not a few Nigerians have criticised General Mohammed for his shameful behavior, which they insist did not befit a senior officer of his rank.

The couple on their part has called for General Mohammed’s dismissal for allegedly subjecting them to physical and mental abuse.

Those familiar with what happened said General Mohammed and his aides decided to harass the couple after their vehicle overtook the General’s convoy.

They however insist that the road belongs to Nigerians and not exclusive of the General, saying bearing this in mind General Mohammed should have handled the situation differently, and that with his high ranking position in the Armed Forces he is expected to be above board no matter the situation. He behaved so lowly, and brought the military to disrepute by his shameful behavior, according to other persons who spoke on the issue.

Commenting on his X handle E.J.@Enwagboso said “@HQNigerianArmy, this is completely unacceptable. This is one of the reasons that many Nigerians don’t like force officers in the country.”

Also, Philemon KUZA @attamakuzawhile describing the incident as oppressive said “When Nigerians are serious, we all will rise against Oppressive Forces>”

On his part Aji Bussu Onye Mpiawa azụ 🇨🇮@AfamDeluxo said this is unacceptable saying such incident could only happened in Nigeria “Lol. An Army Major? Only in Nigeria. Tụfịakwa! He said.

Reacting to the unfortunate incident ÊÂŁÎŠŤ@simpleiykejnr said this is a “Very shameful act! A higher ranking officer watching this happen… I don’t care what the driver did. Military should never involve in violence against their citizens.”

Ọ́chichi@VC_Ekezie @HQNigerianArmy said “this is unacceptable. The Love and confidence that the citizens of this country have for/on you must not be diminished by acts like this.”

Meanwhile, not a few Nigerians insist that the outcome of the ongoing investigations by the Army authorities will prove whether erring officers could actually be disciplined when they go haywire in public disgracing their commission.

Military Reopens Umuahia/Owerri Road One Week After Attack On Checkpoint

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 21, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigeria Military, after over seven days of closure, has finally opened Abia’s major route to, and from Imo state.

The all-important Umuahia/Mbaise/Owerri road was, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, closed to traffic by Military authorities, following the killing of three of their personnel by gunmen.

Some yet to be identified gunmen had attacked and killed the three soldiers at a military checkpoint in Ekenobisi ,Umuokpara, along the Umuahia/ Owerri road in the morning of that day.

The armed men, also, dismantled the checkpoint, and destroyed all the sand bags used in its formation.

They later posted a video of the unfortunate incident, wherein they also railed at the Abia State Governor and security agencies operating in the State.

The killing expectedly elicited widespread condemnation both from the Government and groups.

Governor Alex Otti, while describing the incident as unacceptable, also, assured that every legal step will be explored to unmask the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

Regrettably, however, military operatives, since the sad incident closed the interstate road to traffic ,a development that unleashed untold pains and economic hardships on the already suffering populace .

The Military finally bowed to persistent appeal and pressure and the reopened the road on Wednesday November, 20, one week after the killings.

The Commanding Officer of the 145 Battalion, Umuahia, Major Martin Domkat, led a delegation of the Military authorities to the reopening exercise.

The Special Adviser to the Governor, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (rtd) who led the Government team, while interacting with the media, informed that the affected military checkpoint will be relocated to the Onuimo River for a more effective operation.

According to him ,the location of the attacked checkpoint,was not conducive enough for operational efficiency by the military.

While commending the supportive roles of the community’s traditional ruler and other leaders in facilitating the checkpoint relocation, Commander Ubah called for more cooperation with the military in its efforts to halt the security challenges facing the state.

He expressed satisfaction that the community leaders have already pledged to collaborate and share intelligence with the military on its renewed commitment to combating insecurity.

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