The Nation Newspaper

Category: autopost

  • ‘Even crawling babies were not spared by our attackers’

    ‘Even crawling babies were not spared by our attackers’

    • Survivors of carnage relive ordeal
    • ’How my two hands were cut off in process of self defence’
    • My entire 21 relatives were wiped out, says victim

    Heaps of lifeless bodies and injured victims are the pathetic sights that confront a visitor to the scenes of the victims gathered by the search and rescue team set up by the communities attacked by gunmen in Plateau State. Many of the bodies of the about 140 victims of the ugly incident were those of innocent children.

    “The children were too innocent to be attacked by anyone for any reason. The only reason to kill such innocent children in a war situation is if genocide was the target of the attackers. So there is no doubt that the killings were purely genocide,” said Joshua Mangut in Bokkos.

    Instead of the merriment, bliss and exchange of love that usually characterises Christmas and the Yuletide, many Plateau communities including Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat and Butura Kampani are left to agonise over the death of their loved ones.

    Usually, from the 24th of December in such Christian communities, the mostly Christian families would have gathered all the foodstuffs and drinks they would need for the celebration of Christmas. This time, however, they were denied the opportunity to enjoy all that they had prepared for themselves.

    As the people were about to go to bed in the hope of waking up to another Christmas day, the gunmen struck.

    One of the victims, a 65-year-old housewife named Rebecca Maska, said: “We were in the house in Darunwat, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, preparing to celebrate Christmas.

    Read Also; Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    “We had finished frying our meat and I started washing the rice and had parboiled it to make my cooking the next morning faster.

    “After that, I set out to have a bath before going to bed. When I had finished bathing, I entered the room to dress up. Then I heard the sound of gunshots that moved rapidly close to the church.

    “One of our little sons told me that we should get out and run. We ran into the next compound, which was a traditional ruler’s house, to hide there.

    “Before we knew what was happening, the Fulani marauders had gained entry into the palace. We escaped through the back door and headed into the bush. We then hide in a place close to a river.

    “Before I realised was happening, a marauder behind me greeted in Fulani and shot me in the thigh. I shouted and fell down, and was left in a pool of blood while my children fled in different directions.

    “At that time, I could not stand up, and there was nobody to help me. I was there for more than three hours. That was when my son called the soldiers and told them that her mother was in the bush.

    “That was when the soldiers came to my rescue and rushed me to a nearby hospital in Barkin Ladi where I was revived. But the bone is fractured.”

    But many other victims in Darunwat were not as lucky as Rebecca as 17 of the villagers were killed in cold blood and were eventually buried in a mass grave on Christmas day.

    One of the villagers, Silas Malang, said: “Mourning and burying loved ones on a Christmas day is the most painful experience in my life. My family had prepared a meal for the next day, but we never ate the meal.

    “When the gunmen struck, we spent the night in the bush, and from our hidden place we keep hearing sounds of gunshots till dawn. It was a war we never prepared for.

    “By the time we returned home from the bush, the house we left behind was already in ruin, including our Christmas meal. Now we are in an IDP camp.”

    Freedom Alfred, a 12-year-old boy seen at the IDP camp in Bokkos, said amid tears: “I heard the sound of gunshots and was hiding to escape been killed.

    “In the process, one of the tall Fulani marauders shot me in the arm. I started pleading with them not to kill me, but they did not heed my plea as they continued to beat me and wanted to machete me.

    “I fell down and pretended to be dead. Then they abandoned me and left.”

    Another survivor, a 34-year-old from Barkin Ladi, Mascan Nanpan, told The Nation that the gunmen that invaded the communities were more than 500.

    Nanpan said: “Those that surrounded our village alone were more than 200, and it was difficult to escape. It was God that saved me.

    “I sat down and later decided to enter the room and locked myself in. On arrival, they forced the door open.

    “Immediately, they entered and called my name, and asked if I’m the one that work in so and so place. I pleaded with them that I was sick. The next thing they did was to machete me and vowed that I must die.

    “On lifting the cutlass up and trying to cut my neck, in self defence I raised my right hand and it was cut off. Still in the process of defending, they cut off the second hand too.

    “They also broke my two legs, and I pretended as if I was dead.

    “Still not satisfied, they inflicted cuts on every part of my body until they felt that I was dead. Then they set the bed ablaze.

    “When they saw that I still did not move, they concluded that the bastard was dead.

    “I can recognise two of them. But three of them came to carry out the operation. The two are well known faces.”

    A 45-year-old Febi Moses Chirang, who is the only survivor from his family, told The Nation that he lost 23 members of his family during the attacks.

    He said: “Most of the victims are the aged and children who were too weak to run. We saw them with guns, tall and light complexioned.

    “They came from the top hill of Josho. At the time I saw them, I came out from the house to pick firewood. When I saw them, I quickly called the attention of our father that some strange faces were descending from the hill top of Josho.

    “Then our father saw them. But before they knew what their mission was, the Fulani marauders had started shooting. They went straight to where the women and children were hiding and killed 21 of them. Some injured ones are being hospitalised in Bokkos and JUTH. All my relatives have been wiped out; about 21 of them.

    “Nobody knows the mission of the attackers. Our home has been destroyed and we are now in a camp.

    A more chilling experience was narrated by an expectant mother, Mrs Ruth Bulus, who lost her two children and husband and now lives in an IDP camp.

    She said: “When the killers entered our compound there was confusion and everyone was running for their lives.

    “My husband and I ran in different directions. It was needless to wait for anything.

    “The next day, I was told they saw my husband’s corpse in the bush, and later I heard that they saw my children’s massacred bodies.

    “Our house was completely burnt down. We could not remove a pin from it.

    “I don’t know where to return to after this camp.”

    Cases of displaced expectant and nursing mothers are many at the IDP camps. It was such situation that moved the Vice President, Ibrahim Shettima, to apologise over the failure of federal government to protect the victims from attacks.

    Shettima also said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was deeply saddened by the tragedy and shared in “this unspeakable sorrows that have shattered the joy of Christmas across the country.”

     He said: “When one community bleeds, the entire country feels the pains.

    “The pains we feel now transcend ethnicity and religion, geography or politics. Each of us here knows the pains of losing one or two loved ones.

    “Burying a member of a family is rear experience and indescribable nightmare.

    “We cannot really assuage your pains. What has happened to you is a funeral to the entire nation.

    “Our hearts bleed along yours my dear brothers and sisters from Bokkos and Barkin Ladi.”

    The VP added: “We came to power promising to uphold the sanctity of everyone’s life, and now is to assure you that these inter-community violence that has persisted on the Plateau for the past decade will never persist under our watch. We will harness all our resources to bring those responsible to justice.

    “We will not rest untill we are able to prevent the recurrences of this heinous acts.

    “Your blood and your tears stain our collective conscience. Why it may seemed that we have failed you in your time of need, while it may seemed that you are all alone, I assure you that this government, especially president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is here to protect you.

    “This government is here to deliver justice. We believe that justice is our collective foundation for our unity and our healing.

    “Our dear brothers and sisters in Plateau State, we appeal to you to resist the temptation to succumb to the poisonous rethorics of hatred towards your fellow citizens as we pursue justice and ensure your security.

    “These violence persist due to the dangerous practice of testing criminals as ambassadors of their groups, and where the law is taking into their hands where protection fails.

    “This is not the case now. This is a solemn promise I’m making on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “Please accept our condolences. Please accept our deepest apologies, because we won’t rest until you access justice and until you accept it.”

  • Troops kill 8,256 terrorists, rescue 4,620 hostages in one year

    Troops kill 8,256 terrorists, rescue 4,620 hostages in one year

    The Defence Headquarters says troops on operations across the country killed 8,256 terrorists and rescued 4,620 kidnap victims from January to December 2023.

    It also said that troops recovered 100,316,600 litres of crude oil, arrested 15,043 terrorists, 1,090 oil thieves and other suspected criminals within the year.

    The Director Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this yesterday  during a media briefing at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

    He said 11,015 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and members of their families surrendered to troops, while 953 terrorists were arrested during the period under review.

    Providing details of troops’ successes in 2023, the Defence spokesperson said troops of Operation HADIN KAI in North East killed 1,759 terrorists, arrested 953 suspects, and rescued 826 hostages, while 11,015 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists fighters and their families surrendered.

    Buba said troops also recovered 681 arms, 10,821 ammunition, 739 equipment and 2,059 livestock.

    On successes recorded in the North West against bandits and terrorists, the military high command said troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI killed 1,522 terrorists, arrested 645 and rescued 1,101 hostages.

    Buba said troops also recovered 53 AK47 rifles, 426 assorted arms, 2,342 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6,900 assorted ammunition and 5,084 livestock.

    Read Also; Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    On troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN in the North Central, the Defence Headquarters said troops killed 2,094 terrorists, arrested 2,316 suspects and rescued 630 hostages.

    It also said troops recovered 78 AK47 rifles, 666 assorted arms, 4,772 rounds of 7.62mm special, 7357 assorted ammunition and 4,734 livestock.

    “ Equally troops in the North Central Operation WHIRL STROKE in 2023 are 977 terrorists neutralized, 722 arrested suspects and 571 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 45 AK47 rifles, 198 assorted arms, 952 rounds of 7.62mm special, 1,666 assorted ammunition and 338 livestock,” the DHQ said.

    On troops operations in the North West against bandits and terrorists, the military high command said troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH killed 992 terrorists, arrested 345 suspects and 538 rescued hostages.

    Buba said troops recovered 34 AK47 rifles, 346 assorted arms, 4,792 rounds of 7.62mm special, 5,127 assorted ammunition and 830 livestock.

    On operations against oil thieves and bunkering in the Niger Delta region, the military high command said troops of Operation DELTA SAFE killed 448 terrorists, arrested 1,090 oil thieves and other suspected criminals and 309 rescued hostages.

    “Also, oil theft was denied 100,316,600 litres of crude oil, 60,339,426 litres of AGO, 3,465,450 litres of DPK and 3,544,990 litres of PMS. Additionally, troops recovered 321 assorted weapons and destroyed 1,016 wooden boats, 16 barges/vessels and 1,374 illegal refining sites,” Buba said.

    He said troops recorded successes against the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) through several operations within the year.

    According to hom, troops of Operation UDO KA in the Southeast killed 464 terrorists, arrested 907 suspects and rescued 518  hostages.

    Buba also said troops recovered 65 AK47 rifles, 150 pump action guns, 53 Dane guns, 85 pistols, 684 assorted arms, 1,082 rounds of 7.62mm special, 4,371 live cartridges, 5,825 assorted ammunition and 630 other equipment.

  • Our combined efforts have decimated terrorist leaders, foot soldiers – CAS

    Our combined efforts have decimated terrorist leaders, foot soldiers – CAS

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, says the combined efforts of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and other security services have decimated and obliterated scores of terrorist leaders, their foot soldiers and structures.

    Abubakar said this during the decoration of the 22 newly promoted Air Vice Marshals and 16 Air Commodores yesterday in Abuja.

    He said that the air operational efforts across various theatres had been decisive in curtailing the terrorists and cutting off their unfettered freedom of movement.

    Abubakar, however, said the threats posed by non-state actors to national security require the emplacement of more robust security architecture for rapid employment of airpower in all spectrums of warfare.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    The CAS urged the newly promoted officers to bring to bear their vast operational knowledge and skills in adding value to ongoing military  operations.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support to NAF.

    Abubakar saluted the families of officers and airmen and women for keeping the home front while their husbands were away for operations.

    Earlier, NAF’s Chief of Administration, AVM Idi Sani, said the officers being decorated were promoted after thorough and painstaking evaluation and assessment by the promotion board.

    He said that the board found the senior officers worthy in character and professionalism and recommended them for promotion to the next hierarchy.

    According to him, the promotion was a reward for hard work, dedication, discipline and sacrifice, and a challenge for them not to betray the system.

    “You must therefore continue to be diligent, focused and professional in the discharge of your duties and ensure you continue to add value to NAF and indeed the nation for recognising you today,” Sani added.

  • Ondo: Lobbying intensifies as Aiyedatiwa searches for deputy

    Ondo: Lobbying intensifies as Aiyedatiwa searches for deputy

    • Southwest govs to collaborate with Akeredolu family on burial

    • Say void left by late governor will be difficult to fill

    • Group urges Aiyedatiwa to nominate deputy within constitutional time frame

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa has come under immense pressure from various vested groups in the state over his choice of deputy, The Nation gathered last night.

    The groups and stakeholders are understood to be getting messages across to him on who will not only serve him, the state and the All Progressives Congress (APC), better as deputy governor but also  help the party’s fortunes in next year’s governorship election.

    More sympathisers, including a delegation of South West Governors and the Senator for Ondo South,Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, yesterday visited the family of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in Ibadan to offer their condolences.

    The governors  said they would collaborate with Ayedatiwa to give the deceased  a befitting burial while Jimoh said the Akeredolus  should not mourn because the deceased would make heaven.

    The Ekiti State government declared three days of mourning in honour of the late governor.

    Party sources told The Nation in Akure that the new governor needs a deputy who will help him in uniting the APC in the state.

    With Aiyedatiwa hailing  from Ondo South and the Speaker of the State Assembly, Olajidi Olamide, from Ondo Central, some party members expect the deputy governor to come from  Akeredolu’s Ondo North for the purpose of balance of power.

    Those who have been tipped to likely emerge deputy are immediate past Minister of State for Transport, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; a former Secretary to the State Government, Ifedayo Abegunde; Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Engr. Rasaq Obe; Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Victor Olabimtan; Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale; and a son of the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.

    A chieftain of the APC who pleaded anonymity said the issue of deputy governor would be discussed after the three days mourning period for Akeredolu.

    “There is supposed to be a stakeholders meeting after the mourning period. We cannot talk about it while the mourning is still on,” the party chief said.

    President Bola Tinubu had tasked Governor Aiyedatiwa to unite the party and the first step, according to a party leader, would be the extent of consultation by the governor in picking his deputy.

    An APC chieftain said: “It is the prerogative of the governor to pick his deputy. The consultation will be mere formality because he has a bigger task of winning the primary.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    “Some  of these people being paraded are not on the cards.

    “What Aiyedatiwa needs is a politician because he is not a politician.

    “The party is not united. He has been told to bring everybody together. His manner of consultation before picking his deputy would determine how far he is willing to go to ensure party unity.”

    It was gathered that Aiyedatiwa might pick his deputy from Owo to appease Akeredolu’s kinsmen and loyalists some of whom have already resigned from Aiyedatiwa’s administration.

    Another permutation is that he might move to have his trusted men in key positions by picking his deputy from Akure thereby paving the way for the removal of Speaker Oladiji and the new Speaker to emerge from Ondo North.

    Southwest governors to collaborate family, Ondo govt on Akeredolu’s burial

    The Governors of Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti under the aegis of Southwest Governors Forum plan to  collaborate with their Ondo State counterpart to give the late Akeredolu a befitting burial,their spokesman and Ogun State Governor,Dapo Abiodun said yesterday.

     The Forum said it had communicated same to the family of the late governor adding that a joint committee would be set up to achieve the cause.

    Abiodun, Ademola Adeleke (Osun),  Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) and Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal who represented Governor Seyi Makinde were at the Ibadan residence of the Akeredolus together.

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu came later in the day.

    Makinde is currently out of the country on holiday.

    Akeredolu was, until his death on Wednesday, Chairman of both the Southwestern Governors Forum and the Southern Governors Forum.

    The governors arrived the Akeredolu’s residence at about 1:15PM in a convoy of over 20 cars.

    Journalists were barred from entering the room where the governors were received.

    There was also a sign post  banning the use of videos, cameras and or recording on the door leading into the large room.

    A stern looking man was also on hand to ensure compliance with the directive.

    However, journalists were allowed to sit inside the compound where a canopy and drinks had been provided for sympathisers.

    Addressing journalists in company of the three other governors shortly after the visit to the family, Governor Abiodun said the late governor Akeredolu would  be sorely missed by all his governor-colleagues and  that the void he left behind would  be very difficult to fill by everyone.

    Governor Abiodun said: “We are all here, governors of the Southwestern state of Osun, Ekiti, Oyo and Lagos will soon be here, he had some flight issues.

    “We are here to commiserate with the Akeredolu’s family and also the Ondo state government on the passing of our senior colleague and brother, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who the Lord has called to his side.

    “Without a doubt, we are all still in a state of shock and disbelief. When we heard the news, we were shocked and in dismay but we cannot question God. In all things we are to thank God.

    “We thank God that Governor Akeredolu lived a life of impact on every side. He did well, not just in Ondo State but in the Southwest, the whole South and entire country. 

    “He was a senior advocate of law and a highly intelligent governor. He played a prominent role in ensuring that the Presidency returned to the South and he stood firm his ground. He worked so hard. He was reliable and dependable and we all feel very hurt at his death.

    “We as the governors of the Southwest have agreed that we will give him a befitting burial and we have people who will work with the family and government of Ondo State for  befitting funeral rites.

    “Governor Akeredolu was the Chairman of the Southwestern Governor’s Forum, he was the Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, a position that he held very courageously, very fearlessly. He was a learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a successful second term governor of Ondo State.”

    He said further, “All of us are here on behalf of our families, the entire people of our various states of the Southwest, to commiserate with the family and people and government of Ondo State.

    “Our prayer is that the Almighty God will forgive all his sins and grant the repose of his soul. We also pray that he grants the wife, his children, his family members, the people and government of Ondo State the heart to bear this very sad and shocking and painful exit.

    “This is a man who was an advocate for the Southern presidency. We recall vividly the reinvigorated Southern Governors Forum meeting in Delta about two and half years ago and he championed that course that the Presidency must come to the South and he stayed with it, amongst several courses that he championed and fought successfully.

    “Collectively, we will be partly, majorly responsible for the funeral rites in according him a farewell that he deserves. We have expressed that to the family, we will be setting up a joint committee of the Southwestern states to work with the family and collaborate with the government of Ondo State to ensure that we give him a deserving farewell.”

    Earlier before the visit to the Akeredolus’, the Southwest governors had gathered at the Oyo State Government Secretariat, Agodi Ibadan separately.

    On arrival, the governors were ushered into the private chamber of the governor for a closed door meeting.

    They were received by Makinde’s deputy, Bayo Lawal, proceeding in a convoy to the Akeredolus.

    Akeredolu sure to make heaven, says Jimoh Ibrahim

    Jimoh, who was accompanied by his wife Dupe and son  Seun,said Akeredolu’s good deeds while he lived would fetch him a place in heaven.

    “It is normal for us to cry when we lose our loved ones, but Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s death is not painful,” he told Akeredolu’s widow,Betty.

    “Death is only painful when you are not sure of heaven. So, Aketi’s death is not painful because he’ll surely make heaven.

    “Let us console ourselves by his dealings and relationship with people both the high and lowly in the country.

    “As the governor of Ondo State, his programmes were people -oriented and related with everyone

    “As a Senior Advocate, he fought for people’s rights pro bono and pressured all governments at the center to ensure Nigeria is governed on platform of true federalism.

    “No doubt, we will miss him a great deal for a long time to come.”

    Adebayo mourns Akeredolu

    Immediate past Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, described the death of Governor Akeredolu as a sad loss to the progressive family and the nation at large.

    In a statement yesterday , the former Minister said the late governor was a man who worked tirelessly for the good of the common man.

    He recalled his role in the setting up of the South West security outfit, Amotekun when the region was facing attacks from bandits who were killing and kidnapping the people of the region, saying  Akeredolu rallied his fellow governors to address the insecurity and ensure that relative peace returned to the region.

    Adebayo said the late governor not only excelled in his profession as a legal luminary by getting to the pinnacle of his career as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) but also led the profession as its national president.

    He noted that both in his chosen career and public life, the late governor demonstrated his commitment to the good of the people.

    Describing him as a nationalist, he said Akeredolu made a serious impact in ensuring that there was a shift of power to the southern part of the country in the last general elections.

    Ekiti declares three days of mourning for Akeredolu

     Ekiti State Governor  Biodun Oyebanji, yesterday  declared three days of mourning for Governor  Akeredolu.

    During the mourning period,all flags at public buildings across the state are to be flown half- mast for the three days of mourning.

    Oyo State governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, had also earlier declared a three-day mourning in his state in honour of the late Akeredolu.

    His declaration came on the heels of that of Ondo State, which had led the way in declaring a three- day period of mourning in honour of Akeredolu.

    Akeredolu died at 67, in Germany, where he had gone for medical treatment for prostate cancer.

    Group urges Aiyedatiwa to nominate deputy within constitutional time frame

    Ondo State Conscious Movement has urged Aiyedatiwa to urgently nominate a deputy governor within the constitutionally stipulated time frame.

    The organisation stressed the need for the governor to allow the rule of law to reign supreme to foster an era of unity, progress, and the enhanced welfare of the people. 

    Chairman of the group, Shalom Olaseni in a statement also expressed the organisation’s condolence to the bereaved  family , the Ondo State Government, and the people of the  state. 

    Olaseni said the late governor’s indomitable spirit, courage, and tenacity in the face of leukemia’s relentless grip, have left an indelible mark on the people’s hearts.

  • Plateau: security intervention averts fresh bloodletting

    Plateau: security intervention averts fresh bloodletting

    • Police set up special intervention squad to address attacks
    • Even crawling babies were not spared by our attackers – Survivors
    • ‘How my two hands were cut off in process of self defence’
    • My entire 21 relatives were wiped out, says victim

    Only an early intervention by security men in Plateau State on Thursday night helped  avert a fresh massacre in  Bokkos Local Government Area, according to reports yesterday.

    Bandits had already laid siege to Budel in Tangur district of the LGA , burning and destroying homes.

    Transition Committee Chairman of Bokkos, Monday Kassah who confirmed the development, however, said no deaths were recorded as the quick intervention of the security personnel saved the day.

    Amid the mourning trailing the Christmas Day attacks on Bokkos,Mangu and Barkin Ladi  LGAs, Police Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun yesterday announced the setting up of a special police squad to curb the incessant murderous  attacks in the state.

    Egbetokun unveiled the new security arrangement in Jos during a visit to personally assess the havoc caused during  the December 25 attacks which left 195 people dead.

    Survivors have continued to give their eyewitness accounts of the attacks.

    One spoke of how even babies were butchered by the bandits.

    Another told of how the attackers rendered  him armless for the rest of his life.

    Kassah said the death toll remained at  195 yesterday but said rescue operations were continuing  to find missing persons

    Bokkos LGA recorded the highest number of casualties -148,followed by Barkin Ladi with 27 while Mangu had 19.

    A total of 1290 houses were burnt down in Bokkos LGA alone.

    Speaking to reporters yesterday during the assessment tour, Egbetokun said the special squad had commenced work immediately.

    “We are deploying all our resources to ensure that this does not happen again in Plateau State,” he stressed.

    Continuing, the IGP said: “I am here to commiserate with the state government and to build the confidence of the people of the affected LGAs.

    “We have increased our deployment. I have given directive for deployment of a  tactical unit to go into the affected areas and other vulnerable communities.

    “I have specific instructions of Mr President to fish out the perpetrators of this dastardly act and to ensure the killings in Plateau State stop. And I am committed to that instruction.

    “We have started by deploying adequately; we are responding appropriately to this incident, and we are not going to sweep it under the carpet.

    “I also informed the people when I was in the governor’s office that a special operation has commenced in this state today with the deployment of the tactical unit. You can see me coming with the DIG Operation, the DIG Intelligence is here with me, the DIG Air Wing is here with me, the AIG of the zone is also here with me.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    “The AIG of the zone has been asked to relocate to Plateau until we record success in the operation that we are starting today.

    “These special operations we are starting today will form the nucleus of the special intervention squad. “I have made it public previously that the special intervention squad is going to commence in ten pilot states in Nigeria including Plateau State.

    “In this special operation, we are going to dominate the affected areas and ensure the criminals are brought to book, and never to come back for any attack.

    He sought  the cooperation of the people of the state in the fight against criminals.

    His words: “With the cooperation of the people of Plateau, a solution is in sight. I want to appeal to the people of Plateau to cooperate with the security agencies, support them with information, and actively take part.

    “These criminals have declared war on our state and we are all going to join hands together to fight this war. We should not see this war as a war against the Fulanis, we should not see it as a war against any tribe in Nigeria, it is a war against the criminals; it is a war against enemies of our country.”

    Governor  Caleb Mutfwang said  the IGP’s visit had “restored confidence in the people.”

    He expressed the hope that the police leadership under Egbetokun would not disappoint the people of the state.

    Plateau is under siege, no village is safe – CSOs raise the alarm

    A coalition of civil society organisations in the state – Plateau Civil Society Organizations Forum – yesterday said no village in the state is safe from bandits who keep making life unbearable for innocent residents.

    Addressing newsmen in Jos,President of the forum,the Reverend Chris Damcher said  the killings that started on September 7,2001 have now grown into massacres  and  barbaric acts of violence.

    He said:”As it is common with most of the attacks meted on communities, there are most often early warning security alerts circulated on social media.

     “We are fully convinced that such information usually gets to the security agencies and relevant authorities. But there is hardly or ever a proactive measure by the security operatives to counter the early warnings circulated or intercept the attackers in the act. 

    “It is no longer news that the attackers are not only after the lives of the community dwellers but truly their ancestral and God given lands to occupy.

    “From our observation and what is glaringly taking place on the Plateau is the sprouting of strange new  settlements and herders at the footage of the hills all around the Northern and parts of the Central Zones of Plateau State.

    “Meanwhile, the original owners of the lands have been displaced to the Internally Displaced Person Camps (IDPs) and other host communities where they are out of touch with economic realities.

    “The lands are being taken over and there is no government and traditional institutions fighting or promoting the returning of the IDPs to their ancestral land, while the grabbers are moving around freely and molesting citizens.

     “All community stakeholders should sensitise and create awareness on early warning response to issues of insecurity.

     “All necessary measures should be put in place for citizenry to get back to ancestral land and not remain in IDP camps or migrate to neighbouring communities.

     “Government should be more proactive in response to sending immediate relief to affected communities.”

    LG chairs condemn attacks, call for arrest of perpetrators

     The transition committee chairmen of the 17 local government areas in the state yesterday  condemned the Christmas day attacks in the state.

    Hamisu Anani, Transition Committee chairman of Wase LGA who doubles as chairman of the Association of Local Governments in Nigeria (ALGON) described the attacks as a monumental tragedy not only for the state but for Nigeria at large.

    He said the spirit of the people of the state would never be broken by the unprovoked attacks.

    He said: “these senseless and unprovoked acts are unnecessary and unjustifiable while appealing  to the sponsors of these attacks to reconsider their action, as there is nothing to gain from such violence. The spirit of the Plateau people will not be broken.”

    “We ALGON expressed sympathy for the affected families and communities and urged citizens to stand strong, assuring them that the government is actively working to address the situation while calling for calm in the affected areas.”

  • Tinubu observes Jummah prayers at Lagos Central Mosque

    Tinubu observes Jummah prayers at Lagos Central Mosque

    • Muslim community demands unrestricted access to Obalende Eid prayer ground

    President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, joined other Muslim faithful to observe the Jummah prayers at the Lagos Central Mosque on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street in Lagos Island.

     President Tinubu was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamilla, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and other senior government officials, to the mosque.

     During the sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos Central Mosque, Sheikh Suleiman Abu Na’Allah, urged the faithful to exhibit kindness to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

     He emphasized the need for Muslims to emulate the Prophet’s good character, highlighting the Prophet’s impartial treatment of individuals regardless of their status, religion, or tribe.

     The Chief Imam also stressed the importance of maintaining law and order, advocating for passion and discipline in the country.

     Prayers were offered for President Tinubu, members of his cabinet, and the nation, seeking Allah’s blessings for peace and tranquility.

    Read Also; Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

     After the prayers, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi Macfoy, Bashorun Musulumi of Lagos and the Vice Executive Chairman of Lagos Central Mosque, appealed to the President to direct the authorities in Dodan Barracks to grant unrestricted access to the Obalende Eid Prayer Ground for the Jama’atul Muslimeen Council of the Lagos Central Mosque.

     Alabi-Macfoy recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari had established a Special Committee to investigate and address conflicts between the Lagos Muslim Community and Federal Government Agencies, particularly those stationed at Dodan Barracks, concerning the management and control of the land.

     The committee, led by Professor Ibrahim Gambari, concluded its assignment with a presidential directive recognizing that the Obalende Eid Prayer Ground legally belongs to the Jama’atul Muslimeen Council of the Lagos Central Mosque.

     Former President Buhari also directed an end to the desecration of the Obalende Eid Prayer Ground, stopping its profane use as a dumpsite, and ordering the removal of all containers and debris from the prayer ground.

     Acknowledging President Tinubu’s role in resolving the matter during the immediate past administration, Bashorun Musulumi of Lagos appealed for the President’s intervention to ensure that Jama’atul Muslimeen Council has full access to the prayer ground.

  • Ex-ICAN President Ijewere dies at 77

    Ex-ICAN President Ijewere dies at 77

    A former president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Emmanuel Ijewere,  is dead. Senior manager of the corporate communications directorate of ICAN, Dare Muyiwa, confirmed his demise yesterday.

    The Nation learnt that Ijewere passed away on Thursday, after a prolonged illness.

    Ijewere was a  prominent businessman, who had a wide range of interests and experience in banking, finance, and agriculture. He  was the 32nd president of ICAN, leading the accounting body from 1996 to 1997.

    He also served as the president of notable organisations such as the Institute of Directors (IOD), and the Nigerian Red Cross.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    Born in 1946, the former accountant studied in Lagos, Ijebu-Ode, Cameroon, and the United Kingdom (UK).

    He began his accounting career in 1965 working at Coopers & Lybrand, and later established Ijewere & Co., a chartered accountancy firm in Nigeria, in 1979.

    The deceased also served as chairman and director in many companies, including Best Foods Group, Emson, Nigeria Agribusiness Group, Drum Resources Nigeria Limited, Apel Capital & Trust Limited, Countrywide Direct Mortgage Company, Kerildbert Holdings, Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), Gemini Pharmaceuticals, among others.

  • Tragedy as family of eight die in Imo auto crash

    Tragedy as family of eight die in Imo auto crash

    Eight people traveling home in a Sienna car for the New Year celebration have been killed in an auto crash at the Amanwozuzu junction in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.

    The incident which happened around 3pm on Friday became a source of sadness in the area as the deceased were said to be members of one family.

    Eye witnesses said that the father of the family who was conveying his wife and children in the Sienna car ran into a stationary truck carrying rods.

    “It was a horrifying sight  as the rods pierced the bodies of the victims and all of them died on the spot,” said an eye witness.

    Read Also; Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    According to the eyewitness, policemen and indigenes broke the vehicle to bring out the lifeless bodies of the family members.

    As of the time of filing this report, policemen from the Ikeduru Local Government Area Police Division had deposited the bodies in a morgue.

    The Divisional Police Officer in charge of the Ikeduru LGA, Lucky Ahiole, a Chief Superintendent of Police, told newsmen that the stationary truck was parked at the road side when the driver of the Sienna vehicle rammed into it.

    “It is horrifying. Eight died and we have taken them to a morgue. We had to break the Sienna vehicle to bring out the dead bodies. The rod pierced their eyes and bodies and even the children died.”

    But passersby called on the police to probe the owner or driver of the stationary truck carrying rods to know why he was blocking the road.

    They said that the tragedy could have been averted if the truck driver did not park on the road.

  • How I killed my police lover – Victim’s girlfriend

    How I killed my police lover – Victim’s girlfriend

    A 23-year-old girl, Amanda Uchechi Ugo of Umumbiri in Ahaizu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, confessed killing her police boyfriend last Tuesday.

    Amanda said during police interrogation that she shot the Police Corporal, Cosmas Ugwu, who was her lover after a serious altercation that led to a fight with him in his room at the Area Command Barrack, Ezinihitte-Mbaise.

    It was during the scuffle, Amanda said that she took the Police Corporal’s revolver, breach number 5199225 and shot him three times on his chest and hand.

    Confirming the incident on Friday, the police spokesman, Henry Okoye, said the operatives of the area command on hearing the gunshots rushed to the scene where they met Corporal Ugwu lying helplessly on the floor in his room with gunshot injuries on his chest and hand.

    He said: “On Tuesday, 26/12/2023 at about 1832hrs, Operatives of Ezinihitte-Mbaise Police Area Command, heard three gunshots emanating from the Area Command’s Barracks and tactically maneuvered to the scene where they met Corporal Cosmas Ugwu ‘m’ in his room with gunshot injuries on his chest and hand, lying helplessly on the floor in his pool of blood.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    “He was immediately rushed to Evergreen Hospital in Ezinihitte-Mbaise where he died while receiving medical treatment. His corpse has since been deposited at the morgue for preservation.

    “Sequel to the unfortunate incident Amanda Uchechi Ugo, ‘f’ 23yrs, of Umumbiri in Ahaizu Mbaise LGA of Imo State, was arrested at the scene of the crime by the operatives. More so, a pistol gun with breach number 5199225, assigned to the deceased officer was tactfully collected from her.

    “On interrogation, she volunteered a confessional statement admitting that she shot the Police Corporal who was her lover after a serious altercation that led to a fight with him.”

    Meanwhile the state Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Owerri, to carry out a comprehensive investigation and arraign the suspect in court with the appropriate criminal charge on completion of the investigation.

  • Two policemen killed as gunmen ambush Anambra PDP chief Uba

    Two policemen killed as gunmen ambush Anambra PDP chief Uba

    • LP’s Ozigbo escapes by whiskers
    • Police launch manhunt, recover vehicle

    The convoy of a  chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Chris Uba was Thursday night in Uga, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State attacked by gunmen.

    Though he escaped in his bullet proof vehicle, two policemen in his convoy were gunned down by the hoodlums.

    Labour Party (LP) governorship hopeful and former PDP governorship candidate in the state, Valentine Ozigbo escaped by whiskers.

    According to a source, the vehicles in Uba’s convoy were riddled with bullets.

    The source said: “We witnessed what happened. Chris Uba’s convoy ran into the men who were stationed at Uga Junction, leading to a shootout.

    “Uba was able to escape because he was riding in a bullet proof vehicle, but the policemen were not so lucky as they were killed.

    “Val Ozigbo was coming back from Owerri with members of his family when he suddenly saw a convoy driving ferociously toward his own convoy, and attempting to edge him off the road. He quickly told his driver’s to clear off the road to let the other convoy pass.

    “Shortly after they overtook Ozigbo, they ran into the gunmen at Uga Junction who started shooting, and killed two policemen. Ozigbo who parked while the incident was happening, later learnt that the convoy that was attacked was that of Uba.”

    Read Also; Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    Recall that last year, another top politician in the state, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s convoy was equally attacked at Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka local government area, where four of his security men and two staff members  were killed by gunmen

     When The Nation called Chris Uba’s mobile line, it rang but he did not answer the call.

     However, following serial attacks that happened on Thursday in Aguata, the local government of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, police authorities said they had launched a manhunt for the assailants

    This was revealed in a statement in Awka yesterday by The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga and made available to reporters

     He said, “Anambra State Police Command has launched an intensive manhunt for armed insurgents who infiltrated from a neighbouring state and killed two Police Personnel on 28th December 2023 at about 18.30 hours (6.30 p.m.)

     “The gang, disguised in military fatigue and seemed to be on a kidnap mission, were jolted on seeing two armed Police officers approaching their direction.

     “They opened fire on the officers who had moved ahead of the convoy they were escorting to decongest traffic gridlock. Other personnel returned fire, careful not to hit many motorists who were in traffic, forcing the bandits to flee.

     “Police-led mobile Forward Operating Base which had been on intensive patrol of the entire area throughout Christmas celebrations promptly responded to the scene.

     “It recovered a Lexus SUV the gang operated with and defused an improvised explosive device found in the vehicle. It also recovered an AK-47 RIFLE belonging to one of the slain personnel.

     “The Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye who had declared the weekend and Christmas holidays as special working days for all Officers and men in the Command commended all personnel for their tireless and courageous effort in securing the people of Anambra State.

     “He urged them not to be demoralized by the supreme price paid by their colleagues from Enugu State Command but to draw inspiration from their bravery in confronting the criminal gang.

     “He condoled with the families of the deceased officers and Enugu State Police Command and vowed that the personnel will not die in vain.

     “He has urged all officers and men of Anambra State Police Command to redouble their efforts and remain vigilant. He assured that technology would be employed to track down the criminals.”