Recovers skuchies, ‘suck and die’, opioids, assorted weapons in raids across Lagos, Ekiti, Kwara; destroys cannabis plantation in Kano
By Ebinum Samuel
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have intercepted a consignment of Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis, concealed in duvet, packaged for export to the United Kingdom through the cargo shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos. Two suspects: Adakole Sunday and Austin Balogun linked to the bid to export the consignment to the UK were promptly arrested following the discovery by NDLEA officers on Tuesday 21st January 2025. Six parcels of the psychoactive substance with a gross weight of 3.50 kilograms were concealed inside the duvet. In his statement, Austin Balogun who is the main agent who hired Adakole, claimed he was paid N700,000 to cargo the consignment to UK but spent a fraction of the money on export handling charges and the bulk to pay for an apartment. At least, two suspects: Joseph Oluwasegun Adewale and Biodun Adelakun were arrested at Igbo Olumo, Ikorodu area of Lagos when NDLEA operatives raided their hideout in the community where seven litres of skuchies, a new psychoactive substance produced with black currant, cannabis and opioids, were recovered. Other exhibits seized from the duo include: three locally made double barrel riffles; one locally made double barrel pistol; one English made pistol; one locally made single barrel riffle; three cartridges and one empty 9mm cartridge as well as an iron – head axe. Another raid in Lagos on Sunday 19th January led to the seizure of 47kg skunk, a strain of cannabis, and 25.46kg Nitrous Oxide popularly known as laughing gas at the notorious Akala area of Mushin. In Ekiti, a 26-year-old suspect Adepoju Taiwo was arrested by NDLEA officers on Thursday 23rd January with 1.950kg Canadian Loud at Iworoko road, Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, while Auwal Sani was nabbed by operatives on Monday 20th January at Bode Saadu in Moro local government area of Kwara State. A total of 50,000 pills of tramadol 225mg weighing 36.56kg were recovered from him. A Nigerien, Abubakar Lami, 45, with two others: Abba Sani, 35, and Auwal Aliyu, 32, were arrested by NDLEA operatives at Gadar Tamburawa, Kano, while 13.1kg skunk and 125 litres of ‘suck and die’, a new psychoactive substance were recovered from them.
In Gefen Kasa, Dawakin Kudu council area of Kano state, a cannabis plantation was located and destroyed by a team of NDLEA officers who arrested a suspect, Sabo Ali Muhammad, 45, linked to the farm. Meanwhile, across the country, NDLEA Commands continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization lectures and advocacy visits to worship centres, schools, workplaces, palaces of traditional rulers and communities all through the past week. Instances include: WADA sensitization lecture to students and staff of Army Children Secondary School, Oyo, Oyo state; Government Day Secondary School, Gwadangwaji, Kebbi state; Government Day Secondary School, Suleja, Niger state; St. Dominic Comprehensive College, Oron, Akwa Ibom state; District Junior College, Agege, Lagos; and residents of Pompomari community, Damaturu, Yobe stat, among others.
While commending the officers and men of MMIA, Lagos, Kano, Kwara, and Ekiti Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures of the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) also applauded their compatriots in all the commands across the country for intensifying the WADA social advocacy lectures and sensitization activities in every part of their areas of responsibility.
.. Operatives Recover Dangerous Weapons, Other Assets
By Ebinum Samuel
As part of the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to emplace peace and public safety across the country, police operatives attached to the Imo State Police Command have achieved a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against terrorism with the neutralization of three deadly terrorist kingpins associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
On January 24, 2025, operatives from the Command’s tactical Unit following credible intelligence launched a coordinated operation aimed at locating and dislodging the terrorist hideouts. The police operatives located the terrorists’ hideout in a forest within Ihube, Okigwe LGA. Upon approach, the operatives came under heavy fire from suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists but demonstrated exceptional courage and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
The operation resulted in the neutralization of 6 members of the terrorist group, with 3 being ESN kingpins identified as Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21)—all natives of Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area, and the recovery of five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), several communication equipment, along with 8 operational motorcycles used by the group. Prior investigations had revealed the involvement of the group in several high-profile crimes, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on April 5, 2021, the killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022, and the burning of Arondizuogu Police Station on February 8, 2022. The group was also involved in multiple kidnappings, including those of WAEC staff on June 5, 2023, four reverend sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023.
According to Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has commended the gallant operatives for their exceptional display of bravery and coordination. The IGP charges police operatives across commands and formations to sustain the tempo and implement the Force’s action plan aimed at reducing crimes drastically in the first quarter of the year 2025. The Nigeria Police Force remains unyielding in its goal towards ensuring national security and public safety. Members of the public are hereby urged to remain vigilant and work collaboratively with the Nigeria Police Force to promote peace and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
Ever since I started consciously monitoring the business of the government, I have always wondered why Nigeria’s yearly budgets unfailingly allocate astronomical amounts of money to buy the same items—cars, cutlery, furniture, etc.— that should last for years before needing replacement.What happens to the items that are replaced every year? Who keeps them? And what necessitates the ritual of replacing items in perfect condition every year, especially for a country that says allocating money for subsidies to make life a little easier for people is too much of a burden?I never wrote about this because I had assumed that there must be some arcane justification that I failed to grasp for this profligate annual budgetary ritual.Not wanting to be an ultracrepidarian (as people who comment authoritatively on subjects they have little or no knowledge of are called), I had chosen to simply wonder in silence— or perhaps ask people in government why they expend scarce resources to change items in excellent conditions, something everyday folks never do.READ ALSO :Farooq Kperogi : Petrol is cheaper in Atlanta than in NigeriaHowever, House of Representatives member Bello El-Rufai, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency and whose privileged position as the son of a former minister and governor should give him an insider perspective on why this practice happens, piqued my curiosity when he questioned it during a parliamentary debate in December last year.He quipped that since his boyhood every year’s budget has featured new computers, cars, utensils, and furniture even when these items don’t expire in a year.“We need to cut down on costs.,” he said. “The recurrent expenditure issue exists in every budget. Even as a young person like myself, I see that we budget for vehicles every year, utensils every year. To open more revenue streams or block loopholes, we need to scrutinise these ministries’ budgets. If they bought vehicles last year, they should hold off because vehicles do not expire.”The speech went viral because it resonated with vast swaths of Nigerians who had been caught up in what we call a “spiral of silence” in communication theory, which occurs when people suppress their opinions about an issue because they (often incorrectly) assume that their opinions are in the minority and therefore unwelcome.That someone who is deeply inserted into the inner sanctum of power by reason of both birth and positional privilege has articulated a thought that had been hibernating in the minds of millions of Nigerians was liberating. It reassured many people that their gnawing doubts about the moral propriety of Nigeria’s ritualized budgetary prodigality are not ill-informed or out of line.I thought the speech would ignite a soul-searching national conversation about Nigeria’s wasteful budgeting practices. However, it seems it didn’t. If it did, I must have missed it.But let’s face it. There are not many regular people on the face of this earth who change their cars, computers, utensils, etc. every year. Even wealthy people use these items for a few years before changing them.Why does a country whose governments routinely proclaim that they are too poor to be able to afford subsidizing the energy consumption of its struggling population spend stratospheric amounts of money to replenish one-year-old items for people in government every single year?Each time I write about the immorality of visiting avoidable anguish on the Nigerian population through the withdrawal subsidies, the standard retort I get from neoliberal apologists who care more about the happiness of the “markets” than they do about the health and vitality of the people is, “where do you want the government to get the money to pay for subsidies?”Well, how about from the same place where it gets the funds to change year-old items every year for government officials at the cost of billions of naira?Just because Bello El-Rufai raised this issue and his fellow politicians didn’t shoot him down, at least to my knowledge, I got curious and researched what happens in other countries.It turns out most wealthy nations of the world (who, by the way, extend various kinds of subsidies to their vulnerable populations) don’t replace cars, computers, and utensils every year as a matter of course.In the United States, the official vehicles of the president and the vice president are not replaced every year. In fact, “The Beast,” as the presidential limousines of U.S. presidents have been called since 2001, “have largely been on eight-year cycles for the past 30 years,” according to Autoweek.com.
The most recent model of the presidential limousine was introduced in 2018. It replaced the previous version, which debuted in 2009 during President Barack Obama’s administration. So, President Donald Trump doesn’t have a brand new car.Although the official vehicles for the president and the vice president have an eight-year replacement cycle, they undergo periodic upgrades to incorporate the latest security features, including communications, armor, and defensive capabilities. That’s more economical than buying brand new cars every year just for the sake of it.Members of the U.S. Congress (that is, members of the House of Representatives and the Senate) don’t have funds specifically allocated to them for the purchase of official or personal cars. They only receive allowances and benefits that may cover travel-related expenses.Most members of Congress don’t buy cars. They instead opt to lease cars using their congressional office budget called “Representational Allowance” for House members and “Senate office funds” for Senators), and lease terms typically range from 2 to 4 years.
That means they may switch vehicles periodically based on lease expiration.Only high-ranking Congressional officials (such as the Speaker and the Senate Majority Leader) or those facing security threats use government-provided vehicles for official duties.I also found that the replacement cycle for vehicles used by U.S. government agencies ranges from 3 to 5 years.The guidelines established by the General Services Administration (GSA), which manages the federal fleet, say sedans and light-duty vehicles should be changed every 3 to 5 years or after or after they rack up 60,000 to 75,000 miles, whichever comes first.Vans and trucks are changed every 5 to 7 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.Law enforcement and emergency vehicles are replaced every 3 to 6 years or after recording between 50,000 to 80,000 miles, with replacements based on performance, reliability, and safety concerns.
What happens to government vehicles that get replaced? According to the General Services Administration (GSA), most government vehicles, once they reach the end of their service life, are sold to the public through GSA Auctions, which is the federal government’s online auction platform.Auctions are open to individuals, businesses, and local governments. But the vehicles can also be transferred to other government agencies or donated through programs like the Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program, which provides assets to eligible non-profits, educational institutions, and local governments.Similarly, the replacement frequency of official vehicles for the UK Prime Minister and cabinet members is not yearly, as it is in Nigeria.Although change of cars for UK government officials is not governed by a fixed schedule as it is in the U.S., the Government Car Service (GCS), an executive agency of the Department for Transport, manages the fleet of vehicles assigned to cabinet ministers and other officials and determines when they need to be changed.In sum, most wealthy nations of the world don’t allocate funds every year for the replacement of non-perishable items used by government officials. It’s a wasteful practice that should have no place in a struggling country like Nigeria.
The funds allocated for the yearly needless replacement of cars, computers, utensils, etc. should instead be invested in programs and policies that bring relief to the people.I hope Bello El-Rufai will move beyond rhetoric and galvanize support for legislation that will enshrine a 5-year replacement cycle for items that are currently replaced every year in Nigerian budgets. He would write his name in gold if he did that. Farooq Kperogi is a renowned Nigerian columnist and United States-based Professor of journalism.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has successfully concluded a two-day leadership retreat aimed at refining the strategic competencies of its senior officers in transport management.Themed “Strategic Leadership for Effective Traffic Management in Lagos,” the event was held at the Colossus Lagos, Ikeja, on Thursday and Friday.Speaking at the retreat’s closing ceremony, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, emphasized the importance of proactive planning in tackling the challenges experienced during the 2024 yuletide season.Giwa stated, “Failing to plan is planning to fail. Reflecting on the hurdles we faced last year, particularly during the December festivities, we recognized the need for a comprehensive, strategic approach to traffic management.
This retreat allows us to equip our senior officers with the tools to ensure smoother and more efficient road journeys for Lagosians.”He further highlighted that the core responsibility of LASTMA lies in incident and crisis management, underscoring the need for meticulous preparation and leadership.The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, reiterated the agency’s commitment to human capital development, noting its significance in reshaping public perception and enhancing operational efficiency.According to Bakare-Oki, “Globally, the cornerstone of any effective system is human capacity development. Over the past three to four years, we’ve prioritized training, retraining, and reorientation to address public concerns and reposition the agency.
This retreat is a vital step in rebranding LASTMA and fostering professionalism among our officers.”He added, “Our mission is to safeguard the economic vitality of Lagos by ensuring road safety and reducing travel time for all road users. We are resolute in our commitment to creating accident-free roads across the state.”Former Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Ponnle Ajibola, who served as a resource person during the retreat, underscored the importance of agility, collaboration, and decisiveness in managing transport crises.“LASTMA must adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to crisis management.
Leaders must be flexible, engage widely with stakeholders, and build cohesive teams to leverage collective expertise in decision-making,” Ajibola remarked.One of the participants, Senior Traffic Officer Abimbola Kensington, shared her reflections on the training: “This retreat has been an eye-opener. I’ve gained insights into effective delegation and empowering junior officers to contribute meaningfully, which will undoubtedly enhance my decision-making.”The retreat reaffirmed LASTMA’s dedication to ensuring seamless mobility, fostering economic growth, and promoting road safety across Lagos State.
Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, makes no pretences about a robust arts and culture tradition, as vivacious as in good old Lagos. The National Theatre in Iganmu; the Musical Society of Nigeria’s (MUSON) Centre in Onikan; the *Goethe Institut,* *Terra Kulture,* and *Silverbird Cinemas,* all in Victoria Island, are some of the more popular cultural venues across *Eko akete,* (one of Lagos’s primordial cognomens). There used to be *Motherlan’* in Ikeja where the masked Afrobeats artist *Lagbaja* used to have regular live performances. Not forgetting the *New Afrika Shrine,* developed by Femi and Yeni Kuti, offsprings of the Afrobeats precursor, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, to replace the primordial model built by their father, in Agidingbi, Ikeja. The older facility elsewhere in the same Ikeja district, was serially buffeted by previous military regimes. It was indeed once reduced to rubble by agents of a *khaki-wearing* regime, because of Fela’s characteristically brave, caustic and relentless denunciations of martial governance. *The Truth Village* in Surulere, also in “mainland” Lagos is yet another culture bubble spot which ensures that culturally savvy in Lagos are spoilt for choice. Abuja does not, as yet have an organic, overarching structure to its cultural life.
True, bars and lounges which in some instances host deejays and smart in-house bands; restaurants, nightclubs are not in short supply. Literary events, theatre productions, musical performances especially by rated artists, stand-up comedy shows, however, only feature from time to time on specific occasions and designated venues. The exquisite *Transcorp Hilton Hotel* at the very heart of Abuja; the *Cyprian Ekwensi Cultural Centre* in Garki and the *Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre* in Abuja’s central area, are favourite hosting venues. The *International Conference Centre,* (ICC), also in Abuja’s central business district; the *Mamman Vatsa Writers Village* ensconced between the rocks of Mpape district, and the auditorium of the *National Universities Commission,* (NUC) are also helping with the cultivation of a sustainable artistic sensitivity amongst Abuja residents. There is also the *French Cultural Centre* in the upscale Wuse district, which is also playing a role in the awakening of cultural consciousness in the federal capital.In over two decades of my sojourn in Abuja, I have been privileged to enjoy performances and productions in many of the venues listed above. I witnessed an outing by the Haitian-American singer and rapper, *Wyclef Jean,* sponsored by Guinness Nigeria Plc, back in August 2004, at Abuja’s International Conference Centre. Nigeria’s *Tuface Idibia* shared the stage with him on that occasion, a performance which spontaneously produced the song “Proud to Be African.” The more polished, studio version of the song subsequently featured *Faze* and *Sound Sultan,* (of blessed memory), making it the product of a quartet and a very important platform for foreign exposure for the young Nigerian artists at the time. The perfected version of the song was released same year, 2004.Back in 2007/2008, *Chams Plc,* an information and communication technology, (ICT) company, got involved in the production of selected Nigerian epics, as a way of reviving the waning culture of live theatre. Led by Demola Aladekomo, Chams Plc obtained the rights to adapt five Yoruba novels written by the iconic Daniel Fagunwa, into stage plays for performance in select Nigerian cities. I was opportune to savour the production of *Ireke Onibudo,* translated into English and adapted for stage by Femi Osofisan, Emeritus Professor andcglobally acclaimed playwright and scholar. It was titled *The Fabulous Adventures of the Sugarcane Man* and performed at Abuja’s Transcorp Hilton, in 2009. Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo, departed friend and colleague, religiously produced his plays as soon as they were written. *The Killing Swamp,* an imaginary recap of the final hours of the renowned writer and *Ogoni* rights activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa before he was hanged by the regime of Sani Abacha, commanded capacity audience when it premiered at the Yar’Adua Centre.
The Abuja district of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA), flagged off its activities for year 2025 by hosting its monthly “Reading and Writers’ Dialogue,” Saturday January 18, 2025. The theme of the event was “The Writer As Catalyst For Progressive Change.” Abuja ANA Chairman, the tireless Chukwudi Eze, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, (FNIA), rallied his team to dig out from retirement, Nigeria’s former Minister and Ambassador at various times, Kema Chikwe, to headline the programme. Dr Chikwe was famously known on the nation’s political scene where she was very active since the gestational period of the Fourth Republic, including her stint as National Women’s Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), in its years at the core of national politics. A part of her which not too many people remember is her intellectual and artistic sides. For the avoidance of doubt, Chikwe studied French at the City University of New York, obtained a doctorate in curriculum education at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, (UNN), and taught for several years at the *Alvan Ikoku College of Education,* (AICE), in Owerri, Imo State. She authored children’s literature books like *Dibia’s Secret,* *First School Day for Adaeze,* *Kame Chameleon Tours the Garden,* (1991) and *My Precious Book.* She attempted to encapsulate the experiences of women in Nigerian politics in her 2003 book *Women of My Era* and returned to her first love, writing for young people with her book *Village Boys,* also published in 2003. Dr Chikwe attempted an overview of her stints as Minister, Diplomat, Chairman of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, (JAMB) and PDP National Women’s Leader in yet another book she titled *Across Borders.* Dr Chikwe spoke with a noticeably cracked voice, occasioned, perhaps by the present harmattan dryness and dust. She described the theme of the dialogue as “timely and profound, especially considering the pivotal role writers have always played in shaping societies and nations across the world.” Writers, she noted, have historically been the torch bearers of change, daring to challenge the status quo, advocate for justice and inspire action.
According to her: “Writers have stood at the forefront of revolutions, be it through literature, poetry, prose, drama, pushing boundaries and igniting thought and reflection among readers.” Journeys towards progress and development across the world, she observed, have always been fraught with challenges. “We have faced political upheavals, economic struggles, social inequalities and environmental crises,” she noted. Amidst all of these, writers according to her, “have remained resilient in their commitment to chronicling our stories, sharing our truths, and, most importantly, lighting the way forward.” One of the questions posed to her was about her son Naetochukwu Chikwe, whose stage name is *Naeto C,* and who is a popular Nigerian rap and Afrobeats musician. She confirmed her pride and happiness with how well he had evolved educationally, in his musical passion, and indeed as a family man. Vicky Sylvester, Professor of English at the University of Abuja chaired the panel of discussants. This included Andrew Bula of Baze University, Abuja, and the present writer. Attendees included Dr Joan Oji, ANA National Secretary; Dr Zakama Zabura, poet and author of *The Man Lived,* (1999); Jideofor Adibe, Professor of Political Science at the Nasarawa State University and author of *The Loneliness of Exile,* and Bella Anne Ndubusi, erstwhile Cultural Affairs Specialist at the US Department of State. Sunday January 20, 2025 featured a stage play titled *Tafawa Balewa: Golden Voice of Africa,* written by Ola Awakan and directed by poet and former President of ANA, Denja Abdullahi. Originally scheduled for Yar’Adua Centre, the performance eventually held at the NUC auditorium in Maitama, Abuja. Ola Awakan conceived of a series of stage productions on iconic Nigerians under the broad theme *Tales of Legends.* The first outing of Awakan’s outfit under this canvas was the production last July of *Abibatu Mogaji,* a play in honour and memory of the mother of President Bola Tinubu. It was written by Ahmed Yerima, a seasoned Theatre Arts Professor and staged at the banquet hall of Aso Villa in July 2024. The President, his deputy, Kashim Shettima and their families attended the performance. *Tafawa Balewa: Golden Voice of Africa* is a recollection of the evolution of Nigeria’s very first Prime Minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. Much as it is a tribute to Nigeria’s only Prime Minister, the play highlights the fact of the intentional preparation of Nigeria’s earlier crop of leaders, their deliberate self-development, in preparation for service to their people and their homeland at various levels.
The Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowos, Samuel Ladoke Akintolas, the Ayo Rosijis, the Nnamdi Azikiwes, the Michael Oparas, the Ozumba Mbadiwes, the Aminu Kanos, Sa’adu Zungurs, Isa Walis, attended some of the best educational institutions at the time, at home and abroad. They applied themselves to the grindstone of multifaceted grooming educationally and ideologically, empowering themselves for the liberation of their country from colonialism and for the leadership of their fatherland. Balewa attended the famous *Barewa College,* Kaduna, easily an “Ivy League” institution in the north of Nigeria in his days. He equally schooled at the Institute of Education at the University of London thereafter, before returning home to give back to his country as a schoolteacher. He was elected into the Northern House of Assembly and thereafter into the Legislative Council in 1947. In his engagements, his passion for Northern Nigeria was unambiguous. He was Minister for Works in 1952, and later Minister for Transport. Tafawa Balewa was Nigeria’s Prime Minister at independence in 1960, a position he held until the coup d’etat of January 15, 1966, in which he was assassinated. This snowballed into mass protests and violent riots across northern Nigeria. The play was capably interpreted by the cast. It was a colourful celebration of Nigeria’s diverse cultures, interspersed with specific dance interludes, showcasing engaging gyrations in representative costumes from Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Bini, Tiv, Nupe cultural repertoires. The dexterity of the musical department was remarkable. They seamlessly traversed the multicultural diversity of the country with corresponding beats, nuances and rhythms.
The production was watched by an urbane audience which included former Information Minister, Lai Mohammed; literary figure and activist, Senator Shehu Sani; and the wives of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN), Lawal Uwais, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El Rufai, Maryam Uwais and Hadiza El Rufai, respectively. Hafsat Abdulwaheed, poet and human rights figure; Albert Omotayo, Emeritus diplomat, and Shaibu Hussein, Director-General, National Films and Videos Censors Board, (NFVCB), were in the house. The Tafawa Balewa family was led to the performance by Saddik Tafawa-Balewa, a renowned filmmaker and son of the former Prime Minister. His brother, Mukhtar, author of the novel titled *Prince of Mali,* (2020) and I served as presidential aides in the Olusegun Obasanjo/Atiku Abubakar government. It was a fulfilling, albeit breathtaking Abuja weekend, during which one was wholly suffused in arts and culture, end-to-end. Football aficionados will rather describe the experience as a “box-to-box” cultural weekend treat!
Tunde Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), teaches Creative Writing at the University of Abuja
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni, has promised that the Commission as employers of the Police will continue to support the new recruit Constables who passed out today, Thursday, January 23rd 2025 from different Police Colleges and schools across the nation after a six months training programme.
DIG Argungu said the Commission will ensure that the new Recruit’s career progression will be predictable and within the requirements of established rules and regulations.
He however noted that the Commission will henceforth closely monitor their activities “from today and will not hesitate to sanction any one who deviates from the time tested established Police rules of engagement.” ” We will also commend and recognise gallantry and commitment to duty,” he assured them.
The PSC Chairman reminded them that the Office of a Constable ” is a dignified Office that deserves all the required dignity and respect”, stressing that the Commission “expects that you conduct yourself in a manner deserving of a Police Officer “.
DIG Argungu also reminded the new Recruits that the nation has and is still facing some security challenges that include banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and terrorism but noted that the President ” has however, graciously given a listening ear to requests for manpower improvement and provision of needed logististical support”.
According to him “it is obvious that the Police still need more of this support”. He however charged the new Recruits to go out and reciprocate Government’s good gesture and strive to work in partnership with other security agencies to eliminate or reduce the security challenges currently bedevilling our beloved nation.
DIG Argungu expressed happiness that the new Recruits have been able to successfully undergo “this strenuous and rigorous mandatory training programme which he believes would have prepared them for the challenging responsibilities of contributing to the maintenance of law and order and protection of lives and property in the Country.
He noted ” I am aware of the quality of training that you have been exposed to in the training colleges and wish to charge you to go out and make our nation proud”.
The PSC Chairman reminded them of the Constitutional Mandate of the Commission which he said they should be aware and which is provided in Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The Commission he told the new Recruits ” is vested with the powers to appoint, which includes recruitment, enlistment etc, promote, dismiss and exercise disciplinary control over Members of the Nigeria Police Force except the Inspector General of Police among other powers”.
He congratulated them for successfully completing the training programme “and for the nation to have found you worthy to wear this uniform ” adding that the sky should be their limit.
The PSC Chairman also wished them a rewarding and productive career in the Nigeria Police Force.
The Commission spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani confirmed that the Chairman’s message was delivered on his behalf at the different Police Colleges/schools by Heads of Departments and Units in the Commission.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare fsi, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, convened a significant meeting with representatives of cattle dealers and the Farmers Association to address the escalating tensions between the two groups in the State.
During the meeting, CP Azare emphasized the critical importance of fostering peaceful relations between farmers and cattle rearers, urging both parties to work towards resolving their differences for the collective well-being of the state. He expressed grave concern over the conflicts that have led to unnecessary violence, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.
CP Azare assured both farmers and cattle dealers that the police would take decisive action against anyone involved in fomenting trouble. He made it clear that the Akwa Ibom State Police Command would not hesitate to arrest and prosecute individuals who engage in violence, stressing that no one; whether farmer or cattle dealer, would be allowed to jeopardize the safety of the community.
He noted that the Police strongly oppose situations where criminals enter cattle farms, shoot the animals, and steal them, while opining that the anti-grazing committee includes some members of the Fulani community who assist the police in tracking down suspects and making arrests. “We urge farmers to report any incidents where cows enter their farms for grazing to the police promptly, rather than taking the law into their own hands.”
He further urged the representatives to take the message of peace back to their respective communities, advising them to emphasize that the police would take a tough stance against anyone found disturbing the peace that is enjoyed in the State. “We cannot afford to let lives be lost over matters that can be settled peacefully. The police will not tolerate any form of destruction of property, and anyone caught damaging others’ property will face the full force of the law”
In a firm but supportive tone, CP Azare reminded the gathering that both farmers and cattle dealers play an essential role in the society, and that any form of violence, whether physical or verbal, must come to an end. He stressed that the police are equally committed to protecting both parties and ensuring that the law is followed, with consequences for those who break it.
While calling for unity, the Akwa Ibom Police Boss emphasized the importance of addressing grievances through lawful means and assured the parties that the police would always be available to mediate and maintain order. He also warned against taking matters into their own hands, reinforcing that the law would take its course in any case of misconduct.
Responding, the Chairman of the Cattle Dealers Association, Alhaji Mohammed Mijinyawa, thanked the CP for his leadership and the opportunity to engage in a dialogue. He promised that his association would cooperate fully with the police and the government, stressing the importance of peace. He further assured the farmers that cattle dealers are committed to peaceful coexistence and vowed to caution his members to avoid any actions that could escalate tensions. Alhaji Mijinyawa also pledged to contact the police directly whenever issues arise, rather than resorting to conflict.
Mrs. Rosemary A. Ubia, the Permanent Secretary ministry of Agriculture , commended the Commissioner for organizing the meeting and pledged to convey the message of peace to her members. She assured the gathering that the farmers would avoid taking laws into their hands and would report any grievances to the police. Mrs. Ubia also appreciated the understanding and cooperation demonstrated by the Cattle Dealers Association and expressed optimism about maintaining harmony in the state.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both the farmers and cattle dealers agreeing to work together in harmony, while remaining committed to upholding peace in Akwa Ibom.
A Security Expert has unveiled, commended the policing methodology adopted by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Ahmed.A Lateef. This uncommon, proactive and innovative style of investigation by Lateef and his officers, been discovered by a frontline security expert, Otunba Gbenga Fanwo. Like the dictum which says that a golden fish has no hiding place, the activities of the personal of SCID in the past 12 months, according to Fanwo, is not only a paradigm shift from hitherto “crude and heartless” form of policing to a proactive and reformative one, but has
reposed people’s confidence on the police. ” My take on the events of the past one year in SCID, Yaba, has given me 85 percent of assurance that policing in Nigeria is gradually taking us to international standards. Those who were in Lagos in the days of Panti street knows what I’m talking about”” A research I carried out recently revealed that thorough-bred detectives trained and retrained in human relations, inquisitiveness, communication skills, problem solving, learning and growing, critical thinking and working well with others have become a norm to these detectives.
This is due to consistent lectures, seminars and workshops by Lateef in congunction with relevant authorities such as EFCC and the International Professional Security, IPS”. This, the expert said, has has positive result on detectives serving in this place. Fanwo, in his research, disclosed that over 2,0000 suspected persons charged to various courts in this past one year have equally helped to decongested the cells at SCID. “The usual crowd that was associated with SCID headquarters over the years is now a thing of the past as minor cases are given speedy investigation with detectives charging suspects to court without delay”.
Fanwo extolled DCP Lateef and his officers for their human rights record. ” Suspects are no longer kept more than necessary. Everyone is given fair hearing by detectives who listen to all sides” he said.Commending the police boss on the politeness of his personnel at the sentry ( gate), the security expert disclosed that from the personnel at the gate, visitors, suspects and complainaints to the headquarters of SCID on Musuliu Smith street, would have be in the know of the presence of well-behave detectives here. Fanwo, while giving kudos to Lateef he described as bookworm, said the regular assessment of detectives skills and competencies by the police chief, is a plus for their growth and learning .
Details of the meeting between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and leaders from Ogoniland have emerged, with the President committing to fostering peace, justice, and sustainable development in the region.The meeting, held on Tuesday at the State House in Abuja, was attended by notable figures, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and other prominent leaders from Ogoni communities.According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu assured the delegation that his administration would work to address the longstanding challenges faced by the Ogoni people.
He emphasized his commitment to resolving issues related to environmental degradation, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development in the region.The Ogoni leaders presented their concerns, urging the federal government to expedite the cleanup of Ogoniland, address security challenges, and implement sustainable economic programs to benefit local communities.
We cannot in any way rewrite history, but we can correct some anomalies of the past going forward. We cannot heal the wounds if we continue to be angry,” he was quoted to have said.President Tinubu directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to coordinate the negotiations, calling for inclusive consultation and mutual understanding.The President commended the delegation for embracing the Federal Government-led dialogue. The president also directed ministers, the NNPCL, and the Rivers State Government to cooperate with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to achieve this mandate.He said, “We must work together with mutual trust. Go back home, do more consultations, and embrace others. We must make this trip worthwhile by bringing peace, development.
President Tinubu said.“It is a great honour for me to have this meeting, which is an opportunity to dialogue with the people of Ogoniland.“It has been many years since your children and myself partnered to resist military dictatorship in this country. No one dreamt I would be in this chair as President, but we thank God.“Many of your sons present here were my friends and co-travellers in the streets of Nigeria, Europe, and America.“I know what to do in memory of our beloved ones so that their sacrifices will not be in vain,” the President said.On his part, Governor Fubara thanked the President for his support of the Ogoni people and for welcoming an all-inclusive representation of the people to the Presidential Villa.
He said the meeting was a follow-up to an assignment the President gave him through the National Security Adviser.“What we are doing here today is to concretise the love and respect we have for the President for being behind this meeting and for him to tell us to go back and continue the consultations with a timeline so that the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland will commence,” he said.The National Security Adviser also took turns in commending the Ogoni people, especially for their trust in President Tinubu.“Guided by Mr. President’s vision that every voice is heard and every interest is considered, my office, the DSS, the government of Rivers State and the Minister of FCT embarked on a diligent and consultative process to assemble this delegation,” Mallam Ribadu said.
He
added, “The presence of this delegation is a testament to the Ogoni people’s readiness to engage constructively in the pursuit of peace, justice, and sustainable development,” he said.
The statement further disclosed that a representative of the Ogoni leadership, King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII, the Gberemene of Gokana Kingdom, expressed the community leaders’ willingness to engage in the process of finding lasting solutions to the lingering challenges in Ogoniland.
Governor Fubara arrived at the meeting with Senator Lee Maeba, accompanied by a delegation of prominent Ogoni leaders, including Senators Magnus Abe, Olaka Nwogu, Chief Victor Giadom, and Chief Kenneth Kobani. Also present are Monsignor Pius Kii, Leedom Mitee, and Senators Bennett Birabi Barry, Mpigi, and Joe Poroma.
Other key attendees include the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abba; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed; Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; and the National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.It is understood that the meeting continued at the NSA’s office after the session with Tinubu.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demanding the reversal of the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs.
In a statement, SERAP described the tariff hike as burdensome to Nigerians already grappling with economic challenges.
The group warned that failure to reverse the decision would prompt legal action against the Tinubu administration.
SERAP emphasized that the tariff hike violates Nigerians’ rights to access affordable communication services, calling on the government to prioritize the welfare of citizens over revenue generation.
“The Tinubu administration and telcos must immediately reverse the unlawful increase in calls and data costs. We’ll see in court if the 50% tariff hike is not reversed within 48 hours,” SERAP said.The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Monday, January 20, approved the raising of telecoms tariff by 50 per cent in what shareholders believe was approved in a bid to improve telecom services.The approved increase was disclosed in a statement signed by NCC Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka.“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews. It will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”NCC noted that tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators, adding that the approved adjustment is aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised.
“These adjustments will support the ability of operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and connectivity, including better network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage.”
