Security

2023 General Election: Stakeholders Task Nigerians on Security

By Web News 567

The need for attitudinal change by Nigerians, family stability and readiness to collectively realize a hitch-free 2023 election formed the central discourse of the lecture organized by the National Forum of Heads of Federal Establishment, NAFOHEADS.


In her paper entitled: Insecurity: a threat to domestic peace”, the Oyo state chairperson, of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Mrs Shola Sulyman said insecurity is a national problem rooted in the failure of families to foster the moral and ideal culture in the children who on the long run assumed a leadership position in the country.


 “Even as exert our political will to the nation to elect credible and effective leaders, we should not renege on our duties as husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncle’s to foster stable, safe and secured families and homes for our children.

The advantage will be that more of the candidates we have to choose from to lead us will surely stable minded and we’ll breed individuals. They will lead a right and give us the peace  that our founding fathers envisaged in the last line of the national anthem: …one nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.”


Mrs Sulyman represented by a FIDA member in the state, Mrs Olubusayo Ayegbusi said despite several billions of naira spent on the security of citizens had not been justified in view of the numerous security outfit put in place by the state government.


Speaking on the topic, Insecurity:  a threat to domestic peace and effective election, the chairman of, independent national electoral commission, INEC, Professor Mahmud Yakubu represented by the head of publicity, INEC, Oyo state, Mr Olayiwola Awolowo said the commission has made sufficient provision to ensure a hitch-free 2023 poll.

 ” We have sufficient materials that will give us hitch-free election”
“once the national assembly says diaspora voting has been passed into law, the commission has no right to reject it.”
Chairman on the occasion, who is also The Maye of Olubadan Chief Lekan Alabi, represented by Chief Femi Olaore appealed to Nigerians to collectively secure the country.


Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Mohood Balogun represented by Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Abiola Arulogun expressed optimism that insecurity in the country would soon become a thing of the past stressing the need for NAFOHEADS and representatives of federal agencies to continue to live up to their responsibility in the state.

Earlier, the chairperson, of NAFOHEADS, Oyo state chapter Mrs Omolara Esan said the two topics were chosen in view of the current socio-economic crises in the country.
  
Rotimi  Famakin

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Religion

Let’s see security, economic revival as collective responsibility – Cleric

By Web News 544

As the nation grapples with insecurity along with an economic downturn, a cleric says Nigerians should see emerging out of the twin problems as a collective responsibility.

Zonal Pastor, Glorious Parish, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Oyo province 1, College Crescent, Ibadan, Abiola Adio made the remark in an interview with Radio Nigeria.

Pastor Adio explained that though the mounting insecurity and dire economic challenges were worrisome, it was essential that people pray to God for divine assistance for those at the helm of affairs.

Pastor Adio said prayers would go a long way in seeing the nation through the current challenge, as no situation was impossible for God to address

He however, admonished Nigerians to live right as godly conduct pleases God and ensures answer to prayers

Funmilola Obagbayegun

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Foreign

Shinzo Abe Killing: Japan Police Faults Security

By Web News 435

Japanese police have admitted there were flaws in the security for former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who was shot dead in the southern city of Nara on Friday.

“It is undeniable that there were problems in the security,” said Nara police chief Tomoaki Onizuka.

A gunman opened fire on Abe at a political campaign event – a crime that has profoundly shocked Japan.

Sunday’s elections for the upper house are going ahead as planned.

Voting began at 07:00 local time, 22:00GMT, just two days after Abe’s assassination.

Analysts suggest his killing could boost support for the governing Liberal Democratic Party, LDP , for which Abe was a leading and hugely influential figure.

Elections for Japan’s less-powerful upper house of parliament are typically seen as a referendum on the current government.

Campaigning continued on Saturday with tighter than usual security.

Police say the suspect, named as Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, held a grudge against a “specific organisation”.

Japanese media quote sources close to the investigation, who say Yamagami believed Abe to be linked to a religious group which, Yamagami alleged, had ruined his mother financially.

The suspect has admitted shooting Abe with a homemade gun, according to police.

“The urgent matter is for us to conduct a thorough investigation to clarify what happened,” police chief Onizuka said, without specifying where he saw failings. He was on the verge of tears, addressing journalists.

Yamagami told police he had served in Japan’s navy, the Maritime Self-Defense Force, for three years. More recently, he had worked at a factory in western Japan.

Abe was Japan’s longest-serving prime minister and died aged 67. He was campaigning for the LDP in the run-up to upper house parliamentary elections on Sunday.

Current Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, also an LDP member, said he was “simply speechless”, vowing that Japan’s democracy would “never yield to violence”.

He said the election campaign would continue on Saturday with tightened security, with Sunday’s vote still set to go ahead.

Gun violence is extremely rare in Japan, where handguns are banned and incidences of political violence are almost unheard of.

Police are investigating why Abe was targeted and whether his killer acted alone.

Abe was giving a speech on behalf of a political candidate at a road junction when he was shot from behind. Photos show the suspect standing close to Abe moments beforehand.

Witnesses described seeing a man carrying a large gun moving within a few metres of Abe and firing twice. The former prime minister fell to the ground as bystanders screamed in shock and disbelief.


BBC /Taiwo Akinola

Security

IGP Orders Nationwide Security Beef-up

By Web News 385

The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba has assured Nigerians of efforts to improve public safety and security across the country during and after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The police boss also directed Commissioners of Police and Tactical Commanders in all the states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police to beef up security ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Thursday said this was to prevent any untoward situation across the country throughout the festive season and beyond.

The statement partly read, “The IGP has directed that supervisory AIGs and their respective CPs should ensure adequate deployment of officers and assets to prevent the occurrence of crimes and criminality, as well as build confidence amongst the citizens.

“The police boss charged officers and men of the police to engage in critical assessment of threat prone areas, thorough stop and search, raids on black spots and other anti-crime strategies capable of sustaining peace and public safety in Nigeria.

“The IGP equally warned that personnel deployed must be professional and mindful of the fundamental rights of the citizens, and discharge their responsibilities with all sense of decorum and alertness.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

Security

Security & You: Weekend Security and Safety tips

By Web News 598

By CP Adebowale Williams psc (+) fdc mnim

The Business of security is a collective responsibility involving everyone and not for law enforcement operatives alone.

01.  Own your personal effects, especially Handkerchiefs and Facemasks. Criminal-minded individuals have devised a new method of lacing these materials with sedatives to aid abductions and kidnap.

02. Don’t be a stranger to your kids, know their friends and interests. They might be a few minutes from being brainwashed into radicalization or criminal intentions.

03. Be careful when buying used items with ridiculous prices, especially Automobiles and  Electronic devices. They might have been stolen and those responsible for the theft are in a haste to dispose of them.

04. Never purchase items without a receipt or any other means to establish proof of payment. I.e Vouchers, receipts etc.

05. Ensure you know your vendors (Contact addresses and phone numbers) and always obtain receipts as evidence of Purchase.

06. Always look out for entry and exit points whenever for find yourself at a new location or environment. It also applied to when you’ve just moved into a new space. It might be helpful during emergency situations.

07. Do not display valuables in public spaces. When leaving your vehicles ensure your bags, Laptops are carefully tucked under the car seat. This would prevent the occurrence of opportunistic crimes.

08. Do not allow cash to bulge out from your bags or pocket when on the move. That way you’ve become easy prey.

09. Avoid “TELL IT ALL” Car stickers, especially if it says a lot about your workplace, its location and other contacts.

10. Ensure to have a valid means of identification at all times.

11. Make it a habit of shredding bank notifications generated from Point of Sales terminals/ATM Machines.

12. Be observant when driving especially if you feel followed. Seek help by parking at any Police formation closest to you at the time.

13. Visit your Children/ward in school occasionally and build relationships with the teachers and school administrators. 

14. Ensure your Mobile phones are on at all times in case of emergency situations.

15. Avoid leaving Artisans in your home, Shops and other places of interest without supervision.

16. Be mindful of Picture uploads and tell it all captions on Social Media. It may serve as leads to the criminally minded.

17. Avoid being sandwiched on Motorcycles and in “Micra”(local Commercial Vehicles)

18. Avoid boarding unmarked Vehicles and unregistered Motorcycles.

19. Ensure you inform at least someone about your location at all times.

20. If you see something, say something…

 In cases of emergency, the Command can always be reached through these emergency control room numbers: 615 (toll-free) (OYO STATE SECURITY TRUST FUND), and Oyo State Police Command emergency lines 07055495413 and 08081768614. The NPF Rescue Me app is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and I phone users respectively.

E-Signed

SP. ADEWALE OSIFESO Anipr, 

POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

FOR: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

OYO STATE COMMAND

Security

Okada Ban: Obaseki Assures Residents of Security

By Web News 440

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has pledged to sustain partnership with security agencies in the state to ensure improved security of lives and property of citizens of the state.

According to Mr Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser on Media Projects to the governor, it was gathered that Obaseki, while reviewing the state’s security situation for the month of May, said the ban on motorcycles in the Benin metropolis was still in force.

The review came after a joint security meeting with representatives of various security agencies in the state.

Obaseki said, “The ban on motorcycles in the main city is still in force. We only allowed tricycles in and around Semi-Urban areas. Motorcycles can still be used in rural areas where the road network is not as good as that of the city and that is the position in the state today.

“The bulk of the accidents that we are seeing is not from the city. We are witnessing them on the federal roads, particularly in the Ovia area and around Agbede and Ewu area. Those are the main areas where we experienced accidents because those roads are not quite motorable.

“We also noticed that there was a slight increase in reported drug cases. Kidnapping cases were stable for the month. We also witnessed a slight increase in armed robbery, which was not totally unconnected with political activities during the period.”

“The security situation in the state is fair. The cooperation level amongst the security agencies in the state continues to be very good and that is why we’ve been able to control the situation within the state,” he added.

On his part, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abutu Yaro, said, “Edo is now very, very safe under the watch of the governor of the state. It’s ready for business and ready for leisure, and at all times, the synergy of the security architecture of the state is second to none. You are all reassured that the best is yet to come.”

Punch/Taiwo Akinola

Security

Amotekun Commanders Synergize to Fish Out Perpetrators of Owo Attack

By Web News 609

Commanders of the Southwest Security Network codenamed, Amotekun Corps, are now in Ondo State to provide strategic support to security operatives that can lead to the arrest of perpetrators of Owo Catholic Church massacre.

This is just as the heads of Amotekun gave the people of the South West region assurance, that they would synergize in ensuring that the Owo attack does not occur again in any part of Yorubaland.

The Commanders include Retired General Joe Komolafe from Ekiti state; Retired Colonel Olayinka Olayanju from Oyo state, Retired Commissioner of Police, David Ajibola Akinremi from Ogun state and Retired Brigadier General Isah Aderibigbe from Osun State as well as the host, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye of Ondo State Amotekun Corps.

The Southwest Amotekun Commanders visited the scene of the Owo massacre; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye; the Deji of Akure and Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi and the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Jude Arogundade, where they vowed to track down the killers.

Speaking with newsmen, the Chairman of the Amotekun Commanders, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye urged the people of the Southwest to remain calm and support security operatives with the necessary information that would make them track down the criminals.

In their separate responses, the Deji of Akure, the Olowo of Owo and Bishop Arogundade commended Amotekun heads and their officers for ensuring the security of lives and property in the Southwest region, urging them not to be discouraged.

Leke Adegbite

Security

Security Expert Wants Govt. to Tackle Challenge of Out-of-School Children

By Web News 661

Failure to address growing number of out-of-school system is a time bomb in the waiting.

A security expert, doctor Antony Adebayo made the observation while speaking with Radio Nigeria in Ilesa

Doctor Adebayo explained that leaving children uneducated constitutes a security problem to the country. 

He pointed out that it had become imperative to make education compulsory for all Nigerian children, urging government to do whatever it takes to ensure that all out-of-school-children are enrolled.

The security expert maintained that educating children and youths was an avenue to build informed and productive citizens.

Doctor Adebayo called on youths to key into productive ventures to earn a living rather than engaging in acts that could jeopardize their future.

Adejoke Adebisi

Security

Oyo Government Reiterates Its Commitment To Security

By Web News 617

Oyo State Governor Engineer Seyi Makinde says his administration will continue to support security agencies operating in the state to deliver on their mandates.
He stated this at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, while receiving State Directors of the Department of State Services in the South West States, who were in the state to hold the South West Zonal Conference of Directors of State Services.
While emphasising that security is key to the successful implementation of government policies,governor Makinde praised the  team, led by its  Chairman, Sheikh Mohammed Waziri, for helping to tackle insecurity in all the nooks and crannies of the country.

“I am also happy that from your interaction, you have been able to come up with the fact that drug abuse and children in primary school becoming cultists is common. Yes, we can go after them just like you have suggested. We can win the war with brute force but can we win peace with the same force? For us, we think striking at the heart of what is causing all of these is Germaine. And if you trace it, it is economical. So, it is difficult to bring people to live peacefully together.
“When you have a situation where the resources are limited and we are all scrambling for it and we are not baking enough cake to go round, then there will always be serious issues where people will look for where they can gain a little bit of an advantage over the other people. So, I will ask that in your recommendations and course of action, let us also look at how we can win the peace. 
“And on this issue, I give you the assurance that when we have the South West Governors meeting, I will bring it up so that we can have a common regional approach to dealing with the challenges.

“For us as an administration, we know that the essence of power and all of these things that we are surrounded with is to ensure that people are able to live their dreams and go about their daily businesses in a safe and secure atmosphere.

The governor also charged the DSS to ensure it emphasizes issues that would unite Nigeria, adding that the country has never been this divided.

In a remark, Chairman of the South West Zonal Conference of State Directors of State Service, Sheik Mohammed Waziri, said  that the DSS understands the importance of security in a polity, adding that without security there would not be development.

He said:  “ We are concerned just like Your Excellency is also concerned about the increasing threat to local and national security in terms of kidnappings, cultism and famers/herders clashes. 
“We are also concerned that this is also a period that all hands must be on deck to ensure that we resolve some of those issues and, as an intelligence-based organisation, it is our responsibility to identify the threats, share the concerns, and identify the criminals and miscreants within both governed and ungoverned space.

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

Ogun Redoubles Efforts On Security

By Web News 630

Ogun State Government has announced a plan to relaunch the joint internal security operational platform, popularly known as OP  MESA, to complement the efforts of other law enforcement agencies towards enhancing the security in the state.

Governor Dapo Abiodun made this known at the inaugural meeting with the twenty local government Chairmen in the state, held at Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Governor Abiodun urged the chairmen to embrace hard work and maintain a cordial relationship with traditional institutions and security agencies in their various local government areas to promote a peaceful society.

The Governor noted that, though the allocation assigned to the local governments was insufficient to execute all projects, promised them the necessary support to carry out the tasks of developing rural areas across the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner of local government and chieftaincy affairs, Mr. Afolabi Afuape while appreciating the governor for providing an enabling environment for the local government chairmen to serve the people at the grassroots, appealed for more assistance to enable them to succeed.

Bolanle Adesida

Security

OGHA Wants FG To Improve On Security

By Web News 577

Ogun State House of Assembly wants the Federal Government  to step up strategies at improving on the security of residents of border communities, across the country. 
Speaker,Mr Olakunle Oluomo stated this while commending the intervention of the Federal and State Governments for their efforts at securing the release of an activist and an indigene of Ogun State, Dr. Kunle Garb.

Mr Oluomo gave the remarks in his response to the presentation of a member representing Yewa North II State Constituency, Mr Wahab Haruna, who notified the Assembly of the recent release of the activist through  the intervention of relevant stakeholders. 

It would be recalled that Dr Garb was arrested and prosecuted by Benin Republic authority for allegedly resisting Benin’s encroachment on the Nigerian land at Igbokofi village in Yewa North Local Government area of the State. 

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

News Politics Security

WE WILL SUPPORT YOU-HUNTERS GROUG OF NIGERIA

By Web News 812

The leadership and members of Hunters Group of Nigeria has declared their unalloyed support for Osun State Governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola.

The Commander General, Hunters Group, Joshua Osatimehin, this after the  inauguration of  the State Chapter of Hunters Group of Nigeria HGN by Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

Mr Osatimeyin charged the hunters  to show patriotism, integrity, diligence, loyalty and honesty in the discharge of their duties.

Inaugurating the Group, Osun State  Governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola emphasized the need for the hunters to work with other security outfits to complement the efforts of other security agencies in the state.

Governor Oyetola who described security and welfare as the paramount, said government would leave no stone unturned in the task of improving security of the citizenry.

He  noted that, security was critical to the Development Agenda of his administration as it holds the Master Key to the delivery of adequate, equitable, and qualitative service in all sectors.

In a remark, the State Commander Hunters Group of Nigeria, Chief Balogun Nureni Hammed, reaffirmed the commitment of his members to collaborating with other security agencies to protect the lives and property of the citizens.

Wasiu Ajadosu 

News

Oorelope LG Chairman Boosts Security Operations With Procurement Of Motorbikes

By Web News 958

As part of efforts to curb criminal activities, the chairman, Oorelope Local Government area of Oyo state, Mr Akeem Raheem, has presented five new Bajaaj Motorcycles to the vigilante corps and local hunters in the council.

Mr Raheem during the presentation which was held at the Oorelope Local Government Secretariat, in Igboho, urged the security officers to redouble their efforts and improve operational tactics in a bid to achieve the desired goals of securing the area.

He cautioned them against using the gifts for personal purpose, stressing that they were meant patrol by all the vigilantes and local hunters.

Mr. Raheem maintained that the procurement and presentation of the motorbikes were in conformity with the directive of Governor Seyi Makinde that local government chairmen must step up to the plate on the issue of security.

He assured the vigilantes and local hunters that more motorcycles were being expected to enhance efficient and regular security operations.

The chairman also charged the vigilantes and residents of the local government to dial the state’s Security Code 615 whenever there are security challenges.

Abisola Oluremi

Security

Residents Of Osogbo In Fear As Security Agents Patrol City

By Web News 1084

combined team of military and other security agencies patrolled the capital city of Osogbo as residents were perplexed.
In the early hour of today, soldiers converged around the Dele Yesir bus-stop  along Osogbo-Iwo road.

At about seven o’clock, the soldiers, in company of men of the police force, members of the NSCDC, DSS, Amotekun corps and vigilante groups were already on the main streets of Osogbo.
The patrol vehicles numbering over thirty moved from Dele yesir through the ring road, Stadium, Ikirun road, Ayetoro,Igbona, Olaiya Alekuwodo and other major routes of the state capital blaring siren.
Some residents of the city wondered what could be responsible for the development.
A businessman in Igbona area of the town, Mr Adedeji David lamented that the sight of large number of gun Wielding soldiers and other security personnel sent fear down the spine of the people who closed their shops in a her hurry.         However, in a telephone conversation, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security matters, Mrs Abiodun Ige said the development was to assure the people of security of lives and property.
Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps, Osun State , Mr Daniel Adigun told Radio Nigeria that the exercise was a show of force by the combined security team.
The police spokesperson of Osun State Command, Mrs Yemisi Opalola also added that the exercise was to remind hoodlums and cultists that the state had capacity to contain their excesses.
Mrs Opalola assured the citizens that they had no cause to worry as the development would further make them better secured.

    Adenitan Akinola

    Security

    President Buhari Pledges Improved Security

    By Web News 574

    President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged that his administration will use all available resources and manpower to deal with bandits and ensure that they did not create havoc against access to farms and food production in the coming growing season.

    Speaking to reporters at the State House shortly after observing the Eid prayer, marking the end of the month-long Ramadan fast, President Buhari emphatically said that the menace of bandits and kidnappers will be addressed to ensure that the nation’s food security is not threatened.

    The President, who hoped for a good rainy season this year said “the law enforcement agencies are working hard to regain confidence against bandits, so that we can go back to the land. This is very important. This is what the agencies are busy doing right now. We want people to go back to the land so that we can get enough food for the country and even export.”

    Explaining ongoing efforts to tackle the security situation in the country by the administration, President Buhari drew attention to the series of long meetings held in recent weeks, chaired by him, saying that a part of resolutions had been made public by the National Security Adviser and the others kept secret.

    The President commended the National Assembly for its support, stressing that “the National Assembly is cooperating very well. Within the resources available, they are certainly giving us priority on our (military) requests.”

    President Buhari made an appeal to the nation’s elite to show better appreciation of the problems facing the country.

    He appealed to Nigerians for more understanding of the current situation in country.

    President Buhari and members of his family were joined for the Eid at the forecourt of the Villa by the President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, cabinet members and the heads of security and intelligence agencies.

    Bello Wakili

    Security

    ‘We have put measures in place to secure farmers’ lives’ – Oyo Govt.

    By Web News 536

    Farmers in Oyo State have been assured that all measures are in place to secure their lives as the State government would not allow individuals masquerading as herders to halt the pace of development in the agricultural sector of the State economy.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon Ojemuyiwa Ojekunle, gave this assurance while addressing farmers from Ijaye Farm Settlement, at the Ministry’s conference room after a peaceful demonstration conducted within the State secretariat complex by the aggrieved farmers.

    The farmers have protested the destruction of their farms by cattle herders which has led to loss of their investments in the farms within the Ijaye Farm Settlement.

    The Commissioner noted that the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration is a government of the masses which holds farmers in high esteem, urging farmers to bear in mind that economic expansion through agriculture and its value chain is one of the four point service agenda of the administration.

    Hon Ojekunle said the government understood the plights of the farmers and would not leave any stone unturned in ensuring that farmers enjoy the fruits of their labour and secure their lives as well.

    Earlier, the Chairman, Ijaye Farm Settlement Farmers’ Association, Dr. Tunde Tairu while stating their grievances, said that herdsmen and their cattle have invaded their farmland and have turned farmers to slaves on government land for which they paid rent yearly.

    Tairu said further that the herdsmen could not be challenged because they were armed with sophisticated weapons and farmers were being threatened with guns anytime they challenge the herders.

    “In fact two days ago, one of our farmers that challenged them on his own farm got his left arm amputated right in our presence,” Tairu added.

    He noted that Fulanis have been terrorizing farmers for a long time but the situation has become precarious, as the herders have continued to rape and kidnap their family and community members.

    The protesters requested for massive presence of security personnel on their farmland and also appealed to the government to create an office for Amotekun officials in the community, with the belief that it would scare criminals among the herders away.

    Members of Ijaye Farm Settlement Farmers Association thereafter expressed gratitude to the State government for the privilege given them to express their grievances without prejudice, while also commending the Commissioner for the native intelligence he employed in handling the situation, noting that no government has ever given them such listening ears and opportunity for dialogue.

    They pleaded with the Commissioner to ensure that action is taken and promises made by the government are fulfilled in earnest.

    The peace meeting also had in attendance the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Bolatumi Oloko, Director of Crops and Farm Settlement, Mr. Opawusi, Director Animal Husbandry, Mr. Odedele and other members of the management team.

    Signed:

    Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

    Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Ibadan.

    Wednesday 3rd March, 2021.

    Security

    Ensuring security is a collective responsibility – Oyo CP

    By Web News 771

    Commissioner of Police In Oyo State, Mrs Ngozi Onadeko says people must see security issues as collective responsibility to continue to enjoy a safer and secured society.

    Mrs Onadeko stated this at a security stakeholders meeting held at the Police Headquarters Eleyele Ibadan.

    She said unity and collaboration from all stakeholders in Oyo State would assist the command to find a lasting solution to the issue of insecurity affecting the growth of the state.

    Mrs Onadeko stated further that crime had no colour, ethnic or boundaries, hence the need for people to live harmoniously without tribalising criminality.

    Contributing, Director, Department of State Service, Oyo State Chapter, Mrs Clara Okoroafor, spoke of readiness to partner the Police, realising that any nation where peace is absence, would retrogress.

    On her part, Federal Road Safety corps, FRSC Commandant in Oyo State, Mrs Uche Chukwurah said the corps was ready to sensitize motorists on the need for registration of commercial motorcycles and taxis as criminals most times make use of them in perpetrating evil.

    The Senior Special Adviser on Security to the Governor of Oyo State, Mr Fatai Owoseni lauded the police innovative and called on community leaders to caution their youths to stop harassing security personnel in the process liberating people that have been attacked.

    The Seriki Nsasa, Alhaji Haruna Maiyasin, promised to pass the message to the Fulani and urged them to always Report to the police anytime they sense dangers in their communities for quick interventions.

    A representative of farmers association in Oyo State, Mr Oyinlola Bolanle said they were faced with numerous security challenges but the police and government needed to quench the crises brewing among the farmers and headers before it turns to war.

    Olubadadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji called on the residents of the state to embrace peace and eschew violence in order to live with love, unity and tranquility.

    Rasheeda Makinde

    Security

    Insecurity: S/W Governors, Miyetti Allah Meeting On-going in Akure.

    By Web News 608

    Meeting between the Southwest Governors and the leadership of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN has commenced in Akure.

    The venue of the meeting, the Dome was fully occupied by security operatives.

    Present at the meeting were Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti state, Gboyega Oyetola of Osun, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi, Muhammed Abubakar of Jigawa, the host Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and a former deputy Governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore .

    The meeting is to find lasting solutions to the incessant killings, raping, kidnappings and crises between herdsmen and farmers in the South-west geo-political Zone,

    The quit notice order given to illegal herders in Ondo State forest reserves expired yesterday and the state government had expressed readiness to commence peaceful enforcement of the quit order to free the forest reserves of illegal occupants.

    The presidency had described the quit notice order as outside of the governor’s powers but the state government insisted that the order was lawful.

    Olorunferanmi Odofin

    Security

    Insecurity: Group Advocates National Homeland Security Strategy

    By Web News 518

    A Civil Society  Group has advocated fashioning out of a comprehensive National Homeland Security Strategy to prevent counter productivity of security outfits created by States and Local Governments,

    The National Coordinator of Network for Democracy and Development, NDD, Mr. Tajudeen Alabede who  made the call in a maiden Virtual Press Conference of the group on the state of the nation said the pragmatic National Homeland Security Strategy would  ensure devolution of more responsibilities to States, strengthening of community policing and help achieve greater national security in a well-regulated environment.

    Mr. Alabede lauded the coordinated efforts of the federal and affected States that led to the release of the abducted students of

    Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, Katsina State and pleaded that such feat should be recorded to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, the only remaining girl from among the abducted students of Dapchi, and the remaining Chibok girls who are still held captive by Boko Haram.

    The group decried the plans by educational institutions across the country to resume academic activities without adequate safety measures to contain the devastating impacts of the second wave of COVID-19. 

    He noted that for almost a year that the country has been battling with COVID-19, the nation is yet to take advantage of the pandemic and its attendant negative effects to radically overhaul the affected sectors, especially, education, health and agriculture, with a view to bringing them in compliance with the new realities.

    On the state of the economy, NDD recommended that the renewal of licences of DISCOs and GENCOs should be  based on performance while the government should look inward to generate power from other renewable energies that are cheaper and more readily available .

    The group also frowned at multiple taxation which continued to affect small scale businesses and called for more holistic way of harmonizing taxation in the country.

    NDD applauded the social investment programmes of the Federal Government but called for greater transparency as Nigerians who were covered by the programme should  have been issued with a national social security number.

    Mr. Alabede said the on-going process of verification of citizens’ National Identification Numbers should be used by the Federal Government to move Nigeria towards the emergence of a unified National Identity system.

    NDD noted that one of the ways by which Nigeria could have truly independent and viable political parties is through compulsory financial contribution by party members and hammered on  the need for a more transparent and credible leadership selection process that is not susceptible to brazen manipulation and hijack by money bags in political parties.

    Mr. Alabede also called for categorization of political parties in the country to national, local or issue-focused .

    The group called for review of the provision in the constitution which placed School Certificate as the educational qualification for election into political offices stressing that the minimum should be first degree or its equivalent.

    The group worried that many Nigerians still cared more about having

    their own people in positions of authority than having the right people who could deliver on the mandate of such offices while religion and ethnicity still defined the country’s politics.

    Ridwan Fasasi

    Politics

    New Year Message: President Buhari Promises Improved Security

    By Web News 737

    President Muhamadu Buhari on Friday promised to re-energise and reorganize the nation’s security apparatus and personnel of the Armed Forces and the police.

    The President in his New year broadcast said this was with a view to enhance the capacity of the agencies ‘to engage, push back and dismantle the operations of both internal and external extremist and criminal groups waging war against some communities in some parts of the country’.

    The President also promised to engage the youths.

    “Your voices have been heard and we would continue to listen to you, and all the key stakeholders who are committed to the unity of Nigeria to ensure that every region of this nation is safe for us all, while guaranteeing that the future is also secure for the coming generation.

    “Our young people are our most valuable natural resource, at home and abroad. Their ingenuity, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit is evident to all. Many of our young people are excelling in various spheres of life including sports, entertainment, information and communication technology, commerce and are globally recognised as achievers.

    “As a Government, we are committed to actively engaging with the creative energies of our young people. In this regard, we will partner with the legislature to develop an enabling environment to turn their passions into ideas that can be supported, groomed and scaled across regions. This will create vast opportunities in fintech, agriculture, business process start-ups, and in the entertainment industry. He said

                                  FULL TEXT OF SPEECH

    NEW YEAR SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

    1ST JANUARY 2021

    My fellow countrymen and women,

    First, I would like to thank and praise the Almighty who saw us through the year 2020 and has given us the opportunity to witness the start of another new year. We especially thank God because the year 2020 was one of the most trying years since our existence as a Nation.

    2. This can also be said about all other nations around the world, due to the challenges posed on our collective humanity by the novel COVID-19 pandemic.

    3. While acknowledging that 2020 was a very tough year, we saw this year put to test our national resilience and ability to survive these tough times and also gave renewed hope that we will again brave any storms that lay ahead in 2021 and beyond.

    4. As we celebrate the opportunity before us in this New Year 2021, we must also acknowledge the passing away of our brothers and sisters who didn’t make it into this New Year. May their souls rest in perfect peace.

    5. We must remember that we also celebrated the historic occasion of our sixty years as an independent and sovereign country on October 1st 2020. In the spirit of hope and gratitude, I would like to remind us again that as a country on the difficult journey to nationhood and greatness, we have confounded the many pundits at home and around the world who never gave the newly-born country that emerged unto the world stage on 1st October 1960 a chance of surviving much longer than a few years.

    6. Yet, here we are, 61 years by the next anniversary in October, and not only are we here, we are standing tall in the comity of nations as one country united under the will of God and also actively growing that indivisible Nigerian spirit that has enabled us, year after year, decade after decade, to weather all stormy waters and emerge stronger and better where others have fallen and disintegrated. This nation, this Nigeria will survive and thrive.

    7. In this journey to nationhood, we have experienced the highs and lows. 2020 indeed came with a lot of challenges ranging from security and economic issues across the regions to understandable protests that were mainly led by our youths and served notice to the demand for police reforms and accountability. This government heard, this government listened and this government is committed to fulfilling the five demands of our youths, fully understanding that we all wish well for Nigeria.

    8. In the midst of all these challenges, I had initially pledged that as your elected President and Commander-in-Chief, I would ensure that these ongoing challenges will be faced head-on with renewed determination and with all the appropriateness and urgency required. Your voices have been heard and we would continue to listen to you, and all the key stakeholders who are committed to the unity of Nigeria to ensure that every region of this nation is safe for us all, while guaranteeing that the future is also secure for the coming generation.

    9. I wish to also use this occasion of New Year to reaffirm my commitment to the people of Nigeria, especially the youth who need our collective encouragement and support. In securing this nation we need to secure the future of our youth.

    10. Our young people are our most valuable natural resource, at home and abroad. Their ingenuity, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit is evident to all. Many of our young people are excelling in various spheres of life including sports, entertainment, information and communication technology, commerce and are globally recognized as achievers.

    11. As a Government we are committed to actively engaging with the creative energies of our young people. In this regard, we will partner with the legislature to develop an enabling environment to turn their passions into ideas that can be supported, groomed and scaled across regions. This will create vast opportunities in fintech, agriculture, business process startups and in the entertainment industry.

    12. The year 2021 will indeed be a year where we will work to reinforce the hopes of fellow Nigerians in the vision of a united and progressive Nigeria. This administration would continue focusing on delivering key strategic priorities under our “SEA” – (Security, Economy and Anti-Corruption) Agenda. Some of the key priority areas we would direct our attention and strengths to include:

    ON THE SECURITY:

    13. Re-energizing and reorganizing the security apparatus and personnel of the armed forces and the police with a view to enhance their capacity to engage, push back and dismantle the operations of both internal and external extremist and criminal groups waging war against our communities in some parts of the country.

    14. In line with the current security challenges, we are facing as a Nation, I would like to reiterate the promise I made recently when over 300 of our boys abducted from Government Science Secondary School, Kankara were successfully rescued by our security operatives.

    15. The professionalism shown by our Security Forces and the collaboration from all stakeholders across both State and Federal Governments that led to the successful rescue of the boys is proof that Nigeria has the internal capacity to decisively deal with terror attacks on our citizens.

    16. However, we recognize that we rapidly have to move to a more proactive and preemptive posture to ensure that these sorts of traumatic incidents do not become a norm. Our administration is fully aware of the responsibility we have to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians, and we will not relent in learning and adapting to changing threats to our national security and civic wellbeing.

    ON THE ECONOMY:

    17. Our focus is on revamping the economy through the national economic diversification agenda that supports the primary goal of national food self-sufficiency. This has helped reduce the growing food related inflationary figures and have in considerable measure positively impacted our food security status during the long months of the pandemic lock down.

    18. We are also currently rebuilding our national infrastructure base and, in the process, introducing transformation through the rehabilitation, modernization, and expansion of the railway system, national roads and bridges both in rural and urban centres, alongside the airports and seaports.

    19. The reforms we have put in place in the power sector would guarantee increased efficiency in our drive to significantly expand the generation and distribution of electricity for use in homes and factories.

    20. As an administration we are currently undertaking a series of special interventions designed to boost job creation and support the entrepreneurial drive of our youths.

    21. With the recent opening of our borders, we expect that the pent-up demand of legitimate cross-border and international trade will boost the fortunes of the many small businesses and agricultural enterprises that depend on Nigeria’s trade and commerce.

    22. The message to our West African neighbours is that Nigeria is once again fully open for those willing to conduct business in a fair and equitable way.

    ANTI-CORRUPTION:

    23. On the anti-corruption drive of our administration, we have recorded substantial gains so far and this year, we are committed to continuing along the path of eradicating corruption, through collaboration with all the arms of Government to effectively prosecute this fight.

    24. While we would be working with the Legislature to enact laws that would strengthen this fight, we would also be looking at reviewing some of our laws which would ensure that this fight is more effective. On the part of the executive, we would ensure the diligent and timely prosecution of corruption cases, while appealing to the judiciary to ensure that corruption cases are dispensed with expeditiously.

    25. The persistence of various forms of violence has meant that in the most affected parts of the country, the fabric of inter-communal harmony woven through years of investment of effort at building trust, mutual respect, and harmony has been threatened.

    26. Insecurity as a challenge has direct repercussions on our national economic stability, growth, and development, setting us back at critical points through the destruction of public and private investments.

    27. In parts of the country where chronic poverty, social exclusion, and disillusionment among sections of the youth were already a problem, the cycles of violence that have been unleashed by mindless groups like Boko Haram and others have thwarted the efforts of government to undertake the social policy and associated investments that could make a huge difference in the quality of life of our citizens.

    28. I am aware that for some of our compatriots, the progress we have registered since the inception of this administration is not nearly as fast or as sufficient as they would wish. I do not begrudge them their views in so far as they signify a wish, in which we all share, for only the very best for our country.

    29. Nevertheless, I call upon all Nigerians to carefully recall the circumstances of our coming to office, the facts on the ground and the resources at our disposal since 2015 with the accomplishments of this administration.

    30. As a people, we have shown admirable resilience in the face of every adversity, an unmatched capacity to recover speedily from every setback, an unparalleled generosity of spirit when we resolve our differences, and a constant readiness to invest faith and hope in the destiny we share as a united country built on the diversity of its peoples.

    31. It is these attributes that underpin the Nigerian spirit of “can do, will do” that gives me hope that we shall yet get to destination and fulfill our calling together, especially with the solid resolutions we are setting in this new year.

    32. Keeping our country on a forward march is a duty which we all have and share. In this regard, keeping our country safe from a resurgent cycle of COVID-19 as this administration finalizes its plans to procure and efficiently and effectively distribute the COVID-19 vaccines, I urge you all fellow citizens to observe strict COVID-19 prevention protocols.

    33. As your elected President, my pledge to you is the same as it has always been; I will play my part fully and without fear or favour. I invite all of us to do the same. It is what we owe to the founding generation of our beloved country and also to the coming generation. It is what we desire for national prosperity for all demands.

    34. Long Live the Nigerian spirit of oneness, togetherness, and unity. Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I wish you a Happy and prosperous New Year.

    May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    FRCN Abuja

    Religion

    2020: God has been merciful and gracious to Nigeria – Pastor Akande

    By Web News 1458

    Governments at all level have been challenged to address the lingering security crises bedeviling the nation so as to realise the desired development.

    The cleric in charge of Region Eleven of the Gospel Faith Mission International, GOFAMINT, Pastor Ademola Akangbe gave the charge while assessing the security condition of Nigeria in the outgoing year.

    Pastor Akangbe lamented incessant kidnaps and killings in the country attributing it to lack of the fear of God by perpetrators, weak policy implementation and high unemployment rate.

    The cleric who stressed the need for Christians to intensify prayers for divine intervention on the restoration of peace also urged government to do the needful to strengthen the nation’s security system.

    Pastor Akangbe who said God had been kind and merciful to Nigeria for surviving hurdles of the outgoing year, however, expressed optimism that the nation’s security situation would doubtless become better.

    Rotimi Famakin

    Crime

    Edo Joint Security Taskforce Nabs suspected kidnappers

    By Web News 965

    Edo State Joint Security Taskforce at the weekend raided the Upper Sakponba area of Benin City and combed riverine communities, leading to the arrest of suspected kidnappers terrorising the state.

    The suspected kidnappers, comprising seven males, were arrested around Ogbemudia oil palm plantation on Saturday, barely 24 hours after the taskforce kicked into action.

    Prior to the operation, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Omozoje, had intimated Governor Godwin Obaseki on their activity in the state, promising to bring a halt to the recent rise in criminality and lend support to efforts at capturing fleeing escapees from the two federal correctional facilities in Benin City, the state capital.

    Maj. Gen. Omozoje also met with heads of security agencies in the state, making a case on the need for synergy among the agencies with a view to restoring peace and order in the state.

    On their operations in the riverine communities and other hotspots, he said: “Troops of the 4 brigade are on clearance operation at suspected kidnappers hideouts at Ogbemudia oil palm plantation and the river behind it. We intend to disrupt all kidnapping activities along the axis and secure the Benin-Auchi Expressway.”

    He also noted that several escaped prisoners and criminal gang leaders have been arrested, as the taskforce is focused on ensuring a reduction in crime in Benin metropolis and environs.

    He added that he is in synergy with the Commander 4 Brigade, Brig. Gen. UM Bello, and the Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Zone 5, Mr. Sola Davis.

    Security

    “I Will Continue to Support Security Agencies To Get Rid of Crime in Nigeria”- Aare Musulumi

    By Web News 702

    Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Dawuud Akinola has promised to always support security agencies in their efforts at ensuring crime free society.

    The Aare Musulumi made the promise when he played host to the Commissioner of Police in Oyo state, Mr Nwachukwu Enwonwu at a reception in his residence, Ibadan.

    Alhaji Akinola commended the Oyo CP for his efforts at ridding the state of unscrupulous elements since his deployment to Oyo state.

    He said there was the need for relevant stakeholders to complement the efforts of the police and other security agencies, hence his total commitment to supporting the Nation’s security apparatus.

    Alhaji Akinlola urged the CP not to relent in securing the lives and property of the citizenry.

    In a remark, the CP appreciate the Aare Musulumi for the gesture.

    CP Enwonwu vowed that the Oyo police command would not rest on it’s oars to making the state ‘crime free’.

    Oluwakayode Banjo

    News Analysis

    Re-orientating Nigerians to Be Security Conscious

    By Web News 918

    In the words of an advertising executive in the United States of America, Allen Kay, “if you see something, say something” without any client in mind.

    According to him, he wanted to create something positive in the days after the attack on the world trade center.

    Across the country, in communities, Nigerians share everyday moments with neighbours, family, co-workers, and friends. 

    Aside this, people go to work, school, store, or the gas station.

    It is easy to overlook these routine moments, but as people are going about their daily activities, if they see something that do not seem quite right, they should say something. 

    By being alert and reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement agents, they can protect their family, neighbors, and community.

    However, Nigerians in large numbers could be said not to have imbibed such culture.

    For example in march 2014, a kidnapper’s den was discovered in Soka area of Ibadan by a commercial motorcyclist where several  decomposed human bodies and human skulls were discovered, while many people were rescued from the kidnapper den.  

    Investigations, however, revealed that the den which was situated among human habitation has been in existence for years without the knowledge of the community.

    The killings in Soka could also have been averted if people  were security conscious.

    Also when the 19 year old, Oyo serial killer Sunday Shodipe was rearrested after his escape from a Police station in Mokola, he narrated to the press that he scaled the fence of the Police station to escape.

    The intriguing statement revealed by Sunday Shodipe was that people saw him while climbing down from the police station but decided to look away.

    The consequence of this action exhibited by this Nigerians led to the murder of another woman, Mrs Oladeji Funmilayo by the serial killer.

    This death should not have happened if people had been alive to their civic responsibilities.

    It is instructive to note that most crime and killings in the country could have been nipped in the bud if Nigerians had paid more attention to little details in their neighbourhood.

    Nigerians should therefore not see withholding of information or exhibiting nonchalant attitude as a norm as security agents cannot be everywhere.

    Perhaps the reason people show apathy and nonchalant attitude to issues of security and security agents is trust and injustice.

    According to social media accounts and other sources, Nigerians that have had interactions with security agents leave with one unpalatable story or the other.

    Some of these cases had led to extortion, unjustified detention, injuries and even death.

    Following this notion, security agencies need to as a matter of urgency redeem its image to gain the trust of the people.

    It is also imperative for security agents to make prosecution of criminals transparent for people to see that justice is duly served to motivate others to come out and give useful information.

    Security agents caught trying to compromise or subvert justice should be arrested and prosecuted.

    As the slogan of one of the security agencies in the country goes, “Police is your friend” Nigerians should see all the security agents in the country as their friend.

    To this end, when Nigerians give information to security agents, they may be doing themselves a big favour as that singular act could save a close relative or a citizen who in future could be part of their success story.

    Jeffrey Ahonmisi

    Security

    Prevention of Fire Outbreak

    By Web News 1409

    As Nigeria is still struggling to contain the spread of Coronavirus pandemic, the country has experienced six different fire outbreaks within two weeks.

    Treasury house, a building housing the office of the Accountant-general of the Federation located at Samuel Akintola Boulevard, Garki area of Abuja was gutted by fire on 8th of April this year.

    Few days later, officers of the fire service had a hectic day, putting out fire at the headquarters of the Corporate Affairs Commission in Abuja.

    The fire outbreak was said to have been caused by an electrical surge from one of the air conditioners in the building.

    And just last week, goods worth millions of naira were lost during a fire outbreak at a shopping complex at the popular Dugbe market in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital and after about two hours of raging, the fire was quenched.

    In another tragic event on the 16th of April sixteen, fourteen people were said to have died in an inferno that occurred at an internally-displaced-persons, IDPs camp in Ngala Local government area of Borno state.

    Just a day after, the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC was the next to record a fire outbreak on the 17th of April.

    The fire was said to have affected only the office of the Director of Election and Party Monitoring in the building.

    The incidents of fire outbreaks in recent weeks have continued to raise questions on how to forestall fire outbreaks in the country.

    It is worrisome that most firefighting gadgets and fire fighting vehicles belonging to government are obsolete. Or how can we talk about the fire incident at Dugbe market last week, if not for the intervention of firefighters from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, the incident would have wreaked more havoc.

    It is so sad that on many occasions, even when fire fighters arrived early to quench outbreak, they would equally complain of lack of water.

    It is imperative for governments to provide state of the arts fire service equipment and build more fire service offices in strategic locations in different parts of the country.

    Also, continuous training for fire fighters on modern day firefighting techniques should be put in place.

    Awareness programs on fire prevention and what to do during fire incidents should be taught at all public places, markets and religious centers.  The existing law on the need to place fire extinguishers at strategic places should be stressed and enforced.

    Education through the media on ways to prevent fire outbreaks include putting off appliances when not in use, dangers in overloading of electrical sockets, while people should desist from smoking indoors. Use of phones in kitchens and fueling of generators while in use should be discouraged.

    Thunder arrestors should be installed in buildings, while people should employ only the services of qualified electricians as wrong installation could lead to fire outbreak.

    To this end, it is pertinent for Nigerians to know that fire destruction is one man’s job while fire prevention is every body’s job.

    Olaolu Fawole