Author Archives: News All Around

Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

Manu Mani

The Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG) has raised an alarm over alleged unconstitutional tenure elongation schemes by Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen in Lagos, urging President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene. The non-partisan group highlighted three LCDAs where successors of deceased chairmen are seeking third terms, contravening 2018 constitutional amendments.

**Key Details:** 
1. **Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA:** Vice Chairman Famuyiwa assumed office after Chairman Arologun’s 2019 death, won re-election in 2021, and now seeks a third term. 
2. Onigbongbo LCDA: Chairman Dotun Adekanye, who succeeded the late Dayo Oke in 2020, died in 2024; his successor’s eligibility for 2025 polls is questioned. 

3. Ikosi Isheri LCDA: Vice Chairman Abolanle Bada, who took over following Abdulfatai Oyesanya’s 2020 death, now faces criticism for a third-term bid after a 2021 re-election. 

Legal Context:

The group cited the *Fourth Alteration Bill No. 16 (2018)*, which limits successors completing a predecessor’s term to one additional term. Former presidential aide Ita Enang clarified this applies even if the initial term was incomplete. Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution mandates democratically elected local councils, reinforcing term limits.

Appeals for Action: 

LSGG called on Tinubu to leverage his “moral authority” and past opposition to tenure elongation under Obasanjo. 

Urged the Attorney-General to issue advisories clarifying term limits for local governments. 
– Pressed Lagos State’s electoral body to disqualify candidates violating term rules and adopt reforms ensuring free polls. 

– “Our democracy cannot afford normalization of constitutional violations,” stated LSGG Coordinator Ademola Gafar. 
– The group referenced Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka: “The greatest threat to democracy is… incremental violations of established norms.” 

**Broader Implications:** 
LSGG warned Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, risks setting a “dangerous precedent” if unchecked. They cited transparent council elections in Ondo, Akwa-Ibom, and northwestern states as models. 

The LSGG vowed to pursue “all legal means” to uphold term limits, urging affected chairmen to “prioritize constitutional integrity over personal ambition.” The situation tests Tinubu’s democratic credentials amid rising scrutiny of Lagos governance practices. 

— 
*Reported by [Your Name], [News Outlet]. Follow for updates on this developing story.*

Luka Markus

Northern youth pressure group under the auspices  of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed grave concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State.

In light of the renewed and escalating insecurity that has left countless lives at risk, the forum has hereby called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima said, despite earlier successes recorded by federal troops in combating banditry, the situation in Zamfara has worsened significantly.

He noted that Armed groups have become increasingly emboldened, launching brazen attacks on innocent civilians, displacing families, and creating an atmosphere of fear and hopelessness, adding that the people of Zamfara are in desperate need of immediate intervention to restore peace and security to their communities.

“We must also highlight the role of the state government under Governor Dauda Lawal Dare in this escalating crisis. The Governor’s inaction, indifference, and total lack of concern for the plight of the citizens have directly contributed to the worsening security situation.

“Instead of taking decisive action to confront the bandits, the governor has demonstrated a total lack of preparedness and capacity to challenge these criminal elements. Furthermore, allegations of the excessive pillage of public funds have raised serious questions about the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people”.

The AYCF says they  firmly believes that a state of emergency is necessary to mobilize federal resources and restore law and order in Zamfara State and therefore urged President Tinubu to take such critical step to protect the lives and properties of the citizens and to hold the state government accountable for its failures.

“We stand with the people of Zamfara in their quest for safety, security, and justice. It is time for decisive action to end the suffering and restore hope to this beleaguered region” it stated.

ENDS

By Lateef Salami

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has faulted the recent protest led by one Comrade Kabir Matazu, which called for the probe and prosecution of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari.

The protest, staged under the banner of a group identified as Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, took place Tuesday at the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. The group accused Kyari of failing to settle a $2 billion debt allegedly owed by the NNPCL to a private company.

In a statement issued Thursday, YYC National Coordinator Comrade Eric Oluwole condemned the protest, calling it unjustified, narrow in scope, and driven by selfish motives.

“An objective look at the grievances of the protesters reveals that this so-called anti-corruption group is cloaking personal and selfish interests in the name of national concern,” the statement read.

“Why is the group focusing solely on an alleged single debt, while ignoring broader challenges in the petroleum sector that deserve attention—such as escalating fuel prices, supply disruptions, and declining output?”

The YYC argued that the NNPCL, as a corporate entity, has structures in place to handle debt claims and that singling out Kyari for attack was unwarranted and smacked of an ulterior agenda.

The council further asserted that Kyari’s time in office from July 8, 2019, to April 2, 2025, was marked by historic reforms, transformative projects, and efforts that positioned the NNPCL for long-term sustainability.

Some of the notable achievements under Kyari’s leadership, according to the YYC, include:

Implementation of the TAPE agenda (Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence), a strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing efficiency and corporate governance in the NNPCL.

Discovery of oil in Kolmani River-II Well, signaling significant potential for increased oil production in Northern Nigeria.

Peak crude oil production of 331,400 barrels per day in May 2020, setting a national record during a challenging period in the global oil market.

Renegotiation of Joint Venture (JV) and Production Sharing Contract (PSC) terms, cutting operational costs from $31 per barrel to $19 in some cases.

Execution of multi-billion-dollar funding and technical service agreements, including the $3.15 billion OML 13 and $876 million OML 65 deals that boosted production by up to 32% in key assets.

Acquisition of critical oil blocks such as OMLs 11, 24, 116, and 98, expanding NNPCL’s reserves and production footprint.

Development of strategic infrastructure, including the 614km Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, aimed at enhancing domestic gas utilization and electricity generation.

Expansion of NLNG’s production capacity through the signing of the NLNG Train 7 project, increasing output from 22 to 30 million tonnes per annum and attracting over $10 billion in foreign direct investment.

Debt recovery efforts, reclaiming over N80 billion and $45 million from gas off-takers and other partners.

Resolution of the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL) cost dispute with Chevron, unlocking a $2 billion settlement expected to benefit the federal government over the next two decades.

Sustaining fuel supply and eliminating smuggling through “Operation White” and digital verification of fuel distribution channels.

The council emphasized that these achievements are a testament to Kyari’s reformist agenda and long-term vision for the NNPCL and the nation’s energy sector.

“Kyari’s record speaks for itself. His leadership ushered in transparency, efficiency, and significant revenue gains for the country,” the statement said. “Rather than hounding him with baseless allegations, Nigerians should celebrate a public servant who genuinely delivered value.”

The YYC urged all stakeholders to rise above politically-motivated distractions and to support leaders who have demonstrated capacity, integrity, and results.

Former senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Comrade Shehu Sani today wrote off the protest held by some groups in Abuja against former Group Chief Executive Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) ,as nothing, but sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests .

According to him, most of the young guys he saw on the protest train , don’t actually know what they were protesting about, they just joined.

A group of protesters had on Tuesday stormed the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi to demand the prosecution of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

The group Led by its convener, Kabir Matazu, had expressed disappointment that, despite President Bola Tinubu’s removal of Kyari and the entire NNPCL board on April 2, 2025, no steps have been taken to investigate the alleged corrupt practices during Kyari’s tenure.

But Shehu Sani in a reaction to the protest via his social media handles said: “I came across some protesters at the Federal Secretariat Abuja,raising placards against the ex NNPCL CEO Kyari. Most of the young guys there, don’t actually know what they were protesting about.They just joined.

“It’s clearly a sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests against Kyari.”

The lamaker strongly believes that Kyari is clearly one of the GMD’s that has distinguished himself not only as a dynamic business administrator, innovative manager, technocrat , transparent and accountability advocate but shown great dexterity in his leadership style.

He however, warned against people being used to destroy reputation of good leaders who put their all while holding public office.

By Markus Oligari

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has extended its heartfelt commendation to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the state through the strategic partnership with the World Bank.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima said the collaboration, which encompasses a remarkable portfolio of eight major projects worth a total of $885 million, represents a significant step forward in addressing critical developmental challenges faced by our communities.

Shettima recalled that during a recent courtesy visit by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Governor Sani articulated a visionary roadmap aimed at enhancing the impact of these projects across various sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare.

“We applaud the governor’s recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state, particularly through initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls’ for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES),” Shettima said.

Shettima averred that these projects have not only laid the groundwork for sustainable development but have also provided our youth with opportunities for empowerment and growth, adding that the governor’s commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project, is a testament to his dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.

“As stakeholders in the future of Kaduna, we recognize the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of these initiatives,” he stated.

The AYCF urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government’s efforts in implementing these projects, stressing that it is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

“We also commend Mr. Ousmane Diagana for his recognition of Governor Sani’s strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna’s collaboration with the World Bank. Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership.”

The AYCF said it stands firmly behind Governor Uba Sani in his mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights. “We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State,” he stressed.

ENDS

By Mike Odeh James

A prominent Northern Nigerian Christian advocacy group has publicly commended Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for sweeping governance reforms while appealing for clemency in the high-profile case of Sunday Jackson, a death row inmate whose conviction has drawn widespread scrutiny. 

In an open letter addressed to the governor, the Congress of Northern Nigerian Christians (CNNC) praised Fintiri’s administration for “transformative impact” in sectors including urban renewal, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The group specifically lauded his establishment of new traditional institutions such as the Second Class Emirates of Hoba, Madagali, Michika, and Fufore, as well as Third Class Chiefdoms in Gombi, Maiha, and Yungur. These moves, enacted under the *Adamawa Chiefs (Appointments and Deposition) Law, 2024*, were described as fulfilling “long-awaited hopes” for inclusion and equity in the state. 

However, the letter pivoted to an urgent appeal for Sunday Jackson, sentenced to death by the Supreme Court in a case the CNNC claims violates constitutional protections. Jackson, convicted of murder, maintains he acted in self-defense—a claim the group argues is supported by evidence overlooked in court proceedings. 

Citing *Sections 33(1) and 33(2)(a)* of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which enshrine the right to life and permit lethal force in self-defense against unlawful violence, the CNNC called on Fintiri to exercise his prerogative of mercy. “Sunday Jackson’s prolonged incarceration and death row status constitute a grave injustice,” the letter stated, noting that local and international organizations have rallied behind his cause. 

Elder Stephen Bankoji, the CNNC’s National President, emphasized the symbolic weight of clemency. “This act would reaffirm [the governor’s] commitment to justice and humanity, resonating far beyond Adamawa,” he wrote. 

The Supreme Court’s ruling, which upheld Jackson’s death sentence, has faced criticism from human rights advocates who argue Nigeria’s judicial system often fails to adequately consider self-defense claims in homicide cases. While the governor’s office has yet to respond publicly, observers speculate Fintiri’s decision could set a precedent for similar appeals. 

The CNNC’s dual message—celebrating governance strides while pressing for judicial mercy—highlights the complex interplay between policy achievements and human rights concerns in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, paid a humanitarian and educational visit to Paradise College of Health, Science, Technology and Administration and Equipping the Needy Fountain of Hope Orphanage in Uke, Nasarawa State, where he donated funds and resources to both institutions.
Mr. Obi’s visit was marked by warm receptions from students, educators, and caregivers, as he used the occasion to highlight the central role of education, humility, and community support in national development.
Empowering the Next Generation

Addressing the students of Paradise College, Obi emphasized the critical importance of education, calling it the “bedrock of any prosperous nation.” He urged students to remain focused, to learn with humility, and to seek out trusted mentors and advisors in their journey through life.

“You don’t know everything. None of us do. That’s why it is important to listen, to ask questions, and to learn,” Obi said. “Surround yourself with people who understand you, who challenge you, and who want the best for you. That is how you grow.”
He encouraged students to view their education not only as a personal achievement but as a contribution to the broader health and progress of Nigerian society.
Support for Orphaned and Vulnerable Children
At the Equipping the Needy Fountain of Hope Orphanage, Obi shared moments with the children and staff, offering both financial support and words of hope. He commended the management of the orphanage for their commitment to caring for the most vulnerable, and pledged continued support for child-focused initiatives.
About Equipping the Needy
Equipping the Needy Initiative is a humanitarian non-profit focused on empowering vulnerable children and youth through education, healthcare, and psychosocial support.

The Fountain of Hope Orphanage in Uke is one of its flagship projects, providing shelter, education, and nurturing to orphans and displaced children across the region.
A Call to National Conscience
In his signature candid tone, Obi expressed frustration at the state of governance and social inequality, challenging leaders at all levels to prioritize the welfare of the people and reduce systemic neglect.
“We cannot keep ignoring the plight of the poor while pretending everything is fine,” he said. “An educated, cared-for population is the greatest investment any government can make.”
Obi’s visit reinforces his ongoing advocacy for social justice, educational reform, and responsive governance—a message he continues to carry beyond the campaign trail and into every community he visits.
________________________________________
For more updates on Peter Obi’s humanitarian engagements and the work of Equipping the Needy, visit http://www.equippingtheneedy.com

The most remarkable and halcyon spectacle of good governance in the present Republic is unarguably the government of Enugu State under the watch of Dr Peter Mbah. Ndi’Enugu are clearly unanimous in the praise and appreciation of the commitment of their Governor to make real the promises of democracy.

The Peter Mbah led government has redefined governance in so many ways that every so often the trophy cabinet of the State government calls for regular review and rework as monstrous accolades stream in almost on a daily basis. Enugu State has become the lead example of exemplary and servant oriented leadership. And Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is without an ounce of doubt a homo sequentum.

Have you googled Enugu State to see the remarkable strides in Agriculture? Have you searched the internet to see the monstrous strides in Infrastructural Development? Have you heard of the unassailable commitment of the Enugu State Government to the protection of lives and property? Have you heard of the Digitalised Control Centre that works for seamless synergy between Security Agencies in the State? Have you seen the beautiful Smart Schools that define the commitment of the Enugu State Government to Education? Have you read about the monumental investment of Enugu State in Healthcare, and the Healthcare Centres springing up across the Wards in Enugu State?

Have you seen the Cargo Wing of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport targeted at opening new frontiers for business? Have you seen the ongoing International Conference Centre and the Five Star Hotel project, with the profound intention of making Enugu State the go-to destination for Business, and for leisure? Have you seen the commitment of the State to Arts, Culture and Tourism? Have you seen the resurgence of Pipe Borne Water in Enugu State, and are you aware that no State in Nigeria comes near Enugu State in the restoration of Pipe Borne Water? Have you seen the level of work on both urban and rural roads that has turned Enugu State into a huge construction site? And have you seen the olympic strides of the State government in Skill Acquisition, Human Capital Development, and Empowerment? Do you think that the popular refrain THE FUTURE IS HERE is masturbatory? Folks, without a shade of equivocation Enugu State is the lucid manifestation of the greatness that responsible and responsive leadership engenders.

Within the past 6 months the Enugu State Government have been first in almost every parameter and sector of governance. Peter Mbah has been Governor of the Year. Enugu State has led the pack in Infrastructural development. Enugu State tops the chart in Healthcare, in Education, and in the commitment to the Security of lives and property. Yes, laudable laurels and trophies litter the Enugu tapestry, thanks to the unalterable commitment of the Governor to make Enugu State profoundly better than he met it.

The awesome strides of the Peter Mbah led government of Enugu State are so manifest that even the fiercest opponent of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah in the 2023 contestation for the high office of Governor, Barrister Chijioke Edeoga of the Labour Party has returned to the Governor’s Party, the Peoples Democratic Party PDP. And in doing so, Edeoga was emphatic about the great strides of the Peter Mbah led government. Edeoga was forthright in his call for Ndi’Enugu to support ‘the man who knows the way’, and ‘to stand with the man whose commitment to an Enugu State that works for all is without blemish.’

Edeoga’s return to the PDP and his profound testimony about the man that is consistently Making A Difference MAD in Enugu State enamours; and very striking however is the recent endorsement of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah by the leaders of Nsukka Community, and take note that Nsukka is arguably the largest voter demography in Enugu State.

In endorsing and applauding the Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah led administration, the Nsukka Leaders noted that they are overwhelmed by the strides of the government in Infrastructural Development, in Healthcare, in Education, in Urban and Rural Development, in Skill Acquisition and Human Capital Development, and in improving the general well-being of Ndi’Enugu.

Need I tell you that as the endorsements stream in, the humble People’s Governor of Enugu State has remained focused, Unfazed and committed to the promises that he made to Ndi’Enugu during the 2023 campaign season. To Governor Peter Mbah there is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off. And he is unwilling to allow the blinding lights of sycophants and Court-jesters derail his vision and dream of an Enugu State that meets the standards of a highly progressive world. To Peter Mbah The FUTURE IS HERE.

And to all advocates of good governance and servant oriented leadership I commend the watchman in the saddle at the Government House in Enugu, knowing that when in unison we applaud all vistas of good governance on our political kaleidoscope, we shall be redefining thereto the moral and ideological minimums of leadership in Nigeria.

To Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah a heart of love and admiration. And to Ndi’Enugu I say, The Future Is Here.

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr
Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVT.
A Good Governance Advocacy Group.

The story with the caption, 25 Persons Killed, Scores Injured As Armed Herdsmen Attack Enugu Village is not only built on devious masturbatory hallucination, but completely false.

Agreed that lately marauding herdsmen have been running amok across the Country, invading towns and villages, and leaving a trail of sorrow, tears and blood in their path. However, there was no such invaders attack on the agrarian communities of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State that left 25 persons dead.

This independent rebuttal of the falsehood targeted at diminishing the halcyon strides of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and the Enugu State Government in the area of Security is long overdue. We MUST not suffer ‘alarmists and fifth Columnists’ gladly. We have therefore chosen to debunk the devious falsehood of tale-mongers and bearers of false report and fake news.

Twice the false tale of marauding Herdsmen sacking communities in Enugu State have been bandied by those who are desperate to undermine the success of Enugu State in protecting lives and property. Not having any scores against the Enugu State Government in areas of Infrastructural Development, Education, Healthcare, Agriculture, and regarding facts about the profound strides of the Enugu State Government, naysayers have resorted to the Politricks Of Insecurity. They have chosen to hype isolated incidents and falsely alarm lovers of the State, Ndi’Enugu and Nigerians.

We, the Concerned Professionals For Good Governance (A Good Leadership Advocacy Group) upon seeing the news that has since gone viral regarding 25 Persons allegedly mowed down by Herdsmen in Enugu State proceeded to verify the news. We reached out to local Vigilantes, to Security Agencies as well as Agents of Government at the State and the Local Government level, sadly we found out that it was untrue. And we decided to query the possible reasons cum intention of the bearers of the false report and the fake news.

Enugu State has a premium time Digitalised Security Control Centre. Enugu State collaborates seamlessly with the Police, the Army and other Para-Military Agencies charged with the protection of lives and property. Enugu State is doing profoundly well in almost all the sectors of leadership, and Enugu State has become the go-to location for Corporate, Public Sector and Private Sector retreats and Conventions as well as Governmental events. It has become the shinning example in good governance. But Enugu State has also clearly become the envy of other States, such that Politicians seeking to diminish the laudable feats of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and His Team have resorted to the Politricks of fear-mongering and insecurity, but we shall not fold our hands and allow falsehood to stick.

Enugu State is arguably the safest State in the entire South, thanks to the commitment of the Enugu State to the protection of lives and property. This Truism have been attested to by Nigerians of different tendencies including friends and even members of Parties in the opposition in Enugu State. The commitment of the ebullient Governor of Enugu State to security is Olympic and indisputable, and not only is the State Government supportive of Security outfits with funding, the State has in place a Public and a Private Sector fueled fund to support Security Agencies in the furtherance of the Security of the State.

We can say without equivocation that Enugu State is safe and is deservedly emerging a preferred destination for investments, business, tourism, and living. It is proudly emerging a conferencing capital, ready and able to host tier one events such as the forthcoming NBA conference and Nigerian Guild of Editors Conference, among others. Ndi’Enugu are hospitable and willing to play host to legitimate institutions, as the State government in partnership with all available Security Agencies work seamlessly to guarantee peace and security in Enugu State.

We urge and encourage the media to always verify and validate information particularly issues bothering on Security before publication. That way, fake news on matters of Security will be shibboleth. And that way the Politricks Of Insecurity would cease to oil the frontiers of devious politics.

Enugu State is safe and will remain so, as the government is unalterably committed to the protection of lives and property.

Okechukwu Nwafor
Concerned Professionals For Good Governance. (A Good Leadership Advocacy Group).