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By Uzair Adam

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that investigations are actively ongoing into claims of banditry sponsorship in the North-West region of Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the DHQ’s Director of Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, assuring that relevant agencies are thoroughly examining the matter.

These investigations follow accusations and counter-accusations between the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and his successor as Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal, concerning the alleged funding of banditry in the region.

Earlier this week, Matawalle challenged Lawal to swear by the Holy Qur’an, denying any involvement in the sponsorship of bandits.

Lawal responded by stating he had evidence implicating Matawalle, and that he had reported the case to the National Security Adviser and President Bola Tinubu.

When asked about the military’s involvement in the situation, Maj. Gen. Buba reiterated that the appropriate agencies were handling the investigation and that updates would soon follow.

“Our focus remains on defeating the bandits and undermining their will to continue fighting. Once we destroy their will to fight, the war is over,” Buba stated, noting the military’s achievements between July and September 2024, including the neutralization of 1,937 terrorists, among whom were 65 key insurgent leaders.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The civil defence, correctional, fire and immigration services board has suspended it’s senior officers of the service, following the viral video trending on social media on alleged infractions by Officers of the Nigerian correctional service relating to Mr. Idris Okuneye widely known as Bobrisky.

The board has suspended Michael Anugwa, deputy controller corrections (DCC), in charge of medium security custodial center (MSCC), kiri-kiri Lagos State, and Sikiru Adekunle, deputy controller of corrections (DCC), in-charge of maximum security custodial center (MSCC), kiri-kiri, Lagos State.

Also the board suspended ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, serving at medium security custodial center (MSCC), Afikpo, Ebonyi state, for allegedly accompanying a convicted inmate out of the custodial center to a location outside the facility.

In another related development, the board has equally suspended another senior officer of the service, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, deputy controller of corrections ( DCC), in charge of media custodial center (MSCC), Kuje-Abuja, for allegedly receiving monies on behalf of an inmate.

The suspension of these Officers is to allow for further investigation on the various allegation while assuming that the outcome would be made public when concluded.

By Anas Abbas

Seaman Abbas, a Nigerian Navy personnel who spent six years in detention without trial, has finally regained his freedom.

Abbas’s release was confirmed when he appeared alongside his wife on the popular Brekete Family Talk Show, amidst tears and jubilation.

The emotional reunion was witnessed by millions of viewers, as Abbas recounted his harrowing experience in naval custody.

Abbas’s wife, who was visibly shaken, expressed gratitude to human rights organizations and advocates who fought for her husband’s release.

“We are thankful to everyone who stood by us. We are grateful to the Brekete Family for providing a platform to share our story,” she said.

The Brekete Family Talk Show’s host, Ordinary Ahmed Isa, hailed Abbas’s release as a victory for justice and human rights.

“Seaman Abbas’s case is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of protecting human rights. We will continue to amplify the voices of the marginalized,” Isa said.

Abbas’s release has sparked widespread celebration, with many calling for reforms in Nigeria’s military justice system.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Yobe photographer, Saidu Abdulrahman, has set a new benchmark by capturing 897 pictures in just 60 minutes, aiming to surpass the existing Guinness World Record of 500.

The record-breaking attempt came on Wednesday in Potiskum Local Government Area, witnessed by government officials, students, and well-wishers. 

Mr. Abdulrahman, 28, revealed that this remarkable feat was the result of 12 months of preparation. He expressed optimism about receiving formal recognition from Guinness World Records.

“I snapped 897 pictures in one hour, surpassing our target of 600 in spite of numerous challenges,” he stated.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to prioritise the development of his state while assuring him of the full support of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).

President Tinubu advised on Thursday in Abuja at a meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress party, where the Edo governor-elect and the deputy governor-elect, Rep.

Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return.President Tinubu emphasised the importance of good governance and delivering results to the people of Edo State.

‘’Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes, and I believe you are up to the task,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges of democracy, particularly in emerging economies like Nigeria, the President added, ”You have earned the victory. Democracy is difficult, particularly in emerging democracies and economies like ours.

”If you hear complaints from places like America, you know how difficult it is to navigate democracy. But it remains the best form of government.

”The President congratulated Senator Okpebholo and his deputy and described them as a ”good symbol of people ordained by God to work together.””

By Uzair Adam

Justice Haleemah Salman of the Kwara State High Court has convicted five individuals linked to the 2018 Offa robbery incident, sentencing them to death for armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, and culpable homicide.

The judge, during a judgement session that lasted three and a half hours, stated that all the evidence presented by the prosecution proved the suspects’ guilt.

The robbery, which occurred in April 2018, involved the killing of over 30 people, including policemen, and the looting of several banks in the community.In addition to the death sentence, the suspects received a three-year prison term for illegal possession of firearms.

The convicted individuals include Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibikunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salahudeen Azeez, and Niyi Ogundiran.

A sixth suspect, Michael Adikwu, died while in custody.Speaking after the judgement, the prosecution counsel attributed the lengthy trial to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other national assignments.

Meanwhile, the defence counsel announced plans to appeal the ruling.

The high-profile robbery case initially shocked the nation, prompting the then Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, to offer a N5 million bounty for information leading to the capture and prosecution of the suspects.

The trial, which spanned six years, saw Thursday’s judgement bringing some closure to one of Nigeria’s most infamous robbery cases.

By Hassan Abdulkadir

The Fulani are traditionally a nomadic, pastoralist trading people across the dry hinterlands of their domain. They are the largest nomadic ethnic group in the world, inhabiting several territories over an area larger than the continental United States.

The Fulani follow a code of behaviour known as “PULAAKU,” which encompasses patience, self-control, discipline, prudence, modesty, respect for others (including foes), wisdom, foresight, personal responsibility, hospitality, courage, and hard work.

It wouldn’t be fair to judge an entire faith, religion, or tribe by the actions of a few aberrant individuals. It is more just to evaluate them based on the scriptures and teachings of the faith or the traditions and conventions of the tribe. 

History has shown that some of the greatest massacres committed on this planet were by individuals like Adolf Hitler, a European Jewish Christian. However, his actions were never equated with his religion or tribe. 

Similarly, Benito Mussolini and Menachem Begin, who were responsible for numerous atrocities, were not judged by their faith or tribe. Yet, when a single Fulani or Muslim individual commits an act of terrorism, the entire religion (Islam) or tribe (Fulani) is unjustly blamed.

Moreover, the most infuriating aspect of this situation is that many of these individuals are brainwashed and used by heartless people who are not Fulani. For example, videos circulating online vividly demonstrate this is true. In one instance, an arrested Fulani man explains how much the masterminds paid him after abducting someone. 

The amount given to the Fulani men is not even a quarter of the ransom collected, yet they are still blamed. It’s important to note that some of them are forced into this due to intimidation and life threats by the gangsters. These masterminds exploit the Fulani and Bedouins because they know the bush well. 

For God’s sake, as educated, wise, and prudent individuals, how can anyone believe that the people they consider inept could successfully carry out such complex operations without being caught? They can’t even perfectly operate phones. This is unfair. Such acts require logic, strategies, and prudence. However, due to biased perspectives, Nigerians are generalising the entire tribe instead of targeting the deceived and manipulated individuals among them.

Candidly, the truth must be trumpeted. When our southern brothers say “Hausa-Fulani,” they’re not referring to the tribe but to a Muslim or Northerner, whom they consider terrorists, bandits, and so on. Meanwhile, in some parts of the southern region of this country, there are places where humans are slaughtered like animals. Generalising the Fulani as bandits and terrorists is truly unfair and unjust.

All the calamities this country, especially the North, has been facing—such as insecurity, insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and critical hardship—are not due to the Fulani people but are the result of politics, business, and the selfishness of our unpatriotic and tyrannical politicians.

I urge the youth to be patriotic, equip themselves with adequate and pure knowledge, and engage in politics. The rich also have a crucial role to play by sponsoring these energetic youths in politics for the betterment of our country and for the coming generations to flourish.

May Nigeria prosper and thrive, amin.

Hassan Abdulkadir wrote via hassanabdulqadeerabubakar@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The Nation’s clarion call resounds, and the youth—our graduates—respond. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is central to this national narrative. Some may argue that these graduates bask in the comfort of government stipends for a year, while others counter, “How substantial is this money anyway? It’s merely enough to keep body and soul together.”

For many, this stipend transcends mere sustenance; it symbolises stability. Upon completion of their service year, the promise of a regular income dissipates like a mirage. As I approach the conclusion of my service year, my thoughts drift back to a reflection penned in 1993 by Yushau Shuaib, the esteemed publisher of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential.

His words resonate profoundly: “After the National Youth Service, what next? From here, where next? How long have you fantasised about your next port of call after dedicating your life to academic pursuits? Will you further your studies, seek employment, or perhaps get married?” If marriage is part of your post-service plans, ensure you save for the honeymoon.

As my time in NYSC draws to a close, I can’t help but ponder the uncertain future that awaits me and my fellow corps members. For many, this may mark the last time they receive a government-issued salary. Some leave the country for greener pastures, convinced that this nation offers them no future.

Others, however, have jobs waiting for them, merely contingent on their release from service. Yet, many corps members will never earn as much as they did during their service year; some may find even better opportunities, while others remain lost amidst uncertainty. In today’s society, we question: Are we destined to join the legions of unemployed graduates? Is education no longer the key to societal recognition?

We witness individuals with multiple degrees grappling to find viable employment, seemingly rendering education futile. The rise of the “Yahoo boys,” who embody the new elite without formal education, fosters the narrative that “school is a scam.” Our education system requires rigorous restructuring and oversight, but we also need a comprehensive reorientation of our values and aspirations.

One acquaintance is willing to resort to unethical means to secure a job, even contemplating bribery for a lucrative position, craving societal approval. But what of those lacking the financial means or connections? Who stands by us?

The fear of poverty could well be the beginning of misguided pursuits. Might some be tempted to resort to fraud, political thuggery, or even prostitution—now sanitised as “hookups”? Will others turn to terrorism or kidnapping, driven by necessity, as opportunities evaporate in the job market?

Private organizations face significant hiring constraints stifled by economic instability. In fact, many are laying off staff simply to stay afloat—how, then, can they possibly accommodate fresh graduates? What becomes of those of us unwilling to engage in illicit activities? Are we consigned to a life of struggle?

For some, the service year impedes success; for others, it serves as a crucible for personal growth and dream realisation. Some may even decline job offers, viewing the pay beneath them, while others face a daunting lack of direction.

How can we elevate our nation when out of millions of corps members, only a fraction—perhaps five hundred—find meaningful employment? And of those, many receive insufficient compensation to support a family amidst this unforgiving economy. How can youth deprived of job opportunities or financial means to foster their ventures lift our nation?

Nigeria has devolved into a landscape where viable jobs are an elite commodity. In the 70s and 80s, even an O-level holder could readily secure employment; today, the opposite rings true. Are we not at an impasse? Is my generation not doomed to suffer for the decisions of the past? While I believe in humbly serving my nation, this conviction must be matched with tangible opportunities.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: One crucial step toward alleviating terrorism and insecurity is ensuring job security for our youth. An idle mind may indeed become the devil’s workshop. If corps members exit service devoid of decent employment, they may turn to unlawful means for survival, jeopardising our nation’s safety.

In this digital age, AI has transformed many operational processes, executing tasks with unprecedented speed and efficacy. Yet, rather than perceiving AI as a threat to job security for corps members, we should embrace the potential for collaboration, where human creativity meets AI’s efficiency. Mastering this synergy could unlock exceptional possibilities in the workforce.

Mr. President, we recognize the intricacies of governance, but we implore you to prioritise job creation for corps members and youth. We are eager to contribute to national development with commitment and integrity, aspiring to build our nation through unity and loyalty.

To our security agencies: Strengthening your efforts requires greater employment prospects for youth, particularly graduates. Doing so would alleviate the rates of insecurity plaguing our nation. Please take our concerns to the President and collaborate with experts in the field.

We advocate for a specific percentage of corps members to be employed by the government upon the conclusion of each NYSC batch yearly. This initiative would instil hope in the youth, steering them away from crimes and social vices.

We extend our gratitude to the NYSC for the training and life lessons garnered throughout this journey. The NYSC must collaborate with the government to catalyse job creation amid an industrial revolution. Such a partnership would solidify the NYSC’s reputation as a cornerstone for job creation and national growth.

To our legislators, senators, and esteemed members of the National Assembly: We urge you to convene and enact laws that foster job creation through the NYSC scheme, benefitting graduate corps members.

State governments must also step up, providing increased employment opportunities for departing corps members. This collective effort can rekindle hope among the youth and everyday citizens, paving the way for national progress. Nigeria is our home; Nigeria is who we serve.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a candidate for national development and a Mass Communication graduate serving with PRNigeria in Abuja.

By Uzair Adam

Authorities in the Benin Republic have foiled an attempted coup, leading to the arrest of a former sports minister and a senior military commander.

The plot was allegedly scheduled for Friday, according to a statement from Elonm Metonou, the special prosecutor at Benin’s financial crimes and terrorism court.

On Tuesday night, Oswald Homeky, the former sports minister, was apprehended while handing over six bags of cash, totaling 1.5 billion West African CFA francs (approximately $2.5 million), to Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the commander of the republican guard and head of security for President Patrice Talon.

The transaction occurred around 1:00 am, and the cash was reportedly transported in Homeky’s Toyota Prado, which bore fake license plates.Prosecutors revealed that the funds were part of a broader conspiracy involving Homeky and Olivier Boko, a businessman and longtime friend of President Talon.

Boko, who was separately arrested on Monday in Cotonou, had recently signaled his intentions to run for the presidency in 2026, when Talon’s second term concludes.

Investigations indicate that Homeky and Boko paid the military commander to ensure no resistance from the republican guard during the planned coup.

Authorities also uncovered that the suspects had opened a bank account under the commander’s name in Côte d’Ivoire on August 6, as part of their preparation.

The arrests come amidst increasing criticism of President Talon’s administration, with detractors accusing him of undermining democratic institutions.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to apprehend other individuals involved in the conspiracy.

Since 2020, West Africa has witnessed a wave of military coups and attempts, with Benin now joining the list of nations grappling with threats to its political stability.

Metonou emphasized that efforts are underway to ensure justice is served and to prevent future attempts at destabilizing the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed an unconditional and compressive investigation into the allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian correctional service (NCoS).

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo unequivocally condermed the alleged reprehensible behavior, emphasizing that any form of indiscipline, unprofessionalism, and corruption will be met with zero tolerance and severe consequences within the paramilitary services under the ministry’s purview.

“The ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said.

The minister has set up a special investigative panel headed by the permanent secretary of the ministry of interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, to probe these allegations and submit a comprehensive report.

Other members of the committee include Dr. Uju Agomuoh of prisoners Rehabilitation and welfare action (PRAWA) who will serve as the secretary;Mrs Eva Omatese, Director of legal ministry of interior, Mr. Usman Nasiru, Director of joint services ministry of interior, and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo ( consultant Iyke) of the Brekete family show.

The minister reassures the public that the investigation will be rigorous, transparent, and impartial, and that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personel found guilty.