Restructuring shouldn’t be used to threaten Nigeria’s unity – Elders group

The Patriotic Elders Council has warned that the clamour for restructuring of Nigeria in some quarters should not serve as basis for threatening the country’s unity
There have been calls from different quarters over the need to restructure the country with the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor EA Adeboye lately joining the list.
Adeboye had called for restructure of Nigeria as soon as possible to avert a disintegration of the country.
However, the presidency in its reply insisted that the administration would not succumb to threats and intimidation to make hurried decision over the matter that has continued to generate controversies.

Speaking on the ongoing debate over the state of the nation, the Patriotic Elders Council noted that though restructuring in itself is not a bad thing as every institution or corporate body, but bringing such an issue up at a time the nation is being re-engineered for the better is counter-productive.

A statement jointly signed by Alhaji Muhammadu Ari Gwaska, National Chairman and Chief Simon Shango, Secretary General, urged fathers of faith to pray for Nigeria and speak against the evil of corruption and other vices plaguing the country.

The statement read, “Nigeria has come a long way. With six regions, 36 states, over 300 ethnic nationalities and a common history that dates back over a hundred years since the amalgamation of the northern and southern protectorate in 1914, Nigeria has fast become a case study in resilience, doggedness and and oneness of a people.
“While other nations with less component complexities and challenges have not been able to withstand the pressures that come with such experiences and have since balked under the challenges that come with keeping people of diverse backgrounds under one entity and broken up, Nigeria, despite all odds, has pulled through and has remained one united country.
“It has survived a civil war, internal strifes, coups, political crises and various other social cataclysm.
“Given the background of what transpired in the previous years and the much the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has put in place to bring a turn around, it would be most unfair to allow the issues that dogged past administrations to be imported as germane in the current dispensation.
“As observed earlier, given the efforts of the Buhari administration to turn things around for the better, this is hardly the time to toy with such issues.
“Unfortunately, some respected Nigerians like the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, have joined in the call for restructuring of the country.
This implies that restructuring of the country “as soon as possible” is the only panacea to forestall a breakup of the various social-ethnic components that make up Nigeria.
“It is our belief and we stand to be contradicted, that men of God should use their calling to inspire hope, build confidence and avert heating up the polity.
“Though restructuring in itself is not a bad thing as every institution or corporate body tries to take stock of its features from time to time to see where there’s the need for adjustment, but bringing such an issue up at a time the nation is being re-engineered for the better is counter-productive.
“Further to that, the National Assembly is there to legislate on any matter that requires national attention that Nigeria does not have to resort to primordial fault lines to find solutions to its problems.
On the way forward, the council said, “What is required now is for all stakeholders including great men of God to put their hands together and corporate with the government to move this nation forward.
“Their prayers and intercession are what Nigeria need to pull through, not some veiled ethno- religious agitations and threats.
“Men of God should help the government speak about the evil of corruption and other vices plaguing the country and support the government in its drive towards revamping the economy.”

General Buratai and his phenomenal exploits

By Best Agbese

According to the great general of war, Winston S Churchill, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts”. This is the reality of great leaders. Those who must excel in life must keep at whatever it is they want to achieve despite setbacks.

Setbacks are a regular feature in the life of men and women who would excel in their chosen fields. The ability to manage both success and failure very well is the key character of successful people. The courage to do the right thing is one thing that distinguishes true leaders from others. Lt Gen T Y Buratai has shown true leadership characteristics in all ramifications.

I do not envy the General at all. His job, albeit one of the toughest in the Nation, appears a thankless one as little or no appreciation due to him is actually accorded to him. I have read some recent disparagement of his person and I wonder aloud if these people actually think through what they write or say sometimes. Then again I remember the saying that a prophet has no honour amongst his people, which is perhaps the only reason for some of those harsh criticism and sometimes outright falsehood against him.

This is the same man that his modest efforts have been recognized by several international bodies. In 2017, far away in Brazil he was honoured with the Brazilian military Order of Merit, he was considered a great ambassador of global peace and security due to his efforts at dealing with the Boko Haram issues. Same man was honoured by The Anti –Terrorism Accredited Board (ATAB) with the award for exceptional bravery and peace building in Nigeria and the Lake Chad region under the multinational Joint Task Force. He was also honoured by the UK based Global Risk International with the award of Master of anti-terrorism Specialist award. These are just a few of the international awards Lt Gen Buratai has received. This is aside the many too numerous to mention Local awards that he keeps bagging sometimes almost on a weekly basis.

The reasons for the awards are not far-fetched. When you live your life as a sacrifice for the good you believe in your work will always stand out. Buratai took up the role of COAS as that of a change agent with a mission. We should never forget where we were some few years ago. If we do, we may take lightly what has been accomplished since then

Pre July 2015 when Buratai was appointed Chief of army staff COAS, the Security situation in the Country was at a state of crisis and that is putting it mildly. Boko Haram attacks were incessant in many parts of the North East states. Bandits and kidnappers were also having a field day. As at July 2015, about 14 local governments were already under the control of Boko Haram terrorists. Before then, there were attacks almost everywhere in the country, and even Abuja the Federal Capital and seat of Authority was not spared. There were roadblocks almost everywhere within the Country which ended up paralyzing the economic activities in those communities.

General Buratai took over the leadership of the Army at a time when morale amongst the troops was at its lowest ebb. The troops were seen in propaganda videos shared by Boko Haram terrorists fleeing and abandoning their arms and ammunition. There were stories of Generals and politicians helping themselves with defence money and short changing the troops at the battle field.

There were complaints that troops were not getting their complete allowances when due. Coupled with allegations that they weren’t being provided the equipment and tools required to adequately prosecute the war against terror.

Such was the magnitude of security failure and the precarious situation we were in as a Nation when Buratai took over the leadership of the Army. He however got down to business immediately. Acting on the order of Mr President to relocate the HQ of the command and control of the thereafter of war to the North East region. Lt Gen Buratai relocated to Maiduguri, Borno State within weeks of his appointment.

He met with troops on the battlefields, planned operations with them, and held several meetings with different groups and ranks within the army. He made sure allowances were being paid directly into the troop’s account rather than cash payments that were being done earlier. He promised improved welfare for the troops and indeed all the men and women of the army.

His experience as head of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) was very helpful especially as head of the Army in prosecuting the war against Boko Haram terrorists. Within a few months in charge and precisely by mid-2017 all local government areas under the control of the terrorist had been recovered. The Boko Haram terrorists were badly decimated and chased away to the fringes of some parts of Borno State.

Adamawa, Gombe, Yobe and Bauchi states that were hitherto hotbeds for terrorist activities have now been cleared of these evil criminals. Almost all the military roadblocks have been dismantled and economic activities back in most of the areas that were shut down in the days of the boko haram rage. Life is gradually returning back to normalcy in most of these areas.

                            Lt Gen Buratai thereafter launched several operations to tackle different types of security challenges that popped up with the dispersal of the Boko Haram terrorist, issues such as banditry, kidnapping, castle rustling etc.

Buratai comes across as a workaholic. He makes it a point of duty to visit with troops very regularly especially those at the theatre of operations. This is kind of rare in this clime judging with some of the past holders of the same office. Let me put it this way, he is in touch and on top of the job. He makes visits in the night, he visits during the day. He travels sometimes for several days visiting different formations of the army, just to encourage the troops and propel them to victories.

The much dreaded Sambisa Forest has been taken over by the Nigeria Army under the leadership of Lt Gen Buratai. Same forest that was considered a no go area before now.

His deep interaction with the troops perhaps helps him a lot with the clear understanding of what is required to move the Nigerian Army forward. The life of a soldier is one of a continuous battle. In fact, the calling is a call to combat. Like other things in life you will win some and you will lose some, however how you handle both situations determine how successful you will be.

Buratai has shown himself a man of real courage and conviction. He is no doubt an enigma, whose dedication to duty ought to be emulated by all who seek positions of leadership and authority. Buaratai is no doubt an epitome of quality leadership.

Agbese, a scholar and author contributed this piece from University of Dundee, United Kingdom.

Gen Buratai’s gallantry and Nigeria @60

By Ibrahim Bulama

As Nigeria is celebrating 60 years of independence, it presents a picture of a mixture of spark and dim. Those inclined to the negative hold on to the challenges experienced in the quest towards nationhood to draw conclusions linking occurrences such as military putsch, civil war, religious uprising, corruption and lately Boko Haram terrorism to define Nigeria.

But such occurrences, while they lend certain perspectives to the overall picture, they’re more of the evidence of the resilience of nation rather than emblematic of its being. 

Likewise certain positives and experiences that shoot Nigeria high up on the ladder, like its vast population, abundant natural resources and unity in diversity. Both the negative and the positive combine to depict Nigeria at 60.

But while it is safe to strike a balance between the two, one cannot ignore the fact that certain developments have been remarkable in their impact on nationhood. A Nigerian had for instance won the Nobel prize for literature, others  have set world records in medicine , sports and many have been listed among the most resourceful in the world.

Sectoral leaders in the academia, economics, the military and others have also been widely acclaimed as some of the best. As an academic, I am not in any position to pass a favorable mark on any specific leader. But the obvious truth is that our progress in some critical sectors must be appraised and kudos given to individuals who have piloted the affairs of the nation directly or indirectly with all honesty and sincerity of purpose. 

One of such individuals is the current Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai who has become a phenomenon in the history of Nigeria as a nation.  

The Buratai phenomenon is enormous to the extent that many attribute the continued existence of Nigeria to the ingenuity of President Muhammadu Buhari who appointed him the Chief of Army Staff. 

Before July 2015, Nigeria was literally on its knees and was on the verge of losing its cooperate identity. It was so wracked by terrorism and  insurgency that it was losing territories that combined are bigger in land mass to many countries of the world. 

The feats recorded by its citizens in medicine, sports, literature etc the world over no longer mean anything as the country was becoming a laughing stock due to how it was unable to manage its internal crisis. 

But on appointment in July 2015, Lt. Gen Buratai, assessed the security  situation on ground and rather than feel intimidated vowed not only to defeat the insurgents but compel them to beg for peace.

He said under his command, Boko Haram would either beg for peace or face the wrath of highly motivated and combat ready soldiers and to show his seriousness, changed the operational code of the counter insurgency in Northeast Nigeria from “Operation Zaman Lafiya” to “Operation Lafiya Dole.:

He explained that “Since Boko Haram terrorists have refused peace we will now force them to accept peace and promised to be actively involved in the operations to end Boko Haram. 
He added: “The peace that permeated Borno and transcended Lake Chad will soon return. My wish was to clear Konduga of Boko Haram vestige so that people can return home to rebuild their houses.”

The terrorists probably using their old template which they used in terrorising Nigerians in the past thought they could intimidate him, hence went and attacked his village, Buratai; but like a typical tactician, the Army Chief did not allow emotions get the better of him and focussed on his mission.

Less than six months after he gave his word, Nigerian troops penetrated the den of the insurgents in all parts of the Northeast, liberated the 19 local governments held by the insurgents and destroyed their camps. In less than a year after his appointment,   troops entered what could be termed the operational headquarters of the terrorists group at Camp Zero in Sambisa Forest, killing many of the terrorists, totally dislodging them and took the flag and the Qur’an of their  leader, Abubakar Shekau and handed it over to President Muhammadu Buhari. 

Since then, it had been a series of winning streaks against the insurgents, the height of which was an audio tape intercepted around July this year, in which the Boko Haram leader was heared crying and pleading for mercy for his members who he admitted are being pummeled by Nigerian troops. 

In between, several of the Boko Haram top commanders have either been captured, killed or surrendered and submitted themselves to troops.
The feats at the battlefield were a radical departure from what obtained in the past when the insurgents were attacking cities and towns as well as military camps at will with the most humiliating being the attack of the operational headquarters of the Mutinationak Joint Task Force (MNJTF) at Baga, Borno State and the slaughter of nearly 1000 number of civilians.

Buratai has been outstanding in the swift manner he turned around the army, restructured the institution and restored peoples’ confidence in the institution. It is said that without Buratai’s leadership of the Nigerian Army, there probably would have been no Nigeria to celebrate 60 years of independence.

Many wonder how, the Chief of Army Staff has succeeded where his predecessors failed. Many say it has to do with his style of leadership where he sees only success and is totally blind to the possibility of falling on a mission. The tactic of leading the troops from the front has also contributed to the success of the fight while other strategies like the introduction of Super Camps has also helped.

To show his level of confidence, the COAS has only recently tasked troops in the Northeast theatre of operation to brace up for the final defeat of Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.

While speaking with troops who were on training at the army special super camp at Ngamdu Lt. General Buratai directed them to take their training seriously in preparation for the speedy conclusion of the war against insurgency in Nigeria.

He said “As you all know, we have been on this ground for long and I expect us to remain resolute, selflessly committed and push for the total defeat of the Insurgents in the coming days.

“I assure you that what is remaining is very small but it will require us to put more effort, more determination and more courage to complete the remaining part of the battle soon.

Beyond that, the Chief of Army  Staff has encouraged troops to deploy more intelligence in prosecuting the ongoing counter insurgency in the North East which has brought positive results. 
Lt. General Buratai has also ensured the provision of additional military hardware and platforms to enhance the speedy completion of the ongoing war against insurgency in the North East and has taken delivery of more equipment and platforms that have been deployed to various theatres of operations across the country.

The Army Chief has also undertaken  operational tours to areas generally seen as the routes and directions of approach into Maiduguri by the Boko Haram/ISWAP Criminals seriously.

He has in that bid, visited carious troops’ locations in the North East theatre of operation such as the Army Super Camp 1 at Molai and the Special Forces Super Camp 12 in Chabbol near Maiduguri, Forward Operating Base at Alau Dam, outskirts of Maiduguri and also personally led the troops on reconnaissance around Mairimari Forest located southeast of Tamsu Ngamdua in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State.

He has also been to Maigilari Forest in the east of Tamsu Ngamdua in the southwest of the same Mafa Local Government Area.

This is why Nigerians in marking 60 years of independence are also celebrating the gallantry of the Chief of Army Staff.

Bulama PhD wrote this article from Yola.

Restructuring/Secession: Yoruba group insists on unity, seeks progressive leadership

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants (COD) believes that what the country needs is attitudinal change, truthful and purposeful leadership and not secession being clamoured for by some activists. 

The group said it is morally wrong for any true son and daughter of Oduduwa to mute the idea of secession from Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, President-General, 

Otunba Arokoyo Olumide said the call is not “only uncharitable, it is an affront to the sensibilities of Oduduwa the progenitor of the Yoruba race”. 

According to Olumide, the group’s position is that of “One Nigeria because from time immemorial we have been critical stakeholders, and we have remained so”. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants, however, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his leadership strides in keeping the country together and giving its people a fair share in his government. 

While urging all to join hands together to support the president, the COD warned certain individuals and groups to avoid being used to destabilise the government. 

Read full address below:

You all must admit that indeed this calls for great concern given the fact that the call is not only uncharitable; it is an affront to the sensibilities of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race.

As a background, Oduduwa was a Yoruba divine king. His name, phonetically written by Yoruba language-speakers as Odùduwà and sometimes contracted as Ooduwa, Odudua or Oòdua is today venerated as “the hero, the warrior, the leader and father of the Yoruba race.” 

Upon the ending of Oduduwa’s time on Earth, there was a dispersal of his children and grandchildren from Ife to the outposts that they had previously founded or gained influence over, for them to establish effective control over these places. Each is said to have made his or her mark in the subsequent urbanization and consolidation of the Yoruba confederacy of kingdoms, with each child and grandchild fashioning his or her state after Ile-Ife. 

It, therefore, suffices to state that indeed the true sons and daughters have been instrumental to the formation and independence of Nigeria from time immemorial. Therefore it makes no sense when there are perceived agitations from a segment of who claim to be descendants of Oduduwa, calling for the secession of Oduduwa from Nigeria. 

The call by the group under the nomenclature Oduduwa Secessionist Agenda is indeed a misplaced one that is laced with ulterior motives buoyed by pecuniary gains rather than a genuine intent.   

It is thus the considered opinion of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants that indeed the Nigerian project is sacrosanct and not a topic of discussion given the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari administration in ensuring that Nigeria remains united and prosperous for all regardless of our ethnic or religious affiliations. 

This undeniable fact has been echoed in various forays, and it is consequently morally wrong for any group or association to preach the gospel of disunity in Nigeria. This is on the heels that the reverse ought to be the case given the peculiarities of times in Nigeria and the need for strength in our diversity as we march towards sustainable growth and development in Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants is using this medium to reecho the stance of revered Yoruba leader, Chief Bisi Akande wherein he stated that the Yoruba race would be at war for 100 years if they leave Nigeria. 

In his words, “the Yoruba breaking away from Nigeria may lead to bloodshed and an avoidable civil war that would further decimate the people. Those agitating for the Yoruba nation should have a rethink. This country must remain united to save it from war.”

The import of the message of the elder statesman is apt and in conformity with the position of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants which sees the call for secession as a disservice to Nigeria and the efforts of great sons and daughters of Oduduwa who were instrumental to the independence of Nigeria through their great sacrifices and invaluable contributions.

This is also on the heels that in contemporary Nigeria, sons and daughters of Oduduwa have been critical stakeholders as evident in the positions of authorities that have been placed on their shoulders. It is instructive to state that they have not failed in this regard. Therefore it defeats commonsense as to why some group of monetary induced individuals would now want to constitute themselves as clogs in the wheel of progress of Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants wishes to inform Nigerians that indeed the position of the true sons and daughters of Oduduwa remains One Nigeria because from time immemorial we have been critical stakeholders, and we have remained so in Nigeria.  

It is also morally wrong for any true son and daughter of Oduduwa to mute the idea of secession from Nigeria. It is also nothing but sheer mischief aimed towards the disintegration of Nigeria, which would be resisted by true sons and daughters of Oduduwa that dots the nook and crannies of the socio-political landscape in Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants wishes to state that the leadership strides of President Muhammadu Buhari in keeping Nigeria united is indeed phenomenal and a justification for why all hands should be on deck towards ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong and indivisible entity. 

If this is indeed the case, it is our considered opinion that those individuals and organizations preaching secession needs a mental evaluation for them to realize that the Yorubas are better under a united Nigeria than anywhere else. And under no circumstances should the chances of sons and daughters Oduduwa be ruined in the buildup to the 2023 general elections through this needless and ill-fated agitation.  

This position of ours is indeed justified when an evaluation of the giant strides of the Muhammadu Buhari administration indicates that there have been concerted efforts at the fight against corruption and other anomalies capable of distorting growth and development in Nigeria. 

The Nigerian Military is also worthy of our commendation in their efforts in addressing the various security challenges in the country despite the avalanche of conspiracies against it. They have done more than enough especially in the Southwest where bandits and other criminal elements have been on the run after the Army and other organizations took over the strategic control of the security situation in the country. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants are more than grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Oduduwa sons and daughters a fair share in his administration and under no circumstances should any Yoruba person be used anywhere to destabilize the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The focus is should therefore be Attitudinal Change, Truthful Leadership Not Secession”

Aromogege

Aromogege

Oji ni kutukutu mokun ola dani

Olomo siju pee wole Aye loruko IFA

Eni ti o ba siju rere re wo nii lowo

IFA kio siju rere re woo mi ki nlowo… 

He who robes the child to befit the child

He who robes the child with the utmost of care

The one who wakes early in the morning, holding the robes of prosperity

The one who looks after the Earth is the name of IFA.

Whomever you look to with your eye of compassion is blessed with prosperity

IFA, please look at Nigeria with compassion and let Nigeria be blessed with riches…

IFA, please look at us with your compassion and let us be blessed with riches! Ase Ase Ase O!Ire O. 

General Buratai as Nigeria’s Diamond Jubilee Star

By David Onmeje

Nigeria is 60, and this indeed calls for celebrations for the journey so far. It has been a journey of ups and downs, a journey of sorrows and lots of laughter, and a journey of incredible feats in the life of Nigeria.

The 60-year-old journey of Nigeria can be a best seller any day and time because of the various intrigues that have characterized our very existence. We have had our fair share of glory regardless of what some want us to believe and see ourselves as failures. Nigeria is indeed a great nation blessed with good people.

Our ethnic diversities even though threatened many times, remains our source of strength and would continue to be in the years ahead. I must also add that Nigeria is indeed a force to reckon with amongst the comity of nations in the African continent as well as globally for the exploits of her citizenry in various fields and endeavours that they have found themselves.

It is, therefore a Diamond Jubilee worth rolling out the drums in excitement. But before we do that it is expedient that we understand that of all the issues in Nigeria, the issue of security of lives and property has remained a daunting task for successive governments in the country. And this was made more complicated since the outbreak of the Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria.

This critical sector remains that backbone for sustainable growth and development in any given society, Nigeria inclusive. And that we have been able to stay united despite the upsurge of the activities of terrorist and militant groups is indeed commendable and that is why I have always extended my support and words of encouragement to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai who in my considered opinion has significantly sacrificed for Nigeria through his leadership strides in the Nigerian Army.

If we must admit, the coming of Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai as the Chief of Army Staff was indeed timely and strategic in the sense that he inherited a Nigerian Army that was meant to be the pride of the Nation in a most terrible and inert state. A Nigerian Army that was almost stripped naked by the Boko Haram insurgents who bestrode North-East Nigeria like a colossus, so much so that they took over 16 local government areas in states in North East and the Nigerian Army of then were helpless and were notorious for making “technical and tactical” withdrawals from the theatre of operations whenever they come under heavy bombardment from Boko Haram terrorist.

The situation was so terrible that Nigeria was at the brink of collapse as a result of the nefarious activities of the Boko Haram group and other militant organizations in Nigeria. I recall a point during one of the inaugural lectures in the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, it was expressly stated that the years 2009 to 2015 was the worst period in the annals of Nigeria aside the Civil War period. And if not for the turnaround introduced in the Nigerian Army, Nigeria would have quaked under the Boko Haram onslaught.

To think that within a record period, the Nigerian Army was able to turn the tides against the Boko Haram sect by capturing their operational headquarters in the dreaded Sambisa forest tells a lot of the personality and commitment of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai.

In my opinion, Lt. Gen. TY Buratai should be referenced in the effectiveness of counterinsurgency operations because of the success of the counterinsurgency operations in Nigeria. He has indeed proven that once there is a will, there would always be a way, and this is mostly responsible for the success of the counterinsurgency operations in Nigeria.

Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai by every inch qualifies as Nigeria’s Diamond Jubilee Star for his leadership strides in leading the Nigerian Army to exploits. His leadership acumen was brought to bear at the time that Nigeria needed a messiah. And from all indications, he has proven to all that Africa and indeed Nigeria is never short of good men and women with the right motivation and opportunity will deliver on any task and within a record time.

I can’t but doff my heart for Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, who by all indication, has exhibited a great sense of patriotism in service to our fatherland. And we must indeed commend and encourage him to continue to do more exploits in service to fatherland even as he remains the highlight of our Diamond Jubilee this year. Those that understand what it means to lead troops in asymmetric warfare as well as internal security operations simultaneously would not hesitate to sing the praise of Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai to high heavens.

I also think that aside distinguishing himself as a rock-solid infantry general, he has consequently served as a role model to millions of youths in the country, some of who have made decisions to join the Nigerian Army because they see Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai as a worthy role model in patriotism, dedication, and commitment in service to our fatherland. I wholehearted recommend that should youths imbibe some of his traits, Nigeria would indeed be a better place.

As we continue to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of our country, we should also take out time to honour those that have been outstanding in service to Nigeria. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai aptly qualifies as the Diamond Jubilee Star.

Onmeje wrote this piece from the United Kingdom.

Lawyers Group Writes AGF, Wants Journalist Ahmad Salkida Prosecuted

A group of public interest lawyers under the umbrella body of International Human Rights Protection Forum (IHRPF) has written the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, calling for the prosecution of a journalist, Mr. Ahmad Salkida, over alleged acts of terrorism.

In the letter signed Eze Njokwu, Esq., Advocacy Officer of the group
said available statistics show that 14.8 million people in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria covering Adamawa, Gombe, Borno and Yobe States have been affected by activities of the outlawed Boko Haram terrorist group since 2009.

The lawyers in the letter dated October 3, 2020 called for the investigation of Salkida, alleging that there are instances in the past where Ahmad Salkida himself admitted that Abubakar Shekau usually shares video footages with him for scrutiny and editing before posting same to YouTube.

The group said in the petition, ”We submit that the actions of Ahmad Salkida so far coupled with the kind of inciting words he continually utters regarding national security issues are treasonable enough to warrant your office to advise the appropriate security agencies, especially Department of State Services (DSS) to jumpstart criminal proceedings against him for attempting to dislodge the legitimate government of Nigeria contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013.

”In a similar vein, there is a legal duty upon the Nigerian State to protect the right to life and dignity of the over 400 displaced persons as guaranteed under Sections 33 and 34 respectively of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Articles 4 and 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, Cap A9 LFN 2004 and under Articles 6 and 7 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

”The anguish of those displaced persons must not be allowed to continue, as the Federal Government of Nigeria is supposed to make adequate arrangements for their safe return to their original homes especially in this planting season being that majority of them are farmers.

”We maintain that unless you advise the DSS which has been excelling in leaps and bounds to urgently arrest, arraign and prosecute Ahmad Salkida in an open court Nigerians will begin to feel that he is a sacred cow who exists above the laws of our land”.

The lawyers said they are of the firm beliwf that nonone who flouts the law of the land should be spared, if the present government must succeed in leaving behind a safe country upon his exit from office in 2023.

The group urged the government to commit itself to transparency, accountability and good governance to create within citizens a sense of belonging to a nation that provides for their welfare and security as stipulated under the Constitution.

”The State is effective in leadership, if it has legitimacy and such legitimacy itself is a function of the government showing capacity to carry out its responsibility of providing for the public good. This letter gives Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice yet another opportunity to rekindle the hope of Nigerians that President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in his Next Level Agenda is truly ready to guarantee maximum security for the entire country.

”We demand therefore, that your office should within the next 7 working days from the date hereof initiate necessary communication with the DSS and other relevant security agencies saddled with the responsibility of handling terrorism issues pursuant to Sections 1, 4 and 5 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013. Our expectation is that you will not leave us and other Nigerians in the dark but make public statement before expiration of the above ultimatum about the arrest of Ahmad Salkida as well as his subsequent arraignment and prosecution in open court like other Boko Haram suspects”, the group said.

FG commends Obiano over Anambra Airport, promises support

Minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika has commended the Anambra State government for embarking on a cargo airport project that will positively impact on the economic development of the state and the South East region as a whole.

The Minister who made the commendation when he received the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano in his office, said the Federal Ministry of Aviation and its agencies will always give the necessary guide and cooperation to states embarking on such projects in order to ensure that all internationally set standards are met.

In a statement Tuesday by Director Public Affairs, Ministry of Aviation, James Odaudu, the minister said airports can be viable if they are built with specific objectives in mind and expressed the belief that the Anambra airport will be successful in serving the interests of the trading population of the state and environs.

He advised the Governor to sustain the ongoing collaboration with the regulatory authorities to ensure that all regulations and guidelines for the construction and operation of airports are met.

Earlier, Governor Willie Obiano had said that Anambra International Cargo Airport, located at Umueri will be ready for commissioning in April 2021 and that the state would be honoured to have him perform the task.

“We are sure of the date because we have the money to compete it. We are not asking for any assistance, neither are we taking any loans. I am here personally to brief you on the project and to invite you to commission it for us in April 2021”

Obiano told the Minister that the decision to embark on the airport project was informed by the need to cater for the economic interests of the state and its environs.

The airport, he said, has the second longest runway in the country, after the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, built with the best available materials, with a guaranteed lifespan of 100 years.

“The airport is just a few kilometres from Onitsha town, the economic nerve centre of the south east region. It is strategically located and is a worthwhile investment.”

According to the Governor, the construction of the airport has been guided by recommendations and guidelines of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) as it hopes to meet the best international standards.

Ebonyi group asks antigraft agencies to probe state spending

A diaspora group, Association of Ebonyi State Indigenes in Diaspora (AESID) has called for caution in the spending of resources by the Ebonyi state government, even as it called on anti-graft agencies to monitor closely the sharing of another Covid-19 palliative in the state.

The group specifically called on the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant agencies to come to the rescue of the state.

In a statement signed Tuesday by its President (Worldwide) Ambassador Paschal Oluchukwu, the association expressed disappointment on the way the current administration in Ebonyi continued to manage what it described as scarce resources in the state.

The group claimed it has information that the state government is about to spend another N4 billion as ‘Second phase palliative’ to cushion the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“AESID therefore call on the relevant anti-graft agencies whose mandates include monitoring and forestalling of financial crimes to beam its light very brightly on the Ebonyi state government to uncover, expose this obvious plot to swindle the poor State of its scarce resources in the guise of palliatives. The Ebonyi State government should be brought to book to also account for the various sums ordinarily meant for the development of the State which has officially been reported to the anti-graft agencies as having been diverted.

“We at AESID are quite disturbed about the way and manner the Ebonyi state government has continued to mismanage the scare resources of our poor state without any scintilla of accountability. We hold this view because the Umahi-led administration to the best of our knowledge is yet to give any account of an earlier approval of N4bn it made in July this year which it had christened ‘palliatives for Ebonyians.’

“Of course, we still recall the hues and cries of the Ebonyi poor masses over the extremely bizarre food items which included few sachets of noodles shared to just a hand-few of particularly party loyalists in the guise of palliatives after a very protracted period by the government. As a non-interest group whose mandate remains to continue to hold state actors accountable, AESID is calling on the Ebonyi state government to halt the proposed plan to lavish another whooping N4bn under the façade of COVID-19 palliatives.

“Rather, the government should first of all account for its management of the earlier sum approved and released as palliatives. It should show accountability by detailing the masses with how same was expended. We say so because of our vehement suspicion that the COVID-19 has since its outbreak in the country become for Governor Umahi and indeed some other Nigerian leaders a huge business and the most unsuspecting means to loot and divert lean resources accruing to the States they govern.

“Otherwise, how can Ebonyi state that never recorded more COVID-19 cases than states like Lagos claim to have now proposed to spend over N8bn? What kind of palliatives would take away over N4bn from the coffers of a government with lean allocation like that of our dear Ebonyi state? There is actually nothing less to suspect except to conclude that this is not just another hoax but another masterfully-designed plot by the Governor Umahi administration to siphon Ebonyi’s poor treasury!

Again we may wish to ask: Why is Umahi focusing only on projects and contracts that would enrich only him and his family without paying attention to genuine human empowerment programmes for our state which is rated as the poverty capital of Southern Nigeria?

“Why has he allowed rural roads that are completely impassable for local farmers to concentrate on mere cosmetics and artificial monuments that add no reasonable value to the lives and economic well-being of the average Ebonyian?

“What achievements can the Umahi administration truly boast of in the critical Education and Health sectors in Ebonyi state? What about attracting firms interested in operating in the State that can offer the teeming unemployed population job opportunities? This platform therefore urge the Ebonyi State government to reverse itself and not tow this path of ignominy by wasting resources in the guise of palliatives.”

The group, however assured the people of Ebonyi “that we shall continue to do all within the ambits of the law, the principles of fairness, equity and natural justice to protect and defend their interests at all times even as they pass through this difficult era of deceptions, lies and vicious propaganda.”

Buhari is North-east messiah-Dr. Gana

Security expert and public affairs analyst, Dr. Abubakar Gana has described President Muhammadu Buhari as the messiah of Northeast, Nigeria.

Dr. Gana said he drew the conclusion based on what the current  administration of President Buhari has done to secure the lives of citizens in the Northeast and to assure them that they’re part of Nigeria.

In the statement issued in Abuja as part of reports of the tour undertaken by Dr. Gana and 20 others to the Northeast recently, the public affairs analyst said no other word captures the depth of the President’s interventions and the success recorded than to refer to him as a messiah of the Northeast. 

He said,”In fact, I’m not the one that described him as such but the people of the Northeast themselves who are so full of praises for Mr. President in tbe light of what he has done to secure their lives.

Dr. Gana who gave a brief background to the tour said it took him and many others to several communities in Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.

He said it was to verify claims of successes being recorded in the fight against insurgency and terrorism to ensure that people are not deceived by unnecessary propaganda. 

Dr. Gana said it was only Taraba State that he did not go as part of the tour since the activities of the terrorists was more concentrated in the five aforementioned states.

The security expert said from the first hand interaction he has had with the people of the Northeast in the last two months, he was convinced that the Boko Haram terrorists group has thoroughly been defeated and it would appear that there’s nothing more the people appreciate than the current administration, which they say has liberated them from terrorists and insurgents and enabled them return to normal lives.

He said since 2015, when the current administration came on board, the people have felt the impact of the technical defeat of the insurgents through reopening of schools and markets, reopening of major roads for travelling and the constant repelling of attacks.

Speaking on specifics, Dr. Gana said it is on record that the lives of over 8 million people in the Northeast has been affected positively by the intervention of the current government through sustained efforts to clear the Northeast of terrorists. 

He said the depth of the operation include military action on the insurgents, rebuilding of infrastructural facilities as well as securing retaken territories for peaceful habitation. 

Dr. Gana said the current government deserves commendation in the combat operation in the Northeast because it came with new strategies and tactics that have overwhelmed the insurgents.

The Security Expert said the people confirmed to him that the fight turned against the insurgents the moment the current administration came on board and appointed new service chiefs.

“Most of the people I spoke with testified to the fact that there was a time the morale of Nigerian troops was so low owing to lack of sophisticated weapons and that they witnessed when many troops were running from the battlefield. 

“They told me that they at a time had given up on ever coming back to their communities because of the way soldiers were quitting and running away but that since the current administration, they have seen confident troops raring to go to the battlefield  while the insurgents began to flee.

The security expert said it is heartwarming for the people of the Northeast that the government did not leave them to their plight even after subduing the terrorists but went ahead to assist them in the rebuilding of infrastructure through the military. 

“This has exposed them to the humane side of the military whom they thought are only good in fighting wars alone but they now see soldiers helping to building bridges and reconstruct roads and this has touched them,” he stated.

Dr. Gana said it is the effort of the current administration in retaking 20 local governments  that has made it possible for persons displaced by insurgents to to back to their ancestral homes.

He said President  Buhari  has created a conducive environment for return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees to their homes of origin.

He said from his observation, some of the communities have since resettled and have forgotten about the agonies of the past and are always praying for President Buhari to succeed.

He said, “Some of the families recall that there was a time they had to be sleeping in the bushes to avert  being atacked in the night but  now say they’ve gone back to farming and other commercial activities while their children have gone back to school,” he said.

Dr. Gana said it is to the credit of the current administration that the military was able to engage in non combat operations leading to the surrender of several insurgents and terrorists further reducing the threats of terrorists.

He concluded by saying that terrorists have been pushed to a hell hole in the northern fringes and emptied of any capacity to operate as they wish adding that that is why they’ve been trying to launch themsleves through attacks on soft targets.
“They typically want to give the impression that they’re intact but I’ve confirmed that they’ve been subdued,” he stated.

Special Report: How troops saved Zulum from Boko Haram attacks

By Toby Prince and Lawrence Audu

It is well known that the convoy of the Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has been attacked two times within a spate of two months  by suspected Boko Haram  terrorists while the governor was on a working to the northern part of the state. 

What however is yet to come to the public domain, is the number of times Nigerian troops have prevented attacks on the governor and some politically exposed persons and the number of times troops have taken the bullets for them. 

The first time the govenor’s convoy was atacked was on July 29, in the town of Baga where shots rang from different directions and the Governor was covered until it was safe for him to come out and the second time on was on September 26, when his convoy was attacked while it was travelling to meet join him at Baga.

While the two incidents have  generated sympathy for the govenor, it has been used to question the professional integrity of Nigerian troops as some accuse the troops of being lax.

But investigations conducted by our correspondents have revealed that troops have put their lives on the line several times to save the Borno State governor and other government officials from harm without his knowing.

Our reporters established that usualy before politically exposed persons take to routes considered as risk prone, troops usualy conduct intelligent surveys to ascertain the degree of safety.

The road that leads from Maiduguri to Baga has, due to ongoing military operations been avoided until cleared by the military.

But when high profile persons are to be on they route, troops, relying on surveys and intelligent reports, usually comb the bushes to rid them of terrorists elements who may be hiding to launch surprise attacks.

Our reporters confirm that the Boko Haram terrorists have, since been degraded, have been looking for opportunities to send the message that they’re intact.

Hence in the course of such clearance operations, troops were able to detect mines planted on the routes and many been killed and injured in the process.

At a few occasions, they were able to trace elements of the terrorists hiding in shrubs and valleys and arrested them.

But such incidences have not come out to the public domain due to the swiftness and near hundred percent success of intelligence network.

“A security expert who spoke with our reporters say normally in a military exercise, people don’t get to hear of avoided calamities because they were not allowed to happen. 

“If intelligence coordinates are able to prevent attacks and save situations, it would appear normal and nobody would talk about them as against when there’s a kinetic action and casualty,” he explained.

Our checks reveal that the Boko Haram terrorists have resorted to the planting of mines on rural roads as their strength have been depleted and can no longer confront troops on ground.

The effective combination of air assaults together with the ground operations have also led to the killing of the terrorists.

The September attack on the convoy of the governor, according to our findings, was facilitated through the explosion of mines by terrorists before they were later subdued when  troops started firing an a reinforcement was alerted and closed in on the terrorists killing many while others fled.

A tour of the area by our reporters confirmed that troops on the field have pushed the terrorists out of Southern and Central parts of Borno and that the Boko Haram terrorists are only hiding in the fringes of the northern Borno close to the border. 

The troops, reliable sources have indicated, are on the verge of completing the process of pushing the terrorists from the northern  zone and the state entirely. 

Reports have it that though the Borno State governor has prefered to visit the northern Senatorial zone of the state ahead of the conclusion of the final assault that would push the terrorists out, troops have several times  ensured that he is adequately covered.

An intelligent source said ideally, the governor should have waited until the final operation to visit such areas but that since he has chosen to take advantage of the presence of troops to visit IDP camps, the troops have no option but protect him.

A source in the Borno Government House said on two occasions, the presence of troops made the insurgents who were desperate on launching attacks, to retreat while on two other occasions their attempt to plant devices on routes were detected and the device difused.

“The presence of troops in Baga and other places has saved a lot of people including the governor because the moment movements start on the fringes and blurry images begin to appear, they quickly withdraw on sighting troops,” a security expert who chose not to be named confirmed. 

He said for the two reported incidents, the govenor was saved from harm when troops opened fire and the terrorists  fled when confronted with superior fire power.

He said it was intelligence report that made the govenor to take a chopper instead of travelling by road which saved his life, the last time.

He said it was the efficiency with which the troops countered the July attack that gave the impression that there were no actual Boko Haram fighters involved and for the governor to remark that there was “serious shooting by the Nigerian armed forces.” 

Interaction with troops however confirmed they’re in high spirits despite the incidents.

“They’ve taken the political interpretation given the recent attacks in good faith as many of them understand that it takes time for troops’ sacrifice to be appreciated,” the security expert said.