Group hails Buratai, troops for killing BH/ISWAP commanders, 72 others

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. T.Y Buratai and troops on the frontlines have received massive commendation for liquidating top Boko Haram/ ISWAP commanders and 72 fighters in Borno.

The National Democratic Front (NDF) showered praises on the COAS for once again leading troops of Operation Lafiya Dole to another victorious outing against the terrorists.

According to the pro-democracy group, on Thursday, the current feat complements the gains made by the military in the last three months, with the fallen terrorists numbering over 700.

Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole have intensified its onslaught on the fleeing radical Islamic fighters following Lt. Gen. Buratai’s relocation to the northeast.

Most recently, the rejuvenated troops launched a counter-attack on the terrorists who attempted to overrun Banki and other communities in Borno State, and in the process, slew its top commanders alongside 72 others.

In a statement by its Secretary-General, Dr. Abdulkadir Bolaji, the NDF hailed the COAS for remaining at the field of operation since March, adding that his presence has brought “monumental success for the country”.

With the renewed vigour and gallantry among the troops, the NDF reckoned that the deadline for the total annihilation of the terrorists groups in Nigeria would be met in no distant time.

The group, however, urged “ Lt. Gen. Buratai and his men not to relax or think that the terrorists would relent in their efforts to cause more damage on the polity.”

Read full statement below:

We wish to laud, commend and appreciate the Nigerian military particularly troops of Operation Lafiya Dole which have been fighting Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Northeast Nigeria, who have once again had a victorious outing in their quests to defeat terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria.

This time, the troops launched a counter-attack on the Boko Haram terrorists who attempted to overrun Banki and other communities in Borno State, and in the process, killed top commanders of the terrorist group and liquidated 72 of their fighting men.

Details of the encounter garnered from various sources indicated that the counter attack followed a failed attack on troops’ location at Banki Junction by terrorists within the 7 Division strike group response area and that it has been confirmed by competent military sources that the high ranking commanders of the Abubakar Shekau’s faction of the Boko Haram terrorist group were killed.

Top commanders of the Boko Haram that have been taken out according to top military sources include Manzar Halid, Amir Abu Fatima and Nicap, among others.

Going by the confession of former Boko Haram members, these men are some of the notorious kingpins of the group who have either masterminded or led some the deadliest operations of the group.

Apart from that we also have it on good authority that 72 members of the Boko Haram were also neutralised and many others wounded with narrow chances of survival.

Those wounded according to released information from the military, include some high profile commanders and fighters of the Boko Haram namely, Abu Jamratu AL-Naweer, Kaka Bana and Tareta Babakari while a large number of their equipment , including gun trucks, motorcycles and bicycles were destroyed by troops.

The Boko Haram terrorists were said to have on seeing the superior fire power from Nigerian troops made to retreat and withdraw from the base but were not successful as troops had already enclosed them due to superior tactics and manoeuvres and liquidated many of them.

Reports also indicate that the Boko Haram/ISWAP groups have been totally shattered and devastated and further weakened after this latest attack which is an addition to the sustained onslaught against the terrorists groups since March this year.

NDF notes that the current feat complements the gains made by the military in the fight against insurgency and terrorism and brings to nearly 700, the number of terrorists top comanders and fighters that have been brought down within a spate of three months.

It also adds to the number of communities and persons that have been saved from attempted attacks by the terrorists in recent times.

This feat calls for an applause to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen TY Buratai who has been at the field of operation since March as well as for the troops for performing at excellent levels and reducing to the barest minimum activities of terrorists and insurgents in Nigeria.

We, at the NDF are not in any way surprised by the success of the current operation as the presence of the COAS in the theatre has brought about monumental success for the country on its campaign against Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgency in the country.

With the renewed vigour and increase gallantry of the Nigerian troops, we are optimistic that the deadline for the total annihilation of the terrorists groups in Nigeria would be met and we have no iota of doubt that the troops led by the Chief of Army Staff would deliver on the mandate.

We notice with pride that since the relocation of the army chief to the theatre of operation, the moral of troops have been boosted and it has been reports of success stories all through.

Nigerians are beginning to see why the President places so much confidence on the current structure of the military high command as Nigeria has never had it so good in the fight against insurgency which at a time seemed to have overwhelmed our troops.

We urge Buratai and his men not to relax or think that the terrorists would relent in their efforts to cause more damage on the polity.

If events of the past are anything to go by, the constant pummelling of the terrorists groups would make them want to prove that they are still deadly and desperate to attempt another attack.

The military must therefore be vigilant to make sure they’re routed out any time they attempt to do so as it has done in several of their attempts to attack major towns and communities in recent times.

We commend the Chief of Army Staff for good and quality leadership, brilliant strategies and planning and for his presence at the war front.

We on behalf of other Nigerians thank him and the troops for making the country secured for all of us to live in and go about our various businesses and we are grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for picking the right men for the job.

George Floyd: Abuja protesters besiege US Embassy, seek justice

Hundreds of protesters early this morning besieged the United States of America embassy located in the Central Business District of Abuja to express their displesure over the recent and barbaric killings of George Floyd and several other s black persons in the US.

The protesters under the aegis of the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights, CALSER said the gathering is not only for the display of physical rage as a result of the indiscriminate killing of black people in the United States of America by agents of the state but a display of emotional and mental rage.

The group said it we would no longer watch how its brothers and sisters to be subjected to all manners of ill-treatment by law enforcement officers in the United States of America.

Led by its convener, Princess Ajibola, CALSER said the death of George Floyd is an act of barbarism that is being spearheaded by the white supremacists in the United States of America because Black Lives doesn’t matter to them. 

“But we say Black Lives indeed matters”the group said

Princess Ajibola said, “The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights have in numerous forums stated that it is indeed time for the blacks and Africans to take their destinies into their hands if we must survive the fangs of the whites whose desire is to see to the extinction of the entire black race in the world. 

“This is over 50 years down the line when the Late Martin Luther King spoke about the emancipation of blacks in the United States of America. Yet, the very issues he canvassed are still present in the United States of America.

“We are not unmindful that some of us have come here out of great trials and tribulation. Some of us have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from where our quest for freedom left us battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering.

“These words of Martin Luther King reverberate till date in the United States of America and other western climes. And the question is, should we suffer untold hardship and persecution just because of the colour of our skin?

Should our children, brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers continue to be killed because we are blacks? We are gathered here to register our displeasure with the happenings in the United States of America where Black lives do not matter”she added

The group wants the Ambassador of the United States of America in Nigeria to convey its message to President Donald Trump. 

“Our message is simple. Black Lives Matter and racial discrimination must stop in the interest of peace, unity and progress. If this does not stop Africans must take their destinies into their hands and fight for their rights because according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we are all born free. We all have our thoughts and ideas, and we should all be treated the same way. 

“The rights in the UDHR belong to everyone, no matter who we are, where we’re from, or whatever we believe. We all have the right to life and to live in freedom and safety. No one should be held as a slave, and no one has the right to treat anyone else as their slave. 

“No one has the right to inflict torture or to subject anyone else to cruel or inhuman treatment. Nobody has the right to enter our home, open our mail, or intrude on our families without good reason. We also have the right to be protected if someone tries to damage our reputation unfairly.

Everyone has the freedom to think or believe what they want, including the right to religious belief. We have the right to change our beliefs or religion at any time, and the right to publicly or privately practise our chosen religion, alone or with others.

“And no government, group or individual should act in a way that would destroy the rights and freedoms of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These are provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We at the Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights stand in agreement with all these provisions in sending a message to the white supremacist in the United States of America that they are not superior to the blacks. Though the colour of our skin may differ, we are all freeborn, and we are a great people.

We are calling on all Africans to stand up for their rights. It is enough of the humiliation, the deprivation, the persecution, the annihilation, and the delineations. Africans are not slaves and would resist any form of slave treatments from those in positions of authorities in the United States of America and elsewhere in the world.

“The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights is sounding this warning to the United States of America to protect black lives in the country as the awareness is here to stay that never shall we ever allow our rights and privileges to be trampled upon anymore.  

“The future is here, the future is black, and the future is Africa. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the United States of America and other countries of the world with our strong fist in the air to say enough is indeed enough, and black lives matters.

“It is our wish that the Ambassador of the United States of America in Nigeria sends this message to the present administration in the United States that the rest of Africa is indeed watching on how it intends to write its name in the sands of time. 

“Africa is watching how the present administration in the United States would do to make black lives Matter. Africa is indeed waiting to see that justice is served to the killers of George Floyd. As nothing short of that would be accepted or tolerated.

“That we are black does not mean our rights and privileges should be trampled upon. That happened centuries ago. We shall never allow a repeat now or in the future. Africans must unite in this critical point of our existence. 

Thank you all for coming out despite the short notice, and I believe that our message would get to the relevant authorities in the United States of America”she concluded.

Security is for all but not everyone’s business

By Prof Ahmed Danfulani

There has been a propagation of mischief in the polity with regards to the tenure of the Service Chiefs in the country where some individuals and organizations have arrogated to themselves the powers and responsibilities of dictating and assessing the stewardship of the current Service Chiefs in the country.

As a professor of law and former DG of NIPSS, I want to state that I have been involved with a strategic analysis on Nigeria’s efforts in the war against terrorism and other security threats in the country. I dare say that the bulk of the issues pushed in the public space are not in line with the realities on the ground. Those with little or no knowledge about security have joined in the fray and somewhat dictating to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces with regards to the tenure of the Service Chiefs in the country.

Yes, it can be argued that security is for all. However, it must be noted that it’s not everyone’s business because some undercurrents go with the terrain. However, in Nigeria, every tom, dick and harry seems to be professionals in the security sector, while in truth their involvements serve as a distraction as well as a nuisance in the scheme of things.

The recent calls for the sack of Service Chiefs provide us with a typical example of how some perceived social commentators have arrogated to themselves the discretion to articulate the tenures or the performances of the Service Chiefs in Nigeria.

The forgoing has indicated that some of us have elected not to appreciate the efforts of the present crop of Service Chiefs in the country. In my opinion, this is the height of insensitivity to their numerous sacrifices over the past five years, especially with regards to the fight against terrorism and other militant groups in Nigeria.

We must not forget that Nigeria was on the brink and the coming of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was indeed the game-changer till date. Nigerians must appreciate the display of strong political will in ensuring that the enemies of Nigeria were put to shame.

As I have stated in numerous forums that the past five years have indeed marked a milestone in the war against terrorism in Nigeria. I can’t but reiterate that in the annals of democratic dispensation in Nigeria, the present crop of Service Chiefs have indeed distinguished themselves and written their names in the sands of time. They were able to turn the tide in record time and the repositioning of the Armed Forces to meet the demands of asymmetric warfare was also outstanding.

Their exploits are replete with an unalloyed commitment to the preservation of the territorial integrity of Nigeria in ways too numerous to mention. But the activity of idle people whose stock in trade is always to throw stones in the wheels of our progress is thriving at the detriment of our unity and progress. This is sad and an indication that if care is not taken, we might wake up one day and realize that we do not have a country.

A situation where those with no knowledge of the intricacies of the security architecture in the country would elect to take the front seat on such a sensitive issue calls for caution. We must be reminded that acts of terrorism are not the same as domestic violence or street protest. There is a wide gap between both and this; the advocates of the sack of the Service Chiefs must come to terms with.

We must face the issue at hand, which is defeating terrorism and not a campaign of smear. This is what it is with regards to the tenures of the Service Chiefs in the country. I won’t say I am disappointed, but I would say that I am at a loss as to why some Nigerians would throw caution in the wind and elect to be on the side of ruining the country with half-truths and illogical conclusions.

Even those with no basic knowledge in National Security have assumed the roles of national security advisers and churning out statements that were conceived in their absolute ignorance and passing same to members of the unsuspecting general public. I am afraid that if this trend is not curtailed, there would be a time where the role of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces would be taken over by these merchants.

As incredible as this might sound, those clamouring for the sack of Service Chiefs are not any different from the famous Pastor that linked the coronavirus pandemic with the 5G network. This indeed was ridiculous until common sense prevailed and he retracted his statements. It is expected that common sense would also prevail.

The same goes for those that are busy occupying pages of the newspapers with stories and articles about the tenure of Service Chiefs and the likes. For one, they are not experts, and they do not understand the intricacies. As such, it is at best a very puerile attempt at the risk of insulting the sensibilities of Nigerians in general and some of us in the field of security studies.

Like I mentioned earlier, security is for all, but not everyone’s business, and so it must remain because it would be a slight on some us that have devoted a substantial number of years in security studies. When such nuisance by ignorant people is allowed to fester is an anomaly that must be discouraged in its entirety.

This group of persons should channel their energies towards charitable ventures if indeed they are that concerned about Nigeria. But for us in this field, we have interacted at the highest intellectual level and conducted researches on the efforts of the Armed Forces in the war against terrorism and our findings has remained consistent. So it is every form of slight for Nigerians to allow some form of propaganda to thrive at the detriment of national interest.

It is, therefore, my considered opinion that it is an abuse of public discourse for politicians and their stooges without the privilege of research and information to write and publish stories about the Service Chiefs in Nigeria. I am using this medium to offer free tutorials to those who want to study security as a body of knowledge so that that can stop taking Nigerians for granted.
The Service Chiefs must be left alone to concentrate on the task at hand as any form of distraction would be counter-productive at this stage. It must be stated that it remains the prerogative of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and not disgruntled politicians that are possibly not happy with the gains so far in North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country.
These crops of Service Chiefs are achievers in their rights, and they have done the country proud. The bulk of us in the security circles would readily attest to this. So, therefore, well-meaning Nigerians must join hands with them to defeat terrorism in the interest of the country. And those with no business with security should not lend their voice in this discourse; instead, they should channel their energies towards productive ventures.

Danfulani is former Director-General, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and a Professor of Law & Strategic Studies, Defence & National Security Expert

Hushpuppi: Group wants FBI, Interpol searchlight on Atiku, Adeyanju, others

The National Coalition of Democrats (NCD) has called on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and International Police to investigate ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other stalwarts of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over possible links to arrested suspected fraudster, Raymond Igbalode, popularly known as Hushpuppi. 

Renowned for his flamboyant lifestyle, Hushpuppi and 12 others were nabbed in Dubai by Interpol on June 10 over multiple cyber crimes and money laundering to the tune of  150 million dirhams (N168 billion).  

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) subsequently declared the Instagram celebrity wanted over links to several cyber frauds. 

In a statement signed by its Spokesman, Garuba Nuhu, on Wednesday, the National Coalition of Democrats reasoned that there could be more to this act, especially with Hushpuppi’s known relationship with some PDP members, as seen in pictures and videos on social media. 

According to the group, Hushpuppi might have actually worked discreetly with the opposition party in laundering of funds for the prosecution of the 2019 general elections. 

NCD said its logic is born out of the fact that PDP’s top shots, led by its presidental candidate held several meetings in Dubai ahead of the polls and the likes of Atiku, Dino Melaye, Timi Frank and Deji Adeyanju are possibly his close associates. 

The group, therefore, called on the FBI and Interpol to investigate Atiku and other PDP members who may have been first-line beneficiaries of the fraud committed by Hushpuppi. 

It added that Hushpuppi could have likely “assisted these individuals to launder funds through his network because the level of fraternity between Hushpuppi and these individuals points to that direction”

Read full statement below:

The National Coalition of Democrats wishes to lend its voice to the recent arrest of Raymond Igbalode, popularly known as Hushpuppi for allegedly hacking into the United States (US) unemployed database and impersonating citizens qualified for unemployment funds of over $100 million meant for Native Americans in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.  

This is indeed a sad tale for Nigeria in the sense that the arrest effected by the Dubai Police has indeed painted Nigerians as fraudsters before the international community. 

The National Coalition of Democrats has in times past alerted Nigerians to the activities of some Nigerians with no identifiable means of livelihood, yet displaying a life of affluence in the social media space. 

The case of Hushpuppi further lends credence to this concern raised earlier as most of our youths have elected to tow the dishonourable path all in the quest to make money at all cost. More worrisome in this latest development is the fact that the said Hushpuppi has been severally identified with some members of the opposition party in Nigeria. 

This is also on the heels that a top member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is known for travelling to the United Arab Emirates where he held several meetings in the buildup to the 2019 general elections. 

It is also common knowledge that the PDP leadership turned Dubai into their strategic meeting place from where they plotted for the execution of the general elections.

The National Coalition of Democrats wishes to state in unequivocal terms that Hushpuppi indeed shared some affinity with some top members of the PDP as evident in the posting of pictures and videos of their several meetings in the social media space. 

It, therefore, reckons that there is every possibility that the said Hushpuppi might have been working discreetly with the PDP stalwarts in the laundering of funds for the prosecution of the 2019 general elections.

The National Coalition of Democrats wonders why the opposition PDP would elect to see Dubai as a haven for holding strategic meetings while wining and dining with the said Hush Puppy.

The likes of Atiku Abubakar, Dino Melaye, Timi Frank and Deji Adeyanju have in numerous times posed for photographs with the said Hushpuppi . It is common sense to articulate that there must have been in a strategic business partnership with him in the area of repatriation of illicit funds for the prosecution of the general elections using his syndicate network. 

The National Coalition of Democrats wonders why questions were not asked as regards his source of wealth if indeed they were genuine in their aspirations. This is not minding the fact that Hushpuppi indeed has led millions of youths into believing that hard work is not a guarantee for success. 

The National Coalition of Democrats believes that these top goons of the PDP are first-line beneficiaries of the fraud committed by the said Hushpuppi. There is every need for further investigations by the International Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This is imperative in the bid to trace the root of the heist committed by Hushpuppi as well as identifying his partners in crime in Nigeria.      

The National Coalition of Democrats wishes to inform members of the general public that from all indices, there seems to be a strategic linkage between Hushpuppi and some stalwarts of the opposition PDP. It will be in the interest of the generality of Nigerians if this case is further investigated.

We are convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that indeed Hushpuppi might have assisted these individuals to launder funds through his network because the level of fraternity between Hushpuppi and these individuals points to that direction.

The National Coalition of Democrats as a result of this call on the Interpol and the FBI to leave no stone unturned in unravelling the collaborators of Hushpuppi in Nigeria.  

We are convinced that this is indeed necessary to put issues in proper perspectives and to serve as a deterrent to our teeming youthful population. 

George Floyd: Lagos protesters defy rain, march against racial killings

With the gruesome murder of an African-American by a ‘white’ cop still causing widespread outrage across the world, some Nigerians in Lagos, on Monday, staged a walk in condemnation of the dastardly act.

The Black Lives Matter Movement in Nigeria (BLMMN), stormed the streets of Nigeria’s commercial capital despite the heavy downpour, in total condemnation of the indiscriminate killing of coloured people in the United States of America.

George Floyd died on May 25th after Derek Chauvin, then an officer with the Minneapolis Police Department, pressed his knee into his neck for nearly nine minutes.

On May 29th Mr Chauvin was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

However, African-Americans and other sympathizers worldwide are demanding an end to the killings which is gradually becoming a regular occurrence in the US.

Speaking on behalf of the group, convener, Josephine Okpara said an end must be put to “white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on black communities by the state and vigilantes”.

Madam Okpara expressed disgust at the manner blacks are being dehumanised, describing it as “ uncharitable and a gross disservice to our intellectual sense of existence in the world”.

According to her, the killing of Floyd is another grim example of how black lives have been disregarded by the state and their affiliates.

The Black Lives Matter Movement in Nigeria, therefore, expressed total solidarity with the global community in condemnation of the indiscriminate killing of black people.

Okpara said that their thoughts and prayers are with the families of those that have lost their lives by the shenanigans of the US government who have failed address this menace that has indeed put black people all over the United States of America at risk.

On behalf of the group, she, however, urged President Donald Trump and everyone in government to take up the challenge of making “ Black Lives Matter now and forever in the US”.

Read full address below:

We are all gathered here in solidarity with a global community the Black Lives Matter Foundation whose mission is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes, and combating and countering acts of violence, creating space for Black imagination and innovation, and centring Black joy.

The Black Lives Matter Movement in Nigeria is taking this peaceful march because indeed, Black Lives should matter in the scheme of things in the world. The oppressions and senseless killings of Blacks are uncharitable and a gross disservice to our intellectual sense of existence in the world.

Our consciousness must awake to this gross injustice that is deliberately meted out to Blacks in the United States of America. The recent killing of George Floyd by police officers in Powderhorn, a neighbourhood south of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota provides us with that grim example of how Black Lives have been disregarded and dehumanized by the state and their affiliates.

We are at a loss as to when this great injustice would abate. We are not slaves. We are not thieves or rogues. We are a people strong in our beliefs, resilient in our spirits, excellent in our careers and strong in our bond.

Black lives should indeed matter because they are children, brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers. They matter because the injustices we face steal from all of us. The white people and people of colour alike steal our very humanity.

Systemic and institutionalized racism are defining civil rights and social justice issues of our time. We’ve come to understand that to be silent about the violence and threats to the lives and well-being of Black people is to be complicit in that violence and those threats.

We say no to this, and we will rise in defence to our liberty to life, association and movement. Our offence is because we are coloured skin. But they must understand that been coloured skin does not and should not translate to state targeted violence and oppression against us.

We are dutiful in our rights, and we have excelled in our quest for self-actualization. This should not be used against us just because of the colour of our skin. They must realize that our skin colour is a reflection of the strength of our character in the face of adversary. It is a reflection of our value system that emphasizes resilience in our spirits.

The Black Lives Matter Movement in Nigeria is in total solidarity with the global community in condemnation of the indiscriminate killing of black people. This is indeed an anomaly that has been sustained over the years and under various administrations in the United States of America.

Today, the numbers are increasing daily with many George Floyds gone unnoticed. For how long can we continue to watch as many others are cut down in their prime just because of the colour of their skin?

We are in solidarity in Nigeria. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those that have lost their lives by the shenanigans of government in addressing this menace that has indeed put Black People all over the United States of America at risk.

Just as we are in solidarity, we are speaking from the top of our voices for the killings of Blacks in the United States of America to stop. From Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Sokoto, Kaduna and the nook and crannies in Nigeria, our members are united in one voice. We say stop the killings of blacks in the United States of America.

Today it is George Floyd; tomorrow it might be Muyiwa, Nnamdi or Musa. We cannot fold our arms and watch our young men and women cut down in their prime. We in Nigeria stand with the protesters because it was not an isolated incident. It is a manifestation of the injustice that has been going on for decades in the United States of America.

The injustice and inequality in the United States of America is not about one situation; it is about one situation happening again and over again where Black Lives truly didn’t matter to those in authorities and to those whom we are paying to protect us.

In Nigeria, we recognize and share in the pains of the families and friends of George Floyd. We are in solidarity with the millions of Blacks in the United States of America that have poured out the streets in their numbers in condemnation of the indiscriminate killing of George Floyd.

The American government must rise to this challenge in the interest of peace. President Donald Trump, the governors, and mayors in all American cities must take up this challenge to make Black Lives Matter now and forever in the United States of America.

The history of the United States of America is not complete without the mention and contributions of African-Americans. Their exploits have been ingenious in various sectors of the American economy. And if for nothing else than this Black Lives should matter in the United States of America.

Our fists are raised to the heavens in a show of support to the global community fighting against the indiscriminate killing of Black people in the United States of America. For us in the Nigerian Chapter of the Black Lives Matter Movement, the killing of Black People can no longer continue. The death of George Floyd should bring to an end the indiscriminate and senseless killing of Black people in the United States of America.

Our words, thoughts and prayers are with Black people all over the world. We join our hands in the global initiative. We are blacks. We are strong. We are united, and we are free and free, indeed. Black Lives Matters now and in the years ahead.
This is a big fist in the air from Nigeria.

FG to drive new economy with additional 77,400 young farmers

The federal government through the newly resusitated National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has revealed plan to raise about 77, 400 young farmers into Nigerian farming business across the nation in different farming activities ranging from crop farming to animal husbandry.

The newly appointed Executive Secretary of NALDA Prince Paul Ikonne, said this Monday in Abuja at the maiden press briefing since President Muhammadu Buhari brought the agency back.

NALDA was created by General Ibrahim Babangida-led administration in 1992 but was abolished during the rationalisation of agencies during Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration in year 2000.

Speaking at the media conference, Prince Ikonne said his plan is to ensure that the organisation drive the country’s economy.

“Our short-term programs are; Providing farm inputs such as improved seeds, fertilizers, machinery, environmentally friendly crop protection agents, growth enhancers and trainings which will be given to already existing farmers and this will assist them during this farming season in order to improve their yield.

“The President, having given a marching order when he said “we must produce what we have to eat” NALDA as an authority under the Presidency has come up with programs in order to meet this directive by Mr. President.”

Speaking on how to achieve his plans, Ikonne said: “We intend to have 77,400 young farmers injected into Nigerian farming business across the nation in different farming activities ranging from crop farming to animal husbandry.

“These young farmers will be drawn from the 774 Local Governments, with a pilot number of 100 per local Government. In this initiative we will partner with Governors for provision or donation of land and other stakeholders as this will create employment and food production will be increased.

“Back To Farm; we will use this program to encourage everyone to go back to farm by reaching out to the military and paramilitary organizations, NASS members, civil and public servants, journalists, corporate bodies, religious organizations and individuals.

“You will agree with me that all these organizations mentioned and some individuals have land that are not being put to use, so we intend to encourage them to use these lands for farming even if it is for personal consumption. #BackToFarm

“These 3 programs are our starting point in order to meet the immediate mandate of Mr. President for providing food for all and we intend to achieve this within the next 6 months.”

While expressing confidence in the organisation to drive economy, the executive secretary said: “Our intention going by NALDA’s mandate, is to make agriculture a business and a source of wealth creation for the country. This we intend to achieve by increasing palm oil and soya beans production for export among others. Nigeria’s potential in the agricultural sector cannot be over emphasized and having identified the lapses of why we as a nation have not attained the height of food sufficiency, NALDA under my watch will provide the required leadership and with the support of Mr. President we will achieve our mandate.

“NALDA will partner and collaborate with other government agencies and international organizations in order to attain food sufficiency and make agriculture the main source of revenue for Nigeria from export.”

He, however, called on Nigerians who are interested in working with NALDA as volunteers to register through its website www.nalda.ng, even as he called “on all Nigerians and stakeholders, to see agriculture as a business and to solicit for their support as we take off today towards achieving food security which NALDA will be driving.”

Speaking earlier, the nalda’s pioneer director of planning, satistics and data bank, Dr. Akin Fapounda, who gave review of where the organisation was before it was disbanded in year 2000, commended President Muhammad Buhari for bringing the Authority back to existence.

“It is nice to see NALDA back to the country.”

Dr. Fapounda said if Nigeria will succeed, NALDA must succeed in agriculture.

He said NALDA is not meant to be a federal government agency but for state government to look for lands, settle all compensation and use the land for proper farming.

Probe Ebonyi over alleged N2billion fleece, indigenes urge EFCC

Association of Ebonyi State Indigenes in Diaspora (AESID) has asked the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-graft agencies to embark on a comprehensive probe of the state financial records in the last 16 years.

The association specifically called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) the Directorate of State Services (DSS) and the Police to bring to book all those who have caused the state economic doldrums and future dooms beginning from the Sam Egwu-led administration to Elechi and now, the Dave Umahi-led government.

In a statement signed on Sunday by the President worldwide of the association, Ambassador Pascal Oluchukwu, said the probe become necessary over alleged mismanagement of a N2 Billion loan given by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the state government under the leadership of Engr. David Nweze Umahi, for the 2016 farming season.

“We are aware that it all started with the courage and boldness of one of the enlightened citizens of the state and former Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government, Professor Benard Odoh to hold the Umahi-led administration accountable especially with regards to the disturbing statistics of the National Bureau of Statistics which recently named our State as the 3rd poorest in the federation and information from the Debt Management Office, DMO which indicates that the present government has increased the State’s domestic and external borrowings.

“Already, Prof. Odoh had in his response to the allegations maintained that he had no hands in the disbursements of the said fund as his role was merely limited to providing strategic leadership for the supervising Ministry of Agriculture as then headed by Barr. Uchenna Orji as a Commissioner.

“After making startling disclosures to the effect that only a little over N900m out of the total sum were released to the committee for disbursements and purchase of tractors, a seemingly confident Odoh has filed a petition to the anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) inviting it to probe all persons involved in the matter while also stunningly offering himself to be investigated.

“AESID as a non-governmental organization whose mandate is to protect and safeguard the interests and welfare of the common Ebonyian, we laud the steps taken so far by the former SSG, Prof. Odoh in reporting this matter to the EFCC which is indeed the appropriate body to investigate financial crimes and prosecute offenders as being in the right direction. This is because it is only reasonable that the accuser whose present and former appointees are also being questioned cannot be the judge in their own case.”

While condemning what it called witch-hunting, intimidations and harassments of the former SSG Prof. Odoh, the group said: “We strongly believe that the state would be saved from an impending economic doom if its financial records are holistically ascertained and offenders who have plundered its resources made to face the wraths of the law.

“There exist in our beloved state, many phony contracts and projects which have remained uncompleted several years after they were awarded till date while the contractors obviously live large on public funds meant for their executions. Also, many funds, grants and loans given the State which is still being repaid from the allocations as debts have remained largely unaccounted for. This has severely hampered developments on all fronts in critical sectors in the State such as; Education, Health, Agriculture, Economic and Human capacity developments and Empowerment, Youths and Sports development among several others.

“In specific terms, we were reliably informed that the Engr. David Umahi-led government for instance has accessed many grants such as N6bn UBEB funds which could not be secured by the previous Elechi administration. Also, information at our disposal indicates that the same government has in the last 5 years accessed a total of over N9bn so far as Agric loans for farmers from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. Despite these humongous sums and the fact that the government prides itself as investing heavily in the Agricultural sector, we are terribly disappointed that our dear State only boasts of getting most of its rice from some northern and neighbouring States for milling and packaging as the ‘Abakaliki’ brand of local rice.

“Like the rest of Ebonyi people who have been made to believe that this step was meant to save cost for the government and the people, we demand to know: How much exactly have been saved by the government through this use of direct labours by the Umahi-led administration?

“To this end therefore, we also call on other anti-graft agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) including the Directorate of State Services (DSS) the Police and indeed, any agency that is responsible for law enforcement and justice implementation in Nigeria to wade in and ensure that fairness and justice is not only seen to be done but actually done and the state’s looted resources recovered.
“It is our strong believe that this probe would be in the overall interest of the Ebonyi masses,” the statement said.

5th Anniversary: Buhari killing Nigeria with debt – Frank

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Friday, said that the last five years of General Muhammadu Buhari’s regime remains the worst in the history of the country.

Frank in a statement in Abuja said that the nation’s progress is presently on a freeze and can only return to normal mode of development after Buhari’s tenure.

He noted that apart from the President’s inept and riderless administration in the last five years, Nigerians must brace up for further economic and social torments ahead in the next three years.

He lamented that Buhari has continued to lead the country and its yet unborn citizens into the abyss of debt and slavery with his penchant for amassing loans meant to be shared by the cabal rather than for positive developmental projects.

He insisted that it would take Nigeria another 10 decades to repay and recover from the loans already amassed and squandered by the present administration.

Frank said: “Today marks the fifth year of the Buhari’s regime in power, yet, Nigerians have not recovered from his ruinous ways of the dummy sold to them prior to the 2015 presidential elections.

“Buhari is not only the most incompetent Nigerian leader but the most unprepared for the nation’s exalted office of President.

“Notwithstanding his half-baked polices like the single treasury account, closure of borders and playing patron to deadly and bloodthirsty herdsmen, his incapacity to comprehend the workings of modern economy is legendary.

“In 2016 alone, over five million Nigerians lost their jobs when he plunged the country into an unwarranted recession.

“Besides, the worsening insecurity across the country, he has not deemed it to change the leadership of the armed forces purposely selected from a section of the country and religious faith.

“The only legacy Buhari has built in the last five years is an ever increasing debt profile for the country.

“Under Buhari, Nigeria’s debt profile rose from N10.32 billion in June 30, 2015 to 27.4trillion naira as at December 31, 2019. 

“Presently, our rubber stamp 9th National Assembly is sealing another $5.513billion external loan for Buhari.

“This is after the same National Assembly hurriedly repurposed N850 billion external loan to be sourced by Buhari from the local capital markets in May 2019.

“Already, over a quarter of Nigeria’s N10.51 trillion revised 2020 budget, that is N3trillion has been earmarked for debt service, which far exceeds the N2.23trillion meant for capital expenditure.”

“This clearly shows that Buhari’s only Next Level Agenda has been to lead the country into bondage through unmitigated borrowing from multilateral lending institutions like the World Bank, IMF, AfDB, Islamic Development Bank and the China EXIM Bank, among others,

“With all these, one of Buhari’s hirelings claims that ‘we are glad’ the retired General ‘came our way’ in 2015. What do you expect?

“I believe that Nigeria will be free from this burden one day. All it would take is for Nigerians to put on their thinking caps and elect a leader who will lead them out of Egypt and not one that would further increase their heavy yoke.

“Today Nigerians are celebrating five years of poverty, hardship, sickness, joblessness, rising inflation, drowning economy and debt slavery courtesy of Buhari.”

CALSER describes AI’s latest report on military fallacious, subjective

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) has rubbished Amnesty International’s latest report against the Nigerian Military in the war against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

Amnesty had alleged that children in the North-East were being subjected to unlawful treatment and detention in inhumane conditions.

However, in a counter-report signed by Princess Ajibola, on Wednesday, CALSER described the claims as “ fallacy, lacking in objectivity”.

The Centre said this may just be another coy by the international humanitarian organization in its characteristics penchant for distracting the Nigerian troops when the morale is high.

CALSER added that this is even more striking, especially as the report was based on an interview conducted on only 48 children held in detention, as well as 22 adults.

Contrary to AI’s allegation, the Centre disclosed that the military have been conducting operations that led to the rescue of thousands of women and children, granting them access to medical care before release to their families.

CALSER noted that in all of its engagements, “we have not been able to establish cases of torture by the Nigerian Military as put forward by Amnesty International”.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Liberation, therefore, stated that the recent report by AI is lacking in all ramifications and should be disregarded by all and sundry.

It, however, pledged its commitment to continue working with the military in the war against terrorism in Nigeria.

Read the full report below:

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights Statement on Amnesty International’s report “‘We dried our tears’: Addressing the toll on children of Northeast Nigeria’s conflict” accusing the Nigerian Military subjecting children in North-East Nigeria to unlawful treatment and detention.

The Nigerian Military has been engaged in the prosecution of the war against terrorism in North-East Nigeria since 2009 when the Boko Haram terrorist group began a violent campaign against Nigeria.

As standard with warfare, there are bound to be casualties of immeasurable proportion. But the report by Amnesty International in fulfilment of its supposed mandate of bringing to the fore perceived cases of human rights violations in countries where it operates, Nigeria inclusive is lopsided.

In the report by Amnesty International, it alluded that the Nigerian Military’s treatment of those who escape such brutality has also been appalling. From mass, unlawful detention in inhumane conditions, to meting out beatings and torture and allowing sexual abuse by adult inmates – it defies belief that children anywhere would be so grievously harmed by the very authorities charged with their protection.

This statement is at best a fallacy that lacks objectivity as the activities of the Nigerian Military in North-East Nigeria has continuously been scrutinized by a coalition of civil society organizations including the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights believes that the motives of Amnesty International in this regard could be hinged on a disdain for the successes recorded since 2016 when the Nigerian Military gained ascendency over the Boko Haram terrorist group.

This is on the heels that the report was based on an interview conducted on 48 children held in detention, as well as 22 adults. It is indeed questionable that conclusions can be drawn from such sample size given the population of North-East Nigeria that as at 2011 stands at 23,558,674 or 13.5% of the country’s population.

It must be stated that such a sample size cannot avail a reasonable conclusion in research. As such, there is a high level of mischief on the part of Amnesty International, which might not be unconnected with its insatiable desire to see to the festering of the crisis in North-East Nigeria to suit their purpose and cause a distraction to the operations of the Nigerian Military.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights have in times past questioned the genuineness of the reports of Amnesty International on Nigeria. This position of ours had led to the commissioning of various researches to ascertain the veracity of the claims made by Amnesty International.

It suffices to state that on these occasions, there was a wide disparity between what was reported by Amnesty and our team of independent researchers. This has been the trend, and it has assumed a worrisome dimension with the recent report by Amnesty International.

Amnesty International in its report also posited that most of such detentions were unlawful; children were never charged or prosecuted for any crime and are denied the rights to access a lawyer, appear before a judge, or communicate with their families. The widespread unlawful detentions may amount to a crime against humanity.

It is common knowledge that the use of children in war is a crime against humanity. And as such, it is indeed bewildering that Amnesty International can feign ignorance to these ignoble acts by Boko Haram. While it is understandable that Amnesty International would feign this ignorance, it is nonetheless against all known protocols why such anomalies should be encouraged rather than rebuked.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights is in receipt of the fact that the Nigerian Military has been conducting rescue operations that have led to the rescue of thousands of women and children have been rescued from the Boko Haram captivity. It is also public knowledge that the Nigerian Military has availed those rescued from captivity access to medical care, as well as counselling before they are released back to their families.

Therefore, there is no record in the archives of the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights that indicates otherwise. We have also been painstaking in scrutinizing cases of human rights violations in North-East Nigeria and the bulk of the summary of our scrutiny highlighted gross violations by the Boko Haram group. Case studies were seen in the Chibok girls, the Dapchi girls, as well as the Buni Yadi massacre of young boys in their dormitory by the Boko Haram group.

It must be stated that children rescued from Boko Haram captivity are not detained or charge for terrorism as in the first instance, the involvement of children was more forceful and against their wishes. This fact, the Nigerian Military highlighted and stated that counselling sessions are availed rescued captives regardless of their age or gender.

Amnesty International was economical with the truth when it stated in the report that almost everyone fleeing Boko Haram territory, including children, is “screened” by the Military and Civilian Joint Task Force – a process that, for many, involves torture until the person “confesses” to affiliation with Boko Haram. Alleged Boko Haram members and supporters are transferred and held, often for months or years, in squalid conditions in detention centres including Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri and the Kanji military base in Niger State.

Every discerning mind would agree that screening is a precautionary measure put in place by the Nigerian Military to ensure that fleeing Boko Haram terrorist do not infiltrate the civilian populace and wreak further havoc. The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights observed that these precautionary measures have indeed drastically reduced incidences of suicide bombings in markets, places of worship, communities and other places in times past.

Moreover, in all of our engagements, we have not been able to establish cases of torture by the Nigerian Military as put forward by Amnesty International. We are indeed aware that the Nigerian Military has a Directorate for Civil-Military relations, as well as the establishment of human rights desks.

It is worthy to state that the establishments of these initiatives have seen to the reprimanding and consequent prosecution of errant soldiers that were caught violating human rights in North-East Nigeria.

It is therefore awkward that Amnesty International estimates that at least 10,000 people, including many children, have died in detention during the conflict. There is no iota of truth in this claim, and this much Amnesty International must own up to.

Amnesty International contradicted itself in its report wherein it stated that conditions are better at the Operation Safe Corridor site than elsewhere in military detention, and former detainees spoke positively about the psychosocial support and adult education there.

For inexplicable reasons, Amnesty International refused to acknowledge the fact that the detention facilities of the Nigerian Military operate under the same conditions. This much the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights can attest to given the fact that it has on several occasions, visited the various detention centers of the Nigerian Military in various locations.

The Centre for Africa Liberation wishes to advise Amnesty International to dedicate substantial time to conducting field research instead of relying on hearsays and desk research with regards to the operations of the Nigerian Military in North-East Nigeria.

Conclusion:

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Liberation states in unequivocal terms that the recent report by Amnesty International is lacking in all ramifications and should be disregarded by all and sundry.

The accusations are with sinister motives and not a reflection of the issues on the ground. The general public must realize that acts of terrorism are of various dimensions and Amnesty International through its recently released report has availed us the possibility of intellectual terrorism.

The Centre for Africa Liberation would continue to work with the Nigerian Military in the war against terrorism in Nigeria.

5 years scorecard: Group rates Buhari, Army high on Counter-insurgency

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) has showered encomium on President Muhammadu and the Nigerian troops for their efforts towards ending the war against insurgency in the last five years.

CESJET made this known in its five-year assessment report on President Buhari’s administration in the war against terrorism and the accompanying efforts of the Nigerian Army.

President Buhari has earned plaudits from Nigerians and the international community for dramatically halting the once growing spate of Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks in the country.

Prior to Buhari’s reign, Nigeria appeared powerless, clueless and helpless, with terrorists extending their mayhem to the Federal Capital Territory; bombing prominent locations at will.

After carrying out an assessment tour of the North-East, spanning five years, CESJET acknowledged that President Buhari has displayed sincerity of heart and purpose towards bringing the war to an end.

In the report signed by Executive Secretary, Isaac Ikpa, on Tuesday, the centre hailed the current administration for showing the much-needed political will to finish off the terrorists.

CESJET also extolled Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai for aligning with the vision of the president, showcasing exemplary leadership, commitment and doggedness in the theatre of operations.

According to the centre, the army has so far been professional in the discharge of their duties, exhibiting utter respect for human rights.

With the end of the war insight, CESJET, however, urged the Federal Government to continue to give the needed support to the troops.

Read full report below:

Introduction

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) is a civil society organization in the vanguard of the entrenchment of social justice, equity and transparency at all levels of governance in Nigeria.

CESJET has over the years been consistent in holding government accountable in policy formulation and implementation in Nigeria. We have released various reports on governments dedication in various sectors of the economy by way of assessing the commitment of the government to the rule of law, human rights and protection of lives and properties, as well as the freedom of expression of the rights and privileges of Nigerians as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

CESJET in fulfilment of the above-stated areas of interest and focus undertook a strategic five-year assessment report on the commitment of the Muhammadu Buhari administration in the fight against terrorism and other militant groups in Nigeria.

The assessment report covered five years (2015-2020) with emphasis on the operations of the Nigerian Army in the prosecution of the Boko Haram war in North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country.

Research Methodology

In undertaking this assessment, emphasis was placed on primary sources of data collection that included interviews, distribution of questionnaires, on the spot assessment visits to the theatre of operations in North-East Nigeria, to IDP camps, as well as affected communities in Nigeria.

CESJET constituted a team of researchers with each team consisting of journalists, psychologists, doctors and nurses, interpreters, observers and auditors. The team was spread across communities in North-East Nigeria and reported to a central processing team stationed in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Duration of Research
The research lasted a period of two months and three weeks. A group of experts analyzed the reports from the various teams under a strict guideline that emphasized objectivity in an attempt to achieve the overall objective of putting issues in proper perspectives with regards the prosecution of the war against terrorism by the government and the Nigerian Army.

The Assessment
The team of researchers undertook extensive research work in North-East Nigeria while highlighting various issues such as:
The level of casualties on unarmed civilians
The level of destruction in North-East Nigeria
The operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army
The respect for human rights by the Nigerian Troops
The state of IDP camps
The commitment of the political authorities

The Level of Casualties on Unarmed Civilians:
From the reports aggregated, there was an agreement that the level of casualties in the battle between the Boko Haram group and the Nigerian Army was at a minimal level. The bulk of those affected was in the process of rescue missions by the Nigerian Army where Boko Haram terrorist carried out mass killings when the Nigerian troops closed in on them in their numerous camps.

Borno State recorded the highest number of the use of women and children as a human shield by the Boko Haram group. This fact is responsible for why some clearance operations of the Nigerian Army were hindered so as not to record human casualties.

It was observed that those rescued from Boko Haram captivity were placed in counselling camps and were attended to by counselling psychologists and those requiring medical attention were transferred to the nearest medical facilities.

There is also a level of agreement amongst the various teams on the level of commitment of the Nigerian troops in ensuring that all rescue operations were carefully planned and with minimal use of force.

The Level of Destruction in North-East Nigeria:
It was observed that the level of destruction in North-East Nigeria was phenomenal. Damages in these communities date back to 2009 at the onset of the Boko Haram crisis.

However, life seems to be returning to most of these communities as the Nigerian Military has been carrying out reconstruction work and spearheaded the relocation of displaced persons back to their communities.

It was also observed that the military engineers were also involved in the provision of basic amenities such as water and the rebuilding of primary healthcare centres and places of worship in these communities.

The operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army:
The operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in North-East Nigeria received a pass mark from the various teams. It was highlighted that there is a strong presence of the Military in all the communities visited by the team.
It was observed that the Military were in high spirits and showed dedication and commitment to the prosecution of the war within the ambits of the law. It was also noted that the military boast of sophisticated arms and ammunitions and the officers and soldiers were well-kitted in operational gears.

The operational line of command was also well-spelt out with each command, battalion and company responding to chains of authority most efficiently.

However, the team gathered that some soldiers have been in operation for as long as three years, and some of them exhibited fatigue occasioned by prolonged absence from their families and loved ones.

The respect for human rights by the Nigerian Troops:

After extensive interaction with the community and religious leaders in most communities visited by the team of researchers, it was stated that the Nigerian troops were respectful for locals and continuously carried out profiling of people in conjunction with representatives of the people to ensure that they fish out Boko Haram members that have taken refuge amongst the population.

It was discovered that the template for identifying Boko Haram infiltrators were issued to the various community leaders who in turn passed such information to their subjects.

The consensus in all the communities was that of praises for the efforts of the Nigerian troops in respecting the rights and privileges of the people. The relationship between the people and the Military is cordial, and this has resulted in the provision of food as gestures to the soldiers in the various communities visited.

The state of IDP camps:

Our team of researchers visited some select IDP camps in North-East, Nigeria. It was observed that most of the camps were populated by those that have refused to return to their communities despite pleas and assurances by the relevant authorities that it was safe for their return.

The team observed that soldiers and other security operatives adequately manned the various camps daily. There was a high level of organizations in their daily routine, but for some teething issues that were being addressed at the time of visiting by our team of researchers.

The commitment of the political authorities:

It was observed that was a conflict between political authorities in North-East Nigeria, and this gave rise to a delay in the provision of infrastructures in some of the communities in North-East Nigeria.

The political authorities at the state and local government levels felt that the government at the centre is usurping their responsibilities to the people by carrying out reconstruction work in communities without permission from the state government.

Our team observed that there have been concerted efforts towards resolving the differences by both parties.

Other Highlights:

It was observed that the army leadership in North-East Nigeria has been exceptionally professional with regards to the prosecution of the war. It was noticed that there was a high sense of collaboration between the various security agencies in operation.

The Boko Haram group does not control any swathe of Nigerian territory like in times past where over 16 local government areas were under the control of Boko Haram group.

According to information gathered the activities of Boko Haram has been restricted to the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin region, but for pockets of attacks carried out by the group from their hideouts.

The welfare of the officers and soldiers takes a high premium, and the equipment of the troops are mostly new and of serviceable conditions.

Conclusion:

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency upon conclusion of the assessment tour of North-East Nigeria, states the following:

That the commitment of the Muhammadu Buhari administration in the war against terrorism in North-East Nigeria is commendable, there has been an unprecedented display of sincerity of heart and purpose by the government towards bringing the war to an end.

That the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has indeed provided that political will towards defeating the Boko Haram group by ensuring the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Military in operation in North-East Nigeria.

That the Nigerian Army under the leadership of Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai has been exemplary in its operations in North-East Nigeria, its observance to the rules of engagement and the preservation of human rights are of high standards.

That the gains recorded by the Nigerian troops in battle in North-East Nigeria are as a result of the provision of a conducive environment for the operation of the Nigerian Military by the political authorities in Nigeria.

That the Nigerian authorities are indeed committed to halting the threat posed by the Boko Haram group across the West African region through the reinvigoration of the Multinational Joint Task Force.

Suggestions:

CESJET herby suggest that the Nigerian government must continue to give the needed support to the Nigerian Military by ensuring that it continuously provides all that is required in the prosecution of the war against terrorism in Nigeria.