society

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS

Published

3 years ago

June 30, 2021

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS– It is without doubt that due to some tendencies, certain elements will always endeavor to undermine public order and national security. It is in the recognition of that possibility that countries establish specific agencies to detect and prevent threats against national (internal) security. It goes without saying that managing the internal security of a populous country like Nigeria would not be an easy one.

The State Security Service (SSS) a.k.a Department of State Services DSS is one of such agencies charged with detection and prevention of crimes and threats against the internal security of Nigeria. It is the leading domestic intelligence agency in Nigeria. Its primary responsibility includes the collection of intelligence for good governance and national safety. It ensures the protection of the State and its officials, citizens, critical resources and infrastructure from domestic threat.
Evidently, the DSS in the country has been doing a herculean task in discharging the aforementioned responsibilities. It is however unfortunate that most people do not realize how much sacrifice the Service and its operatives have made. One key area the Service’s achievement is outstanding is in the maintenance of national unity. No doubt the indivisibility and indissolubility of the country provided by the Constitution rests on the DSS ably led by its Director General, Mr. Yusuf Magaji Bichi whose leadership has been impressive.
The criticisms in some quarters that the DSS has failed in its duty as an intelligence agency is unfounded. The Service has continuously implemented strategies that have not only been successful in tackling insecurity, but are saving the nation from collapse. The way and manner it managed the EndSARS incident and even the human rights community has remained outstandingly commendable. Nigeria has not collapsed due largely to the singular efforts of the agency.
That the DSS does not advertise its achievements is not a reason to castigate it in thankless ways. Most people would not know how much it stretches itself to protect the internal security of the country. Those that know are aware it is the eyes and ears of the nation. It is a gate keeper. The DSS is a pillar of support for Nigeria’s democracy. Since assumption of Bichi as its DG, the accusation of rights abuse has reduced drastically. The Service may not be perfect it is discharging its duties within the norms of democracy and rule of law.
Deeply involved in the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North East, it provides regular actionable intelligence to sister agencies. It does same for the anti-graft agencies and by doing so has reduced economic crimes, internet and advance fee frauds. The agency has maintained a robust strategy that is fighting kidnapping, banditry, arms trafficking and militancy, amongst others. It has sustained intelligence gathering efforts and aggressively participated in enforcement/joint operations with sister agencies. Some of its other achievements include, but not limited to: intercepting terrorist elements as well as disrupting terrorist cell. It has also intercepted cache of arms and ammunition in parts of the country; investigated and prosecuted criminal cases particularly those against the state.
DSS’ support for democracy, public policy, timely dissemination of intelligence, security education among other positive contributions have helped to boost public confidence in the Service and reversed previously held notions that it is unfriendly. Other strategies employed by the agency are; training and capacity building for staff, acquisition of new tools and technological capacity to meet today’s challenges and partnership with strategic groups. In this regard, major media outfits that have visited the agency’s headquarters were warmly received by top officials of the security agency. The guest were told that primary objective of the Service was to make Nigeria safe for its citizens and not to witch hunt anybody.
Without any shred of doubt, the current DG, since his assumption of Office, has brought lots of positive changes to the DSS. Things can only get better as time goes on. His performance has been commendable, not only in the area of combating insecurity, but in the Service’s diligent discharge of its responsibilities. A million accolades to the distinguished DGSS and his men.

society

Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

Published

2 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken over investigations into the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured. The incident occurred when over 7,500 participants, far exceeding the expected 5,000, rushed to gain entry to the event.

The funfair was reportedly organised by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat.

Naomi, who was arrested alongside Hamzat, reportedly collapsed on Friday and was rushed to the Police Hospital at Eleyele for medical attention. A senior hospital staff member confirmed the development, stating, “Both of them are currently at the hospital. The police have secured the premises, and no further details can be disclosed.”

Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to Oyo State Police Command spokesperson Adewale Osifeso. A police source revealed that the Inspector General of Police has now taken charge of the case, stating, “For further details, you’ll need to contact Abuja.”

Victims and Medical Response

The Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council at Adeoyo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Adeoye Allen-Taylor, confirmed that four children remain on admission. He added that some casualties were brought in dead and that the Oyo State Government is covering all medical expenses.

At the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, five fatalities were reported, though none of the bodies were taken to the hospital’s mortuary. The Public Relations Officer of UCH, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the death toll.

Government and Public Reactions

In response, the Oyo State Government mandated strict safety measures for all public events, especially those involving children and the elderly. Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Dotun Oyelade, warned event organisers of severe penalties for compromising public safety.

Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the tragedy as “painful and preventable,” announced the cancellation of his December 25th birthday celebrations to honor the victims. “There will be no birthday celebration this year. I will remain indoors to reflect,” the governor stated while receiving a condolence delegation from the South-East PDP, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.

Condolences from PDP and Fayemi

The South-West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed its condolences to the Oyo State Government and families of the victims. PDP Publicity Secretary Chief Sanya Atofarati attributed the tragedy to economic hardships, which he said pushed families to seek free entertainment for their children.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, also extended his sympathies, urging authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation continues, as authorities work to uncover the causes of the tragedy and ensure accountability.

society

Inferno Ravages Ibadan Spare Parts Market, Millions Lost in Property

Published

3 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Inferno Ravages Ibadan Spare Parts Market, Millions Lost in Property

A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday at the popular Araromi spare parts market, Agodi-Gate, in Ibadan, Oyo State, destroying property worth millions of naira.

The fire, which began around 2 a.m., continues to rage as firefighters struggle to contain the inferno. The General Manager of Oyo State Fire Services, Akinyemi Akinyinka, confirmed the seriousness of the situation and called for assistance from water tanker owners.

“We are battling with a serious inferno at Agodi-Gate. Help us to call water tanker owners to assist us. We are still here battling with the situation,” Akinyinka stated.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined as investigations are ongoing.

This incident adds to a series of recent tragic fires in Ibadan. On Friday, a fire claimed the lives of a husband, his wife, and their grandson in the Ori-Eru, Idikan area of the city. The blaze, which occurred at 3:46 a.m., gutted a storey building.

Earlier in the week, another fire incident on Sunday morning destroyed three shops in the city, though the quick intervention of the state fire services prevented the flames from spreading to 13 neighboring shops.

Last Friday, a fire engulfed a Christ Apostolic Church parish in Lagelu Local Government Area during a vigil, trapping worshippers inside. The tragedy struck around 9:30 p.m. at Wisdom Estate, Road 1G, Olohunda Road, leaving the community in shock.

These repeated incidents have raised concerns about fire safety in Ibadan, prompting calls for enhanced preventive measures and quicker emergency responses. Investigations into the cause of the Araromi market fire are underway, while efforts to control the blaze continue.

society

NAPS Presidential Aspirant Lauds Tinubu’s ₦3.5 Trillion Education Budget, Advocates for Polytechnic Investment

Published

15 hours ago

December 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

NAPS Presidential Aspirant Lauds Tinubu’s ₦3.5 Trillion Education Budget, Advocates for Polytechnic Investment

Comrade Oyewumi Festus, the leading Presidential Aspirant for the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), has praised President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the substantial increase in the education sector allocation in the 2025 budget. The budget, tagged the “Restoration Budget,” was presented to the 10th National Assembly on Wednesday, December 8, 2024, and earmarked ₦3.5 trillion for education.

Comrade Festus described the allocation as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to advancing education in Nigeria, which he called a significant step toward securing the nation’s future.

Speaking at Kogi State Polytechnic Lokoja during his campaign tour on Friday, December 20, 2024, Festus urged the Federal Ministry of Education to channel a considerable portion of the allocation toward polytechnic education. He emphasized that polytechnics are the backbone of Nigeria’s technological development, highlighting their critical role in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and skilled manpower needed for economic growth.

“Nigeria’s polytechnics have long been the cornerstone of the nation’s technological progress. A strong investment in technical and vocational education will drive sustainable development and innovation,” Festus stated.

During the visit, Comrade Festus commended the Kogi State Government and the management of Kogi State Polytechnic for their strides in infrastructure development, prioritizing staff and student welfare, and ensuring campus security. He also extended his gratitude to Governor Ododo for reappointing Professor Usman Ogbo as the institution’s Rector for a second term.

As part of his address, Festus appealed for increased support for the Students Union Government (SUG) and the broader student community, emphasizing the need for effective representation that transcends campus boundaries.

The NAPS aspirant was warmly welcomed by the SUG President, Miss Oluwadamilola Enimokanyi, who acknowledged his advocacy and commitment to the advancement of polytechnic education in Nigeria.