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Buratai seeks balance between military discipline, constitutional rights

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Buratai seeks balance between military discipline, constitutional rights

Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has called for a careful balance between the demands of military discipline and the constitutional rights of personnel under Nigeria’s democratic system.

Buratai made the call in Abuja at the public presentation of the book “Annotation of Cases on Court Martial,” co-authored by Maj.-Gen. Mahmoo Wambai and Mr Ali Omachi (Esq) on Thursday.

Buratai seeks balance between military discipline, constitutional rights

He said Nigeria’s court-martial system, rooted in British military tradition, had undergone a profound transformation over the decades, mirroring the nation’s political and legal evolution.

“The imperative for military discipline must now be balanced with the constitutional rights of personnel and the scrutiny of civilian appellate courts,” he said.

Buratai highlighted landmark judgments such as Eweka v. Nigerian Army and Gideon Uweri v. Nigerian Army as milestones that reinforced fair hearing and delineated court-martial jurisdiction within democratic norms.

According to him, these rulings reflect the growing tension and harmony between the rule of law and the demands of command and control in a professional force.

“A fair and just military justice system is the bedrock of disciplined armed forces and a stable democracy.

“For the military, court martials remain indispensable for enforcing conduct and professionalism; for democracy, they demonstrate that the Armed Forces are firmly under the rule of law,” he said.

The former COAS said transparency in the military justice process not only strengthens civilian oversight but also deepens public trust in the institution of the Armed Forces.

He commended the Nigerian Body of Benchers, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Council of Legal Education for their enduring partnership with the Armed Forces in refining military law and training military legal officers.

 

Buratai described the book as a significant milestone that offers incisive commentary and practical insights into military jurisprudence.

“This is a vital guide for practitioners, commanders and judges.

“It highlights avenues for reform and enriches understanding of military justice within a democratic framework,” he added.

On the book, the author, Maj.-Gen. Wambai, said the book was motivated by the need to correct misconceptions that often lead to appellate courts overturning decisions of courts martial.

Wambai stressed that discipline is the foundation of the Armed Forces and that weakening it could jeopardize national security.

“We observed that some judgments are overturned due to technicalities or lack of understanding of military law.

“Our aim is to guide both military lawyers and appellate judges on the peculiarities of military justice.

“Without discipline, there can be no military. If we fail to enforce the law within, trained personnel with weapons may lose their sense of responsibility, and that’s dangerous for any country,” he warned.

The Co-author Ali Omachi, said the book was the first comprehensive compendium of appellate cases on court martial in Nigeria, providing insights into why some tribunal decisions fail on appeal.

Omachi added that the initiative represents a modest but crucial step toward strengthening the integrity of the military justice system, ensuring that discipline and due process coexist in harmony.

“We sought to bridge the gap between legal theory and the practice of court martial. Many verdicts are set aside because of procedural lapses or non-adherence to constitutional provisions.

“Our book highlights these pitfalls and offers practical recommendations to make military trials more effective and credible,” he added.

 

Buratai seeks balance between military discipline, constitutional rights

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Genesis Global: Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion 2.0 Marks Unparalleled Triumph with Attendance Exceeding 10,000

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Genesis Global: Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion 2.0 Marks Unparalleled Triumph with Attendance Exceeding 10,000

… Significant healings and breakthroughs have been recorded

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

The annual Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion Season 2, organized by Prophet Israel Oladele of Genesis Global, featured a three-day prophetic gathering where Prophet Genesis and other distinguished men of God united a massive audience to bear witness to the transformative power of collective prayer, breakthrough, healings, sound health, praise, and worship, demonstrating God’s response to individual prayers

Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, a Nigerian-born prophet and shepherd-in-charge of Genesis Global, whose headquarters is located on Duro Oshola Street of Dalemo Alakuko, Ijaye Lagos State, is at the forefront of the yearly Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion, a 3-day event designed to inspire and uplift hearts through prayer, high-impact praise, and worship

Prophet Genesis shared his thoughts with great enthusiasm and wholeheartedness with his media aide, Oluwaseun Fabiyi, describing the just-concluded 3-day annual Abeokuta Prophetic program as a spiritual moment, rather than a mere event or Christian gathering, emphasizing it as “a sacred opportunity to offer intense, heartfelt prayers, prophetic declarations for people to break forth, and praise to the living God.”

According to him, the 2025 Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion is grounded in biblical principles, emphasizing that God values sincere faith and persistent, fervent prayer and authentic worship more than mere requests. He noted that the Abeokuta Prophetic Invasion Season 2 was an exemplary prayer and prophetic gathering, attracting attendees from every continent due to the electrifying atmosphere at Oba Adeleye Park, Shokori Ori Omi, Abeokuta, Ogun State

Prophet Israel Genesis voiced his deep-seated gratitude, acknowledging God’s indispensable role in the resounding 3-day prophetic success. He stressed that God persists in performing extraordinary healings and wonders within His people, especially those who seek Him with unrelenting passion. The ambiance at this year’s event was distinguished by compassionate, faithful prayer warriors, with participants receiving immediate breakthroughs, freedom from ancestral curses and parental foundational delays in marriage, and spiritual bondages, reinforced by praise, quality worship, and joyful hearts.

“This transcends ordinary Christian gatherings; it’s about revisiting the essence of our faith through genuine, fervent prayer and worship,” he stated. At the event, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, founder and spiritual leader of Genesis Global Ministry, showcased a commendable vision by embodying the principles of Jesus Christ, as evident in his concise yet discerning words of wisdom, referencing God’s words.

“To those who are sick, God’s word has been sent to you so that you may be healed and delivered, for healing has always been an integral part of God’s nature,” he stated in his message to the attendees, which was characterized by open-mindedness and left an enduring impression on the attendees’ memories.

The event presented a distinguished lineup of local and international gospel artists, including Genesis Global Choir, and some powerful prophets of God.

It was indeed a prophetic invasion that lasted 3 days, attracting over 10,000 worshipers and attendees, without any public altar being raised for offerings, special donations, or tithe requests. God showcased His magnificent power throughout, to whom all praise is due forever.

All attendees departed with unshakeable joy and testimonies that will last forever.

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League of African Ambassadors to Hold Grand Official Launch in Lusaka

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League of African Ambassadors to Hold Grand Official Launch in Lusaka

Lusaka, Zambia – October 8, 2025:
In a historic stride toward strengthening continental unity and diplomatic cooperation, the League of African Ambassadors (LAA) is set to hold its Official Launch Ceremony on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the prestigious Mulungushi International Conference Centre (K.K. Wing) in Lusaka, Zambia.

The landmark event, commencing at 10:00 AM CAT (11:00 AM WAT), will convene a distinguished assembly of ambassadors, policymakers, development partners, and eminent leaders from across Africa and the diaspora.

According to the Deputy Spokesperson of LAA, Ambassador John J. Usanga, the launch symbolizes “a new dawn for Africa’s diplomatic collaboration, unity of purpose, and visionary engagement with global partners.”

“The League of African Ambassadors represents a united platform where African envoys and thought leaders can shape the future of our continent through dialogue, partnership, and shared vision,” Amb. Usanga said.

 

As preparations intensify, Ambassador Lt. General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd.), former Nigerian Chief of Army Staff and a Board of Trustees Member of LAA (West Africa), has lauded Zambia’s leadership for its role in hosting the event and advancing Africa’s shared agenda.

Reflecting on Africa’s liberation struggles and the legacies of continental icons, Gen. Buratai commended the President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, for his progressive leadership and unwavering commitment to African unity and sustainable development.

“Africa stands at a defining moment in history — one that calls for renewed solidarity and visionary diplomacy,” Buratai remarked.

“The hosting of this event by Zambia is a testament to the country’s historical role in championing liberation, peace, and cooperation across the continent.”

 

He further highlighted that the League of African Ambassadors will serve as a powerful platform for harmonizing Africa’s diplomatic voice on global issues, deepening regional cooperation, and promoting the continent’s shared prosperity.

The event will feature keynote addresses, strategic roundtables, and cultural showcases reflecting Africa’s diversity and diplomatic excellence. Delegations from various African countries and international organizations are expected to attend, making it one of the most significant Pan-African gatherings of the year.

For broader participation, the launch will be streamed live via the League’s official platforms —
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/leagueofafricanambassadors
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/share/14gdart8utn/

For media enquiries, contact:
Amb. John J. Usanga
Deputy Spokesperson, League of African Ambassadors
📧 [email protected]

As Africa looks toward a new chapter of unity and influence, the League of African Ambassadors launch in Lusaka stands as a defining milestone — reaffirming the continent’s commitment to peace, progress, and purposeful diplomacy.

League of African Ambassadors to Hold Grand Official Launch in Lusaka

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Benjamin Kalu: OUK is the Real Betrayer, Liar By James Nwachukwu

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Benjamin Kalu: OUK is the Real Betrayer, Liar

By James Nwachukwu

Once again, Orji Uzor Kalu (OUK), the senator representing Abia North has chosen to travel the ridiculous route of infamy, spewing lies and hatred against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. This time, he is cashing in on the face-off between Ben Kalu and the governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti over 2027.

In a piece purportedly written by the Media Advier to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Ferdinand Ekeoma but laden with his imprints, OUK tagged Ben Kalu a serial betrayer just to cast aspersions and portray him in bad light. This is rather unfortunate. I am not perturbed because that’s OUK’s stock in trade. It’s so familiar to everyone who knows him. Just as expected, Ekeoma has denied the press statement.

But in defence of Benjamin Okezie Kalu, I am compelled to make this clarification which will take me into memory lane to let the world know who the real betrayer is.

For once, let’s shout it to the mountain tops that Benjamin Kalu’s political profile is OUK’s greatest hurt. And so, at every turn, the Senator hurls darts at him, deriding him with choreographed story of betrayal. If he has any iota of truth in his story, let him activate the relevant laws against the Deputy Speaker but he can’t because the consequences will be great for him.

For far too long, I have chosen to be silent amid the barefaced lies peddled by OUK but not any more. I am a witness to what transpired and I hereby present the facts to put an end to this character assassination by OUK.

First, the Senator has never been Benjamin Kalu’s benefactor and never made him to become who he currently is. Let that sink. Perhaps, the first question that will challenge this lie is to ask OUK about Ben Kalu’s loss of 11million Euros during his imprisonment.

At this juncture, I am forced to retell the story of mutuality between OUK and Ben Kalu.

Orji Kalu and Ben Kalu met for the first time outside the country in year 2000. This happened in the presence of Chief Daniel Akwari who is from the same Bende LGA and he is still alive and others. Before this time, the Deputy Speaker was already an employer of labour with over 150 people in diaspora working in his own micro finance bank, major real estate business, ICT firms etc. Besides, he met Ben Kalu as the national chairman of PDP in diaspora with a huge follower-ship under his leadership. At that time Benjamin Kalu was leading the party and the Nigerian nationals. A former cross river state governor as well as the former deputy national chairman of PDP from the south west, Alhaji Shuib Oyedokun will attest to this.

The first picture OUK took with Ben Kalu, in diaspora is still in the archives and can be exhumed and tended as a hardcore evidence to this. And this is why, it amuses me when OUK says he bought air ticket for the Deputy Speaker for the first time. The question now becomes: At what point did he buy his ticket even when it is vividly clear in my head that OUK drove around town in the brand new Grand Jeep Cherokee of the Deputy Speaker and was negotiating to buy one of Ben Kalu’s properties in diaspora.

Benefactor? What makes him Ben Kalu’s benefactor when in the 22 years they worked together, he never gave him a Kobo except N2 million to print posters and campaign materials for OUK, delivered in two cheques by his younger brother Mascot Uzor kalu (the cheques pictures are there for evidence). To recount the dishonesty, OUK later confessed he severally sold the house of reps seat to a lady, PDP candidate in all the elections he participated and this happened after Ben Kalu had spent millions of Naira of personal fund to grow his party, the PPA. What wickedness? This is after he sent his younger brother to beg Ben Kalu to run with his party against his intention but to show loyalty, he agreed and again OUK sold the seat. He also made sure he used the PPA chairman to ensure Ben Kalu’s name never saw the light of the day as names submitted to INEC. The evidence is there. The party chairman then who got his instructions is still alive. Now, who is the betrayer?

So, this is why it gives me infantile convulsions to hear OUK say he is Ben Kalu’s benefactor or mentor. This is unfounded. Mentioning flight ticket when Ben Kalu has been the one buying him first class tickets for his over seas trips through his nominated travel agent owned by him and operated by one Madam Shola. Evidence abound if he challenges this.

On business claims, let me state that Benjamin Kalu brought an export business idea to OUK in Abuja on his invitation. This business was supposed to be between Ben Kalu and Mascot but since Mascot who was the best man during Ben Kalu’s wedding in 2005 did not show interest, his elder brother heard of it and invited Ben Kalu. Of course, he accepted the idea but decided to take 75% against all insistence of Ben Kalu to share 50/50%. Ben Kalu accepted, thinking he will invest according to his equity in the business but again he betrayed him, took more and invested less. The picture of the cheque from his company and the amount is still available if OUK contests this. To state the level of the deceit, he insisted that his partner, Ben Kalu as shareholder should report to his MD of Slok, DR Josef from Lebanon but he refused, insisting to report only to the board. His company secretary, a lady is still alive to attest to this if he contests it.

When Ben Kalu eventually raised it with OUK at the board meeting, he invited one of his brothers, a chartered accountant from his home town, Igbere to audit the account from inception. It was later confirmed that the man with 25% had invested more than a man with 75% and that angered OUK. He wanted the chattered accountant to change it and he said, no, it was unprofessional. That’s the deceit and betrayal of OUK, yet this man Ben Kalu will not discuss him publicly while OUK goes about thinking we are not aware.

For emphasis sake, let me also state here that OUK invested N150m while Ben Kalu invested N175m. The stamped audited report of the company is ready to be presented if he contests this.

For the umpteenth time, OUK should be told that the Deputy Speaker built the business over the years to become a multi million euro company in Belgium with branches in France as well. Ben Kalu took him every three months to Belgium for board meetings with all expenses paid by Ben Kalu. He should be told that Ben Kalu has also continued to maintain a calm and gentle demeanor, refusing to tell the world that he lost 11million euros the second week he was imprisoned at Kuje, Abuja prisons because he refused to leave his shares for his wife and children despite several warnings from three banks in Europe financing the businesses. Ben Kalu visited him severally in jail, asking him to replace his name with any of his relatives (wife, son, daughter, brother, mother ) but he refused. Ben Kalu lost a business he took 9 years to build and yet, you will not hear him call OUK out publicly as a betrayer. So who is the benefactor and who is the betrayer now?

I can recall that the bank claimed he was a criminal and can’t work with such a character. His refusal to replace his name led to the banks withdrawing their credits as well as the collapse of the business Ben Kalu built for years. Ask him what he did about it when he left jail And he turns around to claim a business he destroyed with his criminal conviction was squandered? Orji Kalu, where is the 11 million euros of Ben Kalu in the business you destroyed?

Now, among these two, who is the real benefactor here and who is the betrayer here? Please, ask Orji Kalu.

Orji Kalu should be told to stop lying to people because Ben Kalu without his input has built the remnant of the business in another African country to a multi million dollar company without any penny from him before joining politics, which is still prospering. He does not know any thing about the business. He was only invited but decided to take it over to destroy it.

Is it in politics that Orji Kalu played the benefactor role? I recall he was unequivocal when he told Ben Kalu to his face that he masterminded all his electoral woes, accepted entering into agreement with Ben Kalu’s opposition yet claiming to be working with him during elections. That’s the real betrayer. Two sets of elections and in all, he confessed selling it to a female candidate of another party. That’s the betrayer.

Simply put, Orji Kalu severally betrayed Ben Kalu because he never wanted him to join politics or to grow. Let him challenge this and I will show the world how he has always worked for Labour Party, yet claiming to be a member of APC.

He made his choice of who to support for presidency. Ben Kalu chose President Tinubu and this annoyed him the more. He felt betrayed that he refused to choose his candidate for presidential primaries and why should Ben Kalu be marketing President Tinubu under the National Assembly Tinubu Ambassadors. He betrayed him for refusing to betray Tinubu. If that’s the betrayal, then Ben Kalu will betray him again. Ben Kalu does not give President void votes, does not play APC in the morning and Labour Party at night. Unlike OUK, Ben Kalu’s position at all times and in all matters are known and clear. You know where he stands and you can take it to the bank. You can’t say that about OUK.

Factly, OUK didn’t want Ben Kalu to go for deputy speakership because of his Senate President ambition. It pained him that all his efforts to stop Ben Kalu from the primaries to general elections failed woefully. How will a man who willfully frustrated your political growth at the constituency level be happy seeing you run and become the Deputy Speaker? But this is what OUK serves the world as betrayal to the extent of accusing Benjamin Kalu of infidelity, and then, clandestinely sponsoring media attacks to damage his image and calling him unprintable names? He has started again but this time we will show the world who truly he is .

Truth the told, the Senators never wanted OUK as the President of the Senate. Of course, it is obvious he lacks the charisma, the education, the intellectual wherewithal, the technical competences, the political sagacity and the trust worthiness to occupy such a high office in the land. But reverse is completely the case when it comes to Ben Kalu. He has all it takes to be deputy speaker and more. He can be trusted but any one making OUK Senate President is signing his impeachment ahead of time. And the best of them all is the love his colleagues have for Ben Kalu and that was the reason he was unanimously elected unopposed into office as the Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives.

He bragged before the traditional rulers in Bende that if Ben Kalu fails to come and bow down before him for the 2023 elections, he will ensure he fails but Ben Kalu called his bluff and won his elections which was announced before his. That remains one of his pains. He felt demystified at all points and when he failed to stop Ben Kalu as Deputy Speaker, he cried like a baby in senate, that Nigeria has not been fair to him because Nigeria chose the best in a young dynamic man and left the deceit in a chronic betrayer like him.

The world should ask Orji Kalu to state when he has given a penny to Ben Kalu, contract as a governor or project as a principal officer of the senate. The deputy speaker is the one giving to him. Who then is the benefactor? The Deputy Speaker became a Local government chairman as a compensation for growing the party in 2003. It was a settlement for stepping down for the House of Reps office, still OUK fought him as a LGA chairman with his usual deceit. Ask Bende people about the story.

The world should know that Orji Kalu’s frustration is beyond business and politics. If he pushes further, we will unearth it. He hates Benjamin Kalu for failing to do his bidding, for being a man of grace and favour. It’s high time he allowed the innocent young man who is doing Nigeria proud to be. Orji Uzor Kalu is not God. He is rather the serial liar and betrayer.

As for Gov Alex Otti, Ben Kalu never had any contact with Alex Otti or anyone from his bank in the course of his business with Orji Kalu. I doubt it there was any reason to meet him.

It was later that his law firm was retained by Access Bank and it was not through Alex Otti. The company secretary of the Access Bank did it not Otti. So, attacking him personally is a weak response to his constructive criticism. Instead of addressing the issues, you are throwing in OUK awful relationship with Ben Kalu. The deputy speaker still insists on more transparency you promised Abians and accountability. You should do more than embarking on media attacks against your critics.

Nwachukwu is a public affairs analyst from Umuahia

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