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Buratai’s footprints and the task ahead of COAS Attahiru

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3 years ago

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*Army professionalism has curbed Nigeria’s multiple Security Challenges,  Buratai Commends Officers and Soldiers*

Buratai’s footprints and the task ahead of COAS Attahiru

Combating terrorism or insurrections is acknowledged globally as quite an arduous assignment. Soldiers who command such warfares must necessarily be brave, courageous, and determined combatants of the trenches. It’s not a task for the faint-hearted!

The ex-Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and leader of the counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria, retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, remonstrated these rare qualities abundantly when he scored the shots on the podium of terrorism combats in the country.

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But a very honest verdict on the ex-COAS, as the honcho of anti-insurgency operations in the country from May 2015 to January 2021 can only be gleaned from the enduring whirlwind of his exploits, long after he quitted active service.

Even unpatriotic misanthropes can sight the legacies of Buratai which have refused to be fogged by the thickness of billowing smokes; whether of partisan and ethnoreligious flavors, as peculiarly Nigerian.

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Buratai’s successor, the incumbent COAS and ombudsman of the counter-insurgency operations, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru might not be caught unawares by the new assignment. But it’sits certain, his predecessor, Buratai left a big-sized shoe, quite uneasy to wear effectively.

An introspection of what constituted the defining principles and convictions, Gen. Buratai weaponized to wilt the storm of insurgencies and insurrections in the country for six long years would certainly prop up the image of a strong leadership character in his persona.

 

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Even dispassionate outsiders attested loudly to Buratai’s palpable, unshaken and unfractured patriotism and loyalty to Nigeria. He could be jovial with his subordinates to a fault; but upheld the sacred military doctrines of professionalism, loyalty, and discipline.

He dispensed himself to soldiers generally as a father, blood brother, welfarist, amiable boss, compassionate leader, trustworthy compatriot, and courageous warrior in the trenches. Boko Haram factional leaders, both Abubakar Shekau and the ISIS-backed Musab Al Barnewi, in alliance with Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzaky of the IMN or Shiites in Nigeria, another terrorist’s sect, wished Buratai dead for his uncompromising stand.

 

Leaders of these sects operating in Nigeria vigorously pursued the agenda of eliminating Buratai through terrorists’ ambushes of his convoy in the Northeast and the assassination plot hatched against him in Zaria by IMN. Though he faced death multiple times in the trenches but remained resolute and undeterred.

 

Buratai’s NDA course mate and friend, who retired much earlier, Major Daniel Banjo (rtd), recalled when he requested for a thanksgiving service in his home state for the ex-COAS; “I remember, about three times, he (Buratai) called me in the middle of the night. He was at the war front. He would call and say things are happening here and Nigerians are not appreciative of what we are doing…He wouldn’t sleep for weeks. He was ambushed three times and he jumped into the bush with his men, with Kalashnikov (AK-47 rifles) and they would be able to kill some and arrest some.”

Hate or love him, but it never escaped the sight that Buratai was relentless and untiring. His troops often chortled among themselves whether this boss ever slept or thought of a beloved family which also needed his attention.

 

He sprung surprises of a talisman with his presence everywhere in the war front, day and night, from North to South. He constantly visited troops and supervised Army units and formations to ensure planned Internal Security (IS) operations or projects progress smoothly and unencumbered. He tolerated no excuses for failure from troops on any assignment.

And to bolster performance and unalloyed loyalty, Buratai also, religiously fulfilled his own part of the bargain by ensuring troops legitimate entitlements and allowances were promptly delivered to them, even in the frontlines. It was one of the many things Buratai got right and it really worked for the Nigerian Army, especially for the troops in the frontlines on terrorism combating expeditions.

 

He treated the families of troops like his cherished assets and personal family. Buratai paid frequent visits to Army barracks, interacted with wives of soldiers, listened to their problems, and remedied them immediately. Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) explored new frontiers in the economic empowerment of wives of soldiers through various multi-purpose cooperative investments initiatives.

The ex-army chief further boosted the morale of his troops with packages such as the COAS special allowances and incentives, like special recognitions’ and instant or accelerated promotion of troops who demonstrated proven gallantry, courage, and exceptional excellence in the frontlines.

 

The expansion and re-equipping of the Nigerian Army were another was a focal policy of retired Buratai’s leadership. He relaunched the Nigerian Army on the path of manufacturing its own small and light weapons in the combat of terrorism, innovatively using home-grown technology and human resources.

Under his reign, the Nigerian Army established two new Army Divisions 6 and 8, in Borno and Rivers states; a dozen Forward Operations Bases (FOBs) and Special Task Force units across the country in strict compliance with the new Order of Battle (ORBAT). The initiative brought security closer to Nigerians, boosted troops’ rapid responses to distress calls from entrapped Nigerians, and the operational effectiveness of soldiers in operations.

 

Nigerian soldiers were endeared to Gen. Buratai and performed their official assignments with glee because he prioritized the building of infrastructures for soldiers and officers of the Nigerian Army. He had the stringent focus or absolute belief in the welfare of troops in multiple ways and he knew, soldiers deserve at least minimum comforts to function splendidly. So, he erected new offices and residential accommodations for soldiers.

Therefore, Buratai aggressively relaunched the Nigerian Army on the path of its lost glory in a revolutionary style. The former army chief embarked on ambitious projects such as the massive construction of new army barracks, renovations of dilapidated barracks and army formations, their upgrade and re-equipment with state-of-the-art facilities resuscitation of moribund Army training institutions, and the building of new ones, namely, the Army War College, the Army Aviation School, and the Nigerian Army University, Biu.

 

Buratai garnished it with the generous renovations/upgrades of existing, but outdated army hospitals and the building of new Army Referral hospitals to carter for the Medicare of soldiers, their families, and members of Army host communities. These were legacy projects, signposts of focused leadership, the pillars, and inerasable footprints of his leadership that publicized a reformed Nigerian Army in conduct and performance.

 

The former army chief understood clearly that the success of Nigeria’s anti-insurgency combats basically depended on the assistance of foreign nations in weaponry and technical support. He was conscious of the prohibitions on human rights abuses by soldiers as enshrined in the Leahy Act amendment law. Besides, as a humane and compassionate leader, Buratai was conscious of the human dignity of all Nigerians. He never shirked from punishing erring soldiers.

Consequently, records of his observance of human rights were unequaled in the history of the Nigerian Army. He established the novel Human Rights Desk in the Nigerian Army, manned by a desk officer, and structured in an accessible manner to all Nigerians by its replication in all major Army formations throughout the country. The Army human rights desk handled, redressed, and dispensed hundreds of cases between soldiers and civilians.

 

The Nigerian Army was under the plague of meager budgets for its operations, even in the age of consuming insurgency. Therefore, Buratai imbibed the spirit of transparency, accountability, and judicious application of Army resources for maximum effect. Lack of transparency in the administration of Army resources’ engendered distrust, dissension, and rebellion among officers and soldiers.

 

Foremostly, Buratai resolved the problem by switching over to e-governance in consonance with the policy of the federal government. He established the Army Procurement Department; migrated the Nigerian Army into the IPPIS payment system, and halted the culture of table payment of allowances/entitlements to troops in the war front, which often led to avoidable complaints of diversion.

The former leader of counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria was a famed Military strategist, tactician, and foresighted leader. Therefore, his clairvoyance pricked him of the looming threat of Cyberspace terrorism in combating insurgency in Nigeria. In order to clip the wings of cyberspace terrorists, who were largely Boko Haram sympathizers and agents, Buratai built and launched the Nigerian Army Cyberspace Warfare Command. Its mandate mainly is to secure Army’s classified information from leakage to enemies and certify the preservation of sensitive documents.

 

Added to it, Buratai upgraded and re-equipped the Department of Army Public Relations (DAPR)) to handle fake news and propaganda syndrome on the counter-insurgency operations in the country. The DAPR operated 24hours a day and proactively deflected terrorists’ propaganda which previously caused unnecessary public anxiety and panic.

To this end, good leadership examples are worthy of emulation. The onus falls on Gen. Attahiru, who is also an old horse in the game to sustain and improve on these legacies of Buratai by moving a notch higher to turn the table against Boko Haram. It is the necessary antidote the incumbent Army leadership has to adapt if it wants to really succeed to finally cripple insurgents.

 

It’s no longer news that Nigerians are unwittingly beginning to celebrate the Buratai days. But Nigerians want to celebrate the Army at all times and the only alternative is to kick harder, harder than Buratai ever did. Attahiru should be mindful of news of Boko Haram’s dreadful presence in Niger state and predictively, Abuja is now donated to the mercy of terrorists.

 

But fundamentally, all the incumbent Service Chiefs have already clocked 100 days since their appointment on January 26, 2021. Quite unimpressively, media reports are awash with news that 741 Nigerians have been killed by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, armed bandits, herdsmen, and arsonists across the country. Neither is it exciting that the southern part of the country is also contending with lethal kidnapping syndicates and killer herdsmen conundrum. Nigerians are no longer singing joyful songs which heralded the new service chiefs and there is a need to redouble the efforts.
Agbese writes from the United Kingdom.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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ERELU OLAJUMOKE, AN ALLURING CHARMING BEAUTY MAJESTICALLY CLIMBED THE FIFTH FLOOR

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4 days ago

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April 19, 2024

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ERELU OLAJUMOKE, AN ALLURING CHARMING BEAUTY MAJESTICALLY CLIMBED THE FIFTH FLOOR

…Celebrates Golden Jubilee In Glitz and Amazing Glory

 

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She is a damsel, an embodiment of beauty, brain and brawn, possessing the best of qualities any discerning mind would dream of. She is no one else than Erelu Olajumoke, Erelu of Ifetedo Kingdom and founder/Chief Executive Officer of Erelu Olajumoke Foundation. Very industrious, illustrious and extremely hardworking, Erelu Olajumoke, the Iya Ijo of Bishop Court Chapel in Alagbaka Akure will on Saturday, the 20th of April, 2024 celebrate her 50th birthday, stepping majestically into the fifth floor and marking a golden jubilee that looks every inch, good on her.

 

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The effervescent, glamorous and charismatic Erelu Olajumoke is an enigma, a colossus who has contributed immensely to humanity and the entire global economy. She is graciously blessed with the spirit of giving. Erelu Olajumoke, a magnanimous lady of substance, value and valor has been practically involved in various forms of empowerment, spreading love, passion and absolute generosity to the poor, the needy, the old (elderly), orphans, widows/widowers, the impoverished, the underprivileged and the intimidated members of the society. Endowed with an uncommon traits of great-heartedness, Erelu Olajumoke took it upon herself to alleviate the poverty levels of the people by directly, impacting on their lives.

 

Oftentimes, this legendary philanthropist, who is very much aware of the fact that health is indeed wealth, has organized various medical outreach programmes that yielded great impact on beneficiaries. Through Erelu Olajumoke Foundation, this amazon of beauty has transformed the lives of many, bringing in, health care professionals from around the globe to give succor to those with health challenges. Her roles in the rejuvenation and revamping of people’s health are awesome and iconic. Those who have benefitted from her tremendous medical contributions would always say lofty tales about her.

 

 

As an outstandingly committed child of God, Erelu Olajumoke who is currently basking in the euphoria of clocking 50, has been and still involved in fundraising activities towards her church and evangelism. Her passion and zeal for spreading the good news of God, winning souls into the Kingdom of God and expunging sinners from the gory dungeons of sin are highly recognized and commendable. She is absolutely emotional and animated to the church, the Gospel and everything about her Creator.

 

 

An extremely supportive partner, Erelu Olajumoke is simply, the strongest pillar of support to the political and democratic achievements of her beau, the distinguished Senator Oluwole Olubiyi Fadeyi, the dynamic and zestful Senator representing Osun Central Senatorial District at the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly, Abuja.

 

 

As a matter of fact, Erelu Olajumoke has displayed so much affection for the amiable Senator through unwavering support, unalloyed devotion to his democratic ideologies and strategies coupled with her reciprocating fondness for the people her hubby represents at the Red Chambers. Erelu Olajumoke synergized her benevolent acts with those of her beloved Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi by catering for constituency needs under his Osun Senatorial District covering Osogbo, Ila, Boripe, Odo-Otin, Boluwaduro, Ifedayo, Irepodun, Olorunda and Orolu Local Government Areas.

 

 

The ‘birthday girl’, Erelu Olajumoke regularly extends her olive oil of love, passion and care for all widowed women and men in these communities not excluding helpless and hopeless orphans, out of school children, those experiencing excruciating poverty amongst other less-privileged within the Osun Central Senatorial District and beyond. Erelu stands as a rock of Gibraltar, upholding the democratic values of her hubby with in-depth determination, perseverance and tenacity. As the First Lady of Osun Central Senatorial District, Erelu Olajumoke has performed meritoriously contributing immensely to the successful foray and great achievements of her best friend, her best adviser, best confidant and above all best lover, the distinguished Senator Ajagunla Oluwole Olubiyi Fadeyi, the Tayese II of Ifetedo Kingdom.

 

 

 

With the input and advise from Erelu Olajumoke, Senator Olubiyi Fadeyo has brought new hope to the good people of Osun Central Senatorial District, giving our palliatives and economic empowerment equipments like buses, cars, motorcycles, tricycles, hairdressing equipments, barbing gadgets, grinding machines, freezers amongst other vital poverty alleviation to drastically and astronomically reduce poverty from the shores of that senatorial district.

In a nutshell, Erelu Olajumoke, who will be gathering high net-worth dignitaries, top celebrities, society bigwigs, powerful political stalwarts, family, friends and well-wishers come Saturday to celebrate her joining the club of the 50s, could be described as an awesomely delectable queen with an uncommon heart of gold.

Happy birthday to this rare gem, a blessing to humanity and the solid pillar of support behind one of Nigeria’s most reliable Senators, Ajagunla Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi.

Barrister Olaitan Ilori

 

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Celebrating Aare Sir Shina Akanni : The Pinnacle of Fuji Music (Photos) – Alhaji Arems

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4 days ago

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April 19, 2024

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Celebrating Aare Sir Shina Akanni : The Pinnacle of Fuji Music (Photos) – Alhaji Arems

 

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As the dawn breaks on April 19, the vibrant and rhythmic world of Fuji music celebrates a monumental occasion—the birthday of Aare Sir Shina Akanni, a maestro whose name is synonymous with the genre itself. Today, not only does he add another year to his illustrious life, but he also cements his place as the most highly rated act in the realm of Fuji music.

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Aare Sir Shina Akanni, often hailed as the Fuji Scorpido, has been a beacon of innovation and excellence in Fuji music for decades. His unique voice and high level of composition have earned him the respect and admiration of fans and peers alike. On this special day, we reflect on the journey of a man who has not only mastered his craft but has also become the yardstick by which all other Fuji acts are measured.

Born into the vibrant culture of Mushin, Lagos, Aare Sir Shina Akanni’s musical journey began at a young age. His passion for Fuji music was evident from the start, and over the years, he has released over 30 albums, each one a testament to his dedication and talent. His works such as “Fuji Discovery Medley” and “Shina Medley” have become staples in the Fuji music scene, played and replayed by those who appreciate the depth of his artistry.

But what truly sets Aare Sir Shina Akanni apart is his ability to stay at the pinnacle of Fuji music for over two decades. It’s a feat that speaks volumes about his consistency and the unwavering quality of his music. His latest album, “ABCD,” is yet another example of his musical prowess and innovation, showcasing a blend of traditional Fuji rhythms with contemporary elements.

As we celebrate Aare Sir Shina Akanni’s birthday, it’s not just another year that we’re marking; it’s the celebration of a legacy that has shaped and will continue to shape the future of Fuji music. His influence extends beyond the borders of Nigeria, touching lives and inspiring musicians around the globe.

On this day, the Fuji music community comes together to honor a legend. Aare Sir Shina Akanni’s contributions to the genre are unparalleled, and his status as the most highly rated of all Fuji acts is undisputed. As he celebrates his birthday, we join in the chorus of well-wishes and gratitude for the music that has enriched our lives.

Happy Birthday, Aare Sir Shina Akanni, the undisputed king of Fuji music. May your melodies continue to resonate, and your legacy endure for generations to come.

 

Celebrating Aare Sir Shina Akanni : The Pinnacle of Fuji Music (Photos) - Alhaji Arems

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Call EFCC to order, Nigeria is not a lawless country – Yahaya Bello Media Office

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6 days ago

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April 17, 2024

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Confusion as EFCC names ex-Kogi Gov in amended corruption allegations perpetrated before he became Governor

Call EFCC to order, Nigeria is not a lawless country – Yahaya Bello Media Office

 

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About 9:30 am today, the 17th day of April 2024, persons who described themselves as officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrived the Wuse Zone 4 Residence of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello to effect his arrest.

This is despite a subsisting Order of injunction granted on 9th February 2024 by the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Alhaji Yahaya Bello v. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, restraining the Commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting Alhaji Yahaya Bello, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.

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The EFCC was duly served with that Order on 12th February 2024 and on 26th February 2024; the EFCC filed an Appeal (Appeal No.: CA/ABJ/CV/175/2024: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission v. Alhaji Yahaya Bello) against the said Order to the Court of Appeal Abuja division. The Appeal was accompanied by a Motion for Stay of Execution of the Order of the High Court which the Court of Appeal adjourned for hearing till the 22nd day of April 2024.

Furthermore, Judgment in the substantive case between Alhaji Yahaya Bello and the EFCC is to be delivered at 12 Noon today in Lokoja.

Contrary to all of the above, the EFCC has now laid siege to the home of H.E Yahaya Bello seeking to arrest him in contravention of the extant orders!

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It is a surprise that an agency led by a lawyer could flagrantly disobey a subsisting court order by taking actions contrary to the reliefs granted.

We are aware of the total commitment of the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the rule of law and can say categorically that the leadership of the EFCC might have offered the agency on a platter of gold to desperate politicians to convert to their score settling tool without minding the effect on its integrity and the image of Nigeria as regards the rule of law.

A situation where law enforcers disregard the rule of law is a definite recipe for anarchy, which will adversely affect every aspect of the nation’s economy.

Nigerians have perceived the desperation of the anti-graft agency to embarrass and harass the former Governor by all means through spurious allegations, especially the latest one dating back to September 2015, way before he assumed office.
We are aware that there are clandestine moves to correct the error, but with even more questionable allegations, which would embarrass the Commission and Nigeria more than the initial one.
It is unfortunate that an agency that is supposed to enforce the law is now the first culprit with respect to disobedience of court orders.
This is a big dent on the fight against corruption. He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.

We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the EFCC to order in the interest of legal sanity.

MEDIA OFFICE
HE YAHAYA BELLO

 

Call EFCC to order, Nigeria is not a lawless country - Yahaya Bello Media Office

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