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Faulty Security Strategies: NAOSRE Aligns With PWC’s Model Over Zamfara Bad Example

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Faulty Security Strategies: NAOSRE Aligns With PWC’s Model Over Zamfara Bad Example

Faulty Security Strategies: NAOSRE Aligns With PWC’s Model Over Zamfara Bad Example

 

NAOSRE– In what seems a classical imperceptive strategy, resulting in monumental killings, kidnapping, and showcasing Zamfara State as a bad example in the counter-insurgency campaigns, NAOSRE calls on government and Service Chiefs to live up to expectations and inject fresh blood into tired veins

 

Worried by the unending insecurity in Nigeria with a specific focus on Zamfara State, the National Association of Online Security Reporters, NAOSRE, during the week, undertook an overview of the various strategies adopted by security agencies to tackle insurgency as well as the mode of implementations.

 

 

 

 

Amongst other things, the association reviewed the September 4 memo signed by the Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Professor Umar Danbatta, addressed to telecom operators directing the immediate shutdown of all telecommunications services in Zamfara state.

 

 

 

 

The memo, NAOSRE gathered, was a response to Zamfara Governor’s request to the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

 

 

 

 

In the letter titled, “Re: Shutdown of all telecom sites in Zamfara State”, the NCC stated that the shutdown, which lasted from September 3 to September 17 in the first instance, was to enable relevant security agencies to carry out required activities towards addressing the security challenge in the state.

 

 

 

 

Following such instruction, over 240 base stations were shut down in the 25 years old State which has a landmass of 15,352 square miles, a population of 4,353,533 with 2,177,431 and 1,592,746 active voice and internet subscribers respectively.

 

 

 

 

However, NAOSRE’s Intelligent and Research Unit, NIRU, sadly discovered that the results from such a strategic shutdown have been a monumental disaster, killings, and kidnapping.

 

 

 

For instance, in the narratives of Sarkin Shanu of Shinkafi, Dr. Suleiman Shuaibu, about eight villages have been attacked and over 400 people either killed or abducted by the bandits.

 

 

 

The community leader who maintained that bandits are still killing the residents lamented the acute shortage of security personnel saying that about 150 villages have less than 50 soldiers and policemen providing security.

 

 

 

More worrisome is the fact that these unchallenged killings and kidnapping in Zamfara have made nonsense of whatever strategy behind the shutting down of the communication system given that the initiative has further added burden to Zamfara citizens who now travel to Sokoto State to make calls.

 

 

 

“We go to Sokoto to make telephone calls. We take transport from here in Shinkafi through bad roads and travel to Sokoto to make telephone calls just to let the world know what is happening, to speak to those we believe can save us and for the world to hear,” lamented Dr. Shuaibu.

 

 

 

Also, figures obtained from the Nigeria Security Tracker, a project of the Council on Foreign Relations, an American think tank, and edited by a former United States Ambassador to Nigeria, John Campbell, showed that abductions and killings have continued in Zamfara State unabated.
According to available figures, bandits also killed four in Bugundu area of the State, after attacking a police station.

 

 

 

On September 11, bandits killed 12 soldiers in Mutumji, Maru Local Government Area. They also killed seven civilians in Shinkafi and Zurmi Local Government Areas on September 16, burning down the home of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Nasiru Magarya, at Magarya community.

 

 

 

 

Apart from NAOSRE, this sad development has also arrested the attention of other experts.
Speaking with Punch correspondent, Fiscal Policy Partner, and Africa Tax Leader at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, noted that shutting down base stations is counter-productive stressing that rather than shut down telecommunications, it should be used in tracking bandits.

 

 

 

He said, “With the insecurity, we have around the country, I struggle to see why you need to shut down base stations because you don’t want terrorists and bandits to call one another to arrange attacks when there is another option of allowing them to make the calls and then you track what they are saying.

 

 

 

“So, there are countries where words have been made into algorithms. So, you make a call and you just mention that word, it flags your phone and the authorities start monitoring all that you are doing. If they said some villagers are calling bandits and giving them information, you monitor them. That is simple. You can monitor what people are saying.

 

 

 

“So, when they said some bandits kidnapped schoolchildren and wanted bicycles or motorbikes, I said wow. That is a very good opportunity; just plant trackers and recorders. It makes it easy so that for one or two weeks you are gathering data and intelligence on where they are, who they are talking to and how many people are there.”

 

 

 

Oyedele added that Nigeria needs to change its way of tackling issues. “This approach in Nigeria that you cut off the head once there is a headache can never solve the problem,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Reacting on Sunday through a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Femi Oyewale, NAOSRE queried the decadent military strategy that orchestrated shut down of telephony services which seem to serve only the warped promoters of Boko Haram while Zamfara State sinks deeper into irretrievable security suffocation and development inertia.

 

 

 

He lamented that the first-hand narratives in the counter-insurgency struggle in Zamfara indicate that the once peaceful state is currently drenched in the blood of innocent humans.

 

 

 

“NAOSRE is heavily grieved for those who have lost their lives or were injured in the renewed devastating onslaughts against innocent citizens in Zamfara State.

 

 

“Our deepest sympathies go to the families and loved ones of victims for none should be made to pay such a dear price.

 

 

“As an association,” Oyewale noted “We have been in the forefront in entrenching sustainable depth to the relationship between government, security agencies, and the governed with the aim to enhance a more compassionate and progressive society.

 

 

 

“We hereby call again on government, once again, to fish out sponsors and other individuals behind these unacceptable policy somersaults, resulting in an unnecessary waste of citizens including those seeking to stoke and manipulate the people’s anger in order to advance political objectives.

 

 

 

“NAOSRE hereby aligns with the position of PriceWaterhouseCoopers’ Taiwo Oyedele for government and security agencies to be guarded in the deployment of technology to end the insurgency.

 

 

 

“The cooperative and productive embrace between the people and government which NAOSRE has championed should serve as an added oxygen for security agents to override counterproductive strategies,” he stated

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

 

In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.

 

 

Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.

Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.

The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

 

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.

Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

 

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.

President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.

“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.

“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.

“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.

“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”

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