Connect with us

society

Lakurawa: FG plans more troops as sect spreads in North West

Published

on

Lakurawa: FG plans more troops as sect spreads in North West

Lakurawa: FG plans more troops as sect spreads in North West

 

As part of efforts to combat the Lakurawa sect, the Federal Government will deploy more military personnel and formations in the states where the terrorists operate.

The sect, which operates in North West states Sokoto and Kebbi, has moved into Niger State in North Central Nigeria, as well as Kaduna State.

The Sokoto State Government asserted that it was concerned about the lives and property of its people, noting that security topped its nine-point agenda.

The Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Ahmad Aliyu, Col Ahmed Usman (retd.), said the Federal Government promised to deploy more security operatives in the state to tackle the sect that attacked Mera village, Kebbi State, leaving 17 residents dead November 8.

 

The terrorist group also rustled dozens of cattle in the community as the village vigilante fought back killing two members of the group during an exchange of fire.

Usman said, “If you can remember, the Minister of State for Defence during his working visit to Sokoto had disclosed the kind of pressure mounted on the Federal Government by the state government on the need to come to their aid.

“And the Federal Government has promised to establish more military formations and deploy more personnel and equipment to Sokoto State.

 

“On our part, the state government has provided the facility for the air component of operation ‘Fansan Yamma.’ Now, we don’t need to wait for fighter jets from Katsina in case of any emergency or air support.”

He added, “So, there has been investment in security infrastructure, including establishing more security outposts (Forward Operation Bases) and upgrading surveillance systems in key locations.

“The Sokoto State government has strengthened partnerships with federal security agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to tackling security challenges.

“Similarly, the government has launched public awareness campaigns with the support of the United Nations Development Programme and other local NGOs to educate citizens on security issues and encourage them to report suspicious activities.”

Speaking further, the governor’s aide explained that the current administration had been providing logistics support to the security agencies, assuring that Lakurawa “will soon be a thing of the past.”

Usman stated, “We provided tens of operational vehicles, including motorcycles, to security agencies and restored their allowances. In addition to other measures, we created the state-owned security outfit, which we called Sokoto State Community Guards, and they were equipped.

“Their role is to support the conventional security agencies in intelligence gathering, among others. The state government has inaugurated a security community under the leadership of the Deputy Governor of the state.

“The committee comprises security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, among other stakeholders in security. In fact, even the latest news about the Lakurawa was broken by the deputy governor while receiving members of the National Defence College in the state.”

The special adviser further explained that the state government also set up programmes to empower youths to discourage their involvement in crime and violence or being recruited by the Lakurawa.

He added, “The government has set up a conflict resolution mechanism to address disputes before they escalate into violence, promoting peace in communities just as it has been mediating between farmers and herdsmen to reduce conflicts over lands and resources, which can lead to insecurity.

“There has been massive investment in social welfare aimed at alleviating poverty, which is often the root cause of insecurity.  And we hold regular security meetings with stakeholders to assess the security situation and develop strategies for improvement.”

The Minister of Defence, Muhammad Abubakar, assured citizens and residents of Sokoto and Kebbi states of the readiness of the armed forces to crush Lakurawa and other terrorist groups.

The minister gave the assurance in Sokoto as the Lakurawa sect reportedly extended its tentacles to Niger and Kaduna from its former hideouts in Kebbi and Sokoto States.

Following the November 8 attack on Mera, the Defence Headquarters deployed more troops in the area to dislodge the terror group which was said to have occupied the area for over six years.

 

A report said the group was dislodged from its hideout and several cattle recovered.

Speaking while inspecting the facilities of the air component of Operation ‘Fansan Yamma’ in Sokoto, the defence minister disclosed that the military had taken a decisive decision against Lakurawa.

He noted, “You heard it from the chairman of the Local Government Area attacked by the Lakurawa in Kebbi State, testifying to the heavy presence of troops in the area.

“The Lakurawa was sent away from the area. This is a result of the resilience and dedication of our security operatives. You are aware of the successes recorded by our air force, they bombarded some of the hideouts of the bandits and the bandits are now on the run.”

However, the Senate a few weeks ago raised the alarm that the militants had moved into Niger, Kaduna and other North-Central states, sparking fear among the people.

Worried by the activities of the terrorist group, the northern states have decided to unite against the Lakurawa in a clear move to contain its spread and operations.

The Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Mohammed Bello, said the affected states were working together with the Federal Government to eliminate the terrorist cell.

 

 

“You know how we do in Nigeria. Sometimes, we neglect things until they become real problems, they can become complicated. For the first time, more than two or three states are putting resources together to see that things are being done to eradicate the problem.

 

“I assure you that the problems will become a thing of the past in a few days. In a few days, the people in Kaduna, Zamfara are putting heads together; by the grace of God, things will become clearer very soon,” Bello said.

“The issue with the bandits is that when they are under pressure in one state, they run to another state because there is no clear-cut demarcation of these states we are talking about.”

Also speaking on what the Kebbi State Government was doing to complement the Federal Government’s efforts, the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Zuru, said the state government was supporting troops drafted to the area with logistics.

“We are procuring vehicles that will help them with mobility. You know the troops drafted here were brought to help us deal with the Lakurawa, but the state government is discussing with the Chief of Defence Staff on how to make them stay permanently in the areas to avoid any reoccurrence.

“We are also assisting the local vigilante with operational vehicles and other logistics to help them gather timely and accurate information for the troops.

“The role they played last time during Lakurawa’s attack on the Mera community cannot be overemphasised. They tried their best hence they need to be encouraged to do better than before.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

society

Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

Published

on

Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

Ewekoro, Ogun State – December 7, 2024

 

In a series of significant events underscoring the commitment to community welfare and development, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Ewekoro Division, led by Division Officer Mrs. Oyebade Folukemi, paid a congratulatory visit to the newly elected Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government Council, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa. This visit, which took place on December 2, 2024, marked a crucial step towards strengthening collaboration between the NSCDC and local government officials, aimed at enhancing the safety and security of the Ewekoro community.

Mrs. Oyebade expressed her congratulations to Hon. Adesina, emphasizing the NSCDC’s commitment to supporting local governance and ensuring a secure environment for residents. The visit served as a platform to discuss strategies for improving safety measures in the area, illustrating the proactive approach of the NSCDC in fostering a safe community for all.

In another notable event, market women from Ewekoro Local Government paid a visit to Hon. Adesina to express their gratitude for his administration’s efforts in empowering local traders. Under his leadership, significant projects have been implemented, including the construction of modern market facilities, such as the 183 lock-up shops at Arigbajo Market. These developments have greatly enhanced the socio-economic activities of market women, contributing positively to their livelihoods and the overall well-being of the community.

Led by Alhaja Ejire, the head of market women, the delegation thanked Hon. Adesina for his unwavering support and commitment to their cause. The discussions during the visit focused on exploring further collaboration to address the challenges faced by market women, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to people-oriented projects that uplift the community.

The strong presence of local leaders during this visit, including Vice-chairman Alhaja Abisola Nuratu Aliyu and other key administration officials, highlighted the unified effort to promote the welfare of Ewekoro’s residents. The Chairman’s administration has earned recognition for its initiatives that significantly impact the lives of market women and the broader community.

Additionally, the recent Obada Day 2024 celebration, held on December 1 at Owiwi Primary School in Obada Ward 10, showcased the unity and love within the communities of Obada Town. Hon. Sikiru Adesina joined dignitaries such as HRM Oba Olufemi Solaja, the Olu of Obada Town, and HRH Oba Kasimawo Ogundare, the Olu of Opelifa, to celebrate this significant event. The celebration emphasized the importance of love, unity, and progress in Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.

In a related announcement, the Ewekoro Local Government has informed all revenue consultants that the 2025 Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Sales of Form will commence on December 2 and close on December 13, 2024. Those interested in securing a position are encouraged to purchase the form during this period.

These recent engagements and celebrations reflect Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa’s commitment to fostering community spirit, enhancing local governance, and promoting economic growth in Ewekoro Local Government. As the administration continues to work hand-in-hand with various stakeholders, there is a renewed sense of optimism for the future development of the community.

Continue Reading

society

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

Published

on

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

 

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has raised an alert on the new XEC COVID-19 variant, urging heightened surveillance across Nigeria’s healthcare facilities.

The XEC variant, first identified in Australia, has now been detected in 29 countries and is showing a growth advantage over existing strains. Health experts are concerned about its potential impact on public health.

The warning was conveyed in a letter dated December 5, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. O.N. Anuma.

“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant which has already spread to 29 countries globally. This variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health,” the letter read.

Call to Action

Dr. Anuma emphasized the need for immediate vigilance in hospitals nationwide.

“Alert systems should be activated immediately for a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms,” he said.

The ministry also stressed the importance of collaboration among health institutions to monitor the variant and share critical data.

“We urge you to work with relevant stakeholders to implement enhanced monitoring protocols and ensure timely information sharing with the Federal Ministry of Health for effective response strategies.”

Global Spread and Implications

First identified in Germany in June, the XEC variant has since been reported in France, the United States, the UK, Denmark, and other countries. Over 600 cases have been recorded globally, with scientists noting that while the variant has mutations that may aid its spread, vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing severe cases.

Continue Reading

society

Bunmi Olu: A trailblazing woman and epitome of excellence reaches another incredible milestone ~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Published

on

Bunmi Olu: A trailblazing woman and epitome of excellence reaches another incredible milestone

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

 

A London-based Nigerian entrepreneur celebrates a landmark birthday with outstanding entrepreneurial acumen at fifty plus on Saturday, 7th December 2024

Bunmi Olu’s leadership style, marked by exceptional courage, integrity, and dedication to duty as founder of Dreamfo Widows and Widowers International NGO, has earned her a special place in the hearts of good Nigerians at home and abroad, and indeed the world at large

Your tireless pursuit of excellence in public service is a beacon of inspiration, and your remarkable legacy amongst women of virtue in the public sphere continues to inspire others to achieve greatness

As a trailblazing woman of substance, you continue to demonstrate remarkable courage in all your endeavors, while also committing to develop a responsible management system that ensures the efficient utilization of international resources at Dreamfo, a hub for thousands of widows and widowers

Your project vision has showcased considerable positive impact on womanhood and society as a whole, and it remains impressive. Your ability to make substantial contributions to the growth of future generations and create employment opportunities to some Dreamfo widows and widowers is indeed exceptional and second to none

Ma, your accomplishments as a distinguished woman in the battalion serve as a testament to your lasting influence on the community and its residents

Your exemplary work ethic and steadfast commitment to the well-being of the people have won their trust and appreciation, a reflection of your exceptional leadership

I’m delighted to extend my sincerest congratulations to you on this momentous birthday occasion

May this birthday celebration continue to motivate you to reach greater heights of achievement and service to humanity

Congratulations once more ma! May God continue to bless and guide you. Amen!

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending