society
MILITARY PRESS STATEMENT ON #ENDSARS PROTEST MAYHEM AND THE TWIST OF MISCHIEF
On Wednesday 28th of October, 2020, one was taken aback and furious on listening to the news at 10.00am by a national radio station which reported that the Nigeria military has finally capitulated and admitted that she was invited by the Lagos State government in response to the #EndSARS protests mayhem contrary to it’s earlier denial.
Having been privy to the press release issued on Tuesday 27th of October, 2020 by the army authorities, which was written in simple, clear and unambiguous English language, the content and meaning were very clear to any discerning mind, except perhaps to mischief makers whose stock in trade is to misrepresent & twist facts.
One must also inform that since the public release of the press statement on Tuesday the 27th October, 2020, it has been subjected to various interpretation other than it’s unambiguous and clear content in certain quarters for reasons other than mischief and evil.
Consequently, one has been very busy at various platforms engaging as his contribution to national discourse in enlightening some persons whose comprehension of the content of the press statement is incomprehensible in order for them not to be led astray and which is the basis for this intervention, for others, we know them and are less bothered.
Some of the persons in justifying their position on the military press statement, referred to the statement of the Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in reaction to the incident at the Lekki tollgate of 20th October, 2020, which he made on the 21st of October, 2020 during a broadcast aired by some national television station in which he accused the “military” of being responsible for the then “massacre” based solely on a video clip, the source of which has become controversial and the word has now changed to incident as the truth is gradually being unraveled.
However one must admit that Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu just like every other person who watched the “video” of the supposed Lekki tollgate incident, runs the risk of emotionally jumping to conclusions that yes, it was the military that was responsible for the “shooting” that we all saw in the “video”. But in any circumstances, if we may ask, is that a sufficient and indisputable proof to assert with certainty that yes, it was the military? Definitely, the answer is No.
One inescapable truth of our clime is that we live in a age in which the evil intentions of agents of darkness cannot be imagined going by how videos, audios and even statements can and have been distorted and concocted for purposes other than good and progress, we are all living witnesses to these acts of evil deeds in our society today.
Yes, due to one’s consciousness and adherence to the wise counsel of being circumspect in all circumstances, one was not surprised by the spontaneous reaction of allegations of being responsible for the Lekki tollgate “shooting” levelled against the Nigeria army solely on the basis of a video that has not been subjected to forensic analysis knowing fully well that we live in perilous times and society in which it takes more than an eagle eye to detect anything fake and doctored.
We have had instances where persons and documents have been arrested and discovered as being fake and imposter in professions that they have fraudulently practiced for years if not decades, stories of arrest and prosecution by law enforcement agencies to corroborate this fact abound in our daily lives in all professions such as medicine, law, journalism, security agencies, etc to mention but a few.
The press statement from the military is reproduced verbatim below:
“The attention of Headquarters 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a viral video on social media in which it was alleged that civilians protesters were massacred by soldiers at the Lekki Toll plaza.
“From the onset of the EndSARS protest, there was no time personnel of 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lagos was involved.
“However, the decision to call in the Military was taken by the Lagos State Government after a 24-hour curfew was imposed. This was as a result of the violence which led to several police stations being burnt, policemen killed, suspects in police custody released and weapons carted away.
The situation was fast degenerating into anarchy. It was at this point that Lagos State Government requested the Military to intervene, in order to restore normalcy.
“The intervention of the Military followed all laid down procedures for internal security operations. And all the soldiers involved acted within the confines of the Rules of Engagement, ROE for internal security operations.
“Finally, headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army reiterates that the Nigerian Army in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities did not shoot at any civilian as there are glaring and convincing evidence to attest to this fact.
“This allegation is the handwork of mischief makers who will stop at nothing to tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army. The general public is hereby enjoined to discountenance this allegation, as there is no iota of truth therein.”
When the Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu alledged the military as being responsible for the alleged Lekki tollgate “shooting” based solely on a video clip, he spoke from an emotional point of view and not as a representative of the military of which he is not, same thing applied to many people and organizations at home and in the diaspora, including yours sincerely, but caution made some of us to be circumspect and asked some probing questions which earned us insults, abuses and threats to life as response from various quarters.
From the above press release which was written in simple, clear and unambiguous English language, it said that “The decision to call in the Military was taken by the Lagos State Government after a 24-hour curfew was imposed. This was as a result of the violence which led to several police stations being burnt, policemen killed, suspects in police custody released and weapons carted away.
The situation was fast degenerating into anarchy. It was at this point that Lagos State Government requested the Military to intervene, in order to restore normalcy”.
So, in view of the above excerpts from the statement, it is clear that the army deployment was made after the imposition of a 24 hour curfew on the 20th October, 2020 and as a result of violence…… This statement of the army simply implies that the deployment of it’s officers and men after the imposition of a 24 hour curfew announced on 20th October, 2020 at about 12 noon to commence at 4pm but was later shifted to 9pm same day, happened 24 hours after 9pm on 20th October, 2020
From whichever angle you want to look at it, from the army press release, it is crystal clear that the deployment of it’s officers and men after the imposition of a 24 hours curfew by the Lagos State government, took effect 24 hours later due to violence and so one is perplexed and left to wonder the source of the lies, falsehood, misinformation and misleading headline by some media organizations and persons that, army admits shooting Lekki protesters, army exposes Sanwo-Olu hypocrisy, military says exposes Sanwo-Olu, etc.
By this press statement, the Nigeria army corroborated the position of Mr. Sanwo-Olu that he didn’t invite the army against #EndSARS protesters at Lekki tollgate on or before the 20th October, 2020 and affirmed the army earlier position on the Lekki tollgate “massacre” of which it denied responsibility because it claimed it never deployed nor authorized it’s officers and men to the venue.
To those who are holding onto the earlier position of Mr Governor as their basis for the army being responsible for the Lekki tollgate incident, Mr. Governor exhibited his emotions like any person would, which goes a long way to reaffirm, that notwithstanding his office, he is also human, he was misled by emotions due to the video without waiting for the response to his queries from the army authorities.
For our information, if the army was to carry out a parade of it’s officers and men mixed with other security agencies personnel but putting on the same military uniform, one is very sure that Mr. Governor would be unable to identify a genuine soldier from others who are not, because it is not an area of his expertise.
This, one is cock sure that making this clarification will make some persons and groups angry and still maintain their position that, it’s a lie, we don’t believe, etc, but as former President Goodluck Jonathan while in office said in reaction to public demand for him to make his assets public, that he doesn’t give a damn, on that position I stand.
As we keep our fingers crossed over a lot of discrepancies in the report of the Lekki tollgate incident by the actor in the “video”, one is rest assured that whatever be the grey areas of the Lekki tollgate incident, we are optimistic that all will be laid bare at the Lagos State constituted panel on inquiry and restitution which has began sitting and the truth will come out, though it makes no meaning to those whose minds is already made up and like above, we don’t give a damn.
Long live Lagos State,Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thanks.
Yours Sincerely,Nelson Ekujumi.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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