society
THE PUNCH EDITORIAL ON BENUE: A FABRICATION IN SEARCH OF A SCAPEGOAT
THE PUNCH EDITORIAL ON BENUE: A FABRICATION IN SEARCH OF A SCAPEGOAT
By
Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd) mni fnipr
As a concerned and observant citizen and someone conversant with the military, which I have served meritoriously for over 35 years before voluntarily retiring in 2019, I feel compelled to respond to the editorial published by The Punch on June 17, 2025, titled “Benue Carnage: Beyond Army Chief’s Relocation.” That editorial, in my considered opinion, was not only riddled with factual inaccuracies but also laced with subtle mischief and a thinly veiled attempt to impugn the competence and integrity of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, mni.
Let me state without equivocation: The Punch based its entire editorial on a falsehood. I have searched exhaustively and cannot recall, nor find any record of, the Chief of Army Staff or any organ of the Nigerian Army announcing a relocation to Makurdi, as was alleged. That claim is entirely fabricated. Yet, on this phantom announcement, the editorial weaves an entire narrative accusing the COAS of ineffectiveness, as if the failure of a non-existent relocation were a legitimate measure of leadership. This is not just misleading; it is reckless.
With my knowledge of him, Lieutenant General Oluyede is not a man given to media stunts or superficial gestures. Since time immemorial, his approach to military leadership has been defined by professionalism, quiet diligence and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex security terrain. As someone who follows security developments closely, I can attest that he knows exactly where his men are, what they are doing, and what they are capable of, particularly in the North-Central region. Military formations and units such as Operation WHIRL PUNCH, Operation WHIRL STROKE and the 401 Special Forces Brigade are not just in place; in active collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, they are operationally effective, delivering results under extraordinarily challenging conditions.
The suggestion that “little has changed” in Benue because the COAS allegedly relocated is not only baseless; it is a cynical distortion of the facts. If The Punch had made the slightest effort to verify its claims, it would have discovered that no such relocation took place because it was never needed. However, he does visit the military locations periodically. Any keen observer will discern that the Nigerian Army, especially under his able leadership, does not rely on media optics to secure lives; it relies on strategy, structure, and trained men and women doing their jobs, often at great personal cost. It is worth pointing out that The Punch has become increasingly fond of such ill-informed publications, which often makes one question the motive behind them. Rather than enlighten the public or contribute meaningfully to national security discourse, such editorials seem designed to generate controversy and discredit public institutions, especially the military, without justification.
Since his appointment in an acting capacity on 30th September 2024, and subsequent screening and confirmation as the substantive Chief of Army Staff, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Lieutenant General Oluyede has demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational command acumen. He has also demonstrated an undeniable capacity to work diligently. The Nigerian Army under his stewardship has recorded tremendous achievements in its assigned tasks across various theatres of operation. He has remained focused, strategic, and proactive in his duties, never distracted by media posturing or political noise.
Therefore, it is deeply disappointing that a newspaper of The Punch’s standing would publish an editorial based entirely on fiction. It betrays a lack of journalistic rigour and a worrying eagerness to sensationalise a national tragedy for editorial impact. What purpose is served by disseminating such misinformation? Certainly not accountability, and certainly not in public interest or enlightenment. If The Punch was genuinely concerned about the security situation in Benue, it could have taken the responsible route: reached out to military authorities, credible sources, reviewed the actual deployments, and reported verified events. Instead, it chose to peddle speculation and cloak it in editorial righteousness.
The Chief of Army Staff has demonstrated time and again that he is a focused, capable, and composed leader who does not need to shout from the rooftops to be effective. He works silently, relentlessly, and responsibly. He is not a showman; he is a well-experienced and well-trained soldier, who is result-oriented and has the welfare and well-being of his men at heart. Consequently, I urge The Punch to be more measured in its editorial judgements and to avoid descending into narratives that are not only misleading but damaging to national morale and the integrity of our institutions. If doubt exists, they should ask, not assume. That is what responsible journalism demands.
Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. It is not a time for careless conjecture or the luxury of false narratives. The Punch should also understand that this is not the time to tear down those working hard to hold the line, especially not based on imagination. It is a time to support and strengthen those working earnestly to defend our country. Anything less does more harm than good.
— Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd), mni, fnipr, is a security and strategic communication expert. He can be reached via his social media handles @skusman.
Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos
By Ifeoma Ikem
A property dispute within the Omotayo-Ojo family has taken a dramatic turn following a controversial demolition exercise at a residential building in Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos State, which reportedly left tenants displaced and led to the detention of some police officers allegedly involved in the operation.
The property, located at 23B Loveall Street, Ikosi-Ketu, has been the subject of a prolonged ownership tussle since the death of its owner, Chief Oludola Omotayo Ojo, the Babaalaje of Imesi-Ile, Osun State, in 2019.
Residents said tension erupted when a group of individuals, accompanied by security operatives, stormed the premises and commenced demolition activities.
According to eyewitnesses, portions of the building were pulled down while tenants rushed to salvage their belongings from affected apartments.
The residents alleged that windows, doors and roofing sheets were damaged during the exercise, exposing parts of the building to the elements and causing significant losses to occupants.
At the centre of the dispute is Mrs Mojisola Omotayo Ojo Alolagbe, who claimed that the property was allocated to her by her late father during his lifetime as a source of financial support.
She alleged that some family members had persistently challenged her ownership claim despite ongoing legal proceedings relating to the administration of the deceased’s estate.
Alolagbe further claimed that the latest incident was part of a series of attempts to wrest control of the property, citing previous cases of alleged vandalism and partial demolition in November 2025, January 2026 and February 2026.
The situation escalated further when reports emerged that police officers allegedly involved in the demolition were later apprehended and conveyed in a Black Maria vehicle over questions surrounding the legality of their participation in the operation.
Sources familiar with the matter said those behind the demolition had initially claimed to be acting on approval from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands. However, the authenticity and extent of such approval could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.
The development has generated concern among residents and community members, who questioned the involvement of security personnel in what they described as a civil matter.
Some tenants, who said they had recently renewed their tenancy agreements, lamented the destruction of their property and appealed to the authorities for protection and possible compensation.
They also called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the demolition, insisting that the rights of all parties involved should be protected.
Stakeholders have urged the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the judiciary to intervene and ensure that the dispute is resolved through lawful means to prevent further escalation.
The controversy has continued to draw public attention, raising concerns over property rights, estate administration and the role of law enforcement agencies in civil disputes.
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.
May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.
In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.
### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.
2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.
UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.
3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.
4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.
For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.
United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.
In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.
According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.
He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.
“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.
The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.
He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.
“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.
Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.
While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.
“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.
The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.
He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.
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