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War on Terror: The Heroic Exploits of Unsung Heroes (Part 1)

Published

2 years ago

February 5, 2022

Sahara Weekly

War on Terror: The Heroic Exploits of Unsung Heroes (Part 1)

By: Hamza Suleiman

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It is not very often that you get to read about the extraordinary exploits of Nigerian troops at the theatres of ongoing war against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists or in the various military operations across the country.

In fact, majority of Nigerians outside the epicenter of the crisis, are not conversant with the trajectories of that war on terror being prosecuted by the Nigerian Armed Forces across the country nor do they do have the faintest idea about the gallantry and exceptional heroic feats of some of our officers and men in the trenches.

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This is partly because not many reporters or commentators are willing to devote their time, as it were, to the chronicling for posterity, the extraordinary bravery and gallantry of some of the Nigerian troops engaged in the war of attrition against the dreaded Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. It does appear that what is fashionable for a section of the media is the spotlighting of setbacks and obstacles in the way of our troops.

The very worrisome penchant for bad reviews of military operations across the country in the media is a topic for another day as this serialized reports is meant to share the amazing stories of some courageous and patriotic military officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty at the North East Task Force Operation Hadin Kai where Nigerian troops are battling the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

For these brave officers who are deployed far from home and from loved ones for years, the determination to put their lives on the line so that the entire nation can sleep in peace, comes so natural and without any form of compulsion. Like the late Lt Col Abu Ali (whose heroic accomplishments only came to limelight after his demise), these officers in focus all of the Special Forces Battalion are men of steel, courage, passion and exceptional bravery in battle.

Standing tall…

On that eventful day, March 14 2014, a full complement of well-armed Boko Haram terrorists launched massive attack on Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, Borno state capital. The sprawling barracks became target of their daring attack because within it were held some of their commanders and foot soldiers arrested by the troops of the Nigerian Army. Apparently overwhelmed by the large numbers and grim determination of terrorists making the incursion, the troops on guard the barracks withdrew, and everything were in flurry as the attackers continued to pour in relentlessly, shooting at everything and anything on sight. Their sole aim was to overrun the barracks and set free their members in detention.

On learning of the intrusion of the barracks by the insurgents, a certain Lt Col Ishaya Aliyu Manga left his Sector which was far away from the scene without being prompted or compelled and immediately mobilized troops to go repel the attack. He led his troops into the fray and successfully sacked the terrorists who had almost upturned the entire Giwa barracks. More than 300 terrorists were killed in that encounter and many weapons including Anti-Aircraft (AA) guns and gun-truck vehicles were captured by the officer and his troops from the terrorists.

The swift and furious dislodgement of Boko Haram elements from the Giwa Barracks which the officer spear-headed was not the first nor the most daring of operations he had led or been involved in. As a thorough-bred infantry officer, Manga knew exactly what he and his colleagues in the theatre were up against and as such was mentally and physically prepared to undertake the journey of routing Boko Haram terrorists from any part of Nigerian sovereignty.

Though Manga was under Sector 2 on his arrival, his mode of operation transcended that sector. As a matter of fact, he made himself available and dutifully participated in all attacks on Boko Haram that required reinforcement within Maiduguri metropolis.

He was actively involved in countering book Haram attacks in Bulabulin Garnam, London Ciki, Baga road, Kasuwan Shanu, Millinaire quarters, Headquarters Sector 2, dusman, Post Office and Customs Road, Zabamari, Gongulon, Lawanti, Turshe, among others.

Sometime in January 2014 when the activities of Boko Hara terrorists become a potent threat to the 195 Battalion which was deployed at Bulabulin and Damboa, the former GOC 7 Division, Maj. Gen. Bindawa directed L.t Col. Manga to “marry up” with the Battalion for immediate clearance of the terrorists from their general area of responsibility. The next day at about 10 in the morning, the officer alongside personnel of 195 Battalion launched an operation that culminated in the successful destruction of Boko Haram terrorists in their own strongholds around Alagarno area. In that operation, more than a hundred terrorists were killed while a lot of their equipment were destroyed.

For his outstanding bravery in that attack, the GOC gave him an award. Few weeks later when Konduga which was under the protection of 202 Battalion was overran by the Boko Haram elements, Lt Col Manga was again tasked to go retake the town from the adversaries. On the 14th February, he led his men from the front and successfully dislodged the terrorists and recaptured the town. He was promptly appointed OC (Officer in Charge) of Konduga which he later handed over to 103 Battalion.

At this point, the Yola Born Infantry officer has established himself as the go-to-officer for any difficult operation that required exceptional courage and bravery. Manga was tasked to conduct search and rescue operations for the NAF Mi 35 Helicopter that crashed at Bulabulin general area during an operational flight. For two whole days, the officer and his team were combing the terrorists and IED-ladden forests until they discover the location of the crashed chopper and successfully rescued one of the pilot alive. That uncommon gallantry earned him another commendation from the then GOC 7 Div, Maj Gen Manu Yusuf Ibrahim.

Barely four days after rescuing the NAF pilot, precisely on the 26 July 2014, 251 Battalion and 254 Battalion were tasked to retake Bulabulin and Damboa which were overran by Boko Haram. The 7 Division Garrison was also tasked to provide a robust patrol to assist the units in achieving the daunting task. The lot fell on Lt Col Manga to lead the patrol team under the guidance of the Commander 7 Div Garrison, Col DR Hassan (now retired). The officer again proved himself as he led daring exploits that influenced the successful obliteration of Boko Haram terrorists and the recapture of Bulabulin and Damboa as directed.

Some weeks later, Manga carried out a robust patrol to Kawuri with the sole purpose of degrading Boko Haram who were occupying the area from where they were launching successive attacks on troops’ location at Konduga. Despite the numerical inferiority of his team compared to the adversary’s, they were able to totally decimate the Boko Haram’s stronghold, killing many of them in the process. The patrol team dutifully captured high value assets from the terrorists and brought them back to base. That singular daring operation brought glory to the Division and Nigerian Army at large.

Manga however sustained serious injuries on his hand and ears during the operation and sent to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment. Barely three weeks after he went for treatment, he returned back to action.

Following the attack and subsequent capture of Chibok town by Boko Haram terrorists, On November 13, 2014, Lt Col Manga was tasked alongside Col M.O Edide to retake the town. In his characteristic uncommon courage and fearlessness, confronted the terrorists and totally obliterated them.

The team successfully recaptured Chibok on 15 November, killing many of the insurgents while capturing two Anti-Aircraft guns mounted on buffalo vehicles, three Hilux vehicles and over 200 moto cycles.

Again, within a span of weeks, the terrorists launched a heavy attack on Maiduguri metropolis through Damboa and Mafa axis. L.t Col. Manga was again called upon to assist in repelling the attacks from both axis. He characteristically demonstrated uncommon courage during the encounters which enabled him to gain the willing followership of troops in effectively repelling the attacks. His immense contributions influenced the eventual neutralization of many Boko Haram terrorists and capture of several high caliber weapons, vehicles, artillery guns, etc.

Assuming Command

As Commander Sector 2, Lt Col Manga demonstrated his essential leadership qualities in managing man and materials. Owing to his excellent management of his troops, his sector was at all times free and secured from Boko Haram activities.

He artfully ensured that flashpoints within his area of responsibility were kept in check to prevent any form of dissent or criminal activities from any quarter. In addition to his primary task as the Commander, the officer led various operations to route Boko Haram elements, notable of which were at Kulli, Mama, Dongo, Leje, Yale, Bula Galda, Dagumba, Mowa Kasuwa, Boboshe, Boskoro, Kokutuma, Kashimri, Gulumba Gana, Chingori, Dalori, Walasa, Chingurmi, Kwanjima Wurwaza, etc.

His team successfully destroyed Boko Haram terrorists’ camps and markets in those locations while killing scores of the fighters and capturing weapons and equipment. A number of people who were held hostage were also rescued by Manga and his team in a number of those places.

The Officer again proved himself as most outstanding officer by his daring exploits which resulted to the successful vanquishing of Boko Haram elements in Yale on the 7th of June and again on the 19th October, 2016 in which numerous terrorists were neutralized and several AK 47 rifles captured. Additionally, more than 400 Bicycles and 15 Motorcycles were destroyed by Manga’s troops.

Few days later, under the auspices of Op RESCUE FINALE, the officer gallantly led his Battalion into Sambisa forest where they successfully cleared 23 Boko Haram camps and neutralized scores of the terrorists around Sambisa Gate one and Garin Dinya where 19 terrorists were neutralized and various calibers of arms and ammunition captured.

On 2nd January 2018, Manga returned to the Sambisa forest with his unit, this time under the auspices of OP DEEP PUNCH 2. As usual he displayed exemplary leadership qualities in leading his men and instilling boldness in them in the face of danger. His style of command, courage and professional astute led to the destruction of nine major terrorists’ camps including camp Zairo Boko Haram Headquarters, forcing Abubakar Shekau to fled for his life, leaving his flag and other properties.

The unit contributions led to death of many terrorists, destruction and recovery equipment including MBT, VBL, Typhon APCs, gun trucks etc. Other items the troops destroyed were ammunition making factory, weapon factory among others. This uncommon courage displayed by the officer earned him GOC’s commendation letter for act of gallantry.

Back to Op LAFIYA DOLE

Manga commenced his second journey in Op Lafiya Dole after his unit (Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion II defunct) now 134 Special Forces Battalion was inducted into the Operation on 10 Jan 2020.

His first task was to conduct long range patrol to clear Gudumbali and environs, Jilli, Fuchimiram, Borno Yesu and environs under operation OP TIGER CLAW and OP LEOPARD TRAIL with 5 Brigade. The task was effectively carried out.

Two weeks later, Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters were sighted at Lamboa forest and Lt Col Manga was informed of the development. The senior officer quickly mobilized his team to Lamboa forest. After a fierce battle with the terrorists and due to the team’s resilience, several terrorists were neutralized. The successes recorded on that operation led to the capture of several weapons among which were two gun trucks, five Anti-Aircraft guns and eleven AK 47 rifles.

Sadly the Senior Officer was severely wounded after he was shot three times (2 gunshot wounds and RPG blast), during a hot exchange of gunfire in the evening of March 9 2020 between Boko Haram fighters and troops who were on offensive mission under the auspices of Op AYISO TAMUNOMA within the Alagarno.

He spent three months and two weeks receiving treatment in the hospital. The injuries he sustained did not in any way stop him from doing his best to ensure that the activities of Boko Haram terrorists were nipped in the bud. He immediately commenced operation after his sick leave.

A report came on the 18 of August 2020, that Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have gathered locals and were delivering sermon to them in Magumeri. Manga quickly mobilized his team to the scene and in his characteristic brave manner, he confronted the terrorists in a fierce battle which led to death of scores of terrorists while many of them escaped.

On the 7th of September, 2020, the terrorists ambushed the officer and his team while on patrol along Gubio and Magumeri road. The team exhibited act of bravery and commitment which influenced the defeat of the terrorists and recovery of a gun truck, two Anti-Aircraft guns, three AK 47 rifles and various caliber of ammunitions.

Additionally, On 26 Oct 20, LT Col Manga and his team neutralized Boko Haram fighters along Karnowa – Magumeri road. They successfully captured an Anti-Aircraft gun, five AK 47 rifles, one Bedford vehicle among other items.

Exploits at OP TURA TAKAI BANGO

Operating under the auspices of Operation TURA TAKAI BANGO, Lt Col Manga, on the January 1, 2021, led his unit into Tinbuktu Triangle, the spiritual home of Boko Haram terrorists along with troops of 198 Special Forces Battalion and 199 Special Forces Battalion under 402 Special Forces Brigade.

Their offensive mission was hugely successful as they were able to destroy several Boko/ISWAP enclaves among which included Gorgi, Kafa, Abagajiri, Dusula, Buk, Manguzum, Gorgore forest and others. Several terrorists were neutralized in that mission while several high grade weapons were recovered or destroyed.

Similarly, 402 Special Force Brigade was tasked to retake Marte from ISWAP and clear Krenoa, Chikun Gudu and environs. Manga led the operation and as usual displayed an uncommon courage which led to the killing of 22 terrorists and retaking of Marte on the 23rd of February 2021.

The Officer was also directed to clear elements of ISWAP hibernating in Ala settlement on Mar 3, 2021. Along with his men, they neutralized four Boko Haram fighters and recovered a number of weapons.

On March 22 2021, 402 Special Force Brigade was also tasked alongside 21 Armour Brigade and 26 Task Force Brigade to conduct clearance operations in Sambisa forest. Manga’s knowledge of the ground came handy as he dutifully assisted the advancing forces in clearing Njimia, Parisu, Somalia, Kuraba, Sabil Huda, Gobara, Dure and other Boko Haram enclaves.

The successes recorded were; neutralization of terrorists capture of two AA guns, one GPMG, two 81mm mor, four AK 47 rifles and destruction of two VBIED. Other exploits with Manga’s footprints include the destruction of ISWAP fighters at Bulabulin in the general area of Damasak and the capture of a gun truck and an AA gun on 24 Apr 2021.

Manga also led his troops to clear BHTs fighters hibernating at Ngwom general area of Mafa LG on 16 June 2021. The officer and his men neutralized six BHTs, captured three AK 47 rifles and two Motorcycles. Manga was very instrumental to the surrendering of some BHTs with assorted weapons. Those eleven Boko Haram elements were among the first batch of the terrorists to surrender to the troops of the Nigerian Army.

Non-Kinetic Efforts

As a thorough-bred professional military officer with clear understanding of the dynamics of asymmetric warfare, the type he engaged in the north east, Lt Col Manga combines both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to win his battles.
In the course of his deployment in the north east, the officer has influenced the provision of the following humanitarian assistance to communities around the theatre of operations: Medical evacuation of civilian victims of suicide bombers attacks on the locals from Konduga to UMTH Maiduguri; Clearance of 22 km trees and shrubs from Konduga – Aulari along road Maiduguri – Bama to help discourage ambushes on military personnel, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), other security agencies and civilians plying the road; Provision of medical assistance to CJTF and the local communities within Konduga; repairs of boreholes to enable the local communities access portable water; Patching of 22 km road from Kalari – Konduga – Aulari to deter the insurgents from laying mines along the road; Provision of security to farmers and fishermen in Konduga; Teaching of IDPs by our education personnel in the IDP Camp in Konduga; Payment of N5,000 allowances each to 40 members of the CJTF to enable them work effectively and efficiently in Konduga.

Others include, Payment of N10,000 allowance each to 30 members of CJTF and N20,000 each to 5 informants/guides in Maiduguri, Magumeri and Konduga areas and the provision of food items to IDPs in some selected camp in Maiduguri metropolis.

A highly disciplined, committed and hardworking officer who consistently demonstrates uncommon courage in the face of danger, Lt Col IA Manga’s style of leading from the front has severally endeared him to his troops who are ever willing to follow him to battle.

He has participated in almost all the designated military operations in the north east including, Op Restore Order 1 (2013), Op Boyona (2013), Op Zaman Lafiya (2013-2015), Op Crack Dawn I & II (2015), Op Rescue Finale (2016-2017), Op Deep Punch II (2018), Op Lafiya Dole (2015-2018 & 2020), Op Leopard Trail (2020), Op Tigar Claw (2020), Op Ayiso Tamunoma (2020), Op Fire ball (Oct 2020), JTF Op Hadin Kai North East (2021 to date).

Born in Yola, Adamawa State, Manga who holds two Masters degrees (in Finance and in Defence & Strategic Studies), joined the Nigerian Army in February 2003 as a member of SSC 33, commissioned in August 2003 and was first posted to 3 Battalion Nigerian Army, Takum, to commence his military career.

A proud recipient of the United States –Africa Command Award for Excellence, Force Service Star (FSS) award and Command Medal (CM), Lt Col Manga always approach his duties with zeal, diligence, dedication and high sense of professionalism to the admiration of his peers and superiors. Manga’s story is that of a Nigerian patriot who passionate in defending the motherland from vicious adversaries even at the risk of his own life.

Though unsung in the pages of Nigerian newspapers or television screens, Manga’s numerous successful operations which had resulted to the death of indeterminate number of terrorists and destruction of their sanctuaries and strongholds can never be downplayed or diminished. In view of the indelible achievements and service to humanity, the senior officer is highly recommended for any deserving Awards in recognition of his act of patriotism and professionalism.

Watch out for Part 2 of this special report on gallant Nigerian soldiers doing exploits in the war against terror.

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Rotimi Makinde congratulates Akeeb Ajilesoro as he tie the knot with his long time lover, Franca

Published

7 hours ago

May 4, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Rotimi Makinde congratulates Akeeb Ajilesoro as he tie the knot with his long time lover, Franca

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The former House of Representative member, ife Federal Constituency, Hon. Rotimi Mikhail Makinde has congratulated Akeeb Ajilesoro as he tie the knot with his lovely wife today 4th of May 2024 in Ugheli, Delta State.

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Makinde urged newly wedded couples not to allow third party interference for their marriage to succeed.

In attendance was the groom’s brother Hon Bimbo Ajilesoro, a serving representative of Ife federal constituency who mobilized his colleagues which includes Hon Sanya Omirin, Clement Olorunwa, David Fuoh, Francis Waive, Sakariyah Nyampa, Steve Fatoba, Salma Idris, Okoli Ngozi, Hon Ghali, and of course many dignitaries from Ile Ife, Hon Biyi Odunlade, Venerable Ademola Odunlade Sooko Vincent Oladele Adimula Ajilesoro, Sooko Abiola Olayiwola, Hon Rotimi Makinde,Samson,Adelugba,Risikat and Adijat Ajilesoro.

He also urged them to embrace peace, love, unity, openness and effective communication.

Bobaselu of Ile Ife made the call during the wedding ceremony between Franca and Olusola in Ugheli area of Delta State.

He prayed to God to bless their marriage abundantly.

” On behalf of myself, family, I wish to congratulate Mr/Mrs Ajilesoro on their successful marriage.

” I want to call on the wedded couple to show love and embrace unity, peace, patience and effective communication for their marriage to be successful.

” As love, peace, understanding and patience among other good attributes of marriage are very necessary requirements for a successful marriage life,” he said

He also urged the couple to receive only positive advice that would build their family.

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Understanding Property Titles and Documents in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

Published

22 hours ago

May 3, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Understanding Property Titles and Documents in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

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Sahara Weekly Reports That Being a property owner in Nigeria is a big accomplishment and a wise investment. But managing the complexity of property ownership necessitates a thorough comprehension of papers and property titles. These records are vital for preserving property rights since they act as official proof of ownership. This article explores the several kinds of property titles and documents that are available in Nigeria, their significance, and the ways in which they support safe real estate transactions.

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O):

A Certificate of Occupancy is perhaps the most crucial document when it comes to land ownership in Nigeria. It is issued by the state government and serves as proof of ownership and the right to use the land for a specific purpose. The process of obtaining a C of O involves the applicant submitting an application to the state government, which then conducts due diligence to verify the legitimacy of the claim to the land. Once issued, the C of O grants the holder exclusive rights to use and develop the land.

2. Deed of Assignment:

A Deed of Assignment is a legal document that transfers ownership of property from one party to another. It typically outlines the details of the transfer, including the names of the parties involved, a description of the property, and any conditions or considerations attached to the transfer. This document is crucial for formalizing the sale or transfer of property rights and should be duly executed and registered with the appropriate government authority to ensure its validity.

3. Deed of Conveyance:

Similar to a Deed of Assignment, a Deed of Conveyance is used to transfer ownership of property. However, unlike the Deed of Assignment, which is commonly used for the transfer of leasehold interests, the Deed of Conveyance is used for the transfer of freehold interests. It is typically executed between the seller (grantor) and the buyer (grantee) and includes details such as the purchase price, description of the property, and any covenants or warranties.

4. Survey Plan:

A Survey Plan is a document that shows the accurate boundaries and measurements of a piece of land. It is prepared by a licensed surveyor and is essential for verifying the exact location and dimensions of a property. A Survey Plan is often required during the process of obtaining a C of O or when transferring property ownership to ensure that there are no boundary disputes or encroachments.

5. Power of Attorney:

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone else the authority to act on behalf of the property owner. It is commonly used in situations where the property owner is unable to handle their affairs due to illness, absence, or other reasons. A Power of Attorney can be limited or general in scope, depending on the specific powers granted to the attorney-in-fact.

The Significance of Property Titles: Safeguarding Your Investment

Legal Ownership:

Property titles serve as incontrovertible evidence of legal ownership. They establish the rightful owner of the property and delineate the boundaries of their ownership rights. Without a valid title, one cannot claim ownership of a property, leaving them vulnerable to disputes and challenges regarding ownership.

Protection of Property Rights:

Property titles provide protection against encroachments and unauthorized claims to the property. They offer a legal shield against potential disputes, ensuring that the owner’s rights are recognized and respected by others. With a clear title, property owners can confidently assert their ownership rights and defend against any attempts to infringe upon them.

Facilitation of Transactions:

Clear and valid property titles facilitate smooth and efficient real estate transactions. When buying or selling property, a clean title provides assurance to both parties that the transaction is legitimate and free from any encumbrances or defects. It instills confidence in buyers and lenders, making it easier to secure financing and close the deal.

Legal Certainty:

Property titles provide legal certainty by establishing a chain of ownership that can be traced back through time. They document the history of the property, including previous transfers of ownership, mortgages, liens, and other encumbrances. This historical record ensures transparency and clarity regarding the property’s status, enabling informed decision-making by prospective buyers and lenders.

Access to Legal Remedies:

In the event of a dispute or legal challenge regarding property ownership, a valid title provides the basis for seeking legal remedies and resolution. Property owners with clear titles can avail themselves of legal avenues to defend their rights and rectify any discrepancies or irregularities affecting their ownership. This access to legal recourse is essential for protecting investments and preserving property rights.

Peace of Mind:

Perhaps most importantly, property titles offer peace of mind to owners, knowing that their investment is secure and their ownership rights are legally recognized. With a clear title in hand, property owners can confidently enjoy the benefits of homeownership, such as occupancy, development, and transferability, without fear of adverse claims or challenges.

The Implications of Not Acquiring Property Titles in Nigeria: Risks and Consequences

Lack of Legal Ownership:

One of the most significant implications of not acquiring property titles is the lack of legal ownership. Without proper documentation, individuals cannot assert their ownership rights over the property, leaving them vulnerable to claims by other parties. This lack of legal ownership can lead to disputes, litigation, and the loss of investment in the property.

Insecurity of Tenure:

Property titles provide security of tenure, guaranteeing the owner’s right to occupy and use the property without fear of eviction or interference. Without proper titles, individuals face uncertainty regarding their tenure, making them susceptible to arbitrary eviction or displacement by third parties claiming ownership rights. This insecurity of tenure can disrupt lives, businesses, and communities, leading to social and economic instability.

Difficulty in Transacting:

Acquiring property titles is essential for facilitating real estate transactions, such as buying, selling, or leasing property. Without clear titles, individuals encounter difficulties in transacting, as potential buyers or lenders may be reluctant to engage in deals involving properties with uncertain ownership status. This can impede economic development and hinder investment in the real estate sector.

Limited Access to Credit:

Property titles serve as collateral for obtaining loans and credit from financial institutions. Without proper titles, individuals have limited access to credit, as lenders are unwilling to accept properties with unclear ownership as collateral. This lack of access to credit hampers economic growth and development, as it constrains individuals’ ability to invest in property development and other productive ventures.

Vulnerability to Fraud and Exploitation:

In the absence of property titles, individuals are vulnerable to fraud and exploitation by unscrupulous actors seeking to exploit their lack of legal protection. Fraudulent schemes such as land grabbing, forgery of documents, and illegal sales thrive in environments where property titles are not properly established. This exposes unsuspecting individuals to financial loss and legal entanglements.

Legal and Regulatory Risks:

Failure to acquire property titles exposes individuals to legal and regulatory risks, as they may be in violation of laws and regulations governing property ownership and transactions. Government authorities may take enforcement actions against individuals occupying or developing property without proper titles, leading to fines, penalties, or even demolition of structures.

Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041

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The Nigeria of Now, by Idegu Ojonugwa Shadrach

Published

22 hours ago

May 3, 2024

Sahara Weekly

The Nigeria of Now, by Idegu Ojonugwa Shadrach

Acutely, Nigeria under democracy has not gotten anything reasonable to compare under the military. Most of Nigerians are old enough to be sign-posts of history. Likewise, we have written documents that serve as histories. In all these, we see clearly how Nigeria is becoming a failed nation in the course of democracy. Seriously, this is a great pandemic that needs swift attention before we have no Nigeria to defend. No one is happy going back. But, if the democratic governance continues this way, other system of government may test-run to see where real problems are – as the political leaders blame citizens for misfortunes of the nation. And same way, citizens blame political leaders for the nations’ misfortunes. However, democracy is the best for us at this time. So, we as citizens and political leaders must put things together to save our dear nation.

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Relatively, there should be democratic parameters to checkmate democratic workings under the government. Above all, in various measures, if a nation doesn’t have this, it can be simply termed, relegated governance. This should be operationally identified to project meaningfulness of our democracy. Hence, if all developmental features are in standard oblivion, we have no hopes and on that note, it is as good as calling all well-meaning Nigerians to work towards good future of our dear Nigeria in all corners in order to safeguard ourselves and the loved ones as our government never put us in standard consideration.

Bribery, corruption and insecurities should be top notches for consideration; the government must desist from laying blames on past governments and to work tirelessly to amend where necessary, government should be enveloped with high-profiled selfless and dignified politicians; and politicians who are well-groomed on how to verbally and practically – on stylish mannerisms; buy and trade time for the attentions of the poor masses; an administration shouldn’t reward evil-performed politicians and the qualified and noble ones are to be fixed in political offices -and basically, in the wake of this, we can see our nation growing and developing. Be as it may, Nigerians wish the government to re-strategize on time to bring the peoples’ mandates. Nigerians are tired of empty hopes and attractive speeches. A working is what Nigerians need at this moment that the country is seriously sinking. So reasonable things must be scaled before happiness and joy of the citizens can showcase.

However, government to do greatly, it should listen and always create platforms to interact with activists and intellectuals within and outside government. Most importantly, government must grant rooms to journalists to disseminate original information so that issues raised can get fair solutions.

Sincerely, to regulate political and democratic governance, our political leaders must change for good and better. Doing this would definitely help them and the citizens. That is why; it is always advisable to discharge primary duties of dedicated offices. Our politicians must shun antagonistic ways for societal-oriented attitudes that could make good progress for the national values. Our politicians should learn of their great counterparts in the developed and developing countries to do alike or better so that we can have a stable and good economy. If they can do this, no one is ready to fight them. Note; now that everything is happening under quick manners, Nigerian political leaders must prepare to change for better. The growing generations do things faster without consulting and checking attached results. It is on this note, our political leaders must wake up to do greatly in offices before unusual begin to happen from all angles. Enough of embezzlement and open insult, please. Therefore, youths must carry fearless and unbiased human rights activists, and intelligent investigative journalists to help penetrate these wicked politicians as soon as possible, if only, they are not ready to work on dividend of democracy. Hence, youths have no reason to relent under government that has no control over insecurities and unemployment.

In a more cordial way to get this development, well-mannered and productive Nigerians must get ready to join politics. Their aspirations and plans are to be tabled in royal palaces and intellectual, influential and wealthy citizens in the villages are to be summoned by council of elders for support and sponsor of possible ways. Oaths can play good games in constituting this as all planning and supporting committee members manage such affairs under the oath. This should be recommended as quite numbers of individuals come into agreement with hidden agendas. I believe so much on how politics and religion are the great pillars of societal growths and developments. It is therefore a thing of joy to see good people on the affairs of the state.

Again, in order to make up to this development on time, I have always advised our youths to put aside cybercrimes to face our ill-hearted politicians. I have severally encouraged them to create light atmosphere within one another so as to get stronger bound for effective and effectual collaboration. Our youths need to shun jealousy, backbiting and the host alike so they can work with one another to fight the evil politicians parading on the natural resources. We all know how these politicians are strongly connected to one another on a goal of trading our efforts and all we have for their interest. That they always achieve because of strong collaboration. Youths should equally embrace such so that we dismantle their evil practices only if we want to secure our future and that of our children in the nation. These politicians have already done theirs. Our youths should be apprehended with a fact that these politicians have managed all means to make unproductive activities sponsored and promoted so as to keep little-minded youths busy; and to a length that they do use some of these activities to initiate hatred and problems between the little-minded and able-minded youths so they have enough time to keep stealing. On that note; Nigerian youths are encouraged to do well to get into government properly.

In the middle of these present chronic issues surrounding our dear Nigeria, we are yet to get some of the intellectuals questioned and interviewed. Good government must summon intellectuals for public opinions, analyses, suggestions and recommendations on things that can make a state forward and governable. It is by thoroughly working on demanding issues. Because, a government is the most insightful organization to identify gifts and talents of her citizens who have demonstrated themselves in past and in present – as a good government must initiate possible ways to deal with economic and security matters to set standards for living.

Former heads of states and presidents need to have a reconciliatory committee to ensure these groups come in terms with one another with loudable rewards. After that, our intellectuals at home and abroad should be invited for economic review; our wealthy Nigerians should contribute financially; our religious leaders to work on peace and collaborative spirits and many more. As a matter of urgency, online medium should be created to communicate one another due to factors of personal engagements. However, there is no singular reason that can credit someone who fails to attend to his or her family in critical time like this.

Our journalists, academics, innovators and activists must get ready to do more in order to have a progressive nation. Misinformation and misrepresentation of information is the mother of societal destruction. Until we learn how to resourcefully manage our information, we barely understand our score of economy and security – the two vitals of societal workings. So, we must learn how to manage information for and against the present government.

Definitely, I do urge our youths to make patriotic criticisms which are constructed with solutions and not baseless criticisms that can plug our dear Nigeria into a laughable and unrest state. Hence, collective bargaining and ideologies of the youths when channeled appropriately would help the government and citizens. If we don’t work together in peace and unity, the good Nigeria we ever desire wouldn’t come to stay on time. I do know the powers of youths and that is why, I have ever advocated for youth inclusion in government. I am certain, this government would make the way as the youths are committed to work closely with the government for the comfort and advantage of Nigerians.

Our problems are within. It is better we tackle it together. We must learn to do our own things now. Nigeria is one of the most hated nations due to our surplus natural resources. So, no nation is ready to help us make economic alignments without exploitation. Politics and religion can’t help us manage these, except humanity and technology. We should give prime concerns to these so we have human and infrastructural growths and developments in this time of economic shutdown.

Now that everything is accompanied with high prices, our religious leaders must continue to preach endurance, peace and unity to their members – they should teach them how though times don’t last. Our political leaders must cut expenses on things that couldn’t speak well to human and infrastructural developments. Our political leaders must not keep distance and disconnection from the poor masses. And, our political leaders must show and talk how they are seriously working ways to curb present sufferings. If steps to curb this are apprehendable, the promissory future would encourage and force angry citizens to exercise patience. Additionally, I do encourage my dear Nigerians to dwell in peace, unity, courage and efforts even in the middle of our sufferings. Certainly, and sooner than later, we would have our desirable Nigeria.

Our community leaders are encouraged to preach humility, endurance and morals to villagers. Insecurity which is one of the dangerous effects on agriculture must be addressed. Preaching of love which should highlights needs to be to kind and generous to one another, and harmless to one another is so paramount at the time. Hence, it is needed to destabilize antagonistic groups that terrorize humans and properties in societies.

If we can achieve the above highlighted points, Nigeria is fast moving to a standard state. Note; agriculture, electricity, technology, roads and companies should be given maximal attention. Then, schools and churches should be regulated in order not to keep plenty graduates unemployed and keep religionists lazy – as handiwork and diligent cover educational workings and love, obedience and orderliness cover religious workings. Together, we can do this easily and cheaply.

I am so certain that, if the government can yield to effective suggestions from our intellectuals both home and abroad, it would help Nigeria grow a bit under the government.

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