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25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
By: Yahaya Wakili
Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, Ph.D., GCON, President of the Ninth Senate, has said, As we gather to commemorate Democracy Day, let us reflect on the arduous journey that has brought us to this moment. Twenty-five years ago, after decades of military rule, Nigeria embarked on a courageous path towards democratic governance.
In a statement issued and signed by him to commemorate Democracy Day, it was made available to newsmen in Damaturu. The President of the 9th Senate said, “It was a path fraught with challenges, but one that we, as a nation, resolutely embraced.
Senator Ahmed Lawan revealed that over these two decades, we have witnessed both triumphs and setbacks. We have encountered steep political landscapes, overcome economic headwinds, and faced down security threats that sought to undermine our collective aspirations for a just and prosperous society. Yet, through it all, the indomitable spirit of Nigerians has prevailed.
He pointed out that, today, we stand at a critical juncture in our democratic evolution. We are confronted with challenges that demand our resolve and unity of purpose. Amidst prevailing economic uncertainty and lingering security concerns, it is easy to succumb to despair. But despair is not in our DNA. We are Nigerians, a people imbued with resilience, ingenuity, and an unyielding belief in our collective destiny.
“The economic challenges we face today are not insurmountable. They are an opportunity for us to re-examine our priorities, diversify our economy, and unlock the vast potential that lies within our borders. By harnessing the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, we can create a future where economic prosperity is shared by all Nigerians.
According to him, the security threats that plague our nation are a test of our collective, and we must stand together, irrespective of our ethnic, religious, or political affiliations, to confront these threats head-on. By investing in our security forces, fostering inter-agency cooperation, and addressing the root causes of security, we can build a nation where peace and tranquility reign supreme.
“But our journey towards a brighter future is not solely dependent on economic growth and security. It is equally contingent upon the preservation of our democratic values. Democracy is not merely a form of government; it is a way of life. It is a system that enshrines the rule of law, protects fundamental human rights, and guarantees the peaceful transfer of power.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that underpin our democratic society. Let us uphold the rule of law, respect the rights of others, and engage in constructive dialogue that seeks to build bridges rather than divide. Let us reject all forms of hate speech, intolerance, and violence and work together to create a truly inclusive and equitable society.
He said that the task before us is not easy, but it is a task that we must undertake with determination. The future of Nigeria lies in our hands. Let us embrace the challenges we face with courage and optimism. Let us work together, as one people, to build a nation that is prosperous, secure, and democratic.
“As we mark this Democracy Day, let us honor the sacrifices of our heroes past by building Nigeria that is worthy of their legacies” he said.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey
Troops Arrest Three Suspected Cattle Rustlers in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 212 Battalion deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tuba have arrested three suspected cattle rustlers during an operation in Karnuwa general area of Borno State.
Security sources said the operation followed intelligence provided by a local resident, Malam Muhammadu Ardo, concerning alleged cattle rustling activities within the area.
The troops reportedly mobilised to Karnuwa at about 12:30 p.m. on May 4, 2026, where they apprehended the suspects identified as Mallam Mohammad Abatcha, 28; Mallam Mamman Bukar, 18; and Malam Modu Hassan, 30.
According to the sources, the suspects were intercepted while using a pickup vehicle with registration number WW 806 GZ Delta, allegedly employed in transporting stolen cattle.
The rustled cattle were recovered and immediately handed over to their rightful owners at the scene of the arrest.
Items recovered from the suspects included a bow and arrow, three mobile phones, five national identity cards and the sum of N20,650.
Preliminary investigation reportedly revealed that the suspects admitted to repeatedly stealing and selling rustled cattle to buyers in Maiduguri.
Security sources further disclosed that investigators suspect possible links between the suspects and members of the Islamic State West Africa Province or Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad due to alleged inconsistencies observed in their statements during interrogation.
Troops Arrest Three Suspected Cattle Rustlers in Borno
Troops Discover Illegal Refinery Site, Recover 600 Litres of Stolen Crude in Rivers
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 29 Battalion operating under the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), have uncovered an illegal refining site and recovered about 600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Security sources said the discovery was made at about 10:00 a.m. on May 12, 2026, during ongoing anti-illegal bunkering operations in the Niger Delta region.
The troops reportedly discovered the illegal refining site around Asa community, where a large cooking pot loaded with stolen crude oil was found stockpiled in sacks.
Military authorities said the recovered products and equipment were handled in accordance with operational directives guiding anti-crude oil theft operations under Operation Delta Safe.
The operation was conducted without any confrontation or security incident.
The Nigerian military has continued to intensify operations against crude oil theft, illegal refining and other forms of economic sabotage across the Niger Delta region.
Troops Discover Illegal Refinery Site, Recover 600 Litres of Stolen Crude in Rivers
Troops, NDLEA Raid Drug Hideout in Katsina, Arrest Suspected Supplier to Terrorists
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Malumfashi at Kafur, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, have raided a suspected drug peddlers’ hideout in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources said the operation was conducted at about 12:30 p.m. on May 12, 2026, at Huguma village following intelligence on illicit drug activities within the area.
During the raid, troops apprehended one suspect identified as a major supplier of illicit drugs and other substances to terrorists and criminal elements operating within Kafur Local Government Area and surrounding communities.
Items recovered during the operation included 146 grams of suspected cannabis and 16.5 grams of a substance identified as Exol-5.
The suspect and the recovered drugs have since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and necessary legal action.
Troops, NDLEA Raid Drug Hideout in Katsina, Arrest Suspected Supplier to Terrorists
Troops Arrest Three Suspected Cattle Rustlers in Borno
Troops Intercept Vehicle Conveying Illegal Diesel in Bayelsa
Troops Discover Illegal Refinery Site, Recover 600 Litres of Stolen Crude in Rivers
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