Uncategorized
Abia State Landowners Reject Resumed Government’s Airport Enumeration Exercise
Abia State Landowners Reject Resumed Government’s Airport Enumeration Exercise
By: Michael Mike
The Nsulu Airport Landowners Forum has sharply criticised the Abia State government’s ongoing land enumeration exercise for the proposed Nsulu Airport project, labelling it “forceful,” “unauthorised,” and lacking in transparency.
In a strongly worded letter to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, the forum announced its rejection of the current enumeration and demanded its immediate suspension.
The letter, signed by Dr. Max Nduaguibe (Chairman) and Elele Felix (Secretary) of the Forum, follows a virtual meeting held on February 11th, where landowners deliberated on a previous meeting with government representatives on February 9th.
While the landowners acknowledged the Governor’s recent reduction in the land designated for the airport, which the forum welcomed, they expressed deep concern about the government’s subsequent actions.
The landowners’ main complaint concerns the government’s unilateral actions. The forum claims that government officials forcibly entered the property to begin the enumeration process, collecting payment information without the landowners’ consent or participation.
Furthermore, the government appointed estate surveyors to represent landowners with no prior consultation.
The letter stated that the government’s actions are in bad faith, undermine the negotiation process, and raise serious concerns about their sincerity.
The forum insists that the enumeration exercise can only begin once a mutually agreed-upon land size has been formalised and all stakeholders have signed a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
They have requested the immediate withdrawal of the government’s enumeration team, as well as a commitment to fair negotiations, which are set to resume on February 16th.
They emphasize that suspending the enumeration will be key to restoring confidence and ensuring the safety of any future field workers.
The letter also expressed concerns about the fairness of the virtual meeting platform used during previous negotiations. The forum claims that access restrictions prevented its representatives from fully participating, whereas government representatives had unrestricted access.
They are urging the government to resolve this issue before the next meeting.
Copies of the letter were sent to Rt. Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, Member Representing Isiala Ngwa North & South Federal Constituency, and Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu, Member Representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, emphasising the urgency of the situation and the need for action.
The rejection of the enumeration process calls the future of the Nsulu Airport project into question. The government has yet to respond publicly to the landowners’ demands, so the project’s fate and the possibility of further conflict remain uncertain.
The upcoming meeting on February 16th is expected to be crucial in resolving this dispute and determining the next steps.
Observers are waiting to see how the government will respond to these serious allegations of heavy-handedness and lack of transparency.
Abia State Landowners Reject Resumed Government’s Airport Enumeration Exercise
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
By: Zagazola Makama
Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), has died following a brief illness.
Rear Admiral Katagum, a highly respected officer of the Nigerian Navy, recently served at Defence Headquarters and was formerly the Chief of Naval Intelligence.
He was recently appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, a role in which he oversaw critical operational activities and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime security.
During his distinguished career, Rear Admiral Katagum’s contributions to national security were immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and mentoring generations of officers who would go on to emulate his professionalism and dedication.
His insight, foresight, and meticulous approach to operations ensured that the Nigerian Navy remained vigilant, formidable, and ready to defend the nation’s maritime interests. His contributions played a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.
The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through the Armed Forces, with his colleagues describing him as a symbol of courage, discipline, and service excellence. Senior naval officers have expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy will endure within the Navy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered for his humility, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of those who served alongside him.
As we mourn this extraordinary officer, we celebrate a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria, a life marked by courage, honor, and excellence.
May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
KACRAN Calls for Increased Funding for Northeast Development
Lawmaker Backs Local Solar Manufacturing, Caution Against Immediate Import Ban
Suspect arrested for attempting to kill boy in Katsina over juju ritual
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News10 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
