MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION

…Urges Holistic Approach to Combat Crime in Plateau State

A significant milestone was achieved at the Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army as Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola officially assumed command as the 43rd General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division. The ceremonial transition, which took place at the GOC’s Conference Room in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, on Thursday 23 January 2025, featured senior military officials, Brigade Commanders, and dignitaries from various sectors, underscoring the importance of this leadership change in the region’s complex security landscape.

In his valedictory address, the outgoing GOC, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed Major General Oyinlola and highlighted the intricate nature of security challenges in Plateau State. “The security situation here is both complex and dynamic; it demands a multi-faceted strategy that includes both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches,” he stated. General Abubakar emphasized the necessity of not only engaging in combat operations against criminality and banditry but also mediating conflicts arising between agricultural communities, such as farmers and herders. “The operations in this region are inherently people-centric,” he remarked, expressing confidence in Major General Oyinlola’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively.

Major General Abubakar took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM, for the trust placed in him during his tenure and acknowledged the invaluable support received from the government and security agencies in Plateau State. “Your collaboration has been instrumental in our efforts to ensure safety and security in the region. I urge you all to extend the same level of support to my successor,” he implored, reinforcing the importance of unity among security stakeholders.

In turn, Major General Oyinlola lauded his predecessor for his dedication and commitment to peace in Plateau State. “I intend to build upon the solid foundation laid by Major General Abubakar. The standards will not only be maintained but indeed improved upon,” he asserted, calling for an enhanced collaborative effort among all security stakeholders in the state to achieve lasting peace. By stressing the importance of unity and shared objectives, the new GOC signaled his intent to foster an inclusive approach to addressing security issues.

The transition ceremony was marked by several symbolic events, including the signing of handing and taking over notes, the presentation of the 3 Division insignia of command to the outgoing GOC, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. The ceremonial quarter guard drills added to the significance of this historic event, which is expected to set the tone for the new leadership era under Major General Oyinlola.

The need for a holistic approach to combat the pervasive threats of criminal activity and insecurity in Plateau State has never been more pressing. As communities grapple with the realities of banditry and inter-communal conflicts, the call for innovative strategies and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders becomes paramount. Major General Oyinlola’s commitment to picking up from where his predecessor left off sets a hopeful tone for the region.

The leadership transition at the 3 Division Nigerian Army represents not only a change in command but also a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in Plateau State.

MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION

BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family

By: Our Reporter

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, deeply regrets to announce to the citizens of Plateau State and all patriotic Nigerians, the passing of the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni.

The distinguished elder statesman passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 82, following a protracted illness.

In a statement in Jos signed by , Governor Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public affairs ,the Governor described the passing of General Useni as a tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.

The Governor highlighted General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service, which left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape. He noted that General Useni’s tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, will forever be remembered.

Governor Mutfwang recounted the illustrious career of the late General, who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.

After retiring from the military, General Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation. He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The Governor commended General Useni’s life of selfless service, noting his profound contributions to the military, politics, and his community. He emphasized that the General’s legacy of compassion, kindness, generosity, and dedication to the well-being of others will endure in the lives of those he impacted.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, I extend my deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the immediate family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished elder statesman,” Governor Mutfwang said.

He prayed that God grants the family, Plateau State, and the nation the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. He also asked for God’s divine presence to comfort and provide solace in the days ahead.

BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family

Rivalry: Dogo Gide Eliminates 20 Sadiku Boko Haram terrorists in North West

By Zagazola Makama

In a complex and evolving battle for supremacy in Nigeria’s North-West, notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide has reportedly killed 20 Boko Haram fighters from the Sadiku faction and seized a cache of weapons.

A recently surfaced video shows Dogo Gide addressing his rivals, claiming victory after an ambush attempt by the Sadiku faction. In the video, Gide displayed seized items, including ten AK-47 rifles, RPGs, mobile phones, and an identity card allegedly linked to members of the faction.

“Sadiku and his group ambushed us, but we prevailed. Only one of our men was injured, while at-least 20 their men were killed,” Gide stated. He further accused the Sadiku faction of hypocrisy, condemning them for killing women, children, and innocent people under the guise of jihad.

This development spotlight the shifting dynamics of extremist activities in the region, where alliances and rivalries among criminal and terrorist groups continue to complicate security efforts. The rivalry between Dogo Gide and Boko Haram factions, particularly the Sadiku-led group, appears to stem from deeply personal and strategic reasons.

Credible intelligence suggests that Gide, once an ally of Boko Haram, turned against the group after his brother Sani was killed in 2023. Since then, Gide has vowed to avenge his brother’s death and has worked to expel Boko Haram elements from his area of influence.

Gide’s recent operations have focused on the Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State, where he reportedly dismantled Boko Haram roadblocks along the Kuruba-Uduwa highway. Addressing local communities, Gide pleaded for forgiveness and pledged to restore normalcy, encouraging displaced villagers to return home.

Observers believe Gide’s actions are driven by a combination of personal vendettas and a desire to consolidate control over lucrative criminal enterprises, such as cattle rustling and kidnapping, in the region.

The dynamics in Nigeria’s North-West are increasingly influenced by the infiltration of Boko Haram and its splinter groups, such as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) and Ansaru. These groups operate alongside local bandit kingpins, forming temporary alliances and engaging in fierce competition for dominance.

JAS factions, led by figures like Sadiku and Umar Taraba, maintain headquarters in Niger and Zamfara states and are reportedly proficient in manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). These factions have expanded their operations into the North-West and North-Central regions, employing brutal tactics to enforce compliance and raise revenue through taxes on local populations.

Ansaru, on the other hand, has established a stronghold in Niger, Kogi, and Kaduna states, focusing on ideological propaganda and recruitment. The group has maintained links with al-Qaeda affiliated groups in the Sahel, raising concerns about the potential for regional spillover of extremist activities.

The rivalry between Dogo Gide and Boko Haram factions presents both opportunities and challenges for Nigeria’s security forces. On one hand, internal conflicts among extremist groups could weaken their overall operational capacity. On the other hand, the fluid alliances and shifting loyalties complicate intelligence gathering and counterterrorism operations.

In conclusion, the ongoing conflict in Nigeria’s Northwest is a multifaceted crisis that requires a nuanced understanding of the local dynamics at play.

Dogo Gide’s rise as a key player in the fight against Boko Haram signifies the complexities of power, revenge, and the quest for control in a region plagued by violence.

As the situation continues to unfold, the need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of extremism and foster peace remains paramount.

Rivalry: Dogo Gide Eliminates 20 Sadiku Boko Haram terrorists in North West