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COAS SALUTES THE SACRIFICES OF FRONTLINE TROOPS AT CHRISTMAS, PLEDGES IMPROVED WELFARE
COAS SALUTES THE SACRIFICES OF FRONTLINE TROOPS AT CHRISTMAS, PLEDGES IMPROVED WELFARE
By: Our Reporter
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has commended troops of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, for their gallantry, sacrifice and dedication to duty. The COAS made the commendation during the Christmas luncheon organised for troops in Maiduguri.
Addressing the troops, the COAS noted that the luncheon, which is usually held during major festive seasons, helps to bring troops together in a celebratory atmosphere to appreciate their sacrifices and commitment to duty. He further remarked that the event enables the Army to give troops in the frontlines a semblance of what it would have been if they were back home with their families.
The Army Chief appreciated the troops for their significant contributions in the collective effort to defeat terror networks and other violent extremist groups that seek to undermine the unity, peace, and security of the nation.
General Oluyede charged the troops to work towards the complete defeat of the nation’s adversaries as the nation transits into the year 2025 in order to create the enabling environment for peace, socio-economic development and prosperity of the country.
In line with his Command Philosophy “To consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a Well-Motivated and Combat-Ready Force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment”, the COAS reiterated his commitment to consolidating all ongoing viable welfare schemes and instituting new ones to make the troops proud of their chosen profession and remain committed to duty.
He urged the troops to renew their dedication by gleaning from the lessons of the season in showing love, hope, healing, and renewed vigor. General Oluyede conveyed the commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and appreciation of Nigerians to all troops fighting in defence of the country.
In his goodwill message, the Governor of Borno State Professor Babagana Umara Zulum commended the troops for their sacrifices in ensuring peace and security in Borno State, the North East zone and the nation at large. The governor, who spoke through the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Dr Bukar Tijani, paid tribute to the troops who paid the supreme price in ensuring peace and security in Borno State. He assured of the Borno State Government’s continued support for the ongoing operations to restore peace and stability in all parts of the state.
In his welcome address, the Theatre Commander, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, remarked that the luncheon fosters camaraderie and provides the opportunity to recount collective achievements and challenges over the past year. He appreciated the COAS for visiting the frontline troops twice in three weeks, noting that it underscores his commitment to raise the morale of troops of Operation HADINKAI Kai. He assured the COAS that the troops will remain steadfast in their resolve to restore normalcy in the North East Region, adding that the troops are highly motivated and committed to achieving the overall mandate of the Joint Task Force.
Demonstrating his commitment for improved welfare of troops, the COAS performed the foundation laying ceremony for the construction of two blocks of 30 family accommodations in Maimalari Cantonment before departing Maiduguri.
COAS SALUTES THE SACRIFICES OF FRONTLINE TROOPS AT CHRISTMAS, PLEDGES IMPROVED WELFARE
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.
No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.
The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
Troops Clear Terrorist Enclaves, Recover Items in Katsina Operation
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Respond to Attack in Zamfara, IED Incident Recorded Without Casualties
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