Uncategorized
Fresh scandal hits borno NSCDC as officer accused of stealing truck spare parts, selling exhibits under command’s watch
Fresh scandal hits borno NSCDC as officer accused of stealing truck spare parts, selling exhibits under command’s watch
By: Zagazola Makama
A new wave of scandal has erupted within the Borno State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), following an explosive investigation by counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, which uncovered allegations of theft, extortion, and conversion of recovered exhibits by the officer in charge of the Njimtilo outpost.
The incident, now causing an uproar among residents in Maiduguri, centres on Usman Y. Bulama, the Divisional Officer in charge of the Njimtilo NSCDC post, who allegedly stole or knowingly received stolen truck spare parts, sold them, and then attempted to extort money from the rightful owner.
According to findings a Maiduguri-based mechanical engineer repairing heavy-duty trucks at Njimtilo reported that key spare parts worth over N800,000 were stolen from his garage at night. Days later, the owner was shocked to discover the same spare parts inside the NSCDC Njimtilo outpost, under the custody of Officer Bulama.
When confronted, Bulama reportedly told the owner that he had “recovered the parts from a thief” — yet could not produce the alleged thief, provide a report, or explain how the items left his custody.
Rather than release the recovered property, Bulama allegedly demanded N500,000 as “settlement” before the items could be returned. The victim offered N100,000, but the officer refused and insisted on collecting nothing less than the full N500,000.
Investigations revealed that after internal pressure mounted at the command headquarters, the officer suddenly re-produced some of the spare parts, but four key components valued at over N800,000 were missing. He claimed the missing items were “never recovered”.
However, It ater uncovered that Bulama had sold the missing spare parts, and that N150,000 was transferred into his personal account as payment. In a revelation that stunned the investigative panel, the buyer of the stolen spare parts told investigators that he purchased the items as an official auction within the NSCDC outpost.
He said he did not know they were stolen exhibits but believed they were legally auctioned materials released under the authority of the divisional office. The testimony raises deeper questions about the operational culture within the NSCDC command, and whether officers have been routinely converting recovered items for private gain.
After the matter reached the Commandant of the NSCDC in Borno State, Mr. Muhammad Hassan-Agalama, the divisional officer was relieved of his command and directed to face a disciplinary committee.
But despite the findings confirming the sale of the stolen items, transfer of proceeds into his personal account, and failure to produce either the alleged thief or the recovered property, the command neither prosecuted the officer nor imposed any meaningful punishment.
Meanwhile, the victim did not recover his missing property, further fuelling public anger over what many describe as “institution-protected theft”.
This was not the first scandal under the same command, Zagazola’s investigation uncovered a troubling pattern of alleged misconduct within the NSCDC Borno Command, particularly under Commandant Hassan-Agalama.
Sometimes this year, a truck loaded with banned scrap metals materials prohibited for movement by the Borno State Government was reportedly released on the direct orders of the Commandant.
In another incident, a tanker filled with scrap metal was also released under similar circumstances, despite the standing ban. The recurring controversies caused serious embarrassment to security stakeholders in the state. These incidents eventually led to the removal and transfer of Commandant Hassan-Agalama to the Kano Command after spending less than three months in Borno.
The Njimtilo incident “reflects a pattern of internal breakdown that, if unaddressed, will compromise the Corps’ mandate in the state.”
The absence of strict disciplinary action encourages impunity and damages public trust in law enforcement institutions.
We are calling for immediate prosecution of the officer, recovery of the stolen items, and a total overhaul of the NSCDC outposts across the state.
For now, the command is yet to issue a public statement on the latest scandal.
Fresh scandal hits borno NSCDC as officer accused of stealing truck spare parts, selling exhibits under command’s watch
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
National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure
Borno: Zulum distributes farm tools, commissions school in Damasak
Public Institution Should be Run with Integrity, Efficiency and Vision- Justice Umar
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
