News
Maiduguri Protest: A Patriotic and Clarion Call for Peace and Stability
Maiduguri Protest: A Patriotic and Clarion Call for Peace and Stability
By Christopher Godwin Akaba
Yesterday’s protest in Maiduguri saw a notable presence of minors, primarily almajiris aged 9-15, who obstructed the Maiduguri-Kano road and vandalized public property. For a long time, these almajiris have frustrated car owners in the state, with motorists often swarmed by them begging for alms. Consequently, the Borno State Arabic and Sangaya Education Board must take immediate action to address this issue, as part of its core mandate is to end street begging and protect Almajiri schoolchildren from abuse.
In contrast to the chaos, Governor Babagana Zulum has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the welfare of Borno State citizens, surpassing many other state governments. He has diligently distributed federal government-provided palliatives across the 27 local governments, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, his initiatives in the transportation sector, such as subsidized fares and solar-powered taxis, have greatly benefited citizens, cushioning the effect of fuel subsidy removal.
The protest does not accurately represent the sentiments of the Borno State people, who are peace-loving. While hunger and hardship are widespread across Nigeria and other parts of the world – as the inflation crisis is globally, Governor Zulum’s efforts deserve recognition and commendation from all well-meaning citizens of the state. His dedication to the people’s welfare is evident, and he should be appreciated for his tireless work.
I felt the pain of those who hurriedly locked up their shops and businesses to comply with the curfew imposed by the state government. The curfew is not meant to inconvenience the public but a proactive step by the state government to prevent the exploitation of unsuspecting minors by terrorist elements seeking to capitalize on the situation. These extremists are waiting nearby, trying to seize the opportunity to launch an attack, as evident from the recent bomb blast in Kawuri, Konduga Local Government Area, which tragically claimed the lives of 18 people on the eve of the protest. This is even as the Borno Police Command had alleged that Boko Haram elements infiltrated the Thursday protest along Baga Road in Maiduguri, killing four persons, while 34 others sustained various degrees of injuries. By imposing the curfew, the government aims to maintain control and prevent the situation from escalating into chaos. Maiduguri cannot afford to fall into the hands of terrorists again.
I urge all citizens to reject the protest being instigated by forces opposed to democracy. I am confident that the federal government has heard the youth’s concerns and our responsive President will take steps to address some of them in the best national interest, just as he has done before. Let us not forget the devastating experiences Maiduguri faced during the Boko Haram insurgency over the past decade. We know firsthand the horrors of war and chaos; let us work towards peace and stability.
Maiduguri Protest: A Patriotic and Clarion Call for Peace and Stability
Military
Mutiny: Presidential Guard Tightens Security Around Niger Presidency Amid Reports of Military Protest
Mutiny: Presidential Guard Tightens Security Around Niger Presidency Amid Reports of Military Protest
By Zagazola Makama
Security was significantly reinforced around Niger’s Presidential Palace in Niamey following reports of unrest involving elements of the country’s armed forces, security sources told Zagazola Makama.
According to multiple security sources, the heightened deployment of the Presidential Guard, supported by armoured vehicles around the Presidential Palace on the night of July 3 and into July 4, followed what was described as a limited protest by personnel of an armoured unit within the Niger Armed Forces (FAN).
The sources said some soldiers reportedly declined deployment to frontline positions in northern Tillabéri Region, particularly around Inatès and Chinagodrar, citing inadequate heavy equipment and insufficient operational resources to confront the growing security threats in the area.
The protest was described by one source as a “small mutiny,” although there has been no official confirmation from the Nigerien authorities.
Security sources said the development triggered concern within the country’s leadership, prompting the reinforcement of security around the Presidential Palace and temporary restrictions on movement in the surrounding area as a precautionary measure.
The Tillabéri Region remains one of Niger’s most volatile security zones, with recurrent attacks by armed extremist groups, including factions linked to the so-called Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS).
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerien government and military authorities had not issued any official statement regarding the reported protest or the increased security presence around the Presidency.
The situation remains under close observation.
Mutiny: Presidential Guard Tightens Security Around Niger Presidency Amid Reports of Military Protest
Two suspected criminals arrested during patrol in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1 under Operation Enduring Peace have arrested two suspected criminals during a routine patrol in Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the suspects, identified as Azi Ezekiel, 21, and Ajiji Emmanuel, 19, were apprehended at about 10:30 a.m. on Saturday along the road leading to Forbur Village.
The sources said the suspects were intercepted by troops of Sector 1, Sub-Sector 12, while conducting a routine patrol in the area.
According to the sources, the two suspects have been handed over to the Keystone Police Station in Forbur for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The arrest forms part of ongoing security operations aimed at combating criminal activities and enhancing safety across Plateau State.
Two suspected criminals arrested during patrol in Plateau
Troops arrest suspected kidnapper in Plateau community
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 4 of Operation Enduring Peace have arrested a suspected kidnapper during a security operation in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources said the suspect, identified as Mohamdu Surajo, 29, was arrested at about 6:45 p.m. on Friday at Sabon Layi Village following sustained security operations in the area.
The sources disclosed that the suspect is currently in military custody and is undergoing preliminary interrogation to aid ongoing investigations.
They added that the arrest is part of continued efforts by security forces to dismantle criminal networks and enhance security across Plateau State.
Troops arrest suspected kidnapper in Plateau community
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