News

NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS

Published

3 months ago

November 12, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS

By: Our Reporter

The Monday 11 November 2024 edition of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Weekly Subject Experts’ Presentation was held at Board Room, TY Buratai Block, Abuja. There were two presentations made by the Subject Experts on, Western Europe, and North America.

The first presentation by Maj Gen GU Chibuisi subject expert on Western Europe centered his presentation on how, French Parents Sue Tiktok over alleged Failure to Remove Harmful Content. The Reuters News Agency reported that seven French parents have filed a lawsuit against social media platform TikTok, accusing TikTok of exposing their adolescent children to harmful content, which they allege led to two of the teenagers, both aged 15, taking their own lives. The families’ lawyer, Laure Boutron-Marmion, confirmed the news on Monday 4 Nov 24. The lawsuit claims that TikTok’s algorithm exposed the teens to content promoting suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders.

The families are pursuing joint legal action in the Créteil Judicial Court, marking a first for such a collective lawsuit in Europe. “The parents want TikTok’s legal liability to be recognized in court,” said Boutron-Marmion, adding, “This is a commercial company providing a product to consumers who are minors. Therefore, they must be held accountable for the product’s flaws.” Like other social media platforms, TikTok has long faced scrutiny over content moderation. Alongside Meta’s platforms, Facebook and Instagram, it faces hundreds of lawsuits in the US, accusing them of drawing and addicting millions of children to their applications, and adversely affecting their mental health. TikTok is however yet to comment on the latest allegations, though the company had previously stated that it takes children’s mental health seriously.

In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria, Maj Gen GU Chibuisi pointed out that, Social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, YouTube, and Telegram have pervaded the lives of many Nigerians, profoundly influencing their behaviour, values and societal roles. A recent survey by Data Reportal highlighted that Nigeria has over 33 million active social media users, and that a significant percentage of them engage daily on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook (DataReportal, 2023). This widespread access allows users to consume and share multimedia content at unprecedented rates, shaping their opinions, social interactions, and aspirations. Nigeria’s youth population ration is one of the largest in the world, comprising about 60% of the nation’s total population (World Bank,2022).

The influence of social media on this demographic group is substantial, driven by several factors, including increased smartphone penetration, affordable internet data packages and a shared desire for social connectivity. Social media has increasingly become a platform where Nigerian youths engage in illicit activities, influenced by the anonymity and accessibility the platforms provide. It has spurred notable cases of sextortion, where individuals use deception and blackmail to exploit others. A tragic incident involved 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Michigan, USA, who fell victim to a sextortion scheme orchestrated by three Nigerian youths: Samuel Ogoshi, 22, Samson Ogoshi, 20, and Ezekiel Robert, 19. The men posed as a woman on Instagram, convincing DeMay to send explicit photographs, and then demanded money, threatening to release the images. When DeMay was unable to pay the extortion amount, he faced relentless pressure that ultimately led him to take his own life (Detroit Free Press, 2023).

He recommended that the Federal and State Governments should collaborate with technology companies to improve age-based restrictions on social media in Nigeria and also tighten enforcement of cybercrime laws and collaborate with social media companies to monitor and remove contents that promote fraudulent or extremist activities.

Similarly, the second presentation by Brig Gen B Sarki subject expert on North America focused his presentation on how, Two Women and Boy Shot Dead at Altar to Folk Saint Cult “La Santa Muerte” in Mexico. A local leader of the Mexican folk saint cult “La Santa Muerte” was gunned down at an altar to the skeletal figure on 6 Nov 24, two other people were killed and eight injured in the attack in the city of Leon, in Guanajuato state the authorities said. The saint whose name means roughly “Holy Death” is often worshipped by convicts, drug addicts and criminals, along with other people who feel excluded or are experiencing difficulties in life. The saint, who is not recognized by the Roman Catholic church, is usually depicted as a female skeleton, and is supposed to protect her followers from death.

But that didn’t work for “La Madrina Chayo,” a woman considered a leader of the cult in the north-central state of Guanajuato. Prosecutors did not give her real name, in keeping with Mexican law, but the nickname “La Madrina Chayo” was used by a faith healer also known as “Chayito.” She, another woman and a boy were shot dead on Friday 1 Nov 24 as they prepared the annual Santa Muerte celebration. There was no immediate information on the condition of the eight people, including two children wounded in the shooting attack on the street corner altar. Like Mexico’s Day of the Dead holiday, the Santa Muerte is honored on Nov 1 and 2. The Roman Catholic leaders in Mexico have condemned the deity’s connection to violence and the illicit drug trade.

In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Brig Gen B Sarki noted that, In Nigeria, religious practices and spirituality play a significant role in shaping social dynamics, with various syncretic belief systems blending indigenous African religions, Islam and Christianity. While the Santa Muerte cult is not present in Nigeria, similar forms of folk spirituality, often intertwined with criminal activity, can be found. In many Nigerian communities, traditional religious practices still hold significant cultural importance, particularly among ethnic groups in the South, East, Middle Belt and some parts of the North, where ancestral worship, the veneration of local deities, and the use of charms and amulets (often for protection, wealth, or power) are common. These practices are sometimes fused with Christian and Islamic elements, creating unique forms of syncretism that can include ritual sacrifices, consultations with spiritual mediums, and the use of occult practices to achieve material or spiritual goals.

In some cases, these religious practices are associated with organized crime or violence, particularly in regions with high levels of socio-economic inequality, political instability, and corruption. For instance, youth cults or secret societies, such as the Aiye and Eiye cults in the South West, use a mix of traditional beliefs and modern rituals to enforce loyalty, intimidate rivals, and maintain power. These cults sometimes engage in violent activities, including ritual killings, extortion, and kidnappings. Similarly, certain internet fraud rings (often referred to as yahoo boys) use spiritual rituals and charms to protect themselves from law enforcement or to attract wealth, in a manner akin to how criminal organizations in Mexico might use Santa Muerte as a symbol of protection and power. While the specific figure of Santa Muerte does not appear in Nigerian religious practices, similar themes of using spirituality for personal or criminal gain can be observed across various sectors of Nigerian society.

He recommended that the FGN should establish specialized units to combat religiously motivated crime and cults, and enhance intelligence-sharing and surveillance and also strengthen the rule of law to ensure swift prosecution of cult-related violence and enforce legal frameworks to protect against harmful religious practices.

NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS

Military

A HERO ’S FAREWELL: LIEUTENANT GENERAL JEREMIAH USENI LAID TO REST WITH MILITARY HONOURS IN LANGTANG

Published

6 hours ago

February 23, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

A HERO ’S FAREWELL: LIEUTENANT GENERAL JEREMIAH USENI LAID TO REST WITH MILITARY HONOURS IN LANGTANG

By: Aliyu Danja

In a poignant ceremony that united government officials, family members, and military personnel, the remains of the late Lieutenant General Jeremiah Timbut Useni were interred with full military honours in his hometown of Langtang Plateau State. The funeral, held on 22 February 2025, paid tribute to a man whose life was marked by dedicated service to Nigeria both as a military leader and a senator.

The ceremony began with a solemn church service at the Cocin Church Headquarters in Langtang, where His Excellency Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, extolled the virtues of the late general. “Lt Gen Useni was not just a soldier; he was a national icon who dedicated his life to the service of our country and humanity,” Governor Mutfwang stated, highlighting Useni’s legacy of development, progress, and stability in Plateau State. He further drew parallels to other esteemed figures from the state, such as General Bali, General Dogonyaro and General John Shagaya, emphasizing their collective contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development.

In his address, the governor reflected on Useni’s later years, during which he prioritized reconciliation and forgiveness among the people of Plateau. “There is no unity without forgiveness and reconciliation,” Governor Mutfwang urged the congregation, encouraging them to embody the spirit of compassion that Useni exemplified during his lifetime. A prayer for the departed general concluded the service, with the governor assuring attendees that the impact of Useni’s work would remain etched in the hearts of the people.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General OO Oluyede mni NAM, delivered a stirring funeral oration, emphasizing Useni’s noble character and dedication to service. Represented by Major General EF Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, the COAS remarked, “General Useni was a loving father, a caring husband, and a cherished grandfather. His commitment to both military service and public office was unwavering.” Major General Oyinlola recounted Lt Gen Useni’s impactful tenure as the military administrator of former Bendel State, where he implemented initiatives that advanced infrastructure, education, and social development.

The COAS further noted Useni’s vision as a leader; he recalled his implementation of local government self-help projects, which empowered communities to take an active role in governance and facilitated the completion of numerous developmental projects. His advocacy for food production programs revitalized abandoned agricultural projects, significantly boosting food security and economic stability in the region.

Lieutenant General Useni served as a senator from 2015 to 2019, a role in which he continued to champion the cause of national development. His tenure as Minister of Transportation and later as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was marked by transformative policies that modernized Nigeria’s transport and aviation sectors, fostering economic growth and enhancing national connectivity. His exceptional leadership in urban development improved public infrastructure, city planning, and service delivery in the FCT.

The ceremony concluded with the reading of the funeral oration, sounding of thr last post, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of reveille, signifying deep respect for the late general and his contributions to the nation. The vibrant display of military precision and honour was a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service.

The funeral of Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni not only commemorated a distinguished military career but also emphasized the profound impact he had on the lives of many within Plateau State and beyond. As the community mourns his loss, the legacy of his commitment to progress and reconciliation will undoubtedly inspire future generations.

A HERO ’S FAREWELL: LIEUTENANT GENERAL JEREMIAH USENI LAID TO REST WITH MILITARY HONOURS IN LANGTANG

Crime

Thai Lady Arrested with Boxes of Illicit Drug at Lagos Airport

Published

6 hours ago

February 23, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Thai Lady Arrested with Boxes of Illicit Drug at Lagos Airport

By: Michael Mike

Attempt by a 24-year-old Thai lady, Ms. Pattaphi Wimonnat, to smuggle 43 parcels of Canadian Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis, weighing 46.6 kilogrammes into Nigeria through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos has been thwarted by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

She was arrested after the illicit consignment was discovered in her boxes.

According to a statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, the suspect who confessed to being a hired drug trafficker was arrested last Thursday during the inward clearance of passengers on Qatar Airways flight from Thailand via Doha, Qatar at the arrival hall, Terminal 2 of the Lagos airport.

She was said to have stated that the drug cartel, which recruited her promised to pay her $3,000 upon successful delivery of the illicit drug consignment in Nigeria.

Babafemi said another bid by a drug trafficking syndicate to ship 68 parcels of Ghanaian Loud with a total weight of 42.2 kilogrammes concealed in walls of crated cartons to London, UK, through the export shed of the Lagos airport was also frustrated by NDLEA officers last Friday with three suspects: a freight agent and two dispatch riders, initially arrested in connection with the seizure before the mastermind of the shipment, Samuel Bitris, was swiftly traced to his Exodus Estate, Ajah, Lagos home where he was arrested.

At the Port Harcourt Port Complex, Onne, Rivers state, NDLEA officers last Thursday intercepted 49 cartons containing 49,000 pills of tamol, a brand of tramadol 225mg in a 40 feet container during a joint examination of the shipment with men of Customs Service and other security agencies.

In Nasarawa state, NDLEA operatives on Saturday arrested two suspects: Bello Adamu, 40, and Pius Azuka, 42 at Kokona/Keffi with 517 kilogrammes of skunk, while two other suspects: Usman Ruwa, 43, and Yunusa Haruna, 45, were nabbed in a Toyota Corolla car conveying 62.7 kilogrammes of skunk along Sabon Asibiti road Kontagora, Niger state last Thursday.

He said with the same vigour, commands and formations of the agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

Meanwhile, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) while commending the officers and men of MMIA, PHPC, Niger, and Nasarawa commands of the agency for the arrests and seizures, stated that their operational successes and those of their compatriots across the country especially their balanced approach to drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts are well appreciated.

Thai Lady Arrested with Boxes of Illicit Drug at Lagos Airport

Crime

Four Burnt to Death, 10 Injured as Fire Guts Passenger Bus in Jigawap

Published

6 hours ago

February 23, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Four Burnt to Death, 10 Injured as Fire Guts Passenger Bus in Jigawa

By: Zagazola Makama

Four people, including three children, were burnt beyond recognition, while 10 others sustained injuries after a commercial Hummer bus caught fire in Gwaram, Jigawa State.

Security and emergency sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on February 22, 2025, at about 4:00 p.m., near the Government Girls Unity Secondary School, Gwaram.

The bus, a white Hummer with registration number ZAK 382 XA, was driven by Dalha Saleh, a 40-year-old resident of Galdimari Quarters, Saldigal Village, Zaki LGA, Bauchi State.

It was conveying 44 passengers—25 adults and 19 children from Zaki LGA in Bauchi State to Rabadi Village when the fire broke out from the vehicle’s exhaust system.

According to sources, the fire ignited after a mattress tied to the back of the vehicle caught fire from the exhaust sparks.

The four victims, all from Saldigal Village, Zaki LGA, Bauchi State, were identified as: Ziwaira Hassan, Fatima Hassan, Iyatale Hassan, Halima Muhammad (10 years, female)

Ten other passengers sustained varying degrees of burns and were rushed to Gwaram Cottage Hospital for treatment. The remaining passengers were rescued unhurt.

The sources said that the charred remains of the victims would be released to their families for burial after medical examination.

Zagazola reports that reckless overloading of commercial vehicles, particularly those transporting goods from Kano to Maiduguri, has become a serious safety and security concern.

Every day, buses and vans meant for passenger transport are stuffed with goods that should be carried by trailers, turning them into moving hazards on already dangerous highways.

Despite the presence of numerous security and road safety checkpoints, many of these vehicles pass through unchecked not because they meet safety standards, but because they pay their way through.

These drivers mostly traveled at night to evade strict checks from KAROTA in Kano- Jigawa and passed the night in Potiskum. Then proceeded with their journey in the early morning hours. And during that time, those responsible for enforcing compliance will all be out to collect bribes. No single vehicle will be stopped for any checks.

Various personnel at these checkpoints, instead of enforcing regulations, often turn a blind eye in exchange for bribes, allowing these overloaded vehicles to continue their journeys without scrutiny. Many of these vehicles exceed weight limits, causing faster deterioration of roads and bridges, which leads to costly repairs and more hazardous road conditions.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), police, and other security agencies have been largely ineffective in stopping this dangerous trend. While FRSC officers are stationed at multiple checkpoints, many prefer to look the other way rather than enforcement of the regulations.

Overload vehicles have poor stability which increased braking distance, and there are higher chances of tire blowouts, which can lead to deadly crashes. Incidents like the recent Jigawa fire disaster, where four passengers were burnt beyond recognition, are tragic recollections of this recklessness.

The Drivers always give the excuse that they opted to overload their vehicles to carry more goods in order to cover the cost that they spent giving the security agencies at various checkpoints.

This lack of oversight has further created loopholes that terrorists and criminal groups exploit. There have been several reports of terrorists smuggling weapons, fuel, and other logistics under the disguise of commercial transport. These activities are sometimes being intercepted by the Military Intelligence troops of the Nigerian Army.

There is therefore an urgent need for strict enforcement of weight limits, vehicle safety regulations, and thorough inspections at checkpoints. The government must: Empower road safety officers and security personnel to perform their duties without compromise. Impose severe penalties on both drivers and security personnel who violate or neglect their responsibilities.

Without immediate intervention, the unchecked overloading of vehicles will continue to claim lives and compromise national security, making it easier for criminal networks to operate freely across Nigeria’s highways.

Four Burnt to Death, 10 Injured as Fire Guts Passenger Bus in Jigawa