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Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria
Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria
By: Zagazola Makama
Authorities in the Republic of Niger have expressed satisfaction with the renewed diplomatic engagement between Niamey and Abuja, following a high-level visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Nigerien capital.
The visit, which marks a turning point in bilateral relations after months of tension, has reportedly led to the dismantling of alleged foreign military installations and covert activities previously blamed for fuelling insecurity in the region.
According to media reports aired by Niger’s state-owned broadcaster, RTN, two suspected foreign military camps located at Guigani and Garin-Kata in Nigeria near the Niger border, which were allegedly used to destabilise Niger, have now been shut down.
Similarly, the broadcaster claimed that a controversial logistics highway, said to be under construction from Kandi in Benin Republic through Sokoto in Nigeria, was intended to support subversive operations against Niger but has now been discontinued.
In a strongly worded segment, RTN alleged that a forest enclave at Gaba, near the Sokoto–Niger border, was previously being used by armed elements allegedly backed by foreign powers, including France, Nigeria, and Benin, in a covert operation codenamed “Chibok 2.0.” That base, it said, has now been “cleared.”
Other claims aired include the dismantling of a suspected training base in the Lake Chad region, and the quiet departure of foreign military instructors allegedly operating under false national identities.
While these allegations have not been independently verified, Nigerien authorities described the diplomatic mission by Nigeria as a “wise and courageous step” that will foster peace, security, and regional cooperation.
The RTN report also urged vigilance against disinformation and called on the public to remain prayerful for improved relations with neighbouring Benin Republic, particularly in anticipation of reopening long-closed borders.
Regional analysts say the latest developments signal a positive shift, though tensions persist around narratives of foreign interference and sabotage, especially amid ongoing insecurity in border communities.
Efforts are ongoing to establish a joint consultative forum between Nigeria and Niger to address mutual security concerns and promote cross-border stability.
Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria
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
Bandit attack in Zamfara leaves one dead, three abducted
By: Zagazola Makama
Armed bandits have killed a man, injured another, and abducted three people during attacks in Magazu and Fadama areas of Zamfara State, sources said.
According to sources, the attack occurred in the early hours of Feb. 17 when gunmen invaded the western part of Magazu Village, shooting and injuring Aliyu Musa. His neighbour, Ibrahim Haruna, who reportedly came to assist, was shot dead.
In a separate raid later in the same area, gunmen stormed Fadama, abducting three persons, including Abdulhakim Salmanu, 46, and two others whose identities are yet to be confirmed.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were mobilized to the scene, but the attackers had fled before their arrival. Efforts to rescue the abducted victims and track down the perpetrators are ongoing.
Bandit attack in Zamfara leaves one dead, three abducted
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police repel bandit attack, recover 82 cows and 21 sheep in Katsina
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