Troops Engage Terrorists, Encounter IEDs in Anambra Patrol Operation

By Zagazola Makama

Troops of Sector 5 Operation Udo Ka have conducted a fighting patrol in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, encountering suspected terrorists and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the operation.

Security sources said the patrol was carried out at about 10:30 a.m. on May 1 from Forward Operating Base Lilu, involving troops alongside other sister security agencies and local security formations.

The sources disclosed that the patrol covered the Eziorsu–Osunachu axis within Lilu community when troops came under fire from suspected terrorist elements.

According to the sources, the troops also encountered multiple IEDs planted along the route but were able to contain the situation and continue the operation.

They added that two soldiers sustained minor injuries during the encounter and were immediately stabilised.

The sources further said the area has been secured, with clearance operations ongoing to neutralise threats and ensure safe passage within the general area.

Troops Engage Terrorists, Encounter IEDs in Anambra Patrol Operation

ISWAP Reeling From Heavy Losses, Moves to Overhaul Leadership Structure — sources

By: Zagazola Makama

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is undergoing a comprehensive restructuring of its command and leadership hierarchy following significant battlefield losses in recent months, intelligence sources have revealed.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the reorganisation was directed by the group’s central leadership linked to the ISIS network in the Iraq/Syria axis, after sustained military pressure degraded ISWAP’s operational capacity and leadership cohesion.

According to the sources, the group has suffered considerable setbacks due to intensified air and ground offensives, leading to the elimination of key fighters and disruption of its command structure across several fronts in the North-East.

The sources said the restructuring is expected to involve major leadership changes, including a possible replacement of the current factional leader, Ba Shuwa, whose continued leadership is reportedly under review due to recent operational failures.

They added that the status of another prominent commander, Abor Mainok, remains unclear amid the ongoing shake-up, raising concerns about internal disarray within the group’s hierarchy.

The sources further disclosed that there was no reference to Habib Yusuf, also known as Abu Musab al-Barnawi, in recent internal communications, reinforcing long-standing indications that he has not been active for a while within the group.

According to the sources, the overhaul is aimed at restoring command effectiveness, re-establishing control over dispersed fighters, and repositioning the group after the losses suffered.

They noted that intelligence gathering is ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the leadership changes and their potential impact on the group’s operational strategy.

ISWAP Reeling From Heavy Losses, Moves to Overhaul Leadership Structure — sources

Forum of Special Advisers Backs Engr. Gubio as Zulum’s Anointed Candidate

By: Our Reporter

The Forum of Special Advisers to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has unanimously endorsed Engr—Mustapha Gubio FNSE as the anointed and preferred governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement jointly signed by the Forum Chairman, Hon. Tijani Goni, and the Secretary, Haruna Ibrahim Biu, the Forum, comprising 38 Special Advisers drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state, unanimously resolved that its decision was collective and unequivocal.

“Following a brief but productive meeting, we unanimously resolved to publicly express our unshaken, total, and unequivocal support for His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in his wise and visionary leadership, particularly in his choice and anointment of Engr. Mustapha Gubio as the preferred APC governorship candidate,” the statement said.

The statement highlighted Gubio’s record in public service, noting his contributions to post-conflict recovery and infrastructure development in the state.

“Engr. Mustapha Gubio has distinguished himself through dedicated and meritorious service, having served as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement and as Commissioner for Works and Housing. His track record of competence, loyalty, and commitment to development makes him a worthy and capable choice to sustain the progressive vision for Borno State,” he stated.

Reaffirming confidence in Governor Zulum’s leadership, the Forum said his decisions have consistently reflected a commitment to the overall interest of the state.

“As loyal appointees and committed stakeholders, we recognize His Excellency’s exceptional judgment, foresight, and unwavering dedication to the stability, continuity, and advancement of our dear state. His leadership has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to good governance, development, security, and the welfare of the people,” the Chairman added.

The Forum also called on party members and residents of the state to support the Governor’s decision in the interest of unity and sustained development.

“We firmly believe that His Excellency’s decision is guided by experience, sincerity of purpose, and the collective interest of Borno State above personal considerations. We therefore call on all party faithful, political stakeholders, and the good people of Borno State to rally behind this noble direction for the sake of sustained progress and unity,” he said.

Emphasizing the importance of continuity in governance, the Forum expressed optimism about the state’s future.

“Leadership is about trust, continuity, and preserving the gains already achieved. We are confident that with Engr. Mustapha Gubio, under the guidance of His Excellency Governor Zulum, Borno State, will continue on the path of peace, prosperity, and transformational governance,” he said.

“We remain loyal, committed, and fully aligned with the vision of His Excellency for a greater Borno State,” the Chairman concluded.
E-signed

Hon. Tijjani Goni Muhammad FCASN, RAS – Forum Chairman ​​​​​
Hon. Haruna Ibrahim Biu – Forum Secretary

Forum of Special Advisers Backs Engr. Gubio as Zulum’s Anointed Candidate