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Shock, Anger as Video Showing Savage Killing of Policeman by Maiduguri Criminal MARLIAN GANGS
Shock, Anger as Video Showing Savage Killing of Policeman by Maiduguri Criminal MARLIAN GANGS
By: Zagazola Makama
Palpable air of anger and indignation pervade the air as harrowing video showing notorious Maiduguri criminal gang, Marlians, savagely clubbing, stabbing and eventually killing a Police Constable, Babagana Mala, attached to the CRACK squad in Maiduguri, surfaced.
The daring criminal group is known and feared for their brazen attacks on innocent citizens in Maiduguri metropolis and the environ. They specialize in snatching of mobile phones and other personal belongings from unsuspecting folks who are viciously attacked, killed or severely injured if resisted. The impunity, brazen nature and the in-your-face criminality of the gangsters often confounds residents and victims.
Zagazola Makama, a Counter-Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad region gathered that the latest incident occurred on July 23, near the 33 Artillery Military Brigade in Maiduguri.
A video obtained by Zagazola depicted Babagana being brutally assaulted by more than ten youths who repeatedly punched, stomped, clubbed, dragged and kicked him in the face while he struggled helplessly.
“Some of the youths were chanting, “kill him, don’t leave him, you think you can come here and try us, don’t leave him, don’t leave him, take his gun”. The youths kept chanting as they continued beating him to the ground.
In the process, one of the youths brought out a poisonous knife and stabbed him in the back and took his gun. Another youth was heard saying “Ka Manna mai” (shoot him). At that point, he struggled to run away but fell down due to the injuries. Again, the youths came back, slapping and kicking him in the face.
Three persons later appeared on the scene to disperse the youths after seizing the gun from them. The victim was later rushed to the hospital but passed away shortly due to loss of blood.
Zagazola understands that the Borno State Police Command has arrests five suspects including a lady who appeared in the video associated with the murder while the main suspected culprits were currently on the run.
Background
The emergence of the Malians and other gangster groups in Maiduguri and Jere LGAs of Borno State, poses significant security threats to the state. The groups made up of young men predominantly of ages between 14 and 25, have become increasingly active in recent months engaging in various criminal activities and destabilizing the already fragile security situation in the state.
The security threats posed by these gangster groups are multifaceted. The gangs primarily engage in armed robbery, theft, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. They target vulnerable communities and individuals, extort money, and recruit young individuals into their ranks. Their criminal activities not only cause significant financial losses but also create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among residents.
The gangster groups also engage in intra-gang violence, often clashing with rival criminal groups for territorial control and supremacy. These clashes result in casualties including deaths.
Disturbed by the spate of urban gangsterism perpetrated by the criminal gangs, residents of Maiduguri have been demanding aggressive action from the security agencies against the group but anytime they are arrested, the police release them in controversial circumstances without charging them to the court.
Way forward
These young boys, sometimes seeking economic opportunities, often found themselves marginalized and excluded from mainstream society. Lacking education and job prospects, some of these individuals turned to criminal activities as a means of survival and empowerment. Over time, the group expanded its operations and established a strong presence within the Borno State capital specifically Gwange, Zannari, Old Maiduguri, Bayan Quarters, Bulabulin, and other areas within Maiduguri.
Putting a stop to the emergence and activities of these gang groups in Maiduguri and environs requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that addresses the underlying causes of their formation. Here are some of my take; that can be implemented:
- Enhance security and law enforcement: Strengthen security measures and increase the presence of law enforcement agencies in gang-infested areas. This includes improving intelligence gathering, surveillance, and patrols to identify and dismantle gang operations.
- Community engagement and empowerment: Engage local communities by establishing dialogue and building trust. Encourage residents to report suspicious activities and provide information on gang members. Empower communities by providing education, skill training, and economic opportunities to help individuals escape the cycle of poverty and prevent them from joining gangs.
- Target youth at risk: Implement youth development programs that focus on education, vocational training, and recreational activities. Engage young people through mentorship programs, sports clubs, and cultural activities as positive alternatives to gang involvement.
- Strengthen social services: Provide access to essential social services such as healthcare, clean water, and sanitation. Improve infrastructure and create job opportunities to enhance socio-economic development in marginalized areas, reducing the appeal of criminal activities.
- Rehabilitation and reintegration: Develop comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs for gang members who want to leave their criminal activities. Support them in acquiring education, vocational skills, and psychological assistance to facilitate their reintegration into society.
- Mobilize religious and community leaders; Engage our religious and community leaders as influential figures who can advocate against gang activities and promote peaceful coexistence. Utilize their positions to reinforce positive values, discourage criminal behavior, and create awareness about the consequences of gang involvement.
- Public awareness and education: Conduct public awareness campaigns to educate the population about the dangers and consequences of gang involvement. Raise awareness about the government’s commitment to tackling gangs and the available support services for individuals who want to leave their criminal activities.
- Long-term socio-economic development: Prioritize long-term socio-economic development initiatives that address unemployment, poverty, and social inequalities. This will help create a sustainable environment where individuals have access to opportunities, reducing the appeal of turning to gangs for a source of income or empowerment.
Combining these strategies and continuously evaluating their effectiveness is crucial for putting a stop to the emergence and growth of gang groups in Maiduguri. It requires a sustained and collaborative effort involving the government, law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and civil society to create a safer and more prosperous environment for all residents.
Shock, Anger as Video Showing Savage Killing of Policeman by Maiduguri Criminal MARLIAN GANGS
Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience
By: Michael Mike
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Transcorp Hilton Abuja is set to transform into one of the capital’s premier destinations for romance and social experiences, unveiling an all-inclusive lineup of activities designed for both couples and singles.
This was disclosed in a statement issued at the weekend by the hotel’s Communications and Marketing Manager, Ms Ijeoma Osuji, who said the iconic hospitality brand will host a three-day “Valentine Weekend Package” from February 13 to 15.
According to the statement, the experience is designed to cater to a wide range of guests, from long-term couples seeking a romantic getaway to individuals looking to connect and celebrate the season of love in a vibrant social setting.
For visitors seeking a complete escape, the hotel is offering a bespoke room package that combines luxury accommodation with carefully curated romantic add-ons, promising a serene retreat from the city’s bustle alongside world-class hospitality.
The weekend programme features a diverse mix of entertainment and lifestyle experiences. Among the highlights is the “Signature Couples Event,” a grand and intimate gathering featuring a specially curated Valentine menu, games, music, and comedy performances.
Guests can also look forward to “A Night of Humour,” a comedy showcase featuring top-tier entertainers, aand“Theatre Magic on Stage,” a specially curated romantic stage play designed to engage audiences through powerful storytelling and emotional connection.
For culinary enthusiasts, the hotel will host Dual Restaurant Experiences, with its signature outlets; Zuma Grill and Bukka Restaurant, offering exclusive Valentine-themed dining packages tailored to diverse tastes.
Breaking away from the traditional focus on couples, the hotel is also introducing a Poolside Party for Singles, providing a chic, lively atmosphere for Abuja’s social crowd to mingle under the stars, accompanied by music and refreshing cocktails.
To help guests capture lasting memories, professional couples’ photography sessions will also be available, allowing visitors to document their special moments against the hotel’s scenic backdrops.
“We wanted to create a weekend that wasn’t just a meal, but a memory,” the hotel’s management said in the statement. “Whether it’s through laughter at our comedy special or a beautiful moment captured during a photo session, our goal is to celebrate love in all its forms.”
Reservations for the Valentine Weekend Package are now open, with organisers confident that guests will experience a memorable, immersive celebration at what remains one of Abuja’s most vibrant social hubs.
Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience
APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base
By: Michael Mike
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) E-Registration and Reconciliation Committee in Borno State, Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda has led a high-powered delegation on a working visit to Bama and Konduga Local Government Areas as part of efforts to deepen grassroots participation in the party’s ongoing electronic registration exercise.
The tour, aimed at monitoring progress and galvanising party members, brought the committee into direct engagement with local government officials, lawmakers, traditional institutions, and party executives across the two councils.
Members of the committee on the visit included Hon. Tijjani Umara Kumalia, Mohammed Makinta, Hon. Busami Ardoram, Hon. Babakura Shettima, Hon. Mohd Maina Tar, Hajiya Mairo Bunu Lawan, Alh. Zanna Mahdi, Alh. Yusuf Adamu, Barrister Ba’ande Imam, and the committee’s Secretary, Dr. Babakura Mamman Gadai.
In Bama, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Bama, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Shehu Umar Ibn Kyari, where Ambassador Jidda expressed appreciation for the traditional ruler’s support and the warm reception accorded the team. He described Bama as a community with which he shares deep personal and political ties.
Addressing party leaders and stakeholders at the Bama Government Lodge, Ambassador Jidda recalled the overwhelming support he received from the people of Bama during the 1999 governorship election, describing it as a testament to the area’s enduring commitment to progressive politics.
He reaffirmed that Borno remains a stronghold of the APC, noting that the party’s decisive victories in the 2023 general elections reflected unity, discipline, and effective leadership within the party. According to him, the leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, has been instrumental in sustaining the party’s dominance and credibility in the state.
Ambassador Jidda emphasised that the ongoing e-registration exercise is a strategic political process that goes beyond record-keeping, explaining that it determines legitimate membership, internal participation, and eligibility for leadership and elective positions within the party.
Speaking on behalf of stakeholders in Bama, Hon. Aji Kolo Ali Gujja, the Matawali of Bama, urged party members to take full advantage of the exercise and ensure total participation. The Chairman of Bama Local Government Area, Hon. Babagana Bagados, also assured the committee of the council’s full support to guarantee a smooth and inclusive registration process.
In Konduga Local Government Area, the committee was received by the council chairman, Dr. Abba Saje Mohd Nur, the area’s representative in the Borno State House of Assembly, and the Executive Secretary of the Borno ICT Development Agency, Hon. Engr. Kabir Wanori, alongside other party stakeholders.
The delegation inspected the APC e-registration centre in the area and expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination and turnout recorded. Local party leaders pledged continued mobilisation to ensure that all eligible members are captured before the close of the exercise.
Ambassador Jidda described the extension of the e-registration exercise as a critical opportunity for APC members in Borno State to reaffirm their loyalty, unity, and numerical strength. He called on ward, local government, and zonal leaders, as well as youth and women groups, to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the February 8 deadline.
He assured party members of a transparent, inclusive, and credible process, urging all APC supporters to participate fully and contribute to strengthening the party’s structure from the grassroots level.
APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base
200 vigilantes deployed from Nasarawa to bolster security in Ibbi, Niger state
By: Zagazola Makama
About 200 vigilante men from Nasarawa State have arrived in Ibbi, Niger State, to support local security agencies in maintaining law and order, the Niger State Police reported.
The vigilante were deployed at about 4:18 p.m. on Feb. 8 that the vigilantes were deployed in compliance with directives from the Executive Governor of Niger State.
The arrival of the additional security personnel aims to strengthen joint operations with local vigilantes and police to manage security challenges in Ibbi and its environs.
Monitoring of the situation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated.
200 vigilantes deployed from Nasarawa to bolster security in Ibbi, Niger state
Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience
APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base
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