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The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
By Zagazola Makama
In the intricate tapestry of life, with its twists and turns, highs and lows, moments of joy and sorrow, and contrasts between humility and arrogance, our paths lead us to either sweet or bitter ends.
Life, as described in the holy book, is fleeting. Fashioned from clay, we shall all return to dust, leaving behind only memories of the moments, good or bad, that we crafted in our time on earth.
In this fleeting existence, where we chase power, wealth, and ego-driven pursuits, there is one universal truth that binds us all – death. It comes spontaneously, without regard for status or position – a sobering reminder of our mortality.
Nigerians, and indeed the world, are familiar with the harrowing tales of attacks on Nigerian troops by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the northeast. However, the story of an attack on Nigerian troops by the very community they were deployed to protect is a rare and tragic occurrence.
On March 14, 2024, a community launched a senseless assault on the troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State. This attack resulted in the tragic loss of Lt. Col. Ali, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers who were committed to brokering peace between warring communities.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi Hassan Ali, a valiant and results-driven officer, had a distinguished career marked by courage, focus, and unwavering dedication to his duty. From his early days with the 198 Special Forces Battalion to his leadership in successful operations in the Northeast and beyond, Lt. Col. Ali exemplified the qualities of a true military leader.
His leadership was tested in challenging missions, such as the operation in the Timbuktu Triangle and the retaking of Dikwa and Marte from terrorists. With each operation, Lt. Col. Ali displayed extraordinary bravery and strategic acumen, leading his troops to victory while securing critical objectives.
Beyond the counterinsurgency operations in the North East, Lt. Col. Ali demonstrated his valor in combating bandits and stabilizing troubled regions in Kaduna and Niger States. His unwavering commitment to his duty, his men, and the mission resulted in numerous successes against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the region.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi Hassan Ali’s legacy is one of bravery, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to serving his country. His meticulous attention to detail, commitment to the welfare of his officers and soldiers, and relentless pursuit of excellence set him apart as a true hero worth honoring.
Lt. Col. Ali’s tragic end at the hands of those he swore to protect serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by brave men and women in uniform. His story, along with that of his fallen comrades, resonates with the profound impact of their service and the ultimate price they paid in the line of duty.
As we reflect on the life and service of Lt. Col. AH Ali and his brave comrades, let us remember their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to defending their fellow countrymen. Their sacrifices shall not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers and leaders.
In a world marked by uncertainties and dangers, it is the resilience and valor of individuals like Lt. Col. Ali that shine as beacons of hope and strength. May their memory be honored, their deeds celebrated, and their sacrifices remembered as a testament to the enduring spirit of service and sacrifice that defines the noble profession of arms.
The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
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ECOWAS Court Declares Case Filed by Togolese Diaspora Groups Against Togo Inadmissible
ECOWAS Court Declares Case Filed by Togolese Diaspora Groups Against Togo Inadmissible
By: Michael Mike
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court has dismissed the case filed by le Collectif pour la Vérité des Urnes TOGO-DIASPORA et le Réseau de la coordination de la diaspora togolaise indépendante – (CVU- TOGO-DISPORA ET CONSORTS (RCDTI) against the Republic of Togo. The Court ruled the application inadmissible due to the lack of legal standing of the applicants.
The applicants, le Collectif pour la Vérité des Urnes TOGO-DIASPORA et le Réseau de la coordination de la diaspora togolaise indépendante – (CVU- TOGO-DISPORA ET CONSORTS (RCDTI), alleged violations of the 1992 Constitution of Togo (amended in 2019) and the rights of Togolese citizens. The case referenced constitutional and legislative changes, electoral irregularities, and alleged misconduct by Togolese institutions, seeking accountability and reparations for victims.
The Republic of Togo, despite being notified, did not file any written defense.
The applicants requested the Court to declare the constitutional amendments invalid, annul all acts stemming from them, and order reparations totaling 3.870.000 euros for damages. They also sought the release of political prisoners, accountability for crimes against humanity, and reforms in governance.
In the Judgment delivered by Honourable Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, the Judge Rapporteur, the Court determined that the applicants, as an association operating outside Togo, failed to prove their legal status under Togolese or any other ECOWAS Member State’s law. Additionally, it said that the absence of a legal registration document rendered the applicants ineligible to initiate proceedings before the Court. Therefore, it declared the application inadmissible due to lack of legal standing.
The three-member panel of the Court were Honourable Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves (presiding judge and judge rapporteur), Honourable Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma (panel member), and Honourable Justice Gberi-Bè Ouattara (Panel member).
ECOWAS Court Declares Case Filed by Togolese Diaspora Groups Against Togo Inadmissible
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HMOD LAUDS NAF’S OPERATIONAL READINESS, SYMBOLICALLY FLAGS OFF AIR CAMPAIGN UNDER OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA
HMOD LAUDS NAF’S OPERATIONAL READINESS, SYMBOLICALLY FLAGS OFF AIR CAMPAIGN UNDER OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA
By: Olusola Akinboyewa
The Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni, visited the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina and Sokoto States today, 18 November 2024. The visit emphasized the need for operational readiness and sustained air superiority in the fight against banditry and insurgency in Northwest Nigeria.
During his visit, the HMOD symbolically flagged off the re-invigorated air campaign under Operation FANSAN YAMMA. This marks a key milestone in neutralizing criminal elements and restoring peace to vulnerable communities.
The Minister praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its dedication and successful execution of air interdiction campaigns. “Your bravery and professionalism serve as an inspiration to the Nigerian people. We’re witnessing positive changes: farmers returning to farms, children back in school, businesses reopening, and Nigerians sleeping in peace.”
The HMOD acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing NAF’s effectiveness. “Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, we’ve prioritized investments in advanced technologies and resources. The President has provided state-of-the-art aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, boosting our capabilities.”
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, thanked the Minister for his visit and support. “Your servant leadership inspires us. Your operational visits have heightened morale and renewed the fighting spirit of our troops.”
The CAS reaffirmed the NAF’s loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. He also assured the nation of the NAF’s relentless determination to restore peace and stability to troubled areas. “We understand peace and stability are crucial for Nigeria’s prosperity. Rest assured, the NAF remains committed to safeguarding national unity and progress.”
The visit included inspections, discussions with field commanders, and briefings on the air campaign, as well as a breathtaking fly-past by daring young NAF fighter pilots. The HMOD praised NAF’s use of intelligence and technology in striking bandit strongholds.
The visit served as a morale booster, highlighting air power’s critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s citizenry and territorial integrity.
HMOD LAUDS NAF’S OPERATIONAL READINESS, SYMBOLICALLY FLAGS OFF AIR CAMPAIGN UNDER OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA
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NSCDC Arrests 5 Suspected Vandals in Abuja
NSCDC Arrests 5 Suspected Vandals in Abuja
By: Michael Mike
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested five suspects for vandalizing Critical National Assets and Infrastructure in Abuja.
Briefing journalists at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command headquarters in Abuja while parading the suspects, the FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu said the five suspects were arrested with a full truckload of vandalized items at Dei Dei -U- Turn by Mopol barracks last Saturday after resisting arrest at Aso Radio , Katampe axis by speeding off.
Odumosu said investigations so far has revealed that the suspects were coming from Guata junction in Nasarawa state to deposit the items at Iron Melting Company situated at Sabo Wuse, Kaduna road, Niger State.
The FCT Commandant reiterated the Corps ‘ preparedness to keep vandals out of business and out of the FCT for good.
“we are not taking it lightly with those who have chosen to sabotage the good efforts and intentions of the government to give meaningful life to the residents of the FCT.”
Odumosu said that the FCT command is poised to fish out bad eggs with the constant night patrols by the eagle eyes Intelligence team as well as the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department’s Tactical team on routine night patrols.
“We have a renewed vigor to fulfil our mandate of protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, we are not resting on our oars untill we rid the capital city of these miscreants”.
He disclosed that Items ranging from drainage covers, Iron pipe protection for bridge shoulder, communication Mast accessories, Rolls of stainless steel pipe clamps, Angle bar from public water tank and scaffold pipes and clips were recovered.
Other recovered Items included Manhole covers, Electricity Aluminum conductors, wire mesh, Armoured Aluminum conductors, Iron steel section -U, Angle and I section, Rice Milling Machine Iron, Welding wires , Binding Wires, Barb Wires, Vandalized Motorcycle parts, vandalized Vehicle parts, Vandalized Wheel Barros and Household Utensils/ properties suspected to have been stolen.
He said suspects arrested are Aminu Yusuf, 25 years, Saminu Yusuf, 20 years;
Adamu Sani, 20 years; Suleiman Yusuf, 20 years; and Usman Jalo, 27 years.
He assured the corps’ unwavering commitment and determination to continue to perform their duty optimally until vandals, scavengers (Babanbola) and other saboteurs are chased out of the FCT.
He said: “We want to state clearly that FCT is a no go area for vandals, scavengers and all the hoodlums sleeping under the bridges in the city and coming out at night to vandalism government property and attacking innocent commuters and residents.”
He warned vandals to either repent, relocate or be ready to face the wrath of the law stating that the suspects are currently undergoing investigation and due diligence would be followed in ensuring that justice served.
Odumosu, while re- emphasizing the corps ‘ commitment to secure the FCT, solicited the public’s cooperation in the area of prompt intelligence information to enable the corps serve them better.
NSCDC Arrests 5 Suspected Vandals in Abuja
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