Kareto Attack: Borno Stands with the Armed Forces- Zulum

By: Michael Mike

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has said last weekend’s attack on Kareto will not deter the government from carrying out its constitutional duty of providing the dividends of democracy to the people of the state in collaboration with federal agencies.

Zulum, while condemning in strong terms the atrocious attack and reaffirmed the loyalty, commitment and support of the people and Government of Borno State to the military who were targeted by the Boko Haram insurgents in the attack, commiserated with the armed forces and the families of the victims.

He said: “On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots. May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families.”

Zulum noted that the Kareto attack is a painful reminder of the callousness of the Boko Haram insurgents who are bent on reversing the gains made in mass resettlement of internally displaced persons back to their ancestral homes in northern Borno., adding that Kareto, a vibrant town, is one of over 20 settlements that are being targeted for resettlement of IDPs from Maiduguri and other locations.

The governor thanked the armed forces and security agencies for standing in harm’s way in order to secure our territory and way of life, stating that: “We are eternally grateful to our gallant military and security forces for all they have been doing to safeguard lives and property in our state, adding that “Kareto attack was a painful reminder of the heinous desperation of the adversary to torpedo our modest achievement, and cause panic in our communities. I call on our good people to stand firm, not to waver, and to support the armed forces as they work daily to confront our collective threats.”

Zulum reiterated the resolve of the Borno State Government to continue to work closely with the armed forces to secure our country and provide development, stating that: “Be rest assured that the Borno State Government, under my watch, will continue to work closely with the armed forces to execute our development and Peacebuidling programmes.”

Kareto Attack: Borno Stands with the Armed Forces- Zulum

ROLAC, Ministry of Justice host national reforms conference 

By: Michael Mike

The EU-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) Programme of International IDEA is hosting the 2024 Network of Justice Reform Teams (JRTs) conference.

The three-day conference, which commenced today, has in attendance representatives of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committees (ACJMCs). It will take place in Ilorin, Kwara state with collaboration from the Federal Ministry of Justice (FMoJ).

Communications Officer RoLAC II Programme, International IDEA, Murkthar Suleiman, in a statement on Monday, said the event will bring together various criminal justice institutions to discuss the reform of the justice sector and promote models of reform and new targets for improving justice delivery in Nigeria. 

“Over the years, RoLAC and the FmoJ have hosted JRTs with the primary aim of fostering coordination in justice delivery. Network meetings create platforms for experience sharing and peer learning and have engendered a wide range of reforms. 

“Achievements include the adoption of Administration of Criminal Justice Laws by the 36 states in the federation.”

The statement noted other examples of network coordination achievements include the creation of more JRTs, the implementation of inspection visits to places of detention by magistrates and the creation of zonal JRT networks to bolster reform initiatives.

“This year’s conference will, among other things, review lingering or emerging challenges that impede effective coordination and adopt measures that would resolve those issues while also strengthening coordination.

The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC Phase II) Programme is funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). The programme seeks to contribute to the consolidation of the rule of law and anticorruption reforms in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by enhancing the performance, quality, and oversight of Nigeria’s criminal justice system, improving access to justice for vulnerable women, children, persons with disabilities, and victims of sexual and gender-based violence; and by increasing promote transparency and accountability of anti-corruption systems and reforms. 

International IDEA, the implementer of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme Phase II, is a 35-member State Inter-Governmental Organisation established in 1995. As a global think-tank, it is committed to supporting sustainable democracy worldwide and the development of democratic institutions and culture.

ROLAC, Ministry of Justice host national reforms conference 

Insecurity: Military Remains Guardian of Nigeria’s Unity and Democracy – Gen Abdulsalami, IBB, Others

•Youths Urged to Embrace Service and Commitment

•Revelations on Abacha’s ‘Phantom Coups’ in the Book “Nine Lives”

By: Michael Mike

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar and other prominent Nigerians have emphasised the Nigerian military’s crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s unity and democracy. 

Speaking at the public presentation and book launch of ‘Nine Lives: The Bello-Fadile Memoirs’ in Abuja on Monday, Abdulsalami highlighted the military’s significance as a stabilizing force in Nigeria.

The book, authored by Col. Bello Fadile (rtd), a central figure in the 1995 “phantom coup” against the late General Sani Abacha, provides a detailed account of this turbulent period. Abdulsalami commended the author for his patriotism and unwavering commitment to democracy and national unity. He encouraged Nigerian youths to emulate Fadile’s life of service and dedication.

“Youths have a critical role in nation-building,” Abdulsalami stated, reiterating the need for patriotism, dedication, and selflessness as exemplified by Col. Fadile. “Fadile’s unwavering commitment, even in the face of trials, is an example of how young people can contribute to nation-building. A life of service, whether in the military, public office, or civil society, strengthens the fabric of our country.”

Abdulsalami also acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers to secure peace in Nigeria, urging young Nigerians to adopt a spirit of national service and collective effort for the future of the country. He praised Fadile’s continuous pursuit of knowledge and his dedication to Nigeria’s progress, describing him as a brilliant lawyer and a role model for all Nigerians.

He said: “An excellent scholar, Fadile has continued to seek knowledge,  stay curious and remain committed to Nigeria’s progress. It is this relentless pursuit of  excellence and deep sense of duty that makes him a role model for all Nigerians.

“At a time when our nation faces internal and external threats, it is essential to remember that the military is not an isolated institution, but a guardian of national unity.”

Former President Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, represented by his daughter, Aisha Babangida, also lauded Fadile’s bravery and resilience. 

“Even in the face of tribulation, he remained undaunted and consistent in the best tradition of resilience,” Babangida said. “Bello Fadile never gave up until he gained freedom at the onset of this democracy. His rich intellectuality stimulated deeper conversations around democracy and good governance.”

Prof. Agbo Madaki, who reviewed the book, disclosed that “Nine Lives” reveals truths about the coup different from the narrative branded by the Nigerian media as a “phantom coup.” The book, divided into five chapters, narrates events leading up to the author’s experiences. Madaki praised Fadile’s narrative power, vivid recollections, and poetic skill, making the book an engaging read.

Madaki urged the Nigerian military to eradicate practices associated with military regimes, such as human rights abuses, dictatorship, disregard for the rule of law, and corruption. He emphasized the need for the military to focus on safeguarding peace, human life, and law and order, rather than seizing power.

“Students of government and history will find the book very interesting as it captures significant events in Nigeria’s history,” Madaki noted. “The book serves as an inspiration to those who may want to give up on their dreams because of trials, to look at the life of the author and learn how to be strong and maintain faith in God during adversity.”

Col. Bello Fadile expressed his gratitude to all participants, recounting his struggles through years of service. He appreciated those who attended the launch despite their busy schedules.

Goodwill messages were delivered by other dignitaries, including former Senate President David Mark, Sen. Ndoma Egba, former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Kano Agabi, former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Luther Martin Agwai, and former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), among others.

Insecurity: Military Remains Guardian of Nigeria’s Unity and Democracy – Gen Abdulsalami, IBB, Others