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Gunmen Massacre 15 In Katsina …Bandits Abduct Five In Zamfara Girls’ School
A fleet of 150 gunmen on motorcycles rode into two villages in Katsina State, murdering, at least, 15 people, stealing cattle and torching houses, Police said, yesterday.
The gang attacked two villages — Gobirawa and Sabawa villages of Safana LGA of Katsina State, late on Tuesday night, raiding the villages for hours into Wednesday morning.
“Police patrol teams were dispatched to the scene,” Katsina Police spokesman, Gambo Isah, said.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Gambo Isah, explained that the patrol teams dispatched to the scene engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel.
The teams, he added, chased the bandits out of the villages and recovered one motorcycle Bajaj from them.
He said: “The command commiserates with the families of the deceased persons and the entire peace loving people of Katsina State.
“It will do everything possible to bring perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice and bringing to an end the activities of these rascals’’.
In Zamfara State, the state Police Command has confirmed the abduction of two caterers and three children during an attack on Government Girls’ Secondary School, Moriki, Zurmi Local Government Area, last Wednesday night.
The gunmen were said to have stormed the area around 11:30 pm by announcing their arrival with sporadic gun shots in the air.
The state Police Command PPRO, SP Mohammed Shehu, in a press release stated that, “On 1st May, 2019 at about 21;30hrs, DPO Zurmi received a distress call that unidentified number of armed men entered into Government Girls’ Secondary School, Moriki in Zurmi LGA through the back fence of the school with intent to attack the school and abduct students.
“On the spur of the moment, a combined team of PMF/CTU/ and Civilian JTF personnel headed by the DPO mobilised to the school, confronted the armed men, and stopped them from gaining access to the students’ hostels. The bandits took a retreat back to the bush.
“No student was abducted as earlier reported by some media. However, two caterers and three of their children were later discovered missing.
“The police are collaborating with the school authority to establish the whereabouts of the missing persons.”
The PPRO said a search-and-rescue operation team has been dispatched to the surrounding bushes for an extensive bush combing.
The police further explained that security has been beefed up in the school and its environment to forestall further happening.
Also speaking, the Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Celestine Okoye, confirmed the attack, but stressed that no students were abducted by the bandits, contrary to a viral rumour on social media.
“We have confirmed reports of an attack on the school in Moriki, but no students were abducted,” Okoye said.
“Unfortunately, five persons were abducted from the school, including two cooks and three of their children.”
Moriki is in Zurmi Local Government Area, which has been one of the most terrorised areas by bandits in the North-West.
A spokesperson for the state government did not immediately return requests for comments.
Some social media posts had cited the BBC Hausa as reporting that, at least, two teachers were abducted alongside the cooks.
The bandits had reportedly blocked the road leading to the school before breaking into its premises.
Okoye said details of how the girls were prevented from being abducted would be made public shortly.
The police chief said efforts were underway to rescue the victims, urging parents and members of the community not to be apprehensive about unconfirmed social media claims.
However, the Katsina State Police Command, has arrested some suspects in connection with the abduction of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Aide de Camp (ADC)’s father-in-law.
The kidnappers, had last Wednesday night, abducted the Magajin Garin Daura, Musa Umar, in his Daura residence.
But the spokesperson of the Katsina State Police Command, Gambo Isah, yesterday, confirmed that some of the suspects were arrested as the officers arrived the scene, adding that one police officer was however hit during a gun-duel with the kidnappers.
Narrating the incident in a statement released, yesterday, police disclosed that Magajin Garin Daura, Alhaji Musa Uba, was abducted on Tuesday evening at his residence.
He added that the kidnappers numbering six stormed the residence in a Peugeot 405, unregistered car, blue in colour, shot sporadically into the air, and abducted him.
The statement read in parts, “The state Commissioner of Police, CP Sanusi Buba, along with police patrol teams immediately arrived at the scene.
“Police patrol teams at Kusada Division Katsina State intercepted the hoodlums and engaged them in a gun duel and as a result of which one Inspector Muntari Maikudi attached to Kusada Division sustained a gunshot injury and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Katsina for treatment.
“IGP Tactical Squad, SARS teams, PMF and counter-terrorism units have already been dispatched to rescue the victim alive and safely to his family.
“We appeal to members of the public to always assist security agencies with timely intelligence on the activities of bandits, adding that the command and other security agencies are on their toes to bringing to an end the activities of the bandits.
“The abducted traditional ruler who is the father of Fatima Musa, wife of Colonel Mohammed Abubakar, the ADC to President Muhammadu Buhari was a retired customs comptroller and business mogul.”
Meanwhile, the Senator representing Kaduna Central in the National Assembly, Shehu Sani, has reacted to the abduction of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Aide de Camp (ADC)’s father-in-law.
Reacting, Senator Shehu Sani, yesterday, condemned the abduction of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Aide de Camp (ADC)’s father-in-law.
According to him, the abduction raises “the urgency to combat this ravaging scourge and menace in the state.”
On his Twitter page, the Kaduna lawmaker wrote: “The kidnapping of Alhaji Musa Umar, the district head of Daura, Katsina State stands utterly condemned.
“This again raises the urgency to combat this ravaging scourge and menace. Their audacity must not dampen the nation’s resolve to prevail.”
Meanwhile, United Kingdom Foreign Secretary, Jeremy Hunt, has said Nigeria should ask for support in the fight against Boko Haram and that Britain would be ready to give
Mr Hunt said a perceived rift between the Nigerian Army and the local populace in the North-east is fueling violence in the region. He said “intelligence information reaching him” reveals that lack of trust between the authorities and indigenes is one of the reasons that fuels attacks in the region. He also said the British government would be willing to support the military fight insurgency, only “if the authorities ask for help.” The British government, in August 2017, announced £200million as aid to assist Nigeria in fighting insurgency and training its military personnel for four years: from 2018 to 2022.
Mr Hunt gave the latest assurance while on a visit to Maiduguri as part of his Africa tour seeking ‘new UK partnerships’ across Africa, The Guardian, (UK) reports.
He is expected to visit Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Kenya from April – May 2019. “I am here in Maiduguri North-east Nigeria, where the conflict which has involved both Boko Haram and Islamic state West Africa has meant that two million people have been displaced living in, effectively, refugee camps,” Mr Hunt reportedly said.
“And the U.K is supporting the World Food Programme (WFP) which is doing an extraordinary job. We have given £150 million since the start of the conflict and they have been able to feed 1.5 million people as a result of their activities here. “I think the crucial deciding factor is the willingness and enthusiasm of the Nigerian government and the Nigerian army to work closely with us – we would like to support and help them, but they are a sovereign nation and they have got to want our help,” he said.
The British envoy also accused the military of moving the locals into towns “and assuming the ones that are not in a secure area are members of Boko Haram.” He said while the approach is understandable, “the effect means depriving the indigenes of their livelihood and homes.”
“The feedback I got from NGOs on the ground is that lack of trust between the authorities and local people is one of the things that is fuelling the problem at the moment.
“The Nigerian army strategy is largely about herding people into towns and saying if you are not in a secure area, we are going to assume you are Boko Haram and/or Islamic State west Africa,” he added. The official said his government is considering providing both military and non-military support to Nigeria.
“I think our approach is potentially a very significant one because we could bring not just the British army (support) but also DfID (the Department for International Development) and our experience in holistic solutions to these kinds of situations,” Mr Hunt explained.
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We’re Working To Improve Quality Of Life Of Rivers People -Fubara …As Taraba Gov Inaugurates 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja Roads Project
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to render quality service that will improve the quality of life of residents, and strengthen the platform to promote unity.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the Okania-Ogbogoro Road junction, venue of the inauguration of the 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja (and Mgbuoba) Roads project in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, yesterday.
The road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro, and connects Port Harcourt Ring Road project under construction, and was inaugurated by the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.
Governor Fubara said that during the campaigns, he saw the roads in terrible condition, made a promise to fix them, and noted that that promise has been kept.
He emphasised that his administration will never be reckoned with abandoning of projects that it started, which is why he is particularly excited that the road has been fixed to ease the inconveniences suffered by the people.
The Governor said, “What we are doing here today is very simple: Promise made, promise fulfilled. I told you that whatever we are going to start, we are not going to leave it halfway. So, we have come here this afternoon to fulfill that promise.
“I am so excited, and I am so happy. I am leaving here with so much joy that we have done something that has so much impact, and importance in the lives of our people. So, I feel very fulfilled. Government is about the people. Government is knowing, understanding and seeing what you can do to make life easy for your people.
“We understand the situation of this road. Fortunately, I have a few friends who also live around here. So, there is nothing you will say that I don’t know. As a government, we will continue to do those things we know will make life easy for you.”
The Governor thanked members of the communities in the area for their support to his administration, and also for cooperating with the contractor to ensure completion of the project.
He assured the people that their request for the rehabilitation of the Community Secondary School and Health Centre, will be looked at and addressed immediately, saying, “Our government is a government that takes the interest of our people very seriously.
“There is no government without the people. It is only the people that keep the government going. So, what we will continue to do is to make sure that the problems and interest of our people are top on our list,” he assured.
Performing the inauguration, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, said roads are not just physical infrastructure but represent a commitment to facilitate ease of transportation, boost local commercial activities and improve quality of lives for the people of Rivers State.
Dr Kefas noted that Governor Fubara has provided the people good roads, and like other good roads, it will serve as an artery of development, further connecting communities, enhancing access to essential services while unlocking economic potentials.
He said, “By completing this project, Your Excellency has, once again, demonstrated the transformative impact of visionary leadership. When I was coming in with the Governor on a ride, I saw the joy, the happiness of the voiceless people who were abandoned and neglected in this area, coming out to wave and welcome us.
“It wasn’t a hired crowd. Everybody, those who couldn’t make it to this place, in front of their homes, they were waving at us, and I was telling the Governor: this is all about good governance. He listened to the people, and solved their problems. So, it shows that he is doing the right thing, and I want to thank you, my brother, for what you are doing for the good people, especially the poor people even in difficult times.”
Governor Kefas further said: “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and shared vision among us as Governors. Together, we can inspire our people, improve their lives, and create lasting legacies in our respective states.”
Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, recalled that when it was flagged-off in May, 2024, the project was for a 5km stretch but was extended in October, to include Mgbaraja axis, increasing the length to 6.55km, explaining that the 10.3 meter wide, and 5km of drains road, has now linked Apara Kingdom to Nkpor Kingdom.
In his address, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, described the road as a very significant route that was abandoned for years until Governor Fubara intervened and fixed it, promising that Obio/Akpor people will not take the gestures of the State Government under Governor Fubara for granted.
Speaking on behalf of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the firm that handled the project, Eric Shen, said they are happy to be part of the infrastructure development strides of Governor Fubara, stating that though the rains posed significant challenge, they have delivered quality road network to serve the connectivity needs of the people.
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We’ll Implement Judicial Commission’s Report On Arson, Killings -Fubara …Says Such Violence Must Stop In Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured of implementing the recommendations of the report submitted to him by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Arson, Killings, and Wanton Destruction of Property at some local government council headquarters on or around Monday, October 7, 2024.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance when the seven-member commission, led by the Chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, submitted four volumes of reports of their investigation and recommendations to him at Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
The Governor declared that his administration will neither tolerate nor allow such level of violence in the State anymore because it is not profitable or productive.
He said, “We are not going to be part of any system that would encourage any destruction in this State. And for that reason, we had to inaugurate this commission, so that this commission should look into the remote and immediate causes of this problem.
“And I believe that the recommendations of this commission, with the help of God and the support of everyone, we will make sure that we implement the recommendations.”
Governor Fubara said: “We are going to take it to the next stage. The report will be presented to the Executive Council, and there, we will surely come out with the White Paper and with the White Paper. I can assure you, we are going to follow it to the end.
“Nobody is above the law, including me. So, provided what we are doing is within the confines of the law, we will do it with the help of every one.”
Governor Fubara recalled how, before 2014, a group of persons had ran wide recklessly in the State, burning down court buildings.
He noted that it is such persons, who had recently surfaced with their destructive tendencies, and have extended the violence to local government councils, killing people and destroying government property.
Governor Fubara wondered why somebody will spend so much money to build a structure intended to last as legacy of the administration but would eventually be part of its destruction in the name of politics.
Governor Fubara clarified that he has never been part of such destructive politics that continue to set the State backwards and frustrate progressive development strides.
Governor Fubara said: “I make bold to say it, I have never been and will never be a party to anything that will bring shame, disgrace, destruction to our dear State.
“It is our State. If it is well with us, it will be well with everybody. As a matter of fact, why should I encourage destruction, when I know that when you finish spoiling things, you still need money to rebuild them.
“I am an accountant, I know the importance of how we can manage money. Rather than spoil, you should use that money to do a new thing for the State.”
Governor Fubara vowed: “So, I am going to ensure that we put a stop to that level of violence or such unreasonable violence. I call it unreasonable violence because it doesn’t mean anything in politics.
“Politics is a business of interest. There is no permanent friend, no permanent enemy. Some persons who were not even in our support, today, they are here following us because their interest is the most important thing.
“Likewise tomorrow, if the interest changes, they will also go their different ways. So, why burn down the house?”
Governor Fubara thanked members of the commission for being bold, focused, and accomplishing their task with determination in the face of physical and legal threats.
In her presentation, Chairman of the seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, said they had put their findings into four volumes, including the recommendations.
Justice Minakiri explained: “We have here four volumes of the report. We have the memoranda, which is the memoranda we got after we made our publications.
“We also have the exhibits that came with the memoranda. We have the proceedings and the records. At the end of the day, we came up with the main report.”
Justice Minakiri advised that the recommendations of the report should be studied and implemented so that people can be deterred from such callous acts and the sought-after peace secured for the State.
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We Are Eager To Showcase The Best Of Rivers State -Fubara …Declares Federation Of Public Service Games Open
The Rivers State Government says it is committed to providing a memorable experience for all delegates participating in the Federation of Public Service Games(FEPSGA) hosted by the State Government.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara stated this during the opening Ceremony of the 43rd Edition, Public Service Games, titled ”Simplified Rivers 2024″, at Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, last Sunday.
Speaking through his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Governor Fubara said “Our hospitality is renowned and we are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment, we have everything in place to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.”
Governor Fubara said to ensure the success of the games his Administration has put in place comprehensive plans and preparations with four venues approved for the events which include the Sharks Stadium, Alfred Diette -Spiff Civic Centre, Port Harcourt Club and the University of Port Harcourt.
The State Chief Executive urged participants to remember that the true spirit of FEPSGA goes beyond winning medals, stressing that it is about building bridges of friendship, fostering a sense of community and celebrating our diversity.
According to him, we envision a public service that is more productive, more efficient and more effective, a future where public servants are empowered to deliver exceptional results driven by a culture of excellence, innovation and teamwork.
The Governor reiterated that while a healthy mind and body are essential for high productivity, regular physical activity boosts our mood, increases energy levels and enhances our cognitive function. We are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment.
In her address Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who spoke through Dr.(Mrs) Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Interior Commended Governor Fubara for hosting this year’s event, and for his dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity in the country.
She noted that the event which serves as a platform for furthering unity, camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst public servants, was a celebration of their shared commitment to excellence, resilience and service to the nation.
Also speaking the National President of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Comrade Amaebi Aloku, said Rivers State got the nod to host the annual event because the Federation was pleased with the vision of Governor Fubara in identifying with the needs of the Civil Servants in the State, in terms of their welfare and being one of the first State to implement the new minimum wage and even taking it above what was approved by the national.
Earlier the Head of Service Rivers State, Dr George Nwaeke had welcomed all participants to the State and expressed gratitude to the Governor for approving and making available the resources to host the games, noting that it was an opportunity to interact with all Civil Servants across the nation.
