COVER
Gunmen Lay Siege on Benue, Plateau, Kill 33
From David Torough (Makurdi), Jude Dangwam (Jos) & Dan Amasingha, Minna
Attacks by gunmen suspected to be bandits and militia groups against communities in the North-Central states, continued at the weekend, leading the killing of 33 persons in Benue and Plateau states.
In Benue State, the gunmen on Saturday invaded Zaki Akpuuna 1 and Diom communities of Mbaterem district in the Ukum Local Government Area of the State, killing 24 residents.
According to a local source, the gunmen invaded the sleepy communities around 8am on Saturday.
Locals, who spoke to our correspondent on the phone, said the attackers burnt several houses in adjourning villages.
A local, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the bandits attacked Zaki Akpuuna and killed 24 people.
“You know that the three local government areas in the Sankera axis had long been under these local bandits headed by Gana and since he was killed, his men have divided and are controlled by different leaders.
“The cause of this attack is not known yet but the information we got was that gunmen numbering about 20 invaded Akpuuna and other villages in Ukum LGA and killed many people and burnt down several houses. At least, 24 bodies have been recovered and the search is still on to find those missing,” he said.
Ukum Local Government Council Chairman, Mr Kartyo Tyoumbur, confirmed the killing, saying all 24 dead bodies were recovered from the two attacked villages.
“I learnt that after they attacked Akpuuna and Diom, the armed gang went to Tine-Nune community on Zaki Biam-Wukari Road, where the military confronted them.
“Though no one knows how many of them were killed, I believe some of them must have been neutralised in that exchange,” he said.
Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, also confirmed the attack in a statement on Saturday.
“Today 8/7/2023 around 12pm, a militia gang invaded Akpuna village, Ukum LGA of Benue State, and shot sporadically.
“Upon receipt of this information, police teams, in collaboration with other security agencies, rushed to the area and engaged these bandits, who were eventually repelled.
“Eight corpses were recovered at the scene while many other injured persons were taken to a hospital for treatment. Operation is ongoing in the area.”
Efforts to get the spokesman for Operation Whirl Stroke, Flt Lt. D.O. Oquah, were not successful as his cell phone did not connect.
In Plateau State, the attackers killed nine people and burnt down six houses in the Sabon Gari community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. Jerry Datim, one of the leaders in the community, disclosed this via telephone yesterday in Jos.
Datim, who is the National President of the Global Society for Middle Belt Heritage, said the attack occurred on Saturday night.
“Last night, gunmen attacked my village, Sabon Gari in Mangu, burnt six houses, and destroyed many other properties.
“So far, we have recovered nine dead bodies; we are still searching because some people are still missing,” he said.
Datim, however, commended personnel of Operation Rainbow, a local security outfit in the state, for responding swiftly to the attack.
“I wish to commend the men of Operation Rainbow; their swift response brought the situation under control.
“We call on the government to support them with the necessary logistics for a prompt response,” he said.
When asked if residents had deserted the community, Datim said that they had resolved to remain and defend their ancestral lands.
Captain James Oya, the Spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a Special Military Task Force, confirmed the incident.
Alia Condemns Attack, Calls for Arrests
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the unprovoked attack on Akpuuna village in Mbaterem, Ukum Local Government Area of the state by suspected hoodlums.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, and issued yesterday in Makurdi, the governor expressed his shock and dismay at the attack, which resulted in the loss of several lives.
Governor Alia described the attack as a heinous crime and a grave sin against God and humanity. He called on the security agencies to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that they face the full wrath of the law.
The statement conveyed the governor’s condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the attack and prayed for God’s comfort upon them during this difficult time.
Governor Alia also urged the people of Sankera to remain calm and collaborate with the security agencies by providing valuable information that could assist in tackling insecurity in the area.
The governor’s statement serves as a strong message against the perpetration of violence and emphasizes the need for justice to be served. The Benue State Government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, and the governor’s call for the arrest of the culprits reflects his dedication to maintaining peace and order in the state.
Plateau Imposes 24-hour Curfew on Mangu LGA
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) in response to the recent attacks.
The directive was issued by Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, in a statement released yesterday in Jos.
Reports indicate that fresh attacks occurred in several communities within Mangu LGA on Saturday night, resulting in the loss of nine lives, destruction of properties, and the displacement of many individuals.
“In light of the recent attacks that led to loss of lives and properties, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Mangu Local Government Area. This decision, made in consultation with the State Security Council, is aimed at restoring law and order.
“Until further notice, movement within the entire Local Government Area is prohibited, except for security personnel and individuals on essential duties. Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the curfew,” the statement read.
Governor Mutfwang assured the people that the government is working tirelessly to restore peace and security in the state. Efforts are underway to address the situation and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents affected by the attacks.
Military Commander Moves Base to Troubled Areas
The Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, has temporarily relocated the headquarters of the operation to Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State.
OPSH, a Special Military Task Force responsible for maintaining peace in Plateau and its environs, made the move following a Saturday night attack on the Sabon Gari community in Mangu LGA. The attack resulted in the loss of 12 lives and the complete destruction of six houses.
The decision to relocate the headquarters aims to facilitate closer collaboration with the local authority in addressing the situation.
“I have relocated the headquarters of OPSH here so we can work with the local authority. We will stay here until we stabilize the situation. The governor is disturbed by the happenings, and that is why I am personally here to lead my troops. We won’t allow the situation to deteriorate further. We are not here to joke; and so we will be decisive, fair, and firm,” said Abubakar.
Recent attacks in Mangu have caused numerous fatalities, the destruction of properties and farmlands, and the displacement of many individuals. The presence of the military commander in the troubled area is intended to address the ongoing security challenges and restore peace to the affected communities.
Niger Gov Urges Communities to Defend Selves
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has cautioned the people of Kagara Emirate to be more security-conscious by restricting their movement to allow the security operatives to carry out their national assignment of restoring peace to the troubled local government.
The Governor stated this as part of his tour of the eight emirates and a courtesy call on the Emir of Kagara, Mallam Ahmed Garba Gunna II, at his palace in Kagara.
Governor Umaru Bago noted that the Emirate has been affected by banditry attacks and that the restriction of movement would help the security operatives combat the menace.
“A lot of our rural dwellers engage in various occupations in the hinterland, and you find them gathering for weddings and on market days, which is not very good for this situation as it affects security surveillance and operations.
“So we are encouraging them to restrict their movement unless it is very necessary. They should remain within their enclaves so that bushes can also be cleared,” he said.
The Governor also said that his administration will ensure the construction of a dual carriageway in Kagara, in line with his urban renewal policy, and also ensure the reconstruction of the Minna/Tegina road.
He then encouraged farmers to take advantage of the subsidized rate at which the government will provide fertilizers to engage in farming activities.
Earlier, the Emir of Kagara, Mallam Ahmed Garba Gunna II, appreciated the Governor for his efforts so far in ensuring that the people of the Emirate enjoy relative peace, which allowed them to observe Durbar during the Eid celebration.
The Emir of Kagara also disclosed that each of the traditional title holders in the Emirate has acquired at least one hectare of land to engage in agricultural activities following the strategies evolved by the present administration to promote the national policy on food security.
The high point of the visit was the conferment of the traditional title of Gorozon Kagara on the Governor and the presentation of instruments of power to him.
Twelve others were also conferred with traditional titles, while Governor Umaru Bago presented letters of appointment to the Member representing Shiroro/Rafi/Munya federal constituency, Ismaila Madibo, as Kogunan Kagara, and to Yahaya Garba Gunna and Alhaji Ahmadu Salihu Tanko as Sadaukin Kagara and Tafarkin Kagara respectively.
Among the Governor’s entourage were his Deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, Chief of Staff Alhaji Abdullahi Usman Gbatamangi, Speaker of Niger State House of Assembly, Hon Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, some government officials, and APC stalwarts in the State.
By Mike Odiakose, Abuja
Immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello will spend the 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year days in Kuje prison, Abuja, following refusal of his bail application by the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
Justice Maryann Anenih yesterday adjourned the case until Jan.
29, Feb. 25, and Feb. 27, 2025 for the continuation of the hearing.The former governor is standing trial, along with two others, in an N110 billion money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Anenih had refused to grant a bail application filed by Bello, saying it was filed prematurely.
The judge admitted Umar Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, to bail in the sum of N 300 million each with two sureties.
Justice Anenih, while delivering a ruling said, having been filed when Bello was neither in custody nor before the court, the instant application was incompetent.
“Consequently, the instant application having been filed prematurely is hereby refused,” she said.
Recalling the arguments before the court on the bail application, the judge had said, “before the court is a motion on notice, dated and filed on Nov. 22.
“The 1st Defendant seeks an order of this honourable court admitting him to bail pending the hearing and determination of the charge.
“That he became aware of the instant charge through the public summons. That he is a two-term governor of Kogi State. That if released on bail, he would not interfere with the witnesses and not jump bail.”
She said the Defendant’s Counsel, JB Daudu, SAN, had told the court that he had submitted sufficient facts to grant the bail.
He urged the court to exercise its discretion judicially and judiciously to grant the bail.
Opposing the bail application, the Prosecution Counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, argued that the instant application was grossly incompetent, having been filed before arraignment.
He said it ought to be filed after arraignment but the 1st Defendant’s Counsel disagreed, saying there was no authority
“That says that an application can only be filed when it is ripe for hearing.”
Justice Anenih held that the instant application for bail showed that it was filed several days after the 1st defendant was taken into custody.”
Citing the ACJA, the judge said the provision provided that an application for bail could be made when a defendant had been arrested, detained, arraigned or brought before the court.
Bello had filed an application for his bail on November 22 but was taken into custody on November 26 and arraigned on Nov. 27.
From Jude Dangwam, Jos
Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Nationalities Community Development Association (CONAECDA) has called on the federal government to intensify efforts in the resettlement of displaced persons in their ancestral homes.
The organization made this call at the end of its conference held in Jos, the Plateau State Capital weekend.
Thirty resolutions were passed covering security, economy, politics, governance, culture, languages, human rights and indigenous peoples’ rights among others.
The Conference President, Samuel Achie and Secretary Suleman Sukukum in a communique noted that the conference received and discussed reports from communities based on which resolutions were reached on securing, reconstruction, rehabilitation and returning communities displaced by violence across the Middle Belt.
“After considering the reports from communities displaced by violent conflicts, conference resolved, and called on government to focus on providing security to deter further displacements.
“Call on government to provide security to enable communities to return. Government and donor partners should assist in reconstructing and returning displaced communities,” the communique stated.
The GOC 3 Armoured Division Nigeria Army represented by Lt Col Abdullahi Mohammed said the Nigerian Army is committed to working closely with communities to achieve a crime-free society, urging communities to support them with credible information.
“Security is a collective effort, and we cannot do it alone, the community plays a crucial role in ensuring safety.
“We urge everyone here not to shield or protect individuals involved in criminal activities. Transparency and collaboration, together, with maximum cooperation, we can achieve peace, security, and prosperity for our society,” the GOC stated.
The National Coordinator of CONECDA, Dr. Zuwaghu Bonat in his address at the gathering noted that the theme of this year’s program, Returning, Resettling, and Rehabilitating Displaced Communities, was chosen as a wakeup call on the federal government.
He maintained that the organization is aware that President Bola Tinubu has expressed a commitment to ensuring that displaced communities return to their ancestral lands.
He said similarly, some state governments, including Plateau State, have set up committees to address the lingering matter.
The coordinator however cautioned, “It is critical that we avoid generalizations or profiling. For instance, Not all Muslims are involved in terrorism. The overwhelming majority of Muslims in Nigeria are peaceful and reject extremist ideologies.
“We also know that some terrorists exploit religion to mobilize support or rationalize their actions. However, their atrocities – slaughtering women, cutting open pregnant mothers, and killing children show a profound disregard for humanity and God. Normal human beings would not commit such acts.
“We must also be cautious about lumping banditry with terrorism. While statistics indicate that many bandits and kidnappers may share similar ethnic backgrounds, kidnapping has now evolved into a profit-driven enterprise. This distinction is vital to address the root causes effectively,” he stated.
The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Middle Belt Nationalities, Hon Daniel Kwada noted that the conference was apt to addressed the various underlying issues bedeviling the region and its people.
“We in the Middle Belt have long been standing at the crossroads of Nigeria’s complex history. Despite our tireless efforts to stabilize this nation, we have faced immense challenges, including underdevelopment, security issues, and marginalization.
“Often, we are unfairly maligned, but gatherings like this offer a chance to change the narrative.
“Such conferences set the tone for better discussions. They allow us to drive processes that bring development, ensure security, and elevate our people to greater heights,” Mutfwang noted.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has called on banks to reinforce their corporate governance principles and risk management frameworks to boost investor confidence during the ongoing recapitalisation exercise.
Dr Emomotimi Agama, Director-General, SEC, said this at the yearly workshop of the Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CAMCAN) held in Lagos.
The theme of the workshop is: “Recapitalisation: Bridging the Gap between Investors and Issuers in the Nigerian Capital Market”.
Agama, represented by the Divisional Head of Legal and Enforcement at the SEC, Mr John Achile, stated that the 2024–2026 banking sector recapitalisation framework offers clear guidance for issuers while prioritising the protection of investors’ interests
He restated the commission’s commitment towards ensuring transparency and efficiency in the recapitalisation process.
The director-general stated that the key to bridging the gap between issuers and investors remained the harnessing of innovation for inclusive growth.
In view of this, Agama said, “SEC, through the aid of digital platform, is exploring the integration of blockchain technology for secure and transparent transaction processing to redefine trust in the market.”
He added that the oversubscription of most recapitalisation offers in 2024 reflects strong investor confidence.
To sustain this momentum, the director-general said that SEC had intensified efforts to enhance disclosure standards and corporate governance practices.
According to him, expanding financial literacy campaigns and collaborating with fintech companies to provide low-entry investment options will democratise access to the capital market.
He assured stakeholders of the commission’s steadfastness in achieving its mission of creating an enabling environment for seamless and transparent capital formation.
“Our efforts are anchored on providing issuers with clear guidelines and maintaining open lines of communication with all market stakeholders, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks through digitalisation.
“We also ensure timely review and approval of applications, and enhancing regulatory oversight to protect investors while promoting market integrity,” he added.
Agama listed constraints to the exercise to include: addressing market volatility, systemic risks, limited retail participation as well as combating skepticism among investors who demand greater transparency and accountability.
He said: “We are equally presented with opportunities which include leveraging technology to deepen financial inclusion and enhance market liquidity.
“It also involves developing innovative financial products, such as green bonds and sukuk, to attract diverse investor segments.
“The success of recapitalisation efforts depends on collaboration among regulators, issuers, and investors.”
Speaking on market infrastructure at the panel session, Achile said SEC provides oversight to every operations in the market, ranging from technology innovations to market.
He stated that the commission is committed to transparency and being mindful of the benefits and risks associated with technology adoption.
Achile noted that SEC does due diligence to all the innovative ideas that comes into the market to ensure adequate compliance with the requirements.
On the rising unclaimed dividend figure, Achile blamed the inability of investors to comply with regulatory requirements and information gap.
He noted that SEC had done everything within its powers to ensure that investors receive their dividend at the appropriate time.
He, however, assured that the commission would continue to strengthen its dual role of market regulation and investor protection to boost confidence in the market.
In her welcome address, the Chairman of CAMCAN, Mrs Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma, said banks’ recapitalisation is not just a regulatory requirement, but an opportunity to rebuild trust, strengthen the capital market, and drive sustainable growth.
Joel-Nwokeoma stated that the recent recapitalisation in the banking sector had brought to the fore the need for a more robust and inclusive capital market.
She added that as banks seek to strengthen their balance sheets and improve their capital adequacy ratios, it is imperative to create an environment that fosters trust, transparency, and cooperation between investors and issuers.
The chairman called for collaboration to bridge the gap between investors and issuers to create a more inclusive and vibrant Nigerian capital market.She said: “we must work together to strengthen corporate governance and risk management practices in banks, enhance disclosure and transparency requirements for issuers.” NAN
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