NEWS
Jos STF Commander Orders Arrest of Taxi Driver Killers
From Jude Dangwam, Jos
Following allegations that some soldiers of Operation Safe Haven manhandled, beat up and murdered a taxi driver as a result of some misunderstanding in Jos, Plateau State, the Commander, the Special Task Force, Major-General Ibrahim Ali has ordered the arrest of the troops fingered in the incident.
In addition, the STF Commander has constituted a board of enquiry to investigate the immediate and remote cause of the confrontation with a view to making hose found guilty to face possible Court Martial.
A statement confirming the board of enquiry titled, ‘Alleged Murder of Taxi Driver by Personnel’, signed by Major Ishaku Takwa, Military Information Officer, was issued on Sunday.
“Operation Safe Haven has received with shock a report of security personnel of OPSH deployed at Farin Gada beat and murdered a commercial taxi driver Mr Abdullahi Karafa.
“Immediately the report was received, the commander Operation Safe Haven Major General Ibrahim Ali visited the deceased family and condoled them over the unfortunate incidence.
“The Commander has since constituted a board of inquiry to unravel those behind the heinous act.
“He assured that those found culpable will be made to face the full wrath of the law. Operation Safe Haven wish to reiterate that troops deployed on the Plateau were always warned to conduct themselves in the most professional manner in line with global best practices and respect for the fundamental human rights of the citizenry and strict adherence to rules of engagement.
“Therefore, any act short of this is condemnable and unacceptable by OPSH,” the statement said.
NEWS
Benue killings: Benue reps frown on incessant attacks on communities, killings of his constituents
From Attah Ede, Makurdi
The member House of Representatives representing Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, Arc. Asema Achado, Wednesday, condemned the incessant attacks on Benue communities and killing of 28 persons by suspected Fulani herdsmen militia in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.
Arc. Achado who described the action of the attackers as senseless, expressed deep condolences and solemn empathy to the grieving communities of Tse-Kperyisa, Tse-Adaa, and Tse-Shiver, where innocent farmers were slaughtered by herdsmen. Achado in a statement by his Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mendah Manasseh, said he joined his voice with the Gwer West people in condemnation of the senseless and unlawful attacks..The statement said “the attacks have inflicted immeasurable pain and suffering upon the peace-loving people of Gwer West.”I implored the Benue State Government to urgently intervene by enforcing the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, by ensuring that the perpetrators of these barbaric acts face swift and decisive justice.“They should also collaborate with law enforcement agencies to apprehend those responsible for these heinous crimes against humanity,” he said.”I therefore call on the people of Gwer West to remain steadfast and united in their quest to bring an end to the spate of killings.Achado assures his constituents of his unwavering support and steadfast commitment to championing their cause and advocating for lasting peace and security in the constituency.NEWS
Benue killings: Gov Alia Condemns Attack on Communities, Charge Security Agents to Rescue Those in Captive
From Attah Ede Makurdi
Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, on Wednesday, condemned in strong terms, the recent horrific attacks on different communities in Gwer-West Local Government Area of Benue State by suspected armed herders which resulted to the killing of several persons and scores kidnapped.
He wondered why such grossly offensive attacks continue on Benue communities despite the relentless efforts of government to arrest the ugly situation.
The governor in a statement by his Principal Special Assistant(PSA) on media and content creation, Isaac Uzaan, called on Benue people, particularly those at the frontline of the attacks to cooperate with the government and security agencies to bring perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
The Governor however extend his deep condolences to those whose relatives were killed in the attacks and called on security agencies to expedite their search and ensure safe release of those kidnapped.
Uzaan quoted the governor as assuring Benue people that his government, in union with security chiefs and traditional rulers is committed to concerted action to ending insecurity in Benue State.
NEWS
May Day: NLC Seeks Partnership with Anambra Sports Commission
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), says it is planning to hold some sporting events as part of activities marking this year’s May Day celebration.
Mr Humphrey Nwafor, Chairman of the NLC in Anambra, said this when he led members of the State May Day Planning Committee on a courtesy visit to Patrick-Estate Onyedum, Chairman of Anambra State Sports Development Commission, on Wednesday.
Nwafor, represented by Dr Emeka Odogwu, Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists in Anambra, expressed satisfaction with the developmental programmes of the Sports Commission.
Odogwu, who is also the Chairman of the Planning Committee, said the Labour movement in Anambra was willing to partner the Commission to make its May Day sporting activities successful.
He said the games, planned for the day, were athletics, Football, Badminton, Nchoo and Volleyball.
“We are satisfied with what you are doing in the sports as Chairman of Sports Development Commission and we want to appreciate your doggedness and effective drive in the sector,” he said.
In his response, Onyedum commended the NLC for the innovation, saying that sports should be a habit for all to ensure healthier life.
He promised that the Sports Development Commission would take care of their technical needs to make the sporting event worthwhile.
“What you are doing is in line with the agenda of Gov. Soludo who has always been supportive of human capital development of the youth through sports.
“I encourage you not to relent in your efforts and support to the state government,” he said. (NAN)