Category: Military

  • WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC

    WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC


    The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over contraband valued at ₦182,196,000 to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The items include 1,658 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, weighing 788 kilograms, and 386 bottles of codeine syrup, seized during anti-smuggling operations in November 2024.

    During a press briefing, Comptroller PK Bamisaiye, the Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, described the seizures as part of the Command’s intensified efforts to combat smuggling along Nigeria’s waterways. The Cannabis Sativa was intercepted during operations at Ijegun Waterside, Bar Beach, and Ekare Beach Front, which also led to the arrest of three suspects. These actions were carried out in line with Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

    In addition to the drugs, the Command also confiscated 295 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, seven bags of 50kg refined granulated sugar, and 900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at locations including the “Point of No Return” in Badagry and Panko Ere waterfronts. The PMS was disposed of in accordance with established regulations.

    Comptroller Bamisaiye emphasized that these operations align with the directives of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) to safeguard the economy and public health. He highlighted the devastating effects of smuggling, particularly the trafficking of hard drugs, on the nation’s wellbeing. “Smuggling harms our economy and threatens public health. The Western Marine Command remains committed to eliminating all forms of economic sabotage along our waterways,” he declared.

    Marine Commander Udoh Morrison of the NDLEA commended the Customs Service for its proactive stance in combating drug smuggling, noting the longstanding cooperation between the two agencies. Morrison called for enhanced collaboration, citing the need for resource sharing and operational support.

    “Customs has been at the forefront of the drug war even before the establishment of NDLEA. Their capacity, including flying boats and strategic outposts, is invaluable to our operations,” Morrison remarked. He also stressed the importance of public awareness about modern drugs like tramadol, which are odorless but highly dangerous, urging parents to stay vigilant.

    Pharm. Shaba Muhammed, Director of Investigation and Enforcement at NAFDAC, echoed these sentiments. Represented by Principal Regulatory Officer Isah Salihu, Muhammed praised the Customs Service for its decisive actions, describing them as vital to securing Nigeria’s waterways and upholding economic stability.

    Both NDLEA and NAFDAC acknowledged the critical need for inter-agency synergy in tackling drug trafficking and other illicit activities. The handover of the seized items not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ongoing partnerships but also underscores the shared resolve to protect the nation’s economy and public health.

    With these coordinated efforts, the fight against smuggling and drug abuse in Nigeria’s waterways continues to gain momentum, promising a safer and more secure future for all Nigerians.

  • NCS Officers Involved In Viral Video Maltreatment Handed Over For Investigation

    NCS Officers Involved In Viral Video Maltreatment Handed Over For Investigation

    The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over two officers implicated in the maltreatment of individuals in a viral video to the Customs Police Unit for further investigation. This development was disclosed during a media briefing held at the Seme-Krake Border Command on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, by Comptroller Kayode Kolade, represented by Deputy Comptroller Istifanus Musa.

    The Command had on Monday, December 2, 2024, announced the launch of an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings identified two officers, Superintendent of Customs TA Inemugha and Assistant Superintendent of Customs II GO Aboribo, as the culprits. Both have been arrested and are now set to face further scrutiny at the NCS Headquarters.

    The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, condemned the actions of the officers, labeling their behavior as unethical and unprofessional. He reiterated the Service’s commitment to upholding integrity and professionalism among its ranks.

    “The behavior of these officers does not reflect the professional standards of the Service, especially at a time when we are striving to hold our officers to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism,” he stated.

    The NCS has appealed to the complainants involved in the case to cooperate with the investigation to ensure justice is served. The agency emphasized its dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations, assuring the public that misconduct within its ranks will not be tolerated.

    The Comptroller General directed the initiation of a full-scale investigation and promised decisive disciplinary action against the officers. The NCS remains committed to safeguarding public trust and ensuring that its personnel operate within the bounds of ethical conduct.

    The Seme Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to the interests of the Nigerian public, pledging to maintain transparency and professionalism in carrying out its mandates.

  • Joint forces, comprising Nigeria’s Special Boat Service, the French Navy’s Special Forces, and the French Army Amphibious Detachment, executed multiple phases of the operation

    Joint forces, comprising Nigeria’s Special Boat Service, the French Navy’s Special Forces, and the French Army Amphibious Detachment, executed multiple phases of the operation


    The Nigerian Navy and the French Armed Forces conducted a joint amphibious simulation exercise, Crocodile Lift 2024, on November 24, 2024, showcasing their readiness to combat maritime piracy and enhance regional security. The exercise, held off the Nigerian coast, simulated a coordinated response to a pirate hijacking incident within a nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    The exercise scenario revolved around neutralizing a pirate group known as the Pirate Action Group, which had hijacked a vessel, MT René, carrying 16 crew members and 10,000 metric tons of premium motor spirit. The pirates had established a stronghold at Salt Bay’s Kwatar Island, where the mock operation took place.

    The joint forces, comprising Nigeria’s Special Boat Service (SBS), the French Navy’s Special Forces, and the French Army Amphibious Detachment, executed multiple phases of the operation, including reconnaissance, assault, hostage rescue, and medical evacuation. Notable assets involved were the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Kada and the French Navy Ship Dixmude, supported by helicopters and Ridge Hall inflatable boats for troop deployment.

    The assault team successfully raided the pirate hideout, rescued the hostages, and secured the area while ensuring minimal collateral damage. The exercise also highlighted the strategic deployment of support and security teams to maintain operational safety and secure the perimeter.

    The exercise was observed by senior officials, including Rear Admiral Shehu Usman Gombe, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; Chief Staff Officer of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral A. Baba-Inna; and the French Defense Attaché to Nigeria. Representatives from Nigeria’s sister services and allied units were also in attendance.

    Rear Admiral Gombe commended the seamless partnership between the Nigerian and French forces, emphasizing the significance of joint exercises in fostering interoperability and preparedness.

    “This exercise demonstrates our ability to respond swiftly to maritime threats, safeguard our economic zones, and protect innocent lives. It also reflects our commitment to integrating the Army and Air Force into future amphibious operations for a more robust joint defense posture,” he said.

    The exercise paid homage to the evolution of amphibious operations, from the World War I Battle of Bita Paka to Nigeria’s own pioneering efforts, such as the Bonny Landing in 1967. These operations underline the strategic importance of amphibious capabilities in deterring aggression, supporting peacekeeping missions, and asserting national sovereignty.

    The successful execution of Crocodile Lift 2024 reinforced the participating nations’ commitment to maritime security and showcased the professionalism and tactical excellence of their armed forces. Future editions are expected to expand the scope, incorporating additional branches and allies to further enhance operational complexity and collaboration.

  • Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024, a multinational maritime security operation aimed at enhancing regional stability and combatting maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea — Rear Admiral Shehu Gombe

    Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024, a multinational maritime security operation aimed at enhancing regional stability and combatting maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea — Rear Admiral Shehu Gombe


    The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with the French Navy, has officially launched Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024, a multinational maritime security operation aimed at enhancing regional stability and combatting maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea. 

    The event, which took place onboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Navy and its international partners to safeguarding maritime territories and fostering a thriving blue economy.

    Representing the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Rear Admiral Shehu Usman Gombe highlighted the significance of the exercise. “This year’s Crocodile Lift builds upon the success of Exercise Grand African Nemo by focusing on amphibious operations,” he noted. “It offers a unique platform to enhance regional collaboration and develop African-led solutions to transborder maritime threats.”


    The two-day exercise, facilitated under the auspices of the French Commander-in-Chief for the Atlantic, features simulated amphibious operations aimed at combatting piracy, sea robbery, crude oil theft, and other criminal activities. Participating nations include Nigeria, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and other Gulf of Guinea countries.  

    The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, represented by Chief Staff Officer Rear Admiral Abdul Hamid Baba-Inna, emphasized the operational importance of the exercise. “The objective of Crocodile Lift 2024 is to ensure freedom of navigation and create a secure maritime domain conducive to legitimate business activities,” he stated. 

    The FOC informed that the Nigerian Navy has deployed NNS KADA, two Special Boat Service detachments, and helicopters to enhance the operational scenarios.

    On his part, French Consul-General, Laurent Favier, described the exercise as a testament to the enduring Franco-Nigerian maritime partnership, particularly as it precedes President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming state visit to France. “Crocodile Lift symbolizes our shared commitment to maritime security and reinforces the deep ties between our navies,” Favier said. He reiterated France’s decade-long support for Nigeria in combating terrorism through intelligence sharing and capacity building.

    In addition to bolstering maritime security, the exercise aims to foster professional exchanges, enhance interoperability between participating navies, and lay the groundwork for future multinational collaborations. Rear Admiral Gombe reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to protecting the country’s maritime territorial integrity, combatting maritime crimes, and fostering a thriving blue economy.


    Participants were urged to approach the exercise with professionalism and dedication to achieve its objectives. Rear Admiral Gombe concluded by expressing gratitude to international partners for their support, stating, “We remain committed to building partnerships that advance maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.”

    Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024 serves as a crucial step toward regional maritime stability, strengthening international cooperation, and ensuring a secure environment for economic prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.

  • MRS. ZAINAB ALIYU FAROUK MIJINYAWA: Commander 9 Brigade Hosts 81 Division NAOWA Chairperson, Empowers Widows

    MRS. ZAINAB ALIYU FAROUK MIJINYAWA: Commander 9 Brigade Hosts 81 Division NAOWA Chairperson, Empowers Widows


    The Chairperson NAOWA 81 Division Chapter, Mrs. Zainab Aliyu Farouk Mijinyawa along with her entourage, paid a familiarization visit to Headquarters 9 Brigade Nigerian Army and NAOWA 9 Brigade Zone on 15 October 2024. She was warmly received by the Commander 9 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Olawale Mathew Oyekola, as well as members of NAOWA and NASWA 9 Brigade Zone. Following the reception, Mrs. Mijinyawa who had earlier in the morning visited 174 Battalion, Odogunyan Barracks, Ikorodu, was given a guided tour of the NAOWA Schools and the 9 Brigade Medical Center before being formally received at the Brigade’s Conference Room.

    In her remarks, the Chairperson stated that her visit was to familiarize herself with the various formations and key establishments within the 81 Division’s area of responsibility and to engage in heartfelt discussions with members of NAOWA and NASWA. She expressed gratitude to the Commander 9 Brigade for his warm reception. She equally appreciated the Commander for his sustained efforts at impacting on the lives of the entire Cantonment community, especially women and children.

    During her visit to the 9 Brigade Nigerian Army, NAOWA 81 Division Chapter Chairperson, Mrs. Zainab Aliyu Farouk Mijinyawa, participated in a Widows’ Empowerment Programme organized by NAOWA 9 Brigade Zonal Coordinator, Mrs. Olubukola Olayinka Oyekola, in collaboration with honorary members of the 9 Brigade Officers’ Mess. The event featured the distribution of palliatives to widows and presentation of cheques for tuition fees of their children attending Command Day Secondary School within the Cantonment, demonstrating NAOWA’s commitment to supporting vulnerable families. The initiative was aimed to support widows in the Cantonment and alleviate their hardships amid the current economic challenges. Items distributed to the beneficiaries included cartons of Indomie noodles and Golden Penny noodles, bags of rice, vegetable oils, cooking ingredients and bread. The tuition covering 3 terms for 17 selected children of the widows was covered by the Zonal Coordinator, Mrs Olubukola Oyekola.

    Following the Widows’ Empowerment Programme, the Chairperson was hosted alongside her entourage at the 9 Brigade Officers’ Mess to a lunch by the Zonal Coordinator NAOWA 9 Brigade Zone. The lunch was equally attended by the officers of the Brigade and the Honourary Members of the Brigade Officers’ Mess in honour of the visiting Chairperson 81 Division NAOWA Chapter.

    The visit was climaxed with a presentation of souvenirs by the Commander 9 Brigade Nigerian Army and the Zonal Coordinator to the Chairperson and her entourage, including group photographs.

    KABIRAT ABOSEDE AKIODE
    Lieutenant
    Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
    9 Brigade Nigerian Army

  • INDUCTION OF 243 RECCE BATTALION NIGERIAN ARMY INTO JTF SW OP AWATSE AND LAUNCH OF OP WATER GUARD II IN BADAGRY

    INDUCTION OF 243 RECCE BATTALION NIGERIAN ARMY INTO JTF SW OP AWATSE AND LAUNCH OF OP WATER GUARD II IN BADAGRY


    The Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command and Task Force Commander Joint Task Force South West OP AWATSE; Rear Admiral MB Hassan on Tuesday 15 October 2024 inducted 243 Recce Battalion Nigerian Army into the JTF SW OP AWATSE and launched Operation WATERGUARD II. The event was held at 243 Recce Battalion Parade ground, Ibereko, Badagry.

    While delivering his remarks, the FOC WEST stated that the aim of incorporating 243 Recce Battalion into the JTF SW OP AWATSE was to enhance operational capability to address challenges of smuggling and other related illegal activities along Badagry axis. He further stated that the inclusion of the Nigerian Army will add more impetus on land to what the operation has been doing in the maritime space and the littoral of Badagry general area. The launch of Operation WATERGUARD II was conceptualised to boost the efforts of the troops for joint action in Badagry in curtailing smuggling and other criminal activities.

    In attendance of the event was the Chief Staff Officer 81 Division Nigerian Army, Brig Gen Agbi who ably represented the GOC 81 Division, Comd NNS BEECROFT, Cdre RT Oladejo, COO WEST, Cdre AO Ojebode, Comd NAB, Cdre SO Ega. Others are Unit Commanders and representatives of DSS, NPF, NSCDC, FRSC Badagry Division.
    Relevant pictures attached, Sir.

  • 81 DIV NA Launches Investigation Into Death of Police Officer In Lagos

    81 DIV NA Launches Investigation Into Death of Police Officer In Lagos

    The Headquarters of 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) has announced the commencement of an investigation into an unfortunate incident that resulted in the death of a police officer in Lagos on October 9, 2024. The incident occurred following an altercation between a soldier and the policeman, reportedly over a traffic rule violation.

    According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the division, the soldier involved in the incident has been apprehended and handed over to the Military Police for investigation and disciplinary action.

    The Army expressed deep regret over the tragic event, emphasizing its adherence to the Nigerian Army Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement. The statement highlighted that the Army has continuously sensitized its personnel to avoid actions that could damage its reputation and undermine trust between the military, other security agencies, and the civilian population.

    The General Officer Commanding 81 Division extended condolences to the family of the deceased officer and the Nigeria Police Force. The division assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted, and appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken to ensure justice is served.

    The statement reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to collaborating with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property, in line with its constitutional mandate.

  • Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Calls for AI Integration, Local Refinery Ownership to Tackle Energy Security, Crude Oil Theft

    Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Calls for AI Integration, Local Refinery Ownership to Tackle Energy Security, Crude Oil Theft

    The President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Engr. Festus Osifo had called for greater integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and local ownership of refineries to boost energy security and address crude oil theft in the country. 

    This resolution came at the conclusion of the 3rd edition of the PENGASSAN Energy and Labour Summit (PEALS 2024), held from August 21st to 23rd, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

    With the theme, “The Future of Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Industry: Energy Mix, Energy Security, Artificial Intelligence, Divestment and Crude Oil Theft,” the summit brought together industry stakeholders to address key challenges facing the sector. Among the most pressing issues was the urgent need for technological advancements to combat crude oil theft and improve operational efficiency in the energy supply chain.

    During a press briefing, Osifo outlined key resolutions from the summit, emphasizing that Nigeria must prioritize technology-driven solutions to safeguard its oil and gas industry. 

    “AI-powered surveillance, predictive analytics, and automated threat detection systems are no longer optional but essential to combat crude oil theft and ensure the integrity of our infrastructure,” Osifo stated. He added that the government must intensify efforts to restore the country’s four refineries, with private investors holding majority shares to enhance operational efficiency and ensure long-term energy security.

    Osifo further called on the federal government to increase its stake in the Dangote Refinery from the current 7% to 45%, stating that this move would significantly boost domestic petroleum production and reduce the country’s dependence on fuel imports. 

    He also highlighted the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix to include renewable energy sources, noting that the summit stressed the need for investment in solar, wind, and hydrogen energy as the world moves toward a greener future. 

    The PENGASSAN president expressed optimism that with the right policies and collaborations, Nigeria’s oil and gas industry can overcome its current challenges. He urged all stakeholders to act swiftly on the summit’s recommendations to secure a sustainable energy future for the nation. 

    The next PENGASSAN Energy and Labour Summit is scheduled for August 2025.

  • FEATURE: How Long Will Yahaya Bello Continue With This Lawless Act? — By Richards Ibe

    FEATURE: How Long Will Yahaya Bello Continue With This Lawless Act? — By Richards Ibe

    The ex-Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who handed over to the current governor of the state, Usman Ododo in January this year after his two terms of four-years-tenure, has consistently been in the news in the past eight months.

    It has been from one drama to the other bordering on his stewardship and how he handled the affairs of the state under his tenure.

    Bello, who was alleged to have defrauded the state to the tune of N84 billion during his tenure, have done everything in and out of the books to avoid his trial spearheaded by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    On Thursday, March 14, 2024, the EFCC had dragged the former governor before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja for alleged N84 billion money laundering offences, alongside his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Sulaiman and Abdulsalam Hudu.

    The Anti-graft agency was prosecuting the quartet on an amended 17-count charge of money laundering, breach of trust and misappropriation of fund to tune of N84, 062,406,089.88 (Eighty-four Billion, Sixty-two Million, Four Hundred and Six Thousand, Eighty-nine Naira, Eighty-eight Kobo).

    To make way for Yahaya Bello’s inclusion in the trial, prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, informed the court of an application before it for the amendment of the charges against the defendants, dated February 5, 2024, and filed the same day.

    After prayers that the amended charges be read to the defendants for them to take their pleas, the judge had granted the prayer, overruling objections from A.M Aliyu SAN, and Olusegun Joolawo SAN, counsels to Ali Bello and Suleiman, first and second defendants.

    Count one of the charges had read: “That you, Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman, Yahaya Adoza Bello (still at large) and Abdulsalam Hudu (still at large), sometime in September, 2015 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired amongst yourselves to convert the total sum of N80,246,470,089.88 (Eighty Billion, Two Hundred and Forty-six Million, Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand, Eighty-nine Naira, Eighty-eight Kobo), which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity to wit: criminal breach of trust and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(b) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended.”

    Also distancing itself from the proceeds of fraud, the American International School, Abuja had in April 2024 refunded to the EFCC the sum of $760,000 paid by Yahaya Bello as advanced school fees for his children at the tail end of his administration as governor of Kogi State.

    Bello was alleged to have paid $720,000 in advance as fees for five of his children in Grade Levels 2 to 8 in the school from the coffers of the Kogi State Government.

    Confirming the development in April, the EFCC Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, had declared “The school has refunded the entire $760, 000 to the EFCC’s recovery account,”

    Going into hiding, Yahaya Bello had severally refused to appear in court in person to clear the allegations raised against him.

    Some eminent Nigerians had pleaded with Yahaya Bello to come out and answer the charges against him and that he should not be giving former governors bad name.

    One of those who gave the advice was the immediate-past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, on Sunday, 28th of April 2024.

    Speaking at a Redeemed Christian Church of God in Makurdi, Benue State during the thanksgiving service organised by his aides for his 63rd birthday celebration, Ortom advised Bello to come out of hiding and answer his case with the EFCC.

    Ortom had said that Yahaya Bello’s continued hiding would bring disgrace to former governors across the country.

    “I want to use this opportunity to advise my younger brother and friend, Governor Yahaya Bello, not to disgrace former governors.

    “You don’t need to hide. You don’t need to resist arrest or anything. Go there and respond. The EFCC (officials) are human beings. If they are making inquiries, the laws are there.

    “I have tried to get him on the phone, but I could not. I have tried those around him but I could not, so I want this to be noted. Wherever he is, if he can hear me, thank God the press is here, he should come out.” Ortom had stated.

    Even though immunity no longer covers the ex-Governor, he has reportedly been assisted to evade arrest by his successor, Kogi State Governor Ododo, presently enjoying immunity as the sitting governor of the North Central state.

    To ensure that justice is served, some eminent Nigerians have also called on Governor Ododo to hand over Yahaya Bello to the law for prosecution.

    A political activist, Usman Okai Austin had cautioned Governor Ododo against being hypocritical and obstructing anti-graft war.

    He had charged Ododo to demonstrate his dedication to fighting corruption by taking concrete steps to hand over Yahaya Bello to the EFCC for investigation.

    In a statement, Okai had also questioned Ododo’s commitment to fighting corruption, particularly in light of allegations that he is protecting Bello.

    He criticized the enacted Kogi State anti-corruption Bill under Ododo, as he accused Ododo of hypocrisy and labeled the legislation as a mockery of the entire anti-corruption system.

    Okai cited and faulted an occasion when Ododo was reportedly seen “accompanying Bello to a Sallah celebration in Okene, despite Bello’s alleged involvement in corrupt activities.

    “This perceived complicity has raised concerns about the governor’s true intentions in the fight against corruption and has prompted calls for him to take decisive action to uphold the rule of law.

    “As a prominent figure in Kogi State politics, it is imperative that governor Ododo addresses these concerns and takes concrete steps to demonstrate his commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance in Kogi State.

    “Despite his declaration to ‘attack corrupt practices and make it impossible for corruption to thrive,’ his actions suggest otherwise.

    “To genuinely demonstrate his dedication to fighting corruption, Governor Ododo must take concrete steps, such as handing Yahaya Bello over to the EFCC for investigation.

    “Until then, his actions will be seen as hypocritical and obstructing the anti-corruption war.

    “We urge Governor Ododo to practice what he preaches and take meaningful action against corruption by handing over the wanted Bello to the EFCC.”

    A popular activist lawyer, Deji Adeyanju also charged Governor Ododo to hand over his predecessor, Yahaya Bello to the EFCC for trial.

    “Ododo, the impunity-loving governor of Kogi State should hand over Yahaya Bello to the EFCC to face trial for all his corrupt acts.” Adeyanju wrote on his Facebook page.

    While Ododo has failed to heed the advice, the anti-graft agency has been seeking ways to bring Yahaya Bello to justice.

    In an attempt to bring the ex-Governor to justice, some EFCC operatives had on Wednesday 17th of April 2024 stormed Yahaya Bello’s Abuja home at Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

    Ododo had reportedly assisted in whisking away Bello in his official car from the scene to evade the arrest.

    Kicking against the EFCC move, the ex-governor’s media office, in a statement, had claimed that the presence of the operatives in Bello’s residence negated the order of injunction granted on February 9, 2024, by the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division, in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Yahaya Bello v. EFCC, restraining the commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining, or prosecuting him, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.

    Despite Yahaya Bello been declared wanted and going into hiding for several months, especially after the sting operation in his Abuja home, he is reported to be perpetually hanging around his successor Ododo to evade arrest.

    On Wednesday September 18th 2024, Yahaya Bello came out of hiding for months and visited the EFCC office in the company of Ododo.

    At the EFCC office, he was said to have snapped pictures with security guards, and to create the impression that he has turned himself in to the anti-graft agency.

    But the EFCC was said to have been hindered from arresting Yahaya Bello as Ododo’s governorship immunity prevented the operatives from taking further action.

    Doing otherwise, would have resulted in confrontation between the security personnel protecting the governor and the anti-graft agency, which may lead to gun duel and lost of lives.

    Speaking on the latest development on Wednesday, EFCC officials said Ododo helped Bello to escape again just like in April.

    One of the officials said, “Yahaya Bello has not been arrested. The Kogi State governor prevented operatives from doing their work yesterday just like he did the other time. He took him away and our men could not do anything because of the immunity he (Ododo) is enjoying.”

    In another attempt to get Bello to answer the charges against him, EFCC operatives again on the same night of Wednesday September 18th 2024 stormed the Kogi State Government Lodge in Abuja.

    Yahaya Bello, again was reported to have evaded arrest by EFCC operatives with the assistance of his successor, Governor Ododo, leveraging on the immunity being enjoyed by Ododo as a sitting governor.

    Apart from Ododo’s immunity covering, which Yahaya Bello has been hiding under in the past eight months, some questions are also now on the lips of some well-meaning Nigerians.

    Topmost of these questions is if Yahaya Bello is also getting support and protection from another influencial personality in the Presidency, who has security background.

    With these dodging of the law going on for months, it is hightime the fight against corruption in the country is really allowed to thrive.

    As a matter of urgency, Yahaya Bello should immediately turn himself in for the N84 billion money laundering trial.

    He should have nothing to fear if his hands are clean and has served the people of Kogi State to the best of his ability for eight years.

    Even though Bello played a great role in Ododo’s emergence as the governor of Kogi State, Ododo should now start concentrating on serving the good people of Kogi State as he has sworn to do and allow Bello to carry his cross and face the course of the law.

    Any other influencial person backing Yahaya Bello in the Presidency, irrespective of whatever he has gained from Bello in the past, should also stop forthwith in order not to soil the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who didn’t shy away from suspending a Minister linked to corruption.

  • FOB Navy Seizes Sacks of Cannabis Sativa, Hands Over to NDLEA

    FOB Navy Seizes Sacks of Cannabis Sativa, Hands Over to NDLEA


    The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted and handed over 30 sacks of cannabis sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    On 13 August 2024, the Base Quick Response Team, acting on credible human intelligence, located a stash of illegal hard drugs suspected to be cannabis sativa at a facility known as Tenshop, near a mosque opposite the Iyafin community. Despite extensive searches of the surrounding areas, no suspects were apprehended as they fled upon the team’s arrival.

    In accordance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) 2016, Lieutenant Commander BI Zoaka, the Base Operations Officer, officially handed over the drugs to Assistant Commander of Narcotics Emmanuel Ogbogoh, the Assistant Area Commander Operations and Training at the NDLEA Seme Arca Command in Badagry, on 12 September 2024.

    This operation is part of the broader Operation WATER GUARD, launched by Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan on 9 November 2023. The operation aims to curb smuggling and other criminal activities within the Western Naval Command Area of Operation (AOO), ensuring regional security and economic stability. The continued efforts of the Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry align with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 2023-6, which focuses on maintaining a secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

    The Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to maritime security and the enforcement of laws to safeguard the region’s economic interests and public safety.

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