Category: News

  • Suspected Serial Murderer/Cultist Apprehended, Cache Of Weapons Seized

    Suspected Serial Murderer/Cultist Apprehended, Cache Of Weapons Seized

    In a significant breakthrough, law enforcement authorities have successfully apprehended a suspected serial murderer and cultist in Oghara, with the recovery of firearms and a stolen luxury vehicle.

    The suspect’s arrest comes after a series of gruesome murders rocked the community, leaving residents in fear and mourning.

    The unfolding events follow the tragic killing of Destiny Idi, a 27-year-old resident of Ovade Community on Ovie Road. Acting swiftly, Commissioner of Police CP Wale Abass instructed DPO Oghara CSP Olasunkanmi Musiliu to uncover the truth behind the crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    A relentless effort was launched, as DPO Musiliu led his team, supported by the division’s Anti-Crime Patrol Unit, to delve into the incident.

    With an eyewitness account as a starting point, the investigative team honed in on the suspected mastermind of the crime.

    On the same day, at approximately 1335hrs, the team executed a targeted operation at an undisclosed hotel in Oghara, culminating in the arrest of Charles Debi-Abate, a 39-year-old member of the Aro Bagger confraternity and a native of Oghara.

    Preliminary findings uncovered a chilling web of criminal activities involving the suspect.

    It was revealed that Debi-Abate was implicated in the murder of Onyekachi Chibuzor, known as “ODOGWU,” aged 42, on the 28th of July, 2023.

    The suspect’s history was linked to multiple cult-related assaults targeting perceived rivals within the Oghara community.

    Although the suspect denied direct involvement in the murder of Solomon Idi, he pointed authorities towards two other individuals, Onyeka and Paul, as the culprits responsible for the heinous crime.

    In a follow-up operation on the 9th of August, 2023, law enforcement officers proceeded to the locations associated with Onyeka and Paul. Unfortunately, both were absent.

    However, a thorough search of their premises yielded a startling discovery – two English pump-action shotguns, twenty live cartridges, and a stolen GLK Benz SUV bearing the registration number RBC-995-DG.

    Currently, the arrested suspects are in custody, and the recovered evidence is secured as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are pursuing an intense manhunt for Onyeka and Paul, aiming to bring them to justice for their alleged roles in the crimes.

    The swift and coordinated efforts of law enforcement demonstrate a commitment to maintaining public safety and instilling confidence within the community.

    As the investigation progresses, the Oghara community and the nation at large await further developments in this high-stakes case.

  • Wema Bank Collaborates With Enza Group To Enhance E-commerce Payment Acceptance

    Wema Bank Collaborates With Enza Group To Enhance E-commerce Payment Acceptance

    L-R: Divisional Head, Payment Business, Wema Bank, Damola Bolodeoku, CEO of enza, Hany Fekry and Wema Bank’s Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku at the unveiling of the partnership on Thursday in Lagos

    Enza’s revolutionary Payment Orchestration is set to empower Wema Bank with the ability to offer secure and dependable payment solutions, all while reducing operational costs.

    In a groundbreaking development, Enza, a highly acclaimed disruptor in the African payments sector, has unveiled a strategic partnership with Wema Bank, known for its innovation in Nigeria’s banking landscape.

    This collaboration will see Enza employ its cutting-edge payment orchestration solution to expand Wema Bank’s e-commerce payment capabilities, leading to an elevated merchant service quality, heightened payment security, improved service reliability, and a substantial reduction in operational expenses through optimized transactions.

    Wema Bank, renowned for its progressive mindset and dedication to innovation, will harness the power of Enza’s payment orchestration prowess to enrich its existing e-commerce payment services.

    As the pioneer of Africa’s premier fully digital bank, ALAT, and one of Nigeria’s most esteemed financial institutions, Wema Bank is advancing its digital transformation journey with this alliance, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in revolutionizing payment practices in Nigeria.

    The Enza payment orchestration service promises an array of advantages for Wema’s business customers and individuals alike.

    Merchants will enjoy an enhanced suite of payment processing features, enabling them to accept an extensive array of payment methods, spanning payment cards, e-wallets, and more.

    The optimized and robust payment processes will ensure swift and seamless transactions, thus enhancing the overall customer experience for both payers and recipients.

    Enza has been making waves in the industry since its emergence in the latter part of the previous year.

    “Our mission is to simplify payments across the region, thereby enabling seamless and secure transactions across the Middle East and Africa,” said Hany Fekry, the CEO of Enza. “This new partnership with a premier Nigerian bank further accelerates our progress towards that goal.”

    The Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, explains that this innovation is designed to empower the bank’s customers by offering them a broader range of payment options, including various payment cards and e-wallets.

    He believes that these streamlined and resilient payment processes will ensure quick and seamless transactions, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience for both those making payments and those receiving them.

    The Divisional Head of Payment Business at Wema Bank, Damola Bolodeoku, highlighted the synergy between this partnership and the bank’s overarching commitment to consistent innovation and improving their services.

    Bolodeoku affirms, “As an establishment that takes pride in its role as a digital frontrunner within the banking sector, we are enthralled to synergize with enza Group to introduce a revolutionary e-commerce payment gateway solution.

    Through this synergy, we ardently anticipate amplifying our e-commerce payment capacities and delivering heightened value to our customers through all avenues.”

    In an area characterized by swift advancements in digital payment technologies, this collaboration offers Enza and Wema Bank an opportunity to reshape the e-commerce payment sector.

    The financial institution and its clientele stand to gain from heightened security, exceptional service dependability, and notably decreased expenses.

  • International Delegations Join Forces With Nigerian Police Commission To Combat Human Rights Abuses

    International Delegations Join Forces With Nigerian Police Commission To Combat Human Rights Abuses

    In a promising show of global collaboration, two distinguished delegations from the United States of America and the United Kingdom paid a courtesy visit to the Corporate Headquarters of the Police Service Commission (PSC) in Jabi, Abuja.

    The delegations were warmly received today by the Chairman of the Commission, and retired Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase.

    Highlighting their commitment to fostering positive change, the delegations seized the opportunity to explore the Commission’s recently established Compliance Monitoring Unit (CMU).

    This innovative platform serves as a tracking mechanism for public complaints against active Nigeria Police Officers, with the shared objective of significantly reducing instances of human rights abuses by law enforcement.

    The leader of the United States delegation, Jason A. Smith, Director of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, emphasized the collaborative nature of their mission.

    Smith expressed the United States’ strong dedication to enhancing the rule of law, particularly within Nigeria’s law enforcement sector. The establishment of the CMU was lauded as a pivotal step in bolstering transparency and accountability.

    From the United Kingdom, Chris Grimson, representing the National Crime Agency’s Anti-Kidnap and Extortion Unit (AKEU), extended a firm hand of partnership. Grimson shared his commitment to strengthening Nigerian law enforcement by offering specialized training for the personnel of the Nigeria Police.

    He highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and effective investigation techniques as crucial tools in fostering cooperation between the Police and other security agencies within the nation.

    During the meeting, Chairman Dr. Solomon Arase articulated the aspirations of the Nigerian people for a responsible Police Force that respects the fundamental human rights of all citizens.

    Recognizing the urgent need to address concerns related to human rights abuses, he shared the rationale behind the establishment of the Compliance Monitoring Unit.

    This unit is geared towards safeguarding citizens’ rights and holding accountable those officers who engage in misconduct.

    Dr. Arase firmly conveyed the unity between the Commission’s leadership and the Police force in their unwavering commitment to eradicating human rights abuses within the country.

    He assured the visiting delegations that there would be no conflicts between the Commission and the Police Management regarding the operations of the CMU.

    The Commission Chairman also underlined his stance against pre-trial detentions by the Police, emphasizing that the Commission would no longer tolerate detentions beyond the legal limits.

    He further announced that officers with pending human rights cases would not be eligible for promotions or postings, unless their cases were thoroughly investigated and resolved by the Police Complaints Unit.

    As the Compliance Monitoring Unit takes shape, Arase appealed for support in expanding the system’s capabilities to effectively track complaints against the Police. The Commission anticipates a surge in reported incidents, underscoring the necessity for advanced systems.

    This landmark collaboration between the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Police Service Commission signifies a powerful collective effort to reshape Nigeria’s law enforcement landscape, ensuring accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights.

    The shared commitment to eradicating human rights abuses is poised to create a lasting impact, fostering a stronger partnership between national and international stakeholders striving for justice and equality.

  • NPF: CRAN Applauds IGP For Reappointing ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi As Spokesperson

    NPF: CRAN Applauds IGP For Reappointing ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi As Spokesperson


    The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) has extended its commendation to the acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for the reappointment of the recently promoted Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, as the official spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force.

    Within CRAN, ACP Adejobi’s performance in enhancing the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force has been exceptional.

    His contributions have been evident not only at the state level, including his commendable service as the public relations officer for the commands in Lagos and Ogun states, but also on a broader scale.

    CRAN is confident that ACP Adejobi’s continued role as the voice of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will lead to stronger collaboration with the public.

    This reappointment is anticipated to invigorate discipline among police personnel and further solidify the principles of modern policing in a democratic society.

    The Inspector-General of Police has charged Mr. Adejobi with the task of building upon his accomplishments, particularly in establishing citizen-centered public relations through media engagement and specialized community interactions.

    According to CRAN “It is our conviction that, leveraging his experience, expertise, and training, he holds the potential to contribute significantly to fostering a more amicable relationship between law enforcement and the public.
    In light of this, we once again express our appreciation to the IGP and extend our congratulations to the reappointed Police Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.”

    The Association urge him to persist in his dedication to serving our beloved nation, Nigeria, with utmost commitment.

  • Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    The Nigerian Army has debunked recent claims circulating in the media regarding the voluntary discharge of 25 soldiers.

    The army’s statement aims to address the misrepresentation and unfounded insinuations that have caused unwarranted concern within the public sphere.

    In response to an article published by Sahara Reporters, an online media outlet, the Nigerian Army has clarified that the voluntary discharge or retirement of soldiers is a routine and well-defined process within the organization. The article had suggested a link between the soldiers’ resignations and alleged corruption within the army, a claim the military vehemently denies.

    The Nigerian Army’s statement emphasized that the soldiers’ voluntary discharge was a result of their personal decisions and compliance with established regulations.

    The army reinforced that it is not a conscript force and that individuals join voluntarily, subject to the terms and conditions stipulated in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen (Revised) 2017.

    This includes the right for personnel to apply for voluntary discharge or retirement when they deem it appropriate and meet the necessary criteria.

    Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, who currently leads the Nigerian Army, reiterated the organization’s commitment to maintaining a supportive and conducive work environment for its personnel.

    The statement highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities, timely disbursement of operational allowances, such as the recently increased Ration Cash Allowance, extensive infrastructure development, and considerable investment in the medical well-being of wounded soldiers.

    Also, the Nigerian Army emphasized its dedication to troops’ welfare, evident in the implementation of a comprehensive plan for troop rotation from the frontline.

    This strategic approach helps overcome issues of overstay and battle fatigue, ultimately contributing to the troops’ overall well-being and effectiveness.

    Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, underlined the importance of public trust and accountability.

    He affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to uphold integrity, professionalism, and transparency in all operations. Nwachukwu cautioned against the media manipulation that could undermine the morale and fighting spirit of the dedicated and patriotic troops who serve the nation.

    The general public is urged to disregard the misleading insinuations presented in the aforementioned publication, as the claims lack substantive evidence. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation’s security, while also ensuring the welfare and motivation of its personnel.

  • IGP Unveils Standard Operating Procedure For The Safe Schools In Nigeria Program

    IGP Unveils Standard Operating Procedure For The Safe Schools In Nigeria Program

    Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has unveiled the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) compendium designed for the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) and orchestrated a workshop centered around the Safe Schools Initiative.

    The event took place during the week, at the Abuja Continental Hotel located in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

    This development follows the recent establishment of the Schools Protection Squad, an elite specialized unit responsible for safeguarding educational institutions nationwide.

    The SOP manual is an all-encompassing document that furnishes precise directives to ensure the seamless functionality of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS).

    It delineates the organizational architecture of the unit, outlines protocols for deployment, and elucidates the ethical standards governing the conduct of officers within the division.

    It also spell out procedures for synergistic operations with other security agencies, aiming to foster a unified strategy in addressing potential threats targeting schools and educational establishments.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) outlined various strategies that the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) will employ to fulfill the objectives of the School Protection Squad.

    These strategies encompass generating information and developing intelligence, fostering community policing partnerships, promoting cooperation between the police and the public, collaborating with other agencies, ensuring security and administration for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), deploying logistical resources, providing humanitarian services, and delivering training to school managers, teachers, and community members on their roles during emergencies.

    The IGP emphasized that the initial phase of this initiative will focus on 18 pilot states that are deemed more vulnerable, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    He assured that the Police Force will diligently assume the responsibility of safeguarding educational institutions from potential threats and dangers.

    He also called upon all stakeholders to join forces in supporting the Federal Government, the Police, and other partners to successfully implement this initiative.

  • Customs Confiscate 2,940 Parcels Of Cannabis Sativa

    Customs Confiscate 2,940 Parcels Of Cannabis Sativa


    A Cannabis Sativa laden boat has been intercepted by the Customs Operatives attached to the Ogun II Area Command.

    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi confirmed the development while underscoring the severe ramifications of unlawful imports, specifically focusing on drugs, on the younger generation.

    He accentuated its role as a substantial menace to public well-being, security, societal advancement, and economic prosperity.

    At an event displaying the latest confiscations of suspected Cannabis Sativa at the Ogun II Area Command on August 7th, 2023, the Acting CGC commended the unwavering dedication of customs officers in thwarting the smuggling of cannabis sativa within Zone A.

    “We are pleased to announce the recent achievements and unwavering dedication of our officers in combating the smuggling of cannabis sativa within Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service,” said Adeniyi.

    The seizures’ particulars encompass the halting of 14,015 packages of Cannabis Sativa by agents of FOU Zone A. The combined mass of the confiscated narcotics tallied up to 7,728 kilograms, equating to a Duty Paid Value of NGN 618,240,000.

    These items were reclaimed from a watercraft in the waterways near the areas of Ajah and Ijebu-ode. Three individuals implicated in the contraband operation were transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for extended scrutiny.

    The Acting CGC also conveyed that collaborative patrol units and border enforcement operatives from sector 2 accomplished comparable confiscations.

    “On August 3rd, 2023, at approximately 0400hrs, a joint patrol team comprising of officers from the Western Marine Command intercepted a wooden boat containing two Yamaha outboard engines (40 Horsepower) and 103 sacks of what appeared to be Cannabis Sativa.

    The substance’s overall mass measured 3,811 kilograms, and it held a Duty Paid Value equivalent to NGN 32,193,000.

    He also revealed a separate confiscation incident that took place at 0315hrs on August 7th, 2023. Valuable intelligence led to the uncovering of 2,940 packages of Cannabis Sativa.

    These parcels had been discreetly stashed amidst a shipment of pineapple fruits, concealed within an unregistered white Fiat bus on Sokoto/Ijoun Road, located in the Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    The apprehended haul included the truck loaded with cannabis sativa, along with the detention of the two suspects associated with the situation.

    In regards to the arrests conducted in relation to these seizures, Adeniyi stated.

    “Two suspects, Mr. Akeem Olatunde – a driver, and Mr. Abdul Nurudeen Adedeji – a passenger, have been apprehended and are currently in custody pending further investigation.”

    He provided reassurance to the population that the service remains unwavering in fulfilling its legal obligations.

    “The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in delivering on its statutory mandates and protecting our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.

    “We assure the public that details of our investigations will be made available to ensure transparency and accountability”, he concluded.

  • IGP Kayode Egbetokun Reappointed ACP Muyiwa Adejobi As FPRO

    IGP Kayode Egbetokun Reappointed ACP Muyiwa Adejobi As FPRO


    After ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, was recently promoted to the position of Assistant Commissioner of Police, the Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has once again designated him as the Force Public Relations Officer.

    The decision stemmed from a recent official communication marked with reference number TH.5361/FS/FHQ/ABJ/V.4/649, dated August 8, 2023, issued by the office of the Force Secretary.

    ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi is a graduate of the distinguished University of Ibadan, where he pursued a Combined Honours degree in Archaeology and Geography.

    He holds a Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from the same institution.

    His professional journey includes serving as the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the Ogun State Command from 2008 to 2016.

    He then assumed the role of PPRO at Zone 2 Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos, in 2016. From September 2020 to August 2021, he held the position of PPRO at the Lagos State Police Command.

    Furthermore, in 2021, he served as the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
    Most recently, he fulfilled the role of Force Public Relations Officer before his current reappointment.

    ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi is affiliated with numerous professional bodies and associations, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the Pointman Leadership Institute in the USA, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in the USA, and the Institute of Corporate Administration in Nigeria, among others.

    The Inspector-General of Police has tasked this senior officer with building upon his accomplishments, particularly in the realm of citizen-oriented public relations, achieved through engagement with the media and various specialized community interactions.

  • Customs Boss Assures Excise Traders And FTZ Enterprises In Ogun State Of Strong Support For Business Growth

    Customs Boss Assures Excise Traders And FTZ Enterprises In Ogun State Of Strong Support For Business Growth


    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has conveyed his dedicated pledge to bolstering the success of stakeholders’ businesses.

    This affirmation took place during his visit to the Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service in Abeokuta, where he was on an introductory tour.

    Interacting with Excise Traders and Free Trade Zone Operators in Ogun State, the Acting CGC emphasized that their activities hold significant importance within the service’s agenda.

    According to him “In his words, “I have made it a deliberate policy to put your operations at the cornerstone of our activities”.

    “My understanding is that you are critical stakeholders for us, it is through your activities that we can report our own activities, and it is, therefore, in our interest that we do everything to ensure that your companies and businesses prosper”, he added.

    “It is not all the time that Customs Officers are overzealous in implementation of the law; most of the time, they keep in their mind the basic objectives behind these entities”, he noted.

    “It is the intention of the government through enterprises to boost foreign exchange for Nigeria and its economy, create jobs for Nigerians, and of course, to enhance Nigeria’s economic development, and this is why a number of concessions, a number of waivers have been granted to free zone operators.”

    The Customs Boss received congratulations from stakeholders regarding his appointment. Simultaneously, concerns about the operations of Free Trade Zones and factories under excise control were also brought up by the stakeholders.

    In reply, the Acting CGC disclosed the establishment of a Committee tasked with tackling these concerns.

    “I have set up a committee consisting of representatives of enterprises, The Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and Oil and Gas Authority, working with representatives from my Office to look into all the areas of concern”.

    While appreciating the Ag. CGC, for his visit, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shauibu, highlighted some of the Command’s achievements.

    “At our level, since we came in, we have brought in about 18 factories under excise control”, he said.

    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs urged the command’s officers to grasp the significance of their operations and contributions to Nigeria’s economic progress.

    He concluded his visit by conducting a tour of the command’s facilities.

  • COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency

    COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency


    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has advocated the sustenance of utilization of emerging technologies for operational efficiency in the Nigerian Army (NA).

    The COAS stated this today Tuesday 8 August 2023, at the Army Headquarters during a paper presentation, titled “Emerging Technologies and Operational Efficiency: Implications for the Nigerian Army by 2035”, presented by participants of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 31.

    Commending the participants for a well researched paper, the Army Chief pointed out, that the paper presentation will revitalize the consciousness of emerging technologies and its implications for operational efficiency.

    The COAS disclosed, that the Nigerian Army as a sub system of the larger society is already keying into emerging technologies in its institutions and establishments, adding that the NA will sustain the development, as it cannot divorce itself completely from the dynamics of both its internal and external environments.

    The COAS averred, that employing emerging technologies has provided the Nigerian Army with improved surveillance capability, enhanced communication, efficient data management, situational awareness and strategic decision-making.

    Earlier, the Commandant National Defence College, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, stated that the presentation unveils the potentials of emerging technologies in significantly impacting on present and future operational engagements of the NA.

    He noted that as technologies continue to advance, the NA must continue to adopt and integrate evolving innovations, in other to maintain a competitive edge in the theatres of operations.

    He asserted, that the NA must continue to aspire to be a driver of technological changes, while constantly providing emerging technologies to enhance decision-making for operational efficiency.

    The event was climaxed with the presentation of a hard copy of the research paper to the COAS.

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