Ukeme Eyibio's Blogosphere

A contingent of officers from the Department of State Security (DSS) this evening surrounded the home of two Nigerian federal judges, Nnamdi Dimgba and Adebiyi Ademola. The federal judges currently reside at 32 and 34 Samuel Ogbemudia Cresent in the Apo Legislative Quarters of Abuja. The invading officers arrived and surrounded Justice Dimgba’s home around 9PM Nigerian time, according to sources speaking to SaharaReporters. Shortly after the siege, neighbors of the judge told SaharaReporters that the DSS agents began breaking into his compound with a sledgehammer. Mr. Dimgba was reportedly not at home at the time of the invasion. However, a source said DSS had been uncomfortable with recent rulings by the judge and because of his vocal criticism of DSS for violating rights of persons detained at its facility. Another source revealed that they believed Mr. Dimgba was being targeted unfairly by DSS as a form of punishment. On July 22nd, 2016 he berated DSS for not presenting Air Comm

Borno State capital Maiduguri today October 1st 2016 and Nigeria’s 56th independence anniversary was celebrated by the Army through the handing over of 348 "suspected" but "cleared" Boko Haram suspects to the Borno State Government. The General Officer Commanding, 7 Division Nigeria Army, Victor Ezugwu, said the army had upon the directives of the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, investigated the suspects who were arrested at different locations in the state and those who were innocent were released unconditionally. Some of the cleared suspects said it took the army over five months to screen them and establish that they did nothing wrong. The Brigadier General, said “the review of the cases of terrorists suspects in our custody involves a painstaking and continuous process as directed by the Chief of Army Staff who emplaced measures to guarantee societal and individual human rights”. Among those cleared were 114 males, 107 females, and 127 children. Among th

Margaret Emefiele, wife of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, who was kidnapped by heavily armed abductors on Thursday, has been released.  Mrs. Emefiele who was kidnapped along the Benin-Agbor Road on Thursday alongside four others was released exactly 1 am Nigeria time.  It is further speculated that the kidnappers who earlier demanded N1.5 billion released Mrs. Emefiele after receiving N80 million ransom. The Police Public Relations Officer of Delta State has just confirmed the release,  but declined to comment on the issue of ransom being paid.

The India Vice President,  Mr.  Mohammad Hamid Ansari and his wife,  yesterday, arrived Nigeria, for a 3 day working visit. He was received the airport, by His Excellency, Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbanjo and his Wife. The Indian Vice President will on this trip,  discuss bilateral relationship between the two countries and ways of opening up opportunities for businesses. It would be recalled that Nigeria is being praised for her present stance on corruption as most countries have reiterated it's support on doing more for the West African Country.

Celestine Akpobari, an environmental activist who visited the site, said the inferno occurred just a few meters away from a military surveillance post. A trunk line carrying crude oil in the Goi community in the Ogoniland area of Rivers State became engulfed in dark plums of smoke and flames on Monday morning. The trunk line belongs to the Shell Petroleum Development Company. Celestine Akpobari, an environmental activist who visited the site, said the inferno occurred just a few meters away from a military surveillance post. According to her, the fire immediately followed the sound of an eruption affecting the Agbada/Bomu trunk line. "Goi, another Ogoni community, is on fire this early morning from an eruption on the 28-inch Agbada/Bomu trunkline belonging to Shell, which is just a few meters from the surveillance post," she told our correspondent. "The first eruption which led to a serious fire outbreak occurred in the same community last July 10, 2016, leading to a

In a statement released by the Nigerian Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, disclosed that the troops dealt a decisive blow to Boko Haram fighters who attempted to attack a military location. Colonel Usman said the members of the terrorist group had launched their attack around 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 22, 2016, adding that the battle with the insurgents lasted for about two hours.  Nigerian soldiers involved in Operation LAFIYA DOLE, a multinational Joint Task Force, today, routed Islamist insurgents belonging to Boko Haram in Abadam, Borno State.  “During the fierce battle, the troops killed 15 of the insurgents, with many escaping with gunshot wounds,” said the military spokesman. He revealed that two soldiers lost their lives in the exchange of gunfire, with four soldiers wounded in action.  According to Colonel Usman, the Nigerian troops recovered one gun truck, one 60mm mortar tube, seven 60mm mortar bombs, a General Purpose Machine (GPMG), three damaged AK-4

Results of the selection examination conducted on the 6th of August 2016 for Course 4 of the Nigerian Police Academy,  Wudii, Kano State,  has been released. Candidates who applied and sat for the examinations are advised to check Daily Trust Newspaper of September 23rd 2016 to see if they are successful and hence get prepared to face the Selection Board.  This was contained in a statement release by The Registrar Mohammed Ghali Usman.

The Nigerian Police Force, yesterday,  announced plans to upgrade facilities at the Police Counter-Terrorism Unit Training School in Norway, Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State.  The school,  currently headed by ACP Ebong Eyibio has over the years turned out elite forces capable of withstanding and overpowering elements of the terror group, Boko Haram and other militia groups from other parts of the country.  The  upgrade is in addition to the establishment of a Marine Police Training School in Bayelsa State, in order to dominate the creeks of the Niger Delta region. Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, made the disclosure on Wednesday while addressing Commanders of counter-terrorism and special police units in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. He also revealed plans by the police authority to reposition the special units of the force, in line with global standards. The Police Chief warned various Commanders of special police units to ensure strict obs

Students mainly Islamic took to the streets of Abuja,  the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday to demand the release of Sheikh El-Zakzaky Leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria , who has been in military detention since December 2015. The Sheikh was arrested after a clash between members of his Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), a Shi'ia group, and the military, which left at least 347 Islamic Movement of Nigeria dead The protesters tendered a statement concerning the protest.  PRESS RELEASE OUR DEMAND IS SIMPLE: IMMEDIATE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF OUR LEADER, SHAIKH ZAKZAKY, HIS WIFE AND OTHERS We are all aware of the unfortunate event that occurred at Zaria between 12th and 14th December 2015. Proofs abound to establish that the operations by the Nigerian Army were well coordinated and preplanned. It was not as a result of provocations due to "clash". Independent investigations by renowned and reputable human rights organizations have affirmed gross violation

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, had his election upheld moments ago by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. This news follows a protracted political and legal battle for the governorship in Kogi State following the death of gubernatorial candidate Abubakar Audu moments before his confirmation by the Independent National Election Commission (INEC). Our correspondent at the Supreme Court learned that the seven-man panel, lead by Justice Sylvester Nguta, dismissed the appeals filed by the former running mate of Mr. Audu, James Faleke and others. The justices stated that justification for their decision would be provided on September 30th. The court’s decision, which was unanimous, made judicial history because the situation had never been accounted for in existing constitutional laws.

Today afternoon, suspected elements  of the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists who were foraging for food, ambushed troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE escorting commercial vehicles from Damboa to Maiduguri, at Sanda general area, Borno State. Unfortunately, 5 civilians lost their lives at the incident and another died on the way to the hospital. Three soldiers also sustained injuries. The wounded have been evacuated to Maiduguri. Consequently, another robust patrol team has been despatched to reinforce the troops, clear the general area and pursue the terrorists. This unfortunate incident has brought to the fore the need for more vigilance and cooperation amongst all. We would like to assure the public that we would not allow this isolated incident to thwart the peace and security commuters enjoy along the route and all other opened routes in the North East. Troops are on the heels of the attackers and would not relent till they are apprehended or killed. Additional secu

Aisha Buhari, Wife of Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari and her delegates at a health forum organized by the United Nations General Assembly UNGA in New York City, United States of America.

Nigerian Army via the Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has issued a warning to journalists against embarking on coverage of security risk areas in the North East for documentary purpose and the likes without due authorization from the military authorities. Its spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, in a statement on Wednesday said the practice was not only capable of jeopardizing the success of the on-going military operations in the area but also posed great concern to the safety of such journalists. Continuing he said, “Much as the military is not trying to gag the press from carrying out their legitimate duties, permission should be sought from the Armed Forces before embarking on such venture. “This will enable adequate security to be provided for such journalists by the military. Even though Boko Haram has been substantially decimated any roaming journalist could be a target of unsuspecting fleeing Boko Haram member and this will not be in the best interest of media organizations a

Troops of 223 Battalion, 1 Brigade, 1 Division Nigerian Army, have continued to raid and clear suspected livestock rustlers and armed bandits camps in Zamfara State. The troops during a raid on suspected armed bandits camp at Dumburum forest, Zurmi Local Government, killed 7 livestock rustlers and recovered large quantity of ammunition and a pair of military camouflage uniform. Similarly, the troops also cleared suspected armed bandits camp at Bagega general area in Anka Local Government Area. Although the bandits managed to escape, an abandoned motorcycle was recovered and the camp was destroyed. The troops also proceeded and cleared livestock rustlers and armed bandits camps located at Gando forest, near Baruba village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of the State. The troops killed 8 armed bandits during an exchange of gunfire.  The troops have also mobilized to Kalgo village in Maru Local Government Area in pursuit of armed bandits that attacked the village. Colonel S

Troops of 223 Battalion, 1 Brigade, 1 Division Nigerian Army, have continued to raid and clear suspected livestock rustlers and armed bandits camps in Zamfara State. The troops during a raid on suspected armed bandits camp at Dumburum forest, Zurmi Local Government, killed 7 livestock rustlers and recovered large quantity of ammunition and a pair of military camouflage uniform. Similarly, the troops also cleared suspected armed bandits camp at Bagega general area in Anka Local Government Area. Although the bandits managed to escape, an abandoned motorcycle was recovered and the camp was destroyed. The troops also proceeded and cleared livestock rustlers and armed bandits camps located at Gando forest, near Baruba village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of the State. The troops killed 8 armed bandits during an exchange of gunfire.  The troops have also mobilized to Kalgo village in Maru Local Government Area in pursuit of armed bandits that attacked the village. Colonel S

Following reported observed  activities of remnants of Boko Haram terrorists around Jororo and Tombaeji villages in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE carried out a clearance operation within the area  in the early hours of Wednesday 14th September 2016.  The fighting patrol team sent came into contact with Boko Haram terrorists elements around Gajire village during which there was a firefight that lasted for about 15 minutes.  The gallant troops overpowered the terrorists and killed 4 of them and captured 1 alive. The victorious troops also recovered 2 General Purpose Machine Guns (GMPG), 2 AK-47 Rifles and 144 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition from the terrorists. In addition, they also recovered 2 KASEA branded motorcycles.  The troops have continued to patrol the general area in search of possible remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists that might be hibernating in the area. The ever vigilant troops of Operation LAFIYA DOL

The four companies charged with money laundering, alongside a former Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Waripamo-Owei Dudafa, have pleaded guilty to the offence. The four companies pleaded guilty to conspiring with Dudafa; a lawyer, Amajuoyi Briggs; and a banker, Adedamola Bolodeoku, to launder a sum of  $15,591,700 on or about November 13, 2013. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, while arraigning the seven accused before a Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday, told the court that the $15.6m was proceeds of theft. Though Dudafa, Briggs and Bolodeoku pleaded not guilty to the amended 15 counts pressed against them by the EFCC, the four companies charged along with them owned up to committing the offence. The four companies pleaded guilty to conspiring with Dudafa and the two others to launder a sum of  $15,591,700 before a Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday. The companies are: Pluto Property and Investment Company L

Josephine Orji, a Nigerian athlete has just shattered the World Record with a lift of 160kg to win the gold medal in the Women’s -84kg Power-lifting event at the ongoing Paralympics Games in Rio, Brazil. The latest gold medal is Nigeria’s 8th at the event. Nigeria now has 11 medals and is 10th on the overall medals table. Nigerian athlete, Josephine Orji, has just shattered the World Record with a lift of 160kg to win the gold medal in the Women’s -84kg Power-lifting event at the ongoing Paralympics Games in Rio, Brazil. The latest gold medal is Nigeria’s 8th at the event. Nigeria now has 11 medals and is 10th on the overall medals table

Nigeria's former President Dr.  Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on Tuesday September 13th met with, Ibrahim Bambangida also a former Head of State in Minna, Niger State.  The former president also proceeded to visit another former military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, also in Minna, the Niger State capital. At about 11am Goodluck Jonathan arrived Babangida’s residence and spent about one hour with his host before he left for Albdulsalami's Abubakar’s house which is right opposite IBB’s home. It was gathered that Jonathan was accompanied to the two former Nigerian leaders by a former Minister of State for Finance, Bashir Yuguda, from Zamfara State and his former Chief of Staff, Chief Mike Oghiadome, from Edo State. The details of the discussions between the former Nigerian leaders were not made known to journalists. But it was gathered that IBB and Jonathan held a closed-door meeting for about 50 minutes. While the meeting was going on, it was gathered that  Yu

One of the leading and  biggest airline operators in Nigeria, Arik Air, just announced suspension of services this evening,  this is coming on the heels of the present economic growth of the country. Earlier,  Aero Contractors Airlines another operator also suspended operations,  this is coming at the heels of incessant power outage a most international airports across the country with the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos  State being the most affected. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN, has issued a notice asking passengers to be calm,  as it is on the heels of the matter.