Middle Belt Forum’s Caution on Kaduna Protest Vindicated as Hoodlums Vandalize Government Offices

Kaduna, Nigeria – Following the recent incidents of vandalism and looting during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Kaduna State, the earlier advisory by the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State chapter, urging Middle Belt youths to refrain from participating in the protest appears prescient. The MBF had expressed concerns that the protest, aimed at addressing governance issues, could be exploited by unknown sponsors for ulterior motives, as reported by the Middle Belt Times on July 24, 2024.

The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed that hoodlums vandalized the offices of the State Traffic and Law Environmental Authority (KASTLEA) and the Investment Promotions Agency (KADIPA) during the protest. Additionally, an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) was set ablaze, and numerous shops were looted. Police spokesperson Mansir Hassan informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that 23 suspects have been detained in connection with these incidents.

Hassan also noted that while police personnel did not use live ammunition, they resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd, which attempted to breach the Government House. Several officers sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals.

The MBF’s earlier statement, cautioning against the involvement of Middle Belt youths in the protest, highlighted potential security risks and the possibility of foreign elements escalating the situation into violence. This foresight has been validated by the events that unfolded, underscoring the importance of strategic caution in public demonstrations.

As the situation in Kaduna State continues to unfold, the MBF’s stance serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and unity among residents to safeguard their welfare and the integrity of their collective voice against governance challenges.

For further details on the MBF’s initial advisory, please refer to the original report published by the Middle Belt Times at Middle Belt Times Article.

 One Person Allegedly Shot Dead on Live Video as Violent Clashes Erupt During Protest in Kaduna State

A shocking video has surfaced on social media, showing a person being shot dead during violent clashes between protesters and security forces in Kaduna State. The video, retrieved by a Twitter user, captures the chaotic scene as tensions escalate near the government house.

The protest, which began peacefully in the morning around the NEPA roundabout, quickly turned violent as police officers fired on demonstrators to disperse the crowd. Tear gas filled the air, and reports indicate that at least two protesters were injured, with one feared dead after being hit by a bullet. The police also reported that one of their officers was injured during the confrontation.

The protesters had gathered in large numbers to voice their dissatisfaction with government policies and programs. However, the demonstration was hijacked by some hoodlums, leading to the violent clashes witnessed at the government house.

As the situation unfolded, smoke filled the air, and tires were set ablaze by the protesters. Security operatives, including armed forces personnel, were deployed to the scene to maintain order and disperse the violent crowd.

In a statement, the police revealed that they had received intelligence about some individuals attempting to hijack the protest. They mentioned that members of a prescribed organization and other hoodlums had infiltrated the demonstration, aiming to create violence and potentially destroy public property.

Deadly Suicide Bombing Strikes Night Market in Borno State

A night market in Kauri, a rural community within the Konduga district of Borno State, North East Nigeria, was the scene of a devastating attack when a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber detonated an explosive device.

The explosion took place at approximately 9 pm on Wednesday, July 31, in the bustling market area that operates during the night. The market, frequented by numerous locals, is situated along the Bama-Maiduguri road and has been a frequent target of Boko Haram attacks. This latest incident marks yet another in a series of assaults on the vulnerable communities in the region.

According to local sources, the attack resulted in multiple casualties. A police officer and a woman were among those killed, while two patrol vans were set on fire. A government official from the village reported that the bomb detonated at 8:05 pm in a local tea joint where villagers often gathered for evening conversations. Dozens of people were also injured in the blast.

“It is unclear exactly how the attack unfolded, but we suspect that the bomb was planted rather than being a suicide attack. We found the bodies of 19 people, with an unspecified number of civilians injured. The injured were transported to an undisclosed hospital in Maiduguri for treatment,” a source told Daily Trust on condition of anonymity.

This tragic event occurred just 24 hours after an Accountant working with the Local Education Authority in Damboa Local Government Area, Shettima Mustapha, was killed when his vehicle struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists along the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu highway in Borno.

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Daso, for comment were unsuccessful, as his phone was unreachable at the time of reporting.

The attack comes as a nationwide protest is set to take place, with the government expressing concerns that such demonstrations could be exploited by criminals and terrorists.

As of the time of reporting, Middle Belt Times has not received an official statement regarding the incident, and authorities have yet to confirm the number of fatalities.

In a related development, Vanguard reported on Wednesday that a senior Accounting Officer from the Education Department of Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, Shettima Mustapha, was killed along with another victim whose leg had to be amputated, and several others injured. This incident occurred when their vehicle encountered an IED planted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists along the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu 185 km expressway.

Middle Belt Forum Kaduna Urges Youth to Avoid Planned Protest Amid Security Concerns

The Kaduna State chapter of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has urged young residents from the Middle Belt to avoid participating in the proposed protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The MBF expressed concerns that the protest, initially intended to address security and safety issues, could be manipulated by unidentified sponsors to achieve their own ends.

In a statement following an executive meeting, Mr. Yusuf Solomon Danbaki, the Public Relations Officer for the MBF Kaduna, highlighted that while peaceful demonstrations are a legitimate means to address the nation’s current hardships and to attract government attention, the involvement of potentially violent foreign elements poses significant security risks.

Danbaki emphasized that the Middle Belt youths, renowned for their orderly and disciplined conduct, should not be linked with any inappropriate actions. He noted that the current security situation has been communicated to Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the National President of the MBF, who is currently collating information from other Middle Belt states before issuing a formal stance on behalf of the entire region.

Reports from the executive committee suggest that individuals from neighboring northern countries have already arrived in Kaduna State, potentially intending to escalate the demonstration into violence. This development, according to Danbaki, could undermine the safety of the event and dilute its intended message.

The meeting concluded with a call for unity among Middle Belt residents in Kaduna State, emphasizing the need for a collective front to promote their welfare, the advancement of Kaduna State, and the overall development of Nigeria.

Security Agents Thwart Kidnapping Plot in Katsina Community

Security forces thwarted a kidnapping attempt in the Tijjani Malumfashi Housing Estate of Katsina State over the weekend. Around 50 armed kidnappers arrived in the area late on Saturday night, creating fear among residents with sporadic gunfire. Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the spokesperson for Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Monday.

According to the statement, the kidnappers strategically spread throughout the neighborhood, conducting house-to-house operations before security forces arrived. Unfortunately, six individuals were forcibly taken from their homes, but the timely arrival of security forces prevented further abductions.

Among those rescued was Judge Alkali Saidu. Governor Radda commended the Malumfashi Divisional Police Officer, Bello Umar, the Nigerian Army, and local vigilantes for their heroic efforts in repelling the attack. He stressed the importance of joint operations by security agencies to combat criminal elements in the nation.

Radda also highlighted that this successful response operation, carried out collaboratively by the Malumfashi police team, military units, and local vigilantes, should serve as an inspiring example of bravery for security personnel across the state to follow.

Kaduna’s Path to Peace: Governor Sani’s Blueprint for a Safer State

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has unveiled his comprehensive strategy for enhancing security and fostering peace in Kaduna State. This plan was presented during a symposium organized by the Kaduna Peace Commission at Kaduna State University, as part of the 2023 International Day of Peace celebrations under the theme “Call for Action: #GlobalGoals.”

Governor Sani, represented by his Special Adviser on Peace and Conflict Resolution, Atiku Isaac Sankey, detailed the steps his administration is taking to strengthen the state’s security apparatus. This includes the recruitment of an additional 7,000 vigilantes to complement the existing 2,000 members of the Kaduna Vigilance Service, establishing a community policing model to collaborate with national security agencies.

Moreover, the administration aims to enhance dialogue among the diverse communities within the state by reinforcing platforms that facilitate open and honest discussions on pressing issues. Citizen engagement remains a top priority for Governor Uba Sani, with plans for town hall meetings, public consultations, and grassroots initiatives to encourage meaningful participation from residents.

Recognizing the vital role of traditional institutions in bridging the gap between the government and the people, the governor’s representative emphasized the importance of their knowledge and wisdom in maintaining peace and security.

Governor Sani’s administration also places a strong emphasis on human capital development, inclusivity, and poverty eradication as foundational pillars for their peace-building efforts, firmly believing that these elements are essential for addressing insecurity and ensuring lasting peace in Kaduna State.

World Peace Day: We are open to Collaborative Peacebuilding -Maj Gen Abubakar Assures Para-Mallam

Jos, Nigeria

On the occasion of World Peace Day on September 21st, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General AE Abubakar, expressed openness to collaborative peacebuilding efforts during a courtesy visit from The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation.

Receiving a delegation from the foundation at his office at the Maxwell Kobe Barracks in Jos on Thursday, Maj Gen Abubakar acknowledged their commendations on the army’s role in restoring stability across Plateau State. “We appreciate the Para-Mallam Peace Foundation’s constructive engagement and support for our peacekeeping operations. Your work complements ours in achieving sustainable peace,” he stated.

The peace delegation was led by Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam, President and CEO of the foundation, along with his wife, Prof. Olufunmilayo Para-Mallam, mni, Deputy Chief Imam of the Jos Central Mosque, Sheikh Adam Ghazali and others. They lauded the efforts made by the army under Maj Gen Abubakar’s leadership to curb violence in Plateau and neighboring states.

In response, the GOC recognized the need for collaborative approaches in resolving security challenges. “While the army continues undertaking kinetic operations, we encourage non-kinetic initiatives by groups like yours to heal divides and change hearts and minds,” he noted.

Maj Gen Abubakar pledged 3 Division’s commitment to supporting programs by the Para-Mallam Peace Foundation focused on disarmament, reintegration and rehabilitation of ex-combatants. “We are ready to facilitate your interfaith dialogues and community peace education campaigns aimed at building tolerance,” he added.

According to the senior army commander, lasting peace can only be achieved through collective action involving the military, government and civil society groups. He expressed optimism that Plateau State will reclaim its identity as the ‘Home of Peace and Tourism’ through these joint efforts.

The World Peace Day visit highlights cooperation between security agencies and peacebuilding organizations to restore calm in Nigeria’s crisis-prone regions. With the army adopting a community-focused approach, partnerships with groups like Para-Mallam Peace Foundation remain essential to reconcile and stabilize restive areas.

Gov. Agbu Kefas Declares Zero Tolerance for Banditry, Promises Safe Jalingo Under His Watch

The incumbent Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has spoken out against the escalating bandit-related violence in Jalingo metropolis and various other regions within the state.

In no uncertain terms, Governor Kefas voiced his condemnation of these violent acts, declaring them as completely intolerable under his administration. He reassured the populace that his government is fully dedicated to devising and executing a comprehensive strategy to counteract such criminal activities and secure the safety of the state capital.

“The situation of bandit violence in certain areas of Jalingo metropolis has been brought to my attention. It is wholly intolerable, and I will not stand for it,” he stated.

Governor Kefas went on to assure the people of Taraba State, “My administration is relentlessly exploring innovative approaches to tackle criminal elements and ensure a safe state capital for everyone, with the ultimate goal of eliminating insecurity throughout the state.”

In his speech, the Governor also revealed that a specialized committee has been formed to address the problem, warning that the criminals’ reign in the state was drawing to a close.

Governor Kefas also appealed to the citizens to assist the government in its efforts by providing reliable information and staying vigilant within their communities. He emphasized that the government has full control over the situation and is unwavering in its resolve to reestablish peace and security in every corner of the state.

Police Arrest 13 Cultists, Rescue 3 Victims In Kaduna

In a sweeping operation, the Kaduna Police Command has apprehended thirteen individuals suspected of cult activities and armed robbery in Zaria, Kaduna State. The suspects, believed to be part of the Aiye confraternity, allegedly carried out their illicit activities in the Graceland community.

The police spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, reported that the suspects were arrested following a night of violence and robbery in the community on September 10, 2023. The suspects, who reportedly stormed the community armed with machetes and other handheld weapons, were later tracked down and arrested in a nearby forest.

Hassan also revealed that the law enforcement officials successfully rescued three kidnapped victims from bandits supposedly allied with a notorious criminal kingpin. The victims were found during an extensive patrol in the Galadimawa area of Giwa LGA.

The Commissioner of Police Kaduna Command, CP Musa Yusuf Garba, has urged parents to closely monitor their children’s activities to prevent their involvement in illegalities. He also called on the public to promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or security outfit.

While praising his team’s efforts, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of community vigilance in combating crime. He assured residents that the Kaduna Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and properties across the state.

NSCDC trains 300 officers for schools in Middle Belt

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has organised a 5-day capacity building programme for 300 officers, to provide special security for schools across the Middle Belt States.

The capacity building programme for safe schools response team with the theme; “Exercise Safe Schools 2023″, commenced on Monday in Makurdi.

Speaking at the event, the Benue Commandant of NSCDC, Mr Yakubu Ibrahim, said the programme’s aim was to provide security for schools and their host communities.

Ibrahim stated that many schools in the Middle Belt were vulnerable to attacks by bandits and terrorists, due to lack of perimeter fencing and physical security presence.

He said those schools with physical security presence employed untrained personnel, and that was the major reason for the training for NSCDC officers, so that they could provide security for the identified schools.

He stated that the workshop would provide participants with the necessary skills to tackle security challenges in schools and their host communities.

The Commandant commended Gov. Hyacinth Alia for supporting the programme, disclosing that the governor had promised counterpart funding of the programme.

He enjoined the selected officers for the training to take it seriously, saying that security of school environment was key to attaining educational goals for development.

“You who are the lucky few selected for this training must stay focused because you will have to keep the education environment conducive and safe for learning as there is no development without education”, the commandant advised.

In his address, Alia, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Joseph Alakali, said Benue was committed to safe schools policy.

The governor said a survey had already been conducted, and 28 schools were mapped out for safety coverage in Benue.

He promised that the state government would collaborate with the NSCDC to ensure security for schools and their host communities, in order to guarantee a seamless learning process in the state.

Also speaking, the Benue Commissioner for Education, Mr Frederick Ikyaan, thanked the NSCDC for choosing Benue for the training.

Ikyaan promised that state government would partner with the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC), to ensure safety of students in their various places of learning.

In his speech, the Commander of NSSRCC, Mr Tersoo Shaapera, said the strategic objective of the safe schools programme could only be achieved with intentional work and support at all levels.

Shaapera therefore, called on all stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies as they strove to protect schools, learners, teachers, non-teachers, as well as host communities from attacks.

He tasked participants on collaboration with sister agencies after their training, to ensure success in their tasks, saying that lack of synergy would amount to wasted efforts.

Participants to the training were drawn from commands in all the states in the Middle Belt, Taraba and the FCT.

“Understanding Intra, Inter and Multi-Agency Arrangements for Enhanced Safe Schools Project” was delivered by Mr Stephen Okwunde from the office of the National Security Adviser at the event.

SOURCE: Vanguard