The Imo State Police Command’s tactical unit has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against criminal activities. Six members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the militant arm of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), were neutralised during a high-stakes operation. Among the neutralised individuals were three notorious kingpins of the group. Coordinated Operation in Okigwe The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a press statement on Saturday, January 24, 2025. He stated that following credible intelligence, police operatives carried out a well-coordinated raid on a suspected hideout of the terrorists in Ihube Forest, located in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. According to Adejobi, the police came under heavy gunfire during the operation. However, demonstrating exceptional bravery, the officers engaged in a fierce gunfight, which resulted in the neutralisation of six terrorists. Profiles of Neutralised Kingpins The ESN kingpins neutralised during the operation include: All three were natives of Ogube, Ihube, in Okigwe Local Government Area. Recovered Weapons and Equipment The police recovered a cache of arms and other operational tools from the hideout, including: Previous Crimes Linked to the Group Investigations revealed the involvement of the neutralised terrorists in several high-profile criminal activities, including: Commendation for Police Operatives Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, praised the operatives for their gallantry and urged them to sustain their momentum in implementing the Force’s action plan for crime reduction in 2025. Call for Public Support The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to ensuring national security and public safety. ACP Adejobi encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to create a peaceful and secure environment. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The National Assembly has postponed plenary resumption from January 28 to February 4, 2025, to conclude ongoing budget defence sessions. Learn more here. The National Assembly has officially rescheduled its plenary sessions from January 28 to Tuesday, February 4, 2025. This decision was taken to accommodate ongoing budget defence engagements. Senate Resumption Postponed In a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, the Clerk of the Senate, Andrew Nwoba, announced the change, titled “Change in Resumption Date.” The statement read: “Dear Distinguished Senators, please be informed that there is a change in the resumption date due to the ongoing budget defence. “It has been rescheduled from Tuesday, 28th January 2025, to Tuesday, 4th February 2025, at 11 a.m. prompt. “Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.” House of Representatives Confirms New Date Similarly, the House of Representatives has also postponed its plenary resumption to February 4. Akin Rotimi, the spokesman for the House, confirmed this in a statement quoting Yahaya Danzaria, Clerk of the House. According to Rotimi: “The House of Representatives has announced the postponement of its plenary resumption, previously scheduled for Tuesday, January 28, 2025. “The new date for resumption is now set for Tuesday, February 4, 2025. “This development was communicated to Honourable Members through an internal memorandum issued by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, Esq., on the directive of the House Leadership.” Reason for the Delay The postponement aims to provide legislative committees more time to finalize budget defence sessions with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This is part of an effort to ensure a detailed and thorough budgetary review. The House reaffirmed its commitment to delivering on its legislative mandate, emphasizing that the decision reflects a dedication to serving the interests of Nigerians. Conclusion The rescheduling of plenary sessions underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to the 2025 budget process. Stakeholders have been urged to remain patient and supportive as the National Assembly continues its work to ensure effective governance. Recommendations for Google Indexing READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Federal Government has approved a 50% tariff increase for telecommunications services in Nigeria. According to the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, this adjustment is critical to sustaining the industry and enabling telecom companies to invest in infrastructure and improve connectivity across the nation. The announcement was made during the maiden Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit held in Ibadan. Themed “The Rain of Transformation is Upon Us: CEOs Arise,” the event highlighted the role of technology in driving Nigeria’s development. Youths: Key to Technological Advancement Minister Tijani emphasized the importance of Nigerian youths in fostering technological growth, noting that infrastructure alone cannot drive progress. He stated: “The biggest challenge for governments is individuals. While we invest in infrastructure, we need innovators, entrepreneurs, and builders to create technologies that address societal needs.” Tijani also praised Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the founder of RAIN, for his efforts in advancing Nigeria’s ICT sector. He commended Ayoola for positioning Ibadan as a hub for technological innovation, stating: “Without individuals like Ayoola and their contributions to the ICT space, Nigeria’s technological progress would be slow.” AI and Robotics: Transforming Nigeria’s Future Highlighting the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in Nigeria, the minister said these technologies would shape the nation’s productivity and prosperity. He noted: “The future of robotics and AI in Nigeria is promising. With platforms like RAIN, we’ll witness direct applications of innovation from our young people.”Tijani reiterated the government’s commitment to creating infrastructure that supports technological advancements. Technology as a Solution to Youth Unemployment Chief Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, underscored the need to harness youth potential in technology to combat unemployment. Similarly, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd., highlighted the transformative impact of AI and robotics, stating that these innovations enhance decision-making, reduce costs, and personalize customer experiences. Oyo State’s Technological Strides Bayo Akande, Senior Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on ICT and e-Governance, shared the state government’s achievements in technology. He disclosed that Oyo had invested heavily in building an AI and robotics hub for education, aiming to create an enabling environment for tech transformation. Call to Action for Stakeholders Dr. Olusola Ayoola, CEO of RAIN and summit convener, emphasized that Nigeria possesses the capacity to thrive in cutting-edge technologies like AI and robotics. He urged stakeholders to support initiatives that drive local expertise and innovation, stating: “Our vision is to promote technological development by creating networks across institutions in Nigeria. We aim to make AI and robotics accessible to the youth.” Ayoola revealed that RAIN already has a presence in 50 institutions nationwide, with plans to scale up efforts in technology development. Event Highlights The summit also featured an award presentation to Minister Bosun Tijani and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, mother of RAIN’s founder, for their contributions to technology and innovation. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu will attend the Africa Heads of State Energy Summit in Tanzania on January 27-28, 2025. The summit will address Africa’s energy challenges and advance the Mission 300 initiative to provide electricity access to 300 million people by 2030. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to travel from Abuja to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Sunday, January 27, 2025, to attend the Africa Heads of State Energy Summit scheduled for January 27-28, 2025. The summit, hosted by the Tanzanian government in collaboration with the African Development Bank Group and the World Bank, focuses on advancing “Mission 300”, an ambitious initiative aimed at delivering electricity access to 300 million Africans by the year 2030. Summit Goals and Agenda According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the summit will bring together African leaders, private sector stakeholders, development partners, and civil society organizations to address the continent’s energy challenges. The discussions will center on: Day 1 (January 27, 2025): Participating countries, including Nigeria, will present their National Energy Strategies, referred to as “compacts,” outlining their plans to achieve universal energy access within the next five years. Day 2 (January 28, 2025): Heads of State will endorse the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, a collective roadmap to achieve the objectives of Mission 300. Nigeria’s Contribution and Leadership President Tinubu will deliver a keynote address during the summit, reaffirming Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to achieving universal energy access. He will also highlight Nigeria’s leadership in the African energy sector and discuss the nation’s clean energy initiatives and integrated energy delivery strategy. The president will be joined by a delegation of key officials, including: The summit aims to foster knowledge sharing, expertise exchange, and collaboration among African nations, development partners, and stakeholders to overcome the continent’s energy challenges and achieve lasting solutions. President Tinubu will return to Abuja after the conclusion of the summit. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A tragic incident occurred on Saturday at Ugwu Onyeama in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, where a fuel tanker exploded, leading to multiple fatalities and significant property damage. The explosion happened just a few kilometers from Enugu metropolis along a busy road, creating a devastating scene. Eyewitness Accounts The fuel tanker, reportedly laden with petrol, exploded around 11:30 a.m., wreaking havoc in the area. Eyewitnesses described the explosion as catastrophic, leaving many dead and several vehicles destroyed. Unfortunately, the intense fire made rescue operations nearly impossible, leaving many victims burned beyond recognition. Although some sources speculate that over 10 people may have died, official casualty figures remain unconfirmed as of the time of this report. Emergency response teams, including the police and road safety authorities, have yet to provide updates on the cause of the explosion or the exact number of victims. Devastation and Aftermath The powerful blast left nearby vehicles engulfed in flames, turning a busy roadway into a disaster zone. Witnesses report that the explosion’s intensity disrupted traffic flow and caused panic among motorists and passersby. The tragedy has sparked calls for better safety measures in transporting flammable substances and improved emergency response systems to prevent similar incidents in the future. Key Details: READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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On November 25, 2024, Mr. Kay sat in his living room, masking his disappointment with a forced smile. Months of planning to attend his only child’s graduation at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, ended in heartbreak because he couldn’t afford the airfare. Despite weeks of trying to gather funds and even seeking assistance from a former student turned airline executive, Mr. Kay couldn’t meet the cost. Shockingly, over 40% of the airline’s ticket price consisted of taxes—an all-too-common struggle for Nigerian travelers burdened by escalating airfares fueled by excessive taxation. Airline Operators’ Longstanding Complaints Nigerian airline operators have repeatedly decried the burden of multiple taxes, citing it as a major factor in high operational costs and the frequent collapse of airlines. In 2017, Allen Onyema, CEO of Air Peace, lamented that airlines faced over 37 different charges, stating, “It has really affected our operations and taken all the gains we are supposed to make.” Fast-forward to 2025, and the issue persists. Investigations reveal that domestic airlines currently pay no fewer than 16 different taxes, ranging from terminal navigation charges to clearance fees. These levies, divided into aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues, are collected by various agencies, including: A Unique Aviation Market Captain Ado Sanusi, Managing Director of Aero Contractors, describes Nigeria’s aviation market as “peculiar,” where ticket pricing struggles to balance operational costs and profitability. “If taxes are reduced, ticket prices will drop, making air travel affordable and increasing passenger numbers,” Sanusi explained. He emphasized the goal of having at least 10% of Nigerians—approximately 25 million people—flying annually by aligning ticket prices with the average Nigerian’s purchasing power. Sanusi also criticized the NCAA’s position as a top contributor to federal revenue, with over ₦400 billion annually, questioning why the aviation industry remains “on life support” despite such contributions. Calls for Tax Reforms There are currently 17 documented taxes on airlines, and stakeholders are calling for their unification to ease the burden on operators. Sanusi suggested, “When you pay a 5% ticket sales charge, that should cover all other levies, eliminating additional costs for inspections and other fees.” According to Sindy Foster, Principal Managing Partner at Avaero Capital Partners, the issue of multiple taxes has been debated endlessly, but real progress requires decisive action. Genuine Reforms Are Key Although there have been some positive steps, such as the removal of VAT on airfares, aviation experts stress the need for comprehensive tax reforms. A shift toward cost recovery, rather than profit-making, could transform the struggling sector and make air travel accessible for more Nigerians. Foster concluded, “What remains is action. Without it, the industry will continue to face these recurring challenges. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Six individuals sustained serious injuries following United Airlines Flight UA613’s emergency landing at Lagos airport. FAAN confirms swift rescue operations and ongoing investigations. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed that six individuals sustained serious injuries following an emergency landing by United Airlines Flight UA613 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday. Emergency Landing Details The United Airlines Boeing 787-8, which was headed to Washington Dulles International Airport from Lagos, had a total of 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots on board. According to FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, the flight departed MMIA at 11:59 PM on Thursday but had to return mid-air, landing safely at 3:22 AM on Friday. “All passengers and crew were safely evacuated. However, four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries. Additionally, 27 passengers and five crew members reported minor injuries,” Orah said. Rescue and Medical Response The FAAN Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Medical team, and Aviation Security were on standby at the airport. The aircraft parked without incident at Gate D31, and the doors were opened for evacuation at 3:37 AM. Passengers with serious injuries were promptly transported to medical facilities, including the MMA Clinic and Duchess Hospital in Ikeja. Those with minor injuries received first aid and were discharged shortly after. To ensure passenger welfare, other travelers were accommodated at a nearby hotel. Aircraft Condition and FAAN’s Statement FAAN confirmed that the aircraft did not sustain major damage during the incident. The agency pledged to release further updates as investigations into the cause of the emergency landing unfold. Conclusion This incident highlights the importance of swift and efficient emergency response at Nigerian airports. FAAN’s commitment to passenger safety and well-coordinated rescue efforts helped mitigate the potential impact of the emergency landing. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to terminate diversity-related roles, signaling a shift in inclusivity efforts. Explore the implications of this move. IntroductionThe Trump administration, under President Donald Trump, has initiated a directive targeting diversity-related roles within federal agencies. On Friday, the administration instructed agencies to terminate positions linked to diversity programs following an earlier decision to place such employees on paid leave. This move marks another significant step in the administration’s agenda to overhaul policies associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion. Key Actions by the Trump AdministrationIn a memorandum issued by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), federal agencies, departments, and commissions were ordered to: This decision aligns with President Trump’s broader push to dismantle measures addressing discrimination, including racism, sexism, and gender diversity. Environmental Justice Programs Also TargetedNotably, the directive extended to “environmental justice” programs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice as ensuring fair treatment and meaningful involvement of individuals from diverse backgrounds in agency decision-making processes. This includes considerations of race, income, national origin, and disability in decisions impacting human health and the environment. Trump’s Stance on DEI and Gender PoliciesDuring his recent presidential campaign, President Trump criticized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, claiming they fostered discrimination against white men. He has also been vocal about opposing recognition of gender diversity, including transgender rights. His administration has taken actions such as: Political ImplicationsThe move to eliminate diversity-related roles is part of a broader agenda by the Trump administration to reshape policies supporting equity and inclusivity. Critics argue that these changes undermine progress in combating systemic discrimination, while supporters claim they aim to eliminate biases against certain groups. ConclusionThe Trump administration’s directive reflects its firm stance on dismantling diversity and equity programs within the federal government. By eliminating these roles, the administration is signaling a significant shift in federal priorities, sparking widespread debate about the future of inclusivity efforts in the U.S. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Learn about Ogoni stakeholders’ demands to President Tinubu regarding oil production resumption. Discover key issues, historical context, and the path forward for lasting peace in Ogoniland. IntroductionPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently met with Ogoni leaders at the Presidential Villa, directing them to consult with their people as a precursor to resuming oil production in Ogoniland. However, this directive has sparked concerns, as it failed to address the core issues that halted oil production in the region over three decades ago. The Ogoni Bill of Rights (OBR), which outlines demands such as self-determination, compensation for environmental devastation, cessation of gas flaring by Shell and Chevron, clean healthcare, and a sustainable environment, remains at the heart of the Ogoni struggle. Without addressing these demands, stakeholders argue that resuming oil production is premature. Unresolved Ogoni Demands Senator Bennett Birabi, a key signatory of the OBR, emphasized the struggle’s foundation: “We cannot be pumping oil from Ogoni while all we have left are the pipelines.” Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, Executive Director of the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Center (YEAC-Nigeria), echoed this sentiment, describing Tinubu’s directive as “putting the cart before the horse.” Dr. Fyneface noted that the directive appears confrontational, prioritizing oil extraction without addressing why production ceased in 1993. He stressed that unresolved issues like environmental degradation and demands for fairness in oil exploration are still at the forefront of Ogoni grievances. The Role of Diplomacy and Compromise Fegalo Nsuke, President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), viewed Tinubu’s call for consultation as an opportunity to address systemic underdevelopment and historical injustices. He highlighted critical issues, including the 1995 execution of Ogoni leaders and the need for sustainable development through steady funding. Nsuke stressed that while cleanup efforts and special projects are vital, resumption of oil production should coincide with addressing the demands outlined in the OBR. He urged all stakeholders to embrace diplomacy and compromise to ensure lasting peace and development in Ogoniland. Historical Context and Government Efforts The importance of Ogoni in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape cannot be overstated. Ogoni contains Oil Mining License (OML) 11, comprising 33 oil and gas fields, which once produced over 500,000 barrels of oil daily. Successive administrations have attempted to broker peace with Ogoni leaders, but with limited success. In 2005, President Olusegun Obasanjo established the Presidential Peace and Reconciliation Committee (PPRC), led by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, to engage Ogoni stakeholders. Despite these efforts, MOSOP consistently opposed oil production under Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), citing decades of environmental damage and exploitation. Similarly, President Muhammadu Buhari sought to incentivize Ogoni leaders by re-awarding the N199.9 billion Bodo/Bonny road project as part of a diplomatic strategy for oil resumption. However, the initiative failed to gain traction. The Path Forward for Ogoni As Tinubu explores a diplomatic solution, stakeholders argue that addressing the root causes of the Ogoni crisis is non-negotiable. The federal government must demonstrate commitment by: ConclusionThe resumption of oil production in Ogoniland presents an opportunity for economic growth and reconciliation. However, this must be approached with sensitivity to the demands and concerns of the Ogoni people. Tinubu’s administration has a chance to rewrite history by fostering trust, ensuring fairness, and creating a sustainable framework for Ogoniland’s development. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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In today’s beauty-driven world, women are taking extreme measures to enhance their appearance, often ignoring the risks involved. From invasive surgeries like Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) to the rising use of unregulated skin-lightening creams, this article explores the alarming trends in beauty enhancement and their consequences. What Is BBL and Why Is It Trending? For many, the term BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) has become synonymous with achieving a curvier figure. Popular in cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, this procedure involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks, creating a more voluptuous silhouette. Once a Taboo PracticePlastic surgeries were once limited to corrective procedures in teaching hospitals, such as fixing cleft lips or performing mastectomies. Today, however, cosmetic surgeries like BBL have gained immense popularity, especially among socialites and influencers. Risks Involved in BBLDr. Loretta Ogboro Okoh, a consultant and surgeon, warns of the potential dangers of undergoing such procedures: RecommendationsDr. Okoh advises women to: The Weight Loss Trend: Pills and Injections Medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, initially developed to manage Type 2 diabetes, are now being used for their weight-loss side effects. Nigerian socialites are particularly fond of these drugs, despite their high cost (up to ₦500,000 per dose). Benefits Adverse Effects Expert AdviceDr. Okoh stresses the importance of adjusting diet and lifestyle, emphasizing fiber-rich meals and regular exercise to complement weight loss medications. Skin Lightening: A Dangerous Obsession According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 77% of Nigerian women use skin-lightening products. However, many of these creams lack regulatory approval and contain harmful ingredients like mercury. Risks of Skin Bleaching NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) urges consumers to avoid unregulated products and adopt safer, natural alternatives. Tight Garments and Temporary Fixes For women who cannot afford invasive procedures, tight-fitting garments and body shapers offer a temporary solution. However, excessively tight garments can cause health issues, such as restricted breathing and internal organ damage. The Role of Self-Esteem in Beauty Choices Dr. Ogboro Okoh emphasizes the importance of building self-esteem from a young age, advising women to focus on their inner qualities rather than external appearances. Natural Beauty SolutionsQuincy Ayodele, a WHO-certified naturopathic practitioner, advocates for herbal remedies and natural approaches to achieve beauty goals. These methods not only improve physical appearance but also contribute to overall health and well-being. Conclusion The pursuit of beauty is not inherently wrong, but the methods used to achieve it should prioritize health and safety. Whether through exercise, natural remedies, or embracing one’s natural features, the journey to beauty should never compromise one’s well-being. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Seven months after being displaced, Okuama residents return home to face abandoned projects and deplorable conditions. Discover their plight and the urgent call for government action. Seven months after relocating to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Ewu, residents of Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, returned home on January 1st only to face despair. Their once-thriving community remains in ruins with no signs of promised rehabilitation projects being completed. The residents, who had been displaced after a military operation in their community following the death of some soldiers last year, expressed disappointment as they returned to meet a shattered home. The state government had earlier assured the rebuilding of key structures, including schools, health centers, and town halls, but progress on these promises has been stagnant. Okuama Residents’ Harrowing Plight Unfulfilled Promises by the GovernmentThe Delta State Government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, had pledged a swift rebuilding of Okuama to restore normalcy. While inaugurating the Okuama IDP Committee, Governor Oborevwori assured that the community would be rehabilitated within three months. However, residents returned to incomplete projects and an absence of contractors on-site. Devastated CommunityOn arrival, returnees found themselves homeless, with makeshift wooden and thatched huts serving as temporary shelters. Children were out of school, forced into farming and fishing to survive. Parents lamented their inability to provide education or a safe environment for their children. “We returned with high hopes, but everything here remains the same. Our children have no schools to attend, and we have no homes to live in,” lamented a local resident, Aaron Ighorhiohwunu. Government Projects: Delayed and Abandoned Despite the initial promises, the primary school, health center, and town hall projects are far from completion. Contractors have abandoned the sites, leaving residents stranded. Okuama youths, women, and elders have voiced their frustration, calling on the government to expedite the rehabilitation process. Hon. Jacob Akemor, a former councilor, expressed dismay at the state of affairs: “We feel utterly disappointed. Seven months after leaving our community for the camp, the promised infrastructure remains uncompleted.” Heartbreaking Living Conditions Residents are living in makeshift structures, with no access to clean water or healthcare. Fishing, farming, and gathering in bushes have become their daily routine, exposing them to harsh conditions. Some residents, like Mrs. Queen Oghenehwosa, have taken refuge in the bush due to the lack of shelter in Okuama. “We were promised a rebuilt community, but nothing has been done. We’ve been left to fend for ourselves in deplorable conditions,” she lamented. Children, eager to return to school, have been left disillusioned. Young Rukevwere, a JSS 2 student, shared: “I want to go to school, not fish. This is not the life I want.” Call for Urgent Action The Okuama Community Development Committee (CDC) and other stakeholders are appealing to the Delta State Government, Urhobo leaders, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene. Mr. Emmanuel Okrika, CDC Chairman, stated: “Our people are living in hellish conditions. We need urgent intervention to rebuild our homes, schools, and health centers.” Former Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, has also taken a proactive approach, calling for donations of building materials to kickstart community reconstruction. What Needs to Be Done Conclusion Okuama residents have suffered immensely, from displacement to shattered hopes of rehabilitation. The government must act decisively to alleviate their plight and fulfill its promises. Restoring Okuama is not just about rebuilding structures but also about restoring hope, dignity, and a future for its people. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has strongly refuted allegations claiming that the Nigerian military was involved in forced abortions of pregnancies resulting from Boko Haram insurgency in Northern Nigeria. This rebuttal comes in response to a February 2022 report by Reuters, which alleged that the military operated a secret abortion program in its efforts to combat armed groups in the northeast. The report claimed that at least 10,000 pregnancies were terminated as part of this program. Speaking on Channels Television, General Musa dismissed the allegations as false and harmful propaganda, suggesting that they were fabricated by certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that “do not wish Nigeria well.” CDS Musa’s Response “I wish you could call them now and ask that question,” Musa said. “I was the theatre commander when these accusations surfaced, and I felt deeply hurt because many of these organizations seem to have ulterior motives. “Whenever we achieve progress and success, these allegations emerge to tarnish our image and demoralize our troops. What is their intent? Are they unhappy with our success?” Independent Investigations Conducted Musa explained that following the accusations, the military collaborated with independent investigators to address the claims. “When this issue came up, I discussed it with the then Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor. We agreed to investigate because I was confident that nothing like this ever happened. The Human Rights Commission set up an independent committee, and I was the first to testify in January 2023,” he revealed. According to Musa, the investigation lasted 18 months, granting the committee unrestricted access to military facilities. The findings of the investigation cleared the military of any wrongdoing. Military’s Next Steps General Musa also disclosed that the military has appealed to the Attorney General to take legal action to clear its name. “We have urged the Attorney General to take this matter to court. These false claims have maligned us, and we demand a public apology from those responsible. If they can’t prove their allegations, they should admit their wrongdoing,” he stated. Partnerships Questioned General Musa further questioned the credibility of the allegations, noting that the military has been working with reputable international organizations and NGOs for over a decade. “If we had been involved in such acts for 10 years, why didn’t these international organizations report it? Are they also complicit? When the investigation report was released, those NGOs refused to appear or engage,” he added. Conclusion General Musa’s statements reinforce the military’s commitment to transparency and its ongoing fight against misinformation. The Nigerian military, according to him, remains focused on safeguarding the nation while maintaining its partnerships with credible organizations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, has officially called off its warning strike following prompt intervention by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. FCTA Meets Doctors’ Demands In a statement issued on Friday, January 24, 2025, the association’s president, Dr. George Ebong, confirmed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the leadership of Minister Wike, had addressed the key demands that led to the strike. Earlier in the week, doctors in all FCTA-managed hospitals had suspended services, citing unpaid salary arrears, delayed allowances, and critical manpower shortages. However, by Friday, members of the ARD began receiving alerts for their six-month salary arrears, signaling the minister’s swift action. Breakdown of Resolved Issues Dr. Ebong highlighted several interventions made by Minister Wike to resolve the crisis: Doctors Resume Work As a result of these interventions, Dr. Ebong announced that all resident doctors in the FCT are expected to return to their duty posts starting Saturday, January 25, 2025. He acknowledged the minister’s role in averting what could have been an indefinite strike, which would have further crippled healthcare delivery in the capital city. Call for Additional Reforms Despite the progress, Dr. Ebong urged the FCT Minister to address other unresolved demands, including: He appealed for mechanisms to prevent a recurrence of such issues, emphasizing the association’s commitment to working with the government to achieve the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda in the health sector. A Message of Appreciation Dr. Ebong expressed gratitude on behalf of the ARD, saying, “We sincerely thank the Honourable Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his timely and decisive intervention. His leadership has restored hope to the health sector in the FCT.” The association also invited Minister Wike to visit FCT district hospitals to assess their operations firsthand. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
