Discover the winners of the 2024 oil licensing bid round announced by NUPRC. Learn about Nigeria’s strategic efforts to boost oil production and attract investment under the Petroleum Industry Act. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has officially announced 25 winners in the 2024 oil licensing bid round. This landmark event, held in Lagos, underscores Nigeria’s commitment to revitalizing its oil and gas sector under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Key Winners from the 2024 Bid Round Prominent players emerged victorious in competitive bids across various categories: Other winners included Petroli Energy Marketing and Supply Ltd. for PPL 269, Sahara Deepwater Resources Ltd. for PPL 270 and PPL 271, and TotalEnergies, which topped PPL 2000/2001 with 126 points, narrowly beating Star Deepwater Petroleum Ltd. Additional Licenses Awarded Licenses were also awarded to sole bidders in categories such as: Future Licensing Rounds and Strategic Focus The NUPRC Chief Executive, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, revealed plans for the next oil licensing bid round in 2025. This initiative aims to capitalize on lessons learned from 2024 and prioritize: Komolafe emphasized the regulator’s dedication to boosting investor confidence and optimizing Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources. Driving Industry Transformation The annual licensing rounds, introduced by the NUPRC, aim to position Nigeria as a global leader in oil production. The Petroleum Industry Act’s provisions empower the commission to actively recover unused resources and reintroduce them for productive use through future bidding processes. “This marks a new era for the oil and gas industry in Nigeria. Our commitment remains to grow, preserve, and optimize our hydrocarbon resources,” Komolafe stated. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
WHO Warns of Rising Diabetes in Africa: Urgent Action Needed in Nigeria The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised an alarm about the escalating prevalence of diabetes in Africa, labeling it a silent killer. This serves as a crucial wake-up call for Nigeria’s health sector and citizens to address this growing menace. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, highlighted during the 2024 World Diabetes Day commemoration that over 24 million adults in Africa live with diabetes, half of whom remain undiagnosed. Without immediate intervention, the number could skyrocket to 54 million by 2045, the highest projected global increase. Causes of Rising Diabetes in Africa Dr. Moeti attributed the rise in diabetes to several factors, including: These factors, combined with inadequate healthcare investment—only 1% of health expenditure in Africa is directed toward diabetes care—have worsened the challenge. Nigeria’s Diabetes Statistics In Nigeria, the adult diabetes prevalence rate has reached 3.46% in 2024, with variations across regions: Urbanization, unhealthy dietary habits, tobacco use, and lack of exercise contribute significantly to this increase. Types and Causes of Diabetes Dr. Uche Okenyi of Hova’s Place Hospital explains the two main types of diabetes: Other causes include certain medications (e.g., steroids), diseases (e.g., hyperthyroidism), and conditions like pregnancy. Solutions: Collaborative Efforts Needed For Individuals: For Communities: For Governments: For Corporations: Healthcare Professionals Speak Dr. Innocent Emeka of Divine Hospital emphasized the importance of expanding access to diagnostic tools and medications, particularly insulin. He warned that without adequate management, diabetes could lead to severe complications, including kidney failure, heart disease, and vision loss. “We need more trained healthcare workers at the community level and better awareness to detect and manage diabetes effectively,” he said. Breaking the Diabetes Chain in Nigeria Addressing diabetes requires a collective commitment from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations. By raising awareness, promoting healthy habits, and investing in healthcare, Nigeria can curb the rising tide of diabetes and prevent the dire predictions from becoming reality. 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 Bayelsa High Court has convicted Prudent Oguruguru, a Senior Special Assistant on General Duties to the Bayelsa Governor, on charges of conspiracy to commit assault and assault occasioning harm. Background of the Case The incident occurred on February 20, 2024, at Agudama-Epie, where Oguruguru assaulted Ubong Effiong Ubek, leaving the victim unconscious. Following his arrest, Oguruguru was arraigned on a five-count charge, including conspiracy, attempted murder, assault occasioning harm, serious assault, and malicious damage. Trial and Evidence During the proceedings before Justice I.A. Orukari, Oguruguru pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution presented six witnesses and submitted seven exhibits to establish the case. Justice Orukari emphasized that the crux of the trial was determining whether the prosecution had proven the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Verdict The court ruled that the prosecution failed to establish evidence beyond reasonable doubt for charges of attempted murder and other related offences. Consequently, Oguruguru was acquitted of counts two, four, and five. However, the court found the prosecution’s evidence compelling for counts one and three, leading to a conviction for conspiracy to commit assault and assault occasioning harm. Sentencing During sentencing, Oguruguru’s counsel, Abadiofoni, pleaded for leniency, citing his client’s status as a first-time offender. The defendant himself also pleaded for mercy, explaining that he is the sole provider for his young family and elderly mother. Moved by his show of remorse and first-time offender status, Justice Orukari sentenced Oguruguru to three years imprisonment on each count, with an option of paying a ₦250,000 fine per count. The sentences will run concurrently. Conclusion This case underscores the legal consequences of assault and emphasizes the importance of ensuring justice while considering mitigating circumstances in sentencing. 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 National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has released a startling report revealing that over 25 million phones were stolen across Nigeria between March 2023 and April 2024. Shocking Statistics on Phone Theft The findings, detailed in the Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey 2024, indicate that an estimated 17,965,741 Nigerians fell victim to phone theft during this period. This crime has become one of the most rampant in the country, with seven out of ten stolen phones taken in homes or public spaces. Low Reporting and Police Response Despite the high prevalence, the majority of victims—over 90%—did not report their cases to the police. Among the small percentage who did, only 11.7% expressed satisfaction with the police response. This highlights a significant gap in law enforcement’s ability to address the issue effectively. Phone Theft Tops the Crime Chart The report also disclosed that 21.4% of Nigerians experienced some form of crime, with phone theft leading as the most common offense, affecting 13.8% of the population. The reluctance to report phone theft to law enforcement stems from various factors, including a lack of trust in the system and perceived inefficiency in resolving such cases. 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 deadly conflict has erupted in Nigeria, resulting in the loss of three lives and significant destruction. According to reports from the United Methodist News Service, this violence stems from a division within the United Methodist Church (UMC) over its stance on LGBTQ policies. The tragic events unfolded in Taraba State, northeastern Nigeria, where a confrontation between members of opposing factions turned deadly. A member of the United Methodist Church was fatally shot, while two young children, aged 2 and 4, perished when homes were set on fire. These children were related to the overseer of a United Methodist school and nursery. Additionally, at least 10 others sustained injuries during the clashes. Root of the Conflict The division traces back to the UMC’s historic decision at its General Conference in May 2024 to repeal longstanding bans on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex marriages. This policy shift has caused intense disagreement, leading to the creation of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), a more conservative breakaway faction. Despite the repeal, the UMC allowed regional conferences to set their own policies on LGBTQ matters. In the West Africa Central Conference, which includes Nigeria, marriage remains restricted to unions between a man and a woman, aligning with local laws. These differing interpretations of faith and governance have fueled tensions between the two groups. Calls for Peace Local United Methodist bishops strongly condemned the violence and pleaded for calm. In a statement, they expressed their outrage over the incident, especially since it involves individuals who were once united under the same faith. “We urge an immediate end to the violence and ask all parties to avoid spreading misinformation that incites further conflict,” the bishops stated. Similarly, the Assembly of Bishops of the Global Methodist Church acknowledged the tragic loss of life and called on both sides to act as agents of peace. They emphasized their commitment to investigating the events thoroughly. “We mourn the loss of human life and decry all forms of violence. We encourage reconciliation and a commitment to peace from all parties involved,” their statement read. Background The Global Methodist Church officially launched earlier this year, following disagreements over LGBTQ policies within the UMC. While the UMC has a significant global presence, its debates on inclusivity have highlighted deep cultural and theological divides, particularly between its U.S. and African delegations. The recent violence underscores the devastating consequences of these disagreements, with communities torn apart and lives lost in the process. 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 Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a forecast for a three-day dust haze spanning Wednesday through Friday across various parts of Nigeria. Wednesday’s Weather Outlook NiMet predicts moderate dust haze conditions in the northern region, with visibility ranging between 2km and 5km. In some localized areas, visibility could drop to 1km or below. For the North Central and inland areas of the southern region, similar moderate dust haze is anticipated, maintaining a visibility range of 2km to 5km, with localized reductions to 1km or less. Coastal areas are expected to experience fog or mist in the early morning, followed by moderate dust haze during the afternoon, with visibility ranging from 2km to 5km. Thursday’s Weather Forecast On Thursday, moderate dust haze is expected to persist across the northern region, with visibility ranging from 2km to 5km. The North Central region and the southern inland areas will experience similar conditions. The coastal regions are likely to remain hazy throughout the day. Friday’s Weather Conditions For Friday, the northern region is forecasted to remain under dust haze conditions throughout the day. Moderate dust haze will also extend to the North Central and southern inland areas, maintaining a visibility range of 2km to 5km. Coastal areas will continue to experience hazy conditions throughout the forecast period. Health and Safety Advisory NiMet has advised the public to take precautions as dust particles in the air could pose health risks. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions should exercise caution during this period. Additionally, airline operators are encouraged to obtain location-specific weather updates from NiMet for better operational planning. 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 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced a controversial policy, imposing a daily withdrawal limit of ₦100,000 for individuals using Point-of-Sale (PoS) services. This restriction extends to a weekly cash-out cap of ₦500,000 per customer and a cumulative daily maximum of ₦1.2 million for agent transactions. This directive, issued in a circular titled “Cash-out Limits for Agent Banking Transactions”, mirrors the stringent 2022 policy that led to nationwide cash scarcity. The regulation has amplified the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians, especially those who rely on cash for daily purchases like food and essential items. The Growing Cash Crisis Across the country, bank ATMs are frequently empty, forcing citizens to depend on PoS agents for cash withdrawals. Unfortunately, this reliance comes with higher transaction charges, further straining their finances. The CBN has mandated that all agent banking terminals adhere to these cash-out limits, placing additional constraints on the already cash-strapped economy. This policy is causing frustration among Nigerians who need easy access to cash for daily survival. Key Highlights of the Directive: The policy’s implementation is seen as a double-edged sword, aiming to curb excess cash circulation while inadvertently worsening financial hardship for average Nigerians. Conclusion While the CBN’s policy seeks to regulate cash flow and encourage a cashless economy, it has sparked significant discontent among citizens. The government must address the challenges posed by these limits to mitigate their impact on Nigerians’ daily lives. 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 Ahmed Tinubu recently used an academic forum to redefine the life many Nigerians had been living prior to his tenure. Speaking at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) convocation in Ondo State, Tinubu described the so-called “good life” as “fake,” one that could have led to Nigeria’s collapse without urgent reforms. However, his remarks sparked questions: Was there truly a life of luxury in Nigeria before his administration? In his speech, Tinubu shifted the blame for Nigeria’s economic struggles onto its citizens, absolving the government—led by his party, the APC, for over eight years—of responsibility. While he alluded to petrol subsidies and currency “subsidies,” there was no clear explanation of what constituted this supposed luxury. This raises the question: was the average Nigerian truly living extravagantly, or merely surviving? In 2015, when the APC came into power, the minimum wage was ₦18,000 (equivalent to $91.4 at the time). By 2023, though the wage had risen to ₦30,000, its dollar value had dropped to $66 due to currency devaluation. Comparatively, other African countries offered much higher minimum wages. For instance, Gabon paid ₦376,000, Ghana ₦60,000, and even Liberia, often labeled a poor country, paid $91. Tinubu’s administration later increased Nigeria’s minimum wage to ₦70,000, but its actual value was just $44—barely enough to buy basic necessities. Despite incremental wage increases, many Nigerian workers struggled with inflation and the rising cost of living. Even employers found it challenging to match these wage adjustments due to high production costs. By mid-2023, only 21 of Nigeria’s 36 states had agreed to implement the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, highlighting the disparity between policy and practicality. Unlike countries like Vietnam, where wages are reviewed annually to match inflation rates, Nigeria lacks a framework to cushion workers against economic pressures. Historically, wage adjustments have been the result of labor unions pressuring the government, rather than strategic planning to support citizens during inflationary periods. Tinubu’s assertion that Nigeria’s current economic woes stem from fuel and dollar subsidies simplifies a more complex reality. He overlooked key historical milestones, such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s negotiation of debt relief with the Paris Club in 2004. By clearing significant debts, Obasanjo freed Nigeria from its debt trap. However, under the APC-led administration, the country’s debt burden skyrocketed. From 2015 to 2023, domestic debt rose from ₦8.84 trillion to ₦44.91 trillion, while external debt ballooned from $7.35 billion to $37.2 billion. Rather than addressing these systemic issues, Tinubu’s narrative suggests that ordinary Nigerians lived beyond their means, which contradicts the lived reality of most citizens. The suggestion that Nigerians enjoyed “undeserved luxury” ignores the widespread poverty and economic hardships they endured even before his administration. This narrative deflects attention from the APC’s economic mismanagement and shields those responsible for Nigeria’s financial struggles. Until there is accountability for the policies and actions that deepened the country’s debt and economic decline, Tinubu’s administration lacks a clear plan to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. In reality, most Nigerians never lived a life of luxury, fake or otherwise—they merely survived. The rhetoric of “fake life” dismisses their struggles and shifts the focus away from the need for genuine reforms. As things stand, the administration appears more focused on redefining hardship as the new normal than on creating a sustainable path to economic recovery and improved living standards. 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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Nasreddine Nabi Faces Criticism Amid Kaizer Chiefs’ Defensive Woes Kaizer Chiefs supporters have never been shy to express their frustrations with the club, and now head coach Nasreddine Nabi is the latest figure to feel the heat. Chiefs’ ongoing defensive struggles and questionable decision-making have left fans questioning the leadership and direction of the team. Chiefs’ Defensive Struggles: No Clean Sheets in Sight Kaizer Chiefs began the season with a promising start, securing wins over Marumo Gallants and AmaZulu. However, an inability to secure clean sheets in either game signaled potential problems. Fast forward to nine matches into the Betway Premiership season, and the Glamour Boys have yet to register a single shutout. Despite assembling a revamped defense that includes high-profile signings like goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari and center-backs Rushwin Dortley and Inacio Miguel, the team continues to concede goals. Chiefs’ defensive frailties are now a glaring issue, overshadowing past concerns about their lack of attacking firepower. A Missed Opportunity Worth R40 Million? Another controversial point is Chiefs’ decision to hold onto Ashley Du Preez despite a reported R40 million (€2 million) offer from Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes. According to Soccer Laduma, the club rejected the offer because they couldn’t secure suitable attacking reinforcements. While Du Preez was in excellent form last season, his performances have dipped, leaving many to wonder if the Chiefs’ management made the wrong call. It’s worth noting that Du Preez is one of the most expensive signings in Chiefs’ history, with his R11.2 million (€600,000) price tag matching the fee paid for Morgan Gould back in 2012 (adjusted for inflation). Over-Reliance on Rushwin Dortley? At just 22 years old, Rushwin Dortley has been a standout performer for Chiefs. The former Cape Town Spurs defender has solidified his position in the starting XI and even earned a regular spot in the Bafana Bafana setup. Calm on the ball, aggressive in the air, and full of potential, Dortley has all the makings of a top-tier defender. However, his impressive form highlights a potential flaw in Nabi’s management style. Dortley has played in all nine Betway Premiership matches this season. For a young player, this heavy workload increases the risk of burnout or a form slump. If Dortley does hit a rough patch, Chiefs may find themselves scrambling for alternatives. Is Nasreddine Nabi to Blame? While the players bear some responsibility, much of the blame is falling on Nasreddine Nabi and his coaching staff. Critics argue that Nabi’s tactical rigidity and questionable team selections have contributed to the team’s woes. For a club as ambitious as Kaizer Chiefs, Nabi will need to find solutions fast if he hopes to silence his growing list of detractors. 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 hunting accident claimed the life of a 58-year-old man in Virginia after a bear fell from a tree following a gunshot. The incident occurred on December 9 in Lunenburg County when Lester C. Harvey and his hunting group encountered a bear during their expedition. How It Happened According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the group spotted a bear, which quickly climbed a tree. As they retreated from the base of the tree, one member of the party fired at the bear. The injured animal fell approximately 10 feet, landing on Harvey, who stood nearby. Emergency services were called immediately, and first aid was administered at the scene. Harvey was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries four days later. “The department is not currently seeking any charges related to this incident,” spokesperson Shelby Crouch confirmed, highlighting the accidental nature of the tragedy. Remembering Lester C. Harvey Harvey, a resident of Phoenix and a self-employed contractor, was described as a kind-hearted individual who loved the outdoors. His obituary shared that he was a devoted family man, leaving behind his wife, three sons, and two daughters. Josh Harvey, one of his sons, reflected on the tragedy in a Facebook post, saying his father had been gravely injured doing what he loved most—hunting with friends. Past Similar Incidents This is not the first hunting accident involving falling bears. In 2018, a man in Alaska was critically injured when his partner shot a bear on a ridge, causing the animal and dislodged rocks to tumble down onto him. A year later, a hunter in North Carolina was bitten and injured after a wounded bear fell from a tree. Both the hunter and the bear fell off a cliff during their struggle. The Importance of Hunting Safety This incident underscores the unpredictable dangers of hunting, particularly when dealing with large animals such as bears. Experts recommend maintaining a safe distance, ensuring clear lines of sight, and exercising caution during hunting expeditions. 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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Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPIs) into the Nigerian stock market saw a remarkable surge of 180.95% between January and October 2024, reaching N344.30 billion compared to N122.55 billion in the same period in 2023. Key Drivers of the FPI Growth Investment analysts attribute this significant growth to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) monetary policies, which have increased interest earnings on portfolio investments. The CBN’s consistent hikes in the monetary policy rate have improved investor confidence, especially among foreign participants. However, data from the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) also revealed that foreign outflows rose by 136.95%, from N168.83 billion in 2023 to N400.04 billion in 2024. Overview of Transactions Year-to-Date (YtD) The total foreign transactions for 2024, Year-to-Date, amounted to N744.34 billion, a 155.5% increase from N291.38 billion in 2023. Meanwhile, domestic investors maintained a strong presence, contributing N3.727 trillion, accounting for 83.35% of the N4.470 trillion total transactions recorded by the NGX. Monthly Performance On a month-by-month basis, total transactions rose marginally by 1.97% from N493.01 billion in September 2024 to N502.73 billion in October 2024. Compared to October 2023, where transactions stood at N220.94 billion, this represents a massive growth of 127.54%. Notably, in October 2024, domestic investors outperformed foreign investors, accounting for 82% of the total transaction value. Expert Insights Victor Chiazor, an analyst at Fidelity Securities Limited, commented that the surge in FPI inflows reflects improved investor confidence driven by Nigeria’s fiscal and monetary reforms. He noted, “The CBN’s consistent stance on inflation and its monetary tightening measures have resonated positively with foreign investors.” David Adonri, Vice Chairman at Highcap Securities, added, “The inflow of FPIs positively impacts the foreign exchange market, as the demand-supply dynamics influence FX rates. This also bolsters foreign reserves, signaling greater confidence in Nigeria’s economy.” Ambrose Omordion, COO of InvestData Consulting, remarked that the improved outlook among foreign investors was driven by the stabilizing Naira and the CBN’s anti-inflation measures. He stated, “While higher interest rates typically weigh on stocks, the CBN’s tough stance on inflation and its focus on currency stability have created an attractive environment for foreign investors.” 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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Discover the alarming rise in highway extortion during the festive season in Nigeria. Learn how unchecked abuses by security agents are creating fear and frustration for travellers nationwide. The festive season, a time meant for joy and family reunions, has unfortunately become a nightmare for many Nigerians traveling on the nation’s highways. Travellers face rampant extortion, harassment, and delays at countless roadblocks set up by security agents and local government officials. A Season of Exploitation Every year, holiday travellers are met with an overwhelming presence of security checkpoints across Nigeria. Despite their intended purpose of ensuring safety, these checkpoints often become hubs of exploitation. Motorists and passengers report incidents of intimidation, bribe demands, and even vehicle seizures for alleged infractions. An engineer from Lagos shared his ordeal, recounting numerous encounters with police, military personnel, and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials. At nearly every stop, he was forced to pay bribes ranging from ₦200 to ₦500, with one harrowing incident in Ore, Ondo State, where a policeman demanded ₦10,000 for supposedly expired vehicle registration. Unchecked Abuses by Security Agents The abuse is not limited to bribes. Criminals masquerading as security operatives have been reported, adding to the fear and uncertainty on the roads. A social media user narrated how his brother was allegedly kidnapped by police officers in Enugu State and extorted for ₦1 million using a Point of Sale (POS) machine. Similarly, Vanguard Newspaper editors traveling to Benin City recounted being harassed by armed policemen and touts demanding tax and radio receipts. Efforts to report these incidents often yield little to no resolution, as corrupt officers are tipped off and escape accountability. The Impact on Travellers and Public Trust This extortion culture erodes public trust in Nigeria’s security agencies, turning protectors into predators in the eyes of citizens. Travellers are left financially strained, emotionally scarred, and disillusioned about the role of security forces. A lawyer and activist, Inibehe Effiong, remarked:“The police reflect the rot in the political system. Expecting reforms from corrupt leadership is wishful thinking, but we must continue to fight for change.” Authorities Respond but Questions Remain Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi denied allegations of deliberate extortion, explaining that roadblocks—referred to as “stop-and-search points”—are often approved by state governors for security purposes. He urged citizens to report misconduct via the official helplines (09133333785, 09133333786). Despite these assurances, many believe that systemic corruption within Nigeria’s security agencies remains the root cause. Solutions for Safer Roads To address these challenges, experts and travellers have suggested several measures: Conclusion: Restoring Trust on Nigerian Highways The festive season should be a time of celebration, not dread. Addressing the menace of extortion and harassment on Nigerian highways requires urgent and sustained action from both government and citizens. By enforcing transparency, accountability, and innovation, the nation can transform its highways into safe and reliable routes for all. 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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Will Nnamdi Kanu’s Release End South-East Insecurity? Soludo Doubts Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has cast doubt on whether releasing Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), would bring an end to the persistent insecurity in the South-East region. Speaking on Tuesday at a press briefing in Amawbia, the governor highlighted how criminal elements have exploited the Biafran agitation to fuel organized crime and destabilize the region. Criminals Exploiting the Biafran Struggle Governor Soludo noted that what began as a call for liberation has been hijacked by criminals engaging in armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and other unlawful activities. He described these actions as “lucrative criminality,” emphasizing that they have no connection to the original Biafran struggle. “These so-called agitators have transformed into organized criminal gangs,” Soludo stated. “They hide in forests, kidnap innocent citizens for ransom, and justify their actions under the pretext of Biafra. But make no mistake—this is driven by greed, not a genuine liberation effort.” Doubts Over Kanu’s Influence on Criminal Gangs Soludo expressed skepticism about whether Nnamdi Kanu’s release could influence the criminals operating in the region. According to him, many of these groups no longer align with IPOB’s ideology and have shifted focus to amassing wealth through crime. “Kanu and IPOB have repeatedly dissociated themselves from these criminals,” Soludo said. “Even if Kanu is released today, these criminals are unlikely to listen because they are motivated by greed, not liberation. They’ve become enemies of the people they claim to protect.” Alarming Statistics and Community Complicity The governor revealed that over the past two years, more than 99% of the criminals arrested in Anambra were Igbo, with over 70% being non-indigenes of the state. He also criticized some communities for aiding these criminals by providing them with food and shelter while viewing security agencies as adversaries. “Our people know these criminals—they’re our brothers, cousins, and neighbors,” Soludo lamented. “In some communities, locals sustain them, which makes fighting insecurity even harder. How do you defeat crime when criminals are seen as heroes and security operatives as enemies?” Operation Udo Ga Chi: Anambra’s New Security Initiative To combat rising insecurity, Soludo announced a state-wide security initiative called ‘Operation Udo Ga Chi’ (Operation Peace Shall Reign), set to launch after January 25. The program will include: The governor also extended an olive branch to criminals, urging them to embrace the ongoing amnesty program, which is available until the end of February. Call for Collective Responsibility Soludo stressed that tackling insecurity requires collective action. He urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and residents to take charge of their communities and cooperate with security agencies. “Insecurity is a monster we must confront together,” Soludo stated. “If you see something, say something. Anambra will no longer be a haven for criminals hiding under the guise of freedom fighting.” Appreciation for Federal Support He thanked the Federal Government and security agencies for their assistance in combating crime in the state, reiterating his administration’s commitment to achieving lasting peace and security in Anambra. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
