Category: News

Troops from the 28th Task Force Brigade, Sector 4 of Operation Hadin Kai, successfully repelled a large-scale ISWAP/Boko Haram attack in Chibok, Borno State, on Saturday. The attackers, numbering over 300, launched a coordinated multi-front assault around 3 a.m., aiming to breach defensive positions. The soldiers responded with superior firepower, engaging the attackers in a two-hour gun battle, forcing them to retreat toward the Timbuktu Triangle.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) provided crucial support, conducting four major airstrikes along the terrorists’ withdrawal route, guided by real-time intelligence from ground troops. The airstrikes, including those from unmanned aerial platforms, inflicted significant losses on the retreating fighters, disrupting their movement and preventing regrouping.

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, confirmed the attack, stating that two people were killed and a local church was razed in Kwada village. The military reported no casualties or equipment damage. This successful operation showcases the improved synergy between the Nigerian Army and Air Force in degrading ISWAP’s operational capacity in the North-East.

The Kidnapping Epidemic in Nigeria: Is the Government’s Approach Fueling the Crisis?

Nigeria is grappling with a surge in kidnapping cases, leaving many to wonder if the government’s response is inadvertently exacerbating the problem. The authorities’ willingness to negotiate with kidnappers and pay ransoms has sparked debate, with critics arguing that it creates a lucrative business model for abductors.

The Negotiation Dilemma

When the government negotiates with kidnappers, it sends a signal that kidnapping is a viable means of extorting money. This approach has been criticized for emboldening kidnappers, who view negotiations as a sign of weakness. The lack of strict consequences for kidnappers further fuels the cycle of violence, making it more likely that they’ll strike again.

A Flawed Strategy

The government’s approach has been liked to “rewarding bad behavior”. By paying ransoms, the authorities may be inadvertently creating a culture of impunity, where kidnappers feel they can act with little risk of consequences. This not only perpetuates the kidnapping industry but also undermines efforts to address the root causes of the problem [3][5].

Time for a Change

To break the cycle of kidnapping, Nigeria needs a more robust and sustainable approach. This includes strengthening law enforcement, addressing socio-economic factors, and engaging with local communities. It’s time for the government to reassess its strategy and prioritize the safety and security of its citizens [3][9][5].

The kidnapping epidemic in Nigeria demands a more effective response. By adopting a firmer stance against kidnappers and addressing the underlying drivers of the crisis, the government can help restore peace and stability to the country.

Dignitaries Gather in Bauchi for Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi’s Funeral

Thousands of mourners, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and several state governors, converged on Bauchi to pay their last respects to the late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, a revered Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyya Sufi order.

The funeral, held at the Eid Ground in Bauchi, was attended by prominent figures, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Information Idris Mohammed, and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. Sheikh Sharif Saleh, the Grand Imam of Nigeria, presided over the congregation.

Sheikh Dahiru, who passed away at 98, was known for his commitment to Islamic education, peaceful coexistence, and community development. His legacy has left a profound impact on Nigeria and the global Muslim community.

Troops Rescue 21 Passengers in Kogi Highway Bandit Attack

In a daring operation, troops of the Nigerian Army, alongside other security operatives, have foiled a kidnapping attempt by bandits who attacked vehicles traveling along the Kogi highway. The joint operation, carried out by personnel of the 12 Brigade, Quick Response Units, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, vigilantes, and local hunters, successfully rescued 21 passengers, including women and a 9-day-old infant.

The attack, which occurred around 2 pm, involved about 100 heavily armed bandits targeting multiple vehicles, including a Toyota Sienna, Toyota Hiace buses, a Dangote truck, and a J5 bus. Tragically, two security personnel, a soldier and a vigilante, lost their lives during the rescue operation.

The rescued passengers include Moses Oladimeji, Adele Jacob, Obed Onche, Babayemi Ajayi, Funmilayo Ajayi, and several others. The security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel, leading to the rescue of the passengers. Rescue operations are ongoing to track down any remaining abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators.