Civilian JTF Arrests 26 Kidnappers, Accomplices in Kogi
Civilian JTF Arrests 26 Kidnappers, Accomplices in Kogi
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
As part of efforts to get rid of criminal activities in Kogi State ,the operatives of Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) in collaboration with the security agencies, has arrested no fewer than 26 kidnappers in a clean-up operations in Kogi West.
The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), disclosed this while parading the suspects yesterday in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu LGA.
It was learnt that some of the arrested suspects claimed to have come from Zamfara State and some local who act as accomplice were also apprehended in the area.
Omodara explained that the operation, which was carried out in the last two weeks, was part of the government’s efforts to tackle insecurity in the state.
He stated that the arrested suspects include natives who have been aiding the activities of bandits by supplying them with logistics such as food, drinks, water, and others.
“It is not only the kidnappers group in the forest that have been arrested, but also the natives that are collaborating with them.They serve as their logistics suppliers to the bandits and kidnappers in the bush.”
“Our deep investigation after the death of the kidnapped retired major Joe Ajayi, we discovered that some natives were involved.
“The suspects are helping the security agencies to unravel the root causes of the rising kidnapping in the area. You can see the harvest of arrests via what the state Government is doing.
“These are the people causing havoc in our forests.
We are not going to allow it, we will be after them because Kogi is not any other state that criminals, bandits and kidnappers will want to ride on and occupy.
“The Kogi Government is very serious about it, and that is why we are calling on Communities to imbibe first line of defense level, as vigilantes are allowed to carry certain levels of arms.
“We urge communities to develop some level of intelligence. Our women are currently being used to buy food and drinks and others, and sending it through some of the youths in the communities who are bandits collaborators.
“Because we are digging deep into getting some of these criminals, that was why some disgruntled elements outside the State orchestrated the recent purported protest. But the community has distant themselves from the protests including those that were used.
“Governor Ahmed Ododo is committed to ensure that peace return to every community not only in Bunu land but to all communities across Kogi State.
“We are taking some proactive measures; when the heat is on in Benue State, we took proactive measures in which the boundaries such as Olamaboro and Omala Local Government Areas, we formed a defence to ensure that we don’t have influx of some criminals into the state,”’Omodara said.
The security adviser assured the people that the government would not take the issue of security lightly and would continue to work with security agencies to bring perpetrators to book.
He stressed that the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and other security agencies have been deployed to combat the activities of kidnappers and bandits in the state.
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja As part of efforts to get rid of criminal activities in Kogi State ,the operatives of Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) in collaboration with the security agencies, has arrested
Don Pee Applauds Lagos Govt, Police After ‘Zarz End’ Release
Don Pee Applauds Lagos Govt, Police After ‘Zarz End’ Release
Following the release of its much-anticipated blockbuster movie ‘Zarz End’ on the Don Pee TV YouTube channel, Don Pee Art and Gallery has commended the Lagos State Government and the Nigeria Police Force for their efforts in maintaining peace and unity in the country.
The movie, which has been attracting significant streams since its debut on June 12, 2025 — to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day — features some of Nollywood’s finest, including veterans Kanayo O. Kanayo and Nkem Owoh, as well as AMVCA star girl Chioma Chukwuka. ‘Zarz End’ captures the End SARS protests, a nationwide movement against rogue police officers, which escalated into violent attacks on government institutions before being quelled by the intervention of security agencies.
Executive Producer of the film and CEO of Don Pee Art and Gallery, Dr. Onyeka Ogbatu, applauded the Lagos State Government led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Nigeria Police Force, stating that they bore the brunt of the unrest but maintained neutrality during and after the End SARS protests. He also praised their professional and unbiased handling of the investigative panel.
Don Pee Art and Gallery, whose parent company, Spanish Kingdom Group, has long supported the Nigeria Police Force, donated palliatives and relief materials to the force during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Ogbatu reiterated his unalloyed support for the police and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to being a partner in progress with both the Lagos State Government and the Nigerian Police.
“Our intention to relay the End SARS incident in a true life story years after, was not to antagonize the Police or Lagos State government, but rather to document a piece of the history and preserve the memory of the historic incident in an entertaining format so that the youths of the nation will continuously revisit it to learn from the past as well as to expunge the negative narration that has bedevilled the aftermath of the quagmire,” Dr. Ogbatu told the media.
“End SARS is a national tragedy that depicted a negative image of our nation, led to loss of lives of some innocent Nigerian Police men as well as harm to protesters, our intention is not to cash out from people’s pain but to honour the memory and preserve the incident in an artistic format for generations unborn to also experience it and learn from it,” the perceptive business guru further explained.
In line with this vision, Don Pee Art and Gallery plans to organise a youth development project targeting indigent youths, in collaboration with Passion for Excellence (PAFEX) Youth Development Initiative, to support the Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led government’s strides in Lagos State, especially within the creative economy. This was confirmed by Amaobi Kingsley Madu (Obifaruk), lead strategist and founder of PAFEX Youth Development Initiative.
Following the release of its much-anticipated blockbuster movie ‘Zarz End’ on the Don Pee TV YouTube channel, Don Pee Art and Gallery has commended the Lagos State Government and the
NHRC: Hate Speech is a Violation of Human Rights
NHRC: Hate Speech is a Violation of Human Rights
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has identified hate speech as a violation of the human rights to dignity and freedom from discrimination against others.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, gave the description yesterday in Abuja at the commemoration of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence”, invites us to examine the growing intersection between technology and human rights. It challenges us to reflect on the double-edged nature of AI as both a tool for development and a potential amplifier of harmful narratives, including hate speech.”
He said: “As the lead institution charged with the protection and promotion of human rights in Nigeria, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) asserts the intricate relationship between hate speech and human rights. In its base form, hate speech seems to be an illustration of the freedom of expression. However, in its impact, hate speech is a violation of the human rights to dignity and freedom from discrimination against others.”
He added: “The NHRC remains deeply concerned about the rising spread of hate speech, particularly as it takes new and more dangerous forms through digital technologies powered by artificial intelligence. Hate speech is not just a threat to individual dignity, it is a direct attack on democratic value and social cohesion. It violates the right to dignity of the human person, the right to be free from discrimination, and the right to participate in public life without fear of suppression or violence.”
He noted that some of the significant steps taken over the years by the NHRC to confront hate speech and its multi-polar challenges include: “In the build-up to the 2023 general election, the Commission launched the Mobilising Voters for Elections (MOVE) Project, which focused on promoting access, participation, and accountability. Recognising the toxic role of hate speech in electoral processes, the MOVE Project identified it as a major obstacle to voter inclusion.
“The commission established the National Hate Speech Register to record incidents and trends across the country, allowing for real-time documentation and response.”
“We have conducted specialised training for our staff nationwide to monitor and report hate speech across both traditional and digital media.”
“In recognising the centrality of the media in combating hate speech, the Commission issued anAdvisory on the Role of Media in Countering and Reporting Hate Speech, recognising the powerful influence of the media and the need to strengthen responsible journalism.
“In April 2025, the NHRC issued a major Advisory Opinion on the Protection of the Right to Freedom of Expression in Nigeria, in response to concerns about the Cybercrime (Amendment) Act 2024, particularly Section 24 which was criticized for restricting freedom of expression.”
He decried that: “the challenge before us today extends beyond traditional platforms. Artificial Intelligence especially in its generative form is reshaping the way information is produced, consumed, and disseminated. The same technologies that empower innovation can also be exploited to generate, amplify, and target hate speech with unprecedented speed and reach. This scenario portends dangers for the enjoyment of the right to privacy as guaranteed by section 37 of the 1999 Constitution.”
“Through algorithmic targeting, manipulated images, deepfakes, and automated bots, hateful and discriminatory narratives can now be crafted and circulated far more efficiently, often bypassing existing regulatory frameworks. If not addressed, these technologies can incite violence, and reinforce dangerous stereotypes.”
He, however, promised that: “As we move forward, the NHRC is expanding its work in this area by exploring AI-based tools that support early detection of hate speech and misinformation, partnering with tech platforms and regulatory bodies to encourage transparency in algorithmic content moderation and to demand accountability where violations occur. Additionally, developing a national framework for the ethical use of AI and digital technologies in line with human rights principles, particularly as it concerns youth engagement, elections, and social media governance.”
Michael Olugbode in Abuja The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has identified hate speech as a violation of the human rights to dignity and freedom from discrimination against others. The Executive
Edun: Proposed Tax Reform Legislation to Improve Efficiency, Fairness of Tax System
Edun: Proposed Tax Reform Legislation to Improve Efficiency, Fairness of Tax System
*Oyedele seeks fiscal transformation
James Emejo in Abuja
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has said the proposed tax reform bills will significantly improve the efficiency and fairness of the country’s tax system, while nearly doubling its tax-to-GDP ratio, which remains among the lowest globally, once signed into law.
The minister disclosed that the bills were formally delivered to the President by the National Assembly on Tuesday.
Edun spoke Wednesday during the 50th birthday lecture of Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele.
The development marked a major milestone in efforts to reform both tax and fiscal environment.
He said, “It was, I think, yesterday (Tuesday) that it was finally delivered to Mr. President by the National Assembly for him to sign off on the four tax reform bills”, describing the moment as a critical milestone in the current administration’s reform agenda.
He said, “There is still hard work to be done in efficiently implementing the bills that have been passed. But they promise to change the fiscal landscape.”
The minister praised Tinubu’s persistence in steering the tax reform process through challenging times, adding that “Mr. President knew the value of those four tax reform bills and kept going through thick and thin, through turbulence and through wind. He just kept going, supporting you (Oyedele).”
According to him, the fiscal reforms championed by the committee are central to Tinubu’s goal of lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.
He pointed to strategic areas such as agriculture, infrastructure (including digital infrastructure), and access to finance as sectors targeted for inclusive growth.
Edun further credited Oyedele’s expertise and communication skills for making the reforms broadly accessible.
He said, “You had the grace, the gift of being able to take a complex subject, and time after time, tirelessly break it down and simplify it for all types of audiences—the high, the low, the knowledgeable, the less knowledgeable.
“And that’s why we have today success in terms of a proposal for proposed bills that are now ready for Mr. President to sign into law.”
The minister said the reforms will introduce a fairer, more transparent tax system aligned with global best practices.
He said, “They will give greater fairness. They will give clarity. They will give ease of administration, best practice around the world. And ultimately… they’ll give more revenue for government so that the legitimate demands of our people can be met in social services, health, education, and basic infrastructure.”
The minister referenced Oyedele’s impact on public attitudes toward taxation.
He said, “You went out and you saw and heard from people that they didn’t feel they were in any way obliged to pay tax. You have worked tirelessly to help change people’s perspective on that,” he said, adding that voluntary compliance plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of tax policies.
In his remarks, Oyedele offered a critical perspective on the country’s economic environment, adding that regulatory bottlenecks and tariff burdens were equivalent to granting tax waivers to a few, while discouraging investment and productivity.
He said, “Addressing our tariffs and regulatory hurdles is the equivalent of granting waiver from all income and consumption taxes. We also need fiscal reforms to complement a strong and stable Naira, such as payments of all taxes in Naira.”
Nonetheless, he maintained that the work of the committee was far from finished, and called for a downward revision of corporate tax rates to attract new investments and stimulate economic expansion.
He further warned that high tax rates, especially in an inflationary environment, amounted to taxing capital instead of profit.
He said the country must also resolve issues of regulatory overreach and embrace digitisation as part of its economic reform package.
Oyedele said, “We must refine our tariff system to reduce the rates on raw materials and intermediate products, which currently are twice the average for sub-Saharan Africa.”
He cautioned the elite to resist the temptation of simplistic solutions in public policy debates.
He said, “The elites must apply more intellectual rigour in policy debates, challenge long-held theoretical beliefs and question assumptions within context. We must avoid crowd-pleasing analysis because after the applause, the pain remains.”
Offering practical advice to government, Oyedele suggested that public institutions should only carry out tasks that the private sector cannot do, and should do so efficiently, collecting the least amount of tax necessary to meet basic public service standards.
He also spoke to the need for quality, non-inflationary spending by government, urging greater prudence and planning in fiscal policy implementation.
According to him, ordinary Nigerians must also rise to the responsibility of civic participation.
According to him, “The people must seek first to understand—ignorance compounds vulnerability and steals opportunities. We must think independently, ask questions, engage, and criticise constructively with the sole aim to build, not tear apart, our country.”
The lecture served as both a personal tribute to Oyedele and a broader reflection on Nigeria’s path to sustainable development through fiscal responsibility, tax reform, and inclusive governance.
Oyedele called for lower corporate tax rates, in addressing regulatory overage, and refining tariff systems to stimulate investment and economic growth.
He highlighted the need for an orderly tax system to avoid chaotic taxes that disproportionately impact the poor.
He said the tax reform measures include full income tax exemption for over a third of workers, higher exemption thresholds for small businesses, and zero-rating essential consumptions.
He also emphasised the importance of credible data, inclusive policies, and investing in people, and emphasised the need to refine the tariff system to reduce rates on raw materials and intermediate products to lower input costs.
Oyedele said, “We have priority sector incentives, boosting exports and providing tax relief to prevent public transition for Nigerian businesses operating internationally. Others are changes to income class laws to attract remote work opportunities, enabling Nigerian youths to thrive in the digital economy.
He stressed the need to make policies for a strong and stable Naira, such as allowing businesses to pay taxes in Naira despite having a comparative trade balance.
He lamented that the tax system in Nigeria suffers from archaic laws, complex administrative structure, low tax morale, and widespread evasion.
Speaking further, he explained the importance of prioritising inclusion and national interest over sectional self-interest in policy-making.
He advocated for using credible data for policy decisions, rather than relying solely on popular views or sentiments.
*Oyedele seeks fiscal transformation James Emejo in Abuja Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has said the proposed tax reform bills will significantly improve
Olusi Canvasses Skills Devt for Economic Growth, Reaffirms Support for Artisans
Olusi Canvasses Skills Devt for Economic Growth, Reaffirms Support for Artisans
James Emejo in Abuja
Managing Director/Chief Executive, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi, has reaffirmed the bank’s unwavering commitment to empowering Nigerian artisans and technicians, which he described as the backbone of inclusive economic growth and future of industrial development.
The BoI chief executive spoke at the Nigerian Artisans Leadership Summit 2025, with the theme, “Unlocking the Inherent Potential of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians” in Abuja.
He said the development finance institution views the country’s over 12 million artisans as key drivers of grassroots enterprise and national transformation.
Represented by BoI Executive Director, Public Sector and Intervention Programmes, Ms Mabel Ndagi, Olusi said the theme goes to the heart of inclusive development – and speaks to a vision of Nigeria, where “talent is not wasted due to lack of support, where enterprise is not stifled by lack of access, and where informal skills are not excluded from formal opportunities”.
According to him, the challenges faced by artisans – such as limited access to affordable finance, lack of research and development, outdated equipment, inadequate training, poor business structures, and minimal export participation required urgent and structured intervention.
To address these systemic issues, he said the bank is anchoring its 2025–2027 Corporate Strategy on six thematic pillars.
These include strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, promoting youth empowerment and skills development, expanding opportunities within the digital economy, advancing climate resilience and sustainability initiatives, investing in critical infrastructure, and ensuring gender inclusion across all interventions.
He said, “These focus areas are not just bureaucratic categories—they are lenses through which we are reimagining support for artisans and grassroots entrepreneurs.”
The BoI boss further underscored the bank’s mission to provide both financial and advisory support to Nigerian enterprises that sustain local economies and catalyze national growth.
He said, “Our vision as a development finance institution is to transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape by empowering the enterprises that power this nation. At the heart of this vision are artisans and grassroots entrepreneurs like you.”
He stressed that development cannot be outsourced or imported, adding that, “It must be built by hand, by skill, by passion, and by purpose. That is what artisans represent. That is what BOI supports. That is the future we must shape together.”
The Artisan Leadership Summit marked another step in BOI’s broader drive to deepen financial inclusion, promote sustainable livelihoods, and unlock the untapped potential across Nigeria’s informal sector.
The summit brought together leaders of the artisan community, development partners, government representatives, and stakeholders to spotlight the challenges faced by craftsmen, while also charting a new course for their empowerment and integration into the formal economy.
James Emejo in Abuja Managing Director/Chief Executive, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi, has reaffirmed the bank’s unwavering commitment to empowering Nigerian artisans and technicians, which he described as
SWAgCo, BATNF to Launch Sustainable Maize Devt Project for Farmers in Ekiti
SWAgCo, BATNF to Launch Sustainable Maize Devt Project for Farmers in Ekiti
Sunday Okobi
In a significant move to boost agricultural development in the South-west, the South West Agricultural Company Limited (SWAgCo), the agribusiness subsidiary of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), in collaboration with the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has launched a support initiative targeting over 100 smallholder maize farmers at the Odu’a Agro Industrial Hub in Oke-Ako Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The flag-off ceremony, which took place yesterday at the Odu’a Agro-Industrial Hub in Oke-Ako, Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was graced by the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, alongside traditional rulers, government officials, and key stakeholders from the agricultural sector.
The project, titled: ‘Sustainable Development of Maize Micro-Enterprise Farmers in Ekiti State,’ is aimed at enhancing maize productivity, improve access to quality inputs and extension services and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The project is being implemented by Westlink Integrated Agriculture Limited, the operating subsidiary of SWAgCo Limited.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, appreciated the move as timely and transformative, stating that: “The initiative aligns perfectly with the administration’s vision to empower farmers and drive inclusive economic growth.”
He commended the Odu’a Investment, BATNF and SWAgCo for bringing this vision to reality at Oke-Ako.
Oyebanji noted that Ekiti State is open for business, especially in agribusiness where the combination of fertile land, hardworking farmers, supportive government policies and an array of agriculture offering tertiary institutions creates as an ideal conditions for agribusiness to thrive.
The Group Managing Director of Odu’a Investment Company, Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa, said that the project is a manifestation of OICL’s commitment to strategic partnerships that deliver impact. According to him, “This maize cultivation initiative, in partnership with BATNF, is a shining example of what can be achieved when strong institutions work together with purposeful partners. This hub at Oke- Ako Ekiti will be more than a production site. It is a platform designed to bring together actors across the agricultural value chain: from land development and input suppliers to mechanization, processing, storage, and logistics services.
“It will foster inclusive growth, unlock job opportunities for our youth and women, and stimulate local economic development.”
He also positioned the project within OICL’s broader commitment to regional development, saying: “This project represents our dedication to investing in ventures that unlock socio-economic value across the Southwest region.”
Also, the Chairman of SWAgCo, Mr. Owolabi Salami, reiterated SWAgCo’s mission to scale sustainable agricultural development. According to him, SWAgCo was established to serve as a catalyst for agro-industrial transformation and supporting these 100 maize farmers is just one step in our broader mission to reposition agriculture as a commercially viable and youth-inclusive sector.”
The General Manager of BATNF, Mr. Oludare Odusanya, who spoke on the Foundation’s role in supporting small holder farmers in rural communities, noted that “the project reflects our core belief that smallholder farmers are not just beneficiaries of development; they are key drivers of it.”
He said that BATNF is committed to empowering rural communities with tools, training, and technologies need to thrive.
OICL Group Independent Director and member of the BATNF Technical Committee, Mrs. Folusho Olaniyan, added that beyond productivity, the project is about restoring dignity to farming. “This is about giving farmers a reason to stay on the land, believe in their work, and to pass that hope on to the next generation. Chief Segun Ojo, a Group Director in Odu’a, also laid credence to the fact that Odu’a, through SwagCo, is doing the right thing, and seeing it launched in Oke Ako is a moment of profound pride.
Sunday Okobi In a significant move to boost agricultural development in the South-west, the South West Agricultural Company Limited (SWAgCo), the agribusiness subsidiary of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), in
Lagos LG Poll: PDP Flags Off Campaign, Says Party Not Dead
Lagos LG Poll: PDP Flags Off Campaign, Says Party Not Dead
Segun James
Ahead of the July 12 local government elections in Lagos State, the former Deputy National Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has charged the party’s candidates in the election to challenge the status quo and be bold to take on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at their supposed stronghold.
George, who stated this at the commencement of the PDP campaigns with the presentation of flags to its candidates, urged them to prove to nay sayers that the PDP is not dead in the state.
In his address to the party faithful, the Atona Oodua charged the candidates and others to be courageous as they go for the campaign.
He likened PDP to an Iroko tree that would not be uprooted in the country.
“I will join you as humanly possible to campaign to our people. I know the LASIEC, the electoral commission was packaged by the state government, but above all the contestants, put Almighty God before you, He will lead you there. Even if they manipulate the results, let the vibration wake up Lagos.”
“For those who are contesting, be courageous because you are serving the Almighty God. God told us in the holy books, you must be a servant leader.”
“The essence of today is to convince the Lagos electorate that the rumours that have been flying around is most irresponsible statement that any sane person would say. How can an Iroko tree die. The only political party that is Iroko is PDP,” Gorge boasted.
Speaking on the hardship in the country, George said: “Don’t be afraid, go and campaign. There are millions who are suffering.
“The younger generation in the north are now revolting. They asked them to go to school but they are back but there is no job because education makes people easy to govern but difficult to enslave.”
While criticising the barrage of defectors into the APC, George stated: “I feel for those who are defecting to APC. APC is a congregation of strange bed fellows, hurriedly packaged and put together. What has the APC government done to warrant any recognition in this country? Compare all the economic indices now to when the PDP was in government,” he queried.
In his comment, former Chairman of the party in Lagos State, Sunday Olaifa said: “Without the support of Bode George, PDP would not have participated in the local government election. When we came to him to complain, he personally took us to LASIEC office and now we are participating.”
Olaifa, who is the Vice Chairman South-west of PDP, added: “This election is winnable. This is the moment we have been waiting for.”
Segun James Ahead of the July 12 local government elections in Lagos State, the former Deputy National Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has charged the party’s
Oyo’s ₦63.4Billion Govt House Renovation Equals 44% Of IGR—More Than Health Budget, Enough To Revamp 1,540 Health Centres
Similarly, with ₦2 million allocated for each toilet facility, the same amount could provide approximately 31,700 toilet units throughout the state. ArticlesRead More
BREAKING: Top MTN Partner, Kingsley Adonu, Faces Arraignment Over Alleged ₦10Billion Fraud Channelled Through Fidelity Bank, GTBank, Others
According to the charge sheet seen by SaharaReporters, Adonu is accused of knowingly taking possession of funds totalling over ₦10 billion, which are believed to be proceeds of unlawful activity—specifically, stealing. ArticlesRead More
Anambra CP Admonishes Operatives on Firearm Use
Anambra CP Admonishes Operatives on Firearm Use
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has admonished operatives in the state on exercising extreme care in the use of their firearms.
Orutugu made the admonishment when he visited Police Mobile Force 29 Squadron at Amansea, Awka, where the deceased police officer, Inspector Amaechi Okolie, who was shot by his 10-year-old son, served.
The commissioner also visited the family of the deceased, where he made financial contribution to the family.
Inspector Okolie was two days ago shot dead by his son while fiddling with his service rifle, without knowing it was fully loaded. His second son, a six years old boy was equally wounded as a result of the incident.
A statement issued by the state Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the commissioner was at Amansea to condole with the family members and officers and men of the Squadron over the sad incident of the loss of Inspector Okolie and bullet injury to one of his sons.
Ikenga said: “The CP, during the visit, described the Police Mobile Force as his Alma Mater, and reminded the officers of the importance of adhering to Police Operational Protocol, especially in their line of duty.
“He emphasized the need for teamwork, and encouraged the personnel to remain focused and dedicated to their duties, despite the loss.
“CP Orutugu’s visit to the Police Mobile Squadron at Amansea demonstrates his commitment to the welfare and morale of personnel of the Command.
“He also supported the deceased’s family with a welfare package and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured son who is currently receiving attention in the hospital.”
Ikenga said the commissioner was received on behalf of the officers of the Squadron by their Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Nasiru Adamu Kaila, who expressed gratitude to Orutugu for visiting the base and showing empathy towards the officers, especially at this moment of grief.
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has admonished operatives in the state on exercising extreme care in the use of their firearms. Orutugu made




