Security
Alor Crisis: Maintain peace, status quo, Police warns Alor PG
The Nigerian Police Force has advised the President-General of the Alor Peoples Convention, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu, to maintain peace and status quo following its intervention in the recent crisis that rocked the community.
This is coming on the heels of Ojukwu’s re-invitation by the police after he was released from their custody.
The community leader was last month (July) detained on the strength of an allegation of his involvement in the communal crisis and his refusal to honour police invitations.
CAPITAL POST had reported that one the most severe allegations against Ojukwu was his deployment of an unauthorized security outfit, the “Tiger Squad,” purportedly an extension of the notorious Ebubeagu security group. This group allegedly caused significant unrest in Alor, with their actions culminating in a sacrilegious incident where they disrupted a burial rite conducted by a Catholic Reverend Father in Agbor Village, Alor by forcefully snatching a microphone from him.
However, yesterday, the Nigerian Police Force held a meeting with the Traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Mac-Anthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo (Ezedioramma III of Alor) and his entourage, on one hand, and Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu, the President-General of the Alor Peoples Convention, along with his brother and associate, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa (Okeife Alor), on the other.
According to a credible source, the meeting was convened in response to a petition written by Igwe Okonkwo, which alleged threats to his life, disrespect towards his position as the recognized traditional ruler of Alor, and actions that could potentially disrupt peace and harmony in the town.
The source said, “Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu and his brother, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa, arrived at the Force CID Headquarters early in the morning, around 8:30 AM. They were received by the investigating police officer. Shortly thereafter, Igwe Okonkwo and his entourage arrived in a convoy and were ushered into the CID building.
“The feuding parties were then brought before a high-ranking police official, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). The ACP welcomed both groups warmly, acknowledging the presence of several titled men and dignitaries, including the Igwe.
He humbly remarked, “From what I am seeing, you are all respectable men, many of whom are titled chiefs and elders, including the revered traditional ruler. I feel I am not even worthy to be in a meeting with you, let alone adjudicating your matter, were it not for my position as a senior police officer.”
“Following this address, the ACP invited Igwe Mac-Anthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo to present his case. The Igwe reiterated that the issues between him and Chief Ojukwu were outlined in the petition, emphasizing that Chief Ojukwu had been holding town meetings without his involvement, despite his position as both the traditional ruler and the chief security officer of the town.
“The Igwe also accused the President-General of running a parallel security outfit, which he claimed constituted insubordination and posed a threat to peace and order in the town. Igwe Okonkwo further noted that despite these actions, he had personally chosen Chief Ojukwu for his position as President-General during the harmonization process that led to his appointment.
“The ACP then turned to Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu, asking him to respond to the accusations. Instead of speaking directly, Chief Ojukwu deferred to his predecessor, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa, to explain the situation. Chief Igbonwa presented a 2022 judgment from the Anambra State High Court, which allegedly ruled that the Igwe had been dethroned.
“However, the ACP interrupted to ask whether the state government had withdrawn the Igwe’s certificate of recognition as a result of this ruling. Chief Igbonwa responded that he was unaware of any such action.
“At this point, the Commissioner of Police took over the proceedings. He questioned Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu about his refusal to honor previous police invitations, which eventually led to his arrest.
“Chief Ojukwu explained that he had consulted a police officer in Lagos about attending the interview there instead of Abuja, but the Commissioner rebuked him, stressing that such an approach was unacceptable. The Commissioner also pointed out that a major cause of community crises like that in Alor was the disregard for the rule of law.
“The Commissioner then postponed the meeting until the next day, citing a directive from his superiors that prohibited visitors from remaining in the building beyond 6 PM.
“The second day of the interview resumed in the office of the ACP, with the Commissioner of Police continuing to coordinate the proceedings. Once again, Igwe Okonkwo reiterated that his petition stemmed from Chief Ojukwu’s acts of insubordination. When asked to respond, Chief Ojukwu defended his actions by arguing that he was acting in accordance with the law, as the court had dethroned the Igwe.
“The Commissioner then asked the Igwe whether he had appealed the court’s judgment and requested a stay of execution. The Igwe confirmed that he had done so. The Commissioner explained that this meant the parties must maintain the status quo until the appeal court reached a decision. Chief Igbonwa attempted to read portions of the high court judgment, but the Commissioner interrupted him, stating that since the case had been appealed, the high court’s ruling was no longer relevant, and the court of appeal’s decision was now the operative judgment.
“Chief Igbonwa became visibly agitated at this point and, in a fit of anger, threw a stack of documents onto the Commissioner’s desk. This led to a heated exchange between Chief Igbonwa and the ACP, with the latter threatening to detain Chief Igbonwa for showing disrespect to a superior officer. Chief Igbonwa quickly apologized and complied with the police’s instructions.
“After issuing several warnings, the Commissioner ordered Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu and Chief Uzoma Igbonwa to write undertakings to maintain peace and respect the status quo in the town as it is now clear to him that they are the real instigators of the crisis in the town. The Igwe was also asked to do the same. These undertakings included commitments from Chiefs Ojukwu and Igbonwa to recognize HRM Igwe Mac-Anthony Okonkwo as the legitimate Igwe of Alor and to maintain peace. In return, Igwe Okonkwo agreed to recognize Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu as the President-General of the town”.
The police assured Igwe Okonkwo that they would enforce the undertakings and ensure that peace and order were maintained in Alor, emphasizing that the Force CID was the highest investigative body in the Nigerian police force and that they were fully committed to upholding their decisions.
On his part, the Igwe of Alor, Chief Mac-Anthony Elibe Okonkwo, expressed gratitude to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for his timely intervention in the matter. He also thanked the Force CID Headquarters for their forthrightness and integrity in handling the situation.
Igwe Okonkwo emphasized that the undertakings signed by the President-General, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu, and his associate, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa, imply that moving forward, no one is permitted to call a meeting of the Alor Peoples’ Convention without his knowledge. Additionally, no vigilante or security group should operate in Alor without his approval, as he is both the Igwe and the chief security officer of the town. This arrangement is to remain in effect pending the determination of the case in the Court of Appeal and, if necessary, the Supreme Court.
In his own reaction, Rev, Innocent Chukwudi Peace- Udochukwu a member of Alor Peace and Reconciliation committee stated that it is worth commending the officers and gentlemen at the Police CID Force Headquarters, Abuja, for their professionalism, equity, and integrity throughout the proceedings. Their adherence to the rule of law and commitment to upholding justice is commendable. Their actions in this matter reflect the highest standards of law enforcement, as they consistently maintained fairness and impartiality, ensuring that all parties adhered to legal principles. The importance of peace and the rule of law in resolving the longstanding crisis in Alor cannot be overstated, and the role of the Force CID in guiding this process should be lauded. Finally, it is essential for the President-General and his cohorts to continue to uphold the peace and respect the rule of law to prevent further conflicts that have plagued Alor for more than a decade.
In a bid to strengthen security of lives and property and to foster peaceful coexistence in Ijumu Local Government Area, the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command CP Miller G. Dantawaye, convened a high-level meeting with key stakeholders, within the Local Government, to address pressing security concerns and enhance community Policing efforts.
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ovye Aya, made available to CAPITAL POST on Tuesday, said, the meeting was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, Rtd, the representative of the Department of State Services (DSS); the member, representing Ijumu, at the State House of Assembly, the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties, the Chairman of the Local Government, the Olujumu of Ijumu, as well as members of Miyetti Allah.
In his address, the CP emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling insecurity. He called for intelligence-sharing between residents and Security Agencies, stressing that law enforcement alone cannot ensure safety without community support. He called for the effective collaboration between the Police and their host community.
He further assured of involving immigration agencies to monitor and regulate movement as well as Proper documentation that will enhance accountability and reduce security threats within the Local Government.
The meeting also addressed land ownership rights, the role of traditional institutions, and the need for structured conflict resolution. The CP urged all parties to respect existing leadership structures and seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue.
Reaffirming the Police unwavering commitment to professionalism and human rights, the CP warned against lawlessness, stating that Security Agencies are fully prepared to take action against any individual or group threatening the peace in the area. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammad Badaru Abubakar has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to providing modern military equipments, prioritizing welfare of personnel and trainings for operational effectiveness. This statement was made during the Opening Ceremony of the First Batch of Special Operations Force Training and Equipping for the Armed Forces of Nigeria at Camp Kabala in Jaji, Kaduna State.
The Minister emphasized, “This milestone marks a new chapter in our commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities, enhancing our response to evolving security threats, and ensuring that our forces remain among the best-trained and most resilient in the world.”
He outlined the necessity for an elite force that is not only well-equipped but also proficient in advanced tactics, unconventional warfare, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid response missions. He stated, “Our vision is to build a highly skilled, agile, and mission-ready force capable of executing specialized operations in diverse and complex environments.”
This Special Operations Force Training is a strategic initiative aimed at improving operational effectiveness in combating terrorism, insurgency, transnational crime, and other asymmetric threats facing our nation. The Special Operations Force will serve as a critical pillar in securing national sovereignty, protecting citizens, and maintaining peace and stability both within and beyond our borders.
Furthermore, he said that the training program is meticulously designed to develop personnel in special combat tactics, counterterrorism operations, intelligence gathering, and hostage rescue missions. “Trainees will be prepared for high-risk missions in urban and hostile environments, ensuring adaptability to dynamic threats. Given the inter-agency nature of modern security challenges, this training will promote seamless collaboration among personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies,” he explained.
Recognizing that Special Operations require not only technical skills but also mental resilience, he emphasized that the training will rigorously test and refine the physical and psychological endurance of our troops. “Emphasis will be placed on leadership under pressure, fostering duty, discipline, and camaraderie among participants,” he stated.
According to the Minister: “Upon completion of this intensive training program, we anticipate a force capable of conducting high-impact operations with precision, speed, and efficiency. This will enhance our ability to neutralize threats and proactively respond to security challenges. The newly trained Special Operations Force will be deployed to critical areas nationwide, reinforcing our national security architecture,” he said.
Minister Badaru assured that this training is merely the beginning, as trainees will continue to hone their skills and adapt to new threats while upholding the highest military standards.
The inauguration marks the first batch of 800 trainees out of a planned total of 2,400, as part of a long-term strategy to develop world-class special operations capabilities within the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The program will be sustained and expanded to include personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces. The President and Commander-in-Chief, as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, is committed to equipping our Special Operations Forces with modern weapons, surveillance systems, and intelligence tools to enhance operational effectiveness.
Furthermore, the Ministry will continue to collaborate with allied nations and international defence institutions to adopt best practices and improve interoperability in joint operations. Beyond this training, troops will have access to advanced specialized courses in counter-insurgency, cyber warfare, and strategic reconnaissance. To the gallant trainees, Minister Badaru remarked, “This program will be one of the most challenging experiences of your career, but it will also be one of the most rewarding. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to duty will define the future of Nigeria’s security landscape. I urge you to give your best, push beyond your limits, and embrace the honour of being part of this elite force.”
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda emphasized the critical role that Special Operations Forces play in modern military strategy, particularly in counterterrorism, asymmetric warfare, and high-risk operations. “Special Operations Forces are the backbone of modern military strategy, playing a critical role in counterterrorism, asymmetric warfare, and high-risk operations that demand precision, resilience, and exceptional tactical expertise,” he stated.
He reiterated that the training program is designed to equip troops with advanced skills necessary to address the complex and evolving security threats facing Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of excellence, discipline, and adaptability in preparing forces to confront these challenges effectively.
He expressed gratitude to the esteemed instructors and training facilitators, acknowledging their dedication to shaping the next generation of elite warriors. “Your guidance will forge them into a formidable force capable of executing missions,” he stated.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Abubakar Zubairu has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to fostering community-driven security solutions.
He stated this while addressing a cross-section of Stakeholders at the Okene engagement programme and further re-echoing the call for community participation in security efforts, noting that manpower limitations and resource constraints necessitate an inclusive Policing approach.
He commended the Commissioner for his proactive leadership and stressed that “security is everybody’s business, and together, we can ensure stability and peace.”
In his remarks, CP Dantawaye reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to fostering the implementation of Community Policing project as a key approach for effective Policing.
He emphasised the importance of synergy between Law enforcement Agencies, Traditional Institutions, Local Communities, as well as other Security stakeholders in combating crime, particularly kidnapping and other security threats.
He further commended the unwavering dedication among various security formations, including the NSCDC, Local Vigilante, Hunters, as well as NYSC members.
He urged the community members to play an active role in intelligence gathering, stating that, Policing cannot be done by the men on uniform alone. We need every citizen to be our eyes and ears to ensure a safe society.
He cautioned the officers on discipline, professionalism as well as respect for Human rights. He disclosed that Police Officers are undergoing continuous training to improve the operational capacity and to also equip them with the needed skills for investigation.
The event witnessed the presence of respected traditional rulers, local government representatives, transport unions, and various ethnic and community groups, all of whom pledged their commitment to strengthening security collaboration.
As part of ongoing efforts to curb crime, the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State will intensify intelligence-based operations, enhance police-community relations, and continue engaging stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
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