Security
IPOB lawyer criticises Anambra government for arresting native doctor
A counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has criticised the Anambra State Government for the arrest of a native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as ‘Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki’.
The criticism followed the arrest of ‘Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki’ by the Anambra State Security outfit code named, Agunehemba.
The popular native doctor used to display a flamboyant lifestyle on social media, and was arrested for a yet to explain reasons by Anambra State security outfit.
The statement published his arrest on the official X account on Saturday without explaining reasons for his arrest.
The IPOB lawyer and Human Rights Activists in a statement he made available to journalists on Sunday condemned the arrest and said, the fundamental human righrs of the native doctor has been breached, raising concerns of political and personal vendetta.
Ejiofor called on Anambra State government to release him immediately without setting conditions for his bail, adding that if the arrest was allowed, it would create a dangerous precedent of suppression of freedom to worship in Anambra State.
According to the lawyer, Agunechemba security outfit should remain focused on its core mandate of combating crime and not being hijacked for political witch-hunts.
The statement read in part, “It is deeply concerning that Chief Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, has been unlawfully arrested by the Anambra State Government. This egregious act not only tramples on his fundamental rights but also raises serious questions about the abuse of state power for political or personal vendettas.
“Since news of Akwa Okuko’s arrest broke, my phones have been flooded with calls and messages from concerned individuals, all questioning the legality of his detention. Upon further inquiry, I learned that he was invited for a meeting by the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who personally called him. However, rather than a routine engagement, this invitation appears to have been a trap – one that has now led to his unjust detention.
“The crux of the matter lies in a trending undated video in which Akwa Okuko allegedly spoke about preparing a substance called ‘Okeite.’ Notably, I was made to understand that this video was neither released on his official platforms nor promoted by him. However, even if we assume – without conceding – that he made such statements, the fundamental question remains: What crime has he committed?
“Sections 38, 39, and 40 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) provide clear, extensive, and unequivocal protections for every citizen’s freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. These rights are sacrosanct and can not be arbitrarily infringed upon by any government, authority or local laws.
“Specifically, Section 38 guarantees the right to practice and propagate one’s religion freely, whether in private or in public, alone or with others.
“Section 39 upholds the right to freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and disseminate information without interference.”
Ejiofor insisted that by unlawfully detaining the native doctor based on his religious and personal declarations – whether actual or perceived – the Anambra State Government has blatantly violated these constitutional rights.
He maintained that ‘Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki’ is a renowned and successful traditional doctor, widely recognised for his metaphysical beliefs by his adherents.
“Contrary to the misconceptions being peddled, I have been reliably informed that he has consistently discouraged individuals without legitimate means of livelihood from seeking his services. I was further informed that he has publicly declared that only those engaged in genuine trade or business should consult him, demonstrating a strong ethical stance in his practice.
“If his arrest is indeed linked or limited to the aforementioned viral video, then this amounts to an unlawful detention and must be unequivocally condemned. His continued incarceration represents a gross violation of his fundamental rights and an abuse of power by the Anambra State Government.
“Given these troubling developments, I call on the Anambra State Government to immediately and unconditionally release Chief Chidozie Nwangwu. His detention is not only illegal, but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of religious and expressive freedoms in our state.
“Agunechemba Security Outfit should remain focused on its core mandate – combating crime – and not being hijacked for political witch-hunts.
“If the state government attempts to subvert its original purpose, the people of Anambra will resolutely reject such misdirection,” the statement added.
Security
AIG Zubairu, CP Dantawaye visit kidnapped scene, deploys tactical team to restore law and order
In a bid to ensure confidence building and to reassure the people of kogi State of their safety, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 8 Lokoja, AIG Abubakar Zubairu, and the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command CP Miller G. Dantawaye, psc visited the scene of attack on passengers who were traveling in an 18-Seater Bus along Obajana-Kabba road to assess the situation and ordered for deployment of additional operational assets to carry out bush combing operation to deny criminal elements safe haven.
The AIG further engaged with the Divisional Police Officers and other key stakeholders to adopt strategies for proactive crime prevention and control management. He urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that the Command is working with critical stakeholders in security management.
CP Dantawaye reiterated the Command unwavering commitment in working synergy with other security agencies to sustain the ongoing onslaught against criminality in the state. He further stated that, the Divisional Police Officers have been directed to carry out a comprehensive crime prevention patrol as well as intelligence-driven operations, to safeguard travelers and residents.
The engagement with local security groups aimed to further strengthen community collaboration in combating crime. The meeting brought together representatives from Hunters Association, Vigilante Groups, Oduduwa People’s Congress (OPC), Agbekoya Group, National Hunters, Special Hunters, Fulani Hunters.
He commended the vital role of community-led security efforts in preventing and responding to criminal activities. He further stressed the importance of intelligence sharing, noting that the law enforcement agencies require public cooperation to effectively combat crime. While acknowledging manpower challenges, authorities assured that training and collaboration efforts would be intensified to enhance security operations.
The CP disclosed that public support is essential in providing intelligence and other forms of assistance. Community leaders pledged their continued support to completement security efforts. While urging residents to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid direct confrontations with well-armed criminals. They emphasized the need for intelligence-driven security strategies to dismantle criminal networks effectively.
The meeting concluded with assurances of strengthened security strategies, encouraging citizens to maintain open communication with law enforcement and prioritize collective safety.
Security
Nigeria, Bangladesh to share experiences in agriculture, military in agriculture, defence cooperation – Badaru
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has said that Nigeria will share experiences in defence , agriculture and Military cooperation with Bangladesh . This bilateral cooperation if discussed further will successfully integrates military personnel into various non-combat sectors such as agriculture, construction, and infrastructure development.
This cooperation discussion aims to ensure that military personnel remain constructively engaged during peacetime, contributing to both their personal economic prosperity and the overall development of the nation.
This bilateral cooperation discussion took place during a courtesy visit by H.E. Mansur Rahman, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, at Ship House ,Abuja. The meeting highlighted the potential of such experiences between both countries.
He emphasized that benefits of such military cooperation in Agriculture and Defence will lead to productive activities for military personnel to forter their skills and community development
The High Commissioner of Bangladesh, H.E. Mansur Rahman, expressed his support for the idea and reiterated the importance of military involvement in civilian sectors as a means of fostering sustainable development and economic stability. He highlighted that the defence cooperation can substantially develop the Nigeria’s blue economy.
This underscores the Ministry of Defence’s dedication to innovative strategies that promote the welfare of military personnel and the prosperity of Nigeria as a whole.
Security
Matawalle backs declaration of State of emergency in Rivers, warn against attack on oil installations
The Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle has thrown his weight behind the declaration of the State of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said the declaration was to restore peace in the long troubled State, warning against attack on oil installations.
Matawalle stated that the declaration is a necessary measure to address the ongoing political crisis, which has hindered the delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people of Rivers State. He called on all political actors involved in the crisis to adhere to the President’s declaration and work collaboratively towards a peaceful resolution.
In light of the current situation, the Minister reiterated that the Nigerian Military is on high alert to safeguard government infrastructure and ensure the security of the citizens. He warned that any attempts to attack government facilities or disrupt public order will be met with a resolute response from security forces.
Reflecting on the President’s address regarding the state of emergency, he acknowledged the gravity of the political crisis in Rivers State and the urgent need for intervention. He highlighted the unfortunate demolition of the House of Assembly by the state governor, which has left the state without a functioning legislature for over fourteen months. This action has contributed to the ongoing political impasse and the inability of the government to effectively serve the people.
The Minister also noted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional necessity of a functioning legislature and condemned the governor’s actions as unconstitutional. He emphasized that the court’s findings call for immediate restoration of democratic governance in the state.
Minister Matawalle expressed concern over recent reports of vandalism and threats from militants, underscoring the need for a unified effort to restore peace and security. He reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and the protection of vital infrastructure in Rivers State.
In addition, the Honourable Minister of State reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces to upholding national security and ensuring that Rivers State returns to peace, stability and democratic governance.
In conclusion, the Minister of State for Defence urged all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity for renewed governance and cooperation. He expressed hope that the state of emergency will pave the way for a peaceful and democratic Rivers State, benefitting all its residents.
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