By Jabiru Hassan

The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian judiciary for what it described as professionalism, diligence and commitment to justice in the investigation, prosecution and conviction of those found guilty of the massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.

In a statement signed by the organisation’s Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo, on behalf of CACOL Chairman Debo Adeniran, the group described the death sentence handed to the convicted persons as a major victory for justice.

“The sentencing of the masterminds to death by hanging represents a significant victory for justice and serves as reassurance that those who engage in acts of terrorism and mass murder will ultimately face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.

According to CACOL, the judgment has helped restore public confidence in Nigeria’s security and judicial institutions, particularly in handling complex and emotionally charged cases.

The organisation urged the Ondo State Governor to expedite the signing of the death warrants of the convicted persons in line with the law, stressing that delays in implementing court judgments could weaken public confidence in the criminal justice system.

“The prompt execution of lawful court judgments will send a strong signal that terrorism, mass killings and violent crimes have severe consequences and will serve as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar acts,” the statement added.

CACOL also expressed concern over the recent abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State by armed bandits, calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate rescue of the victims.

“Every passing day in captivity exposes innocent citizens to unimaginable trauma and danger. Government must demonstrate the same level of determination that led to the successful prosecution of the Owo massacre suspects in securing the release of these abducted Nigerians,” the group stated.

The organisation further questioned the effectiveness and accountability of the Safe School Initiative and other security interventions, despite the large public funds reportedly committed to the programmes.

According to CACOL, the continued attacks on schools and rising cases of kidnappings show that educational institutions remain vulnerable despite repeated assurances by government officials.

“Nigerians deserve to know how these resources are being utilised and why our educational institutions remain soft targets for criminals,” the statement said.

CACOL warned that persistent attacks on schools undermine learning, increase school dropout rates and threaten the future of millions of Nigerian children.

The organisation also reminded governments at all levels that the protection of lives and property remains their primary constitutional responsibility.

“Human life is sacred and must never be treated as secondary to political calculations, power struggles or electoral ambitions,” the statement added.

CACOL urged political leaders to focus on governance and the welfare of citizens, rather than political distractions and premature election campaigns.

“The protection of citizens must take precedence over political manoeuvring, succession calculations and future election campaigns. Nigeria’s future depends on a secure environment where citizens can worship, learn, work and live without fear,” the statement said.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has inaugurated a new Violent Crime Response Unit of the Nigeria Police Force in Lokoja as part of efforts to strengthen security and combat violent crime across the state.

Represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo, at the inauguration on Thursday, the governor handed over the newly constructed facility to the Kogi State Police Command.Ododo said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to improving security and creating a safer environment for residents.

According to him, the facility was fully funded by the state government and includes 10 offices, four detention cells, a conference room, a control room, and a dedicated power supply to support uninterrupted operations.The governor also announced the provision of operational assets to the unit, including four Toyota Hilux vehicles, a bullet-resistant armoured personnel carrier, and three Toyota Sienna vehicles.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting security agencies and strengthening national security efforts, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enhancing the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies in Kogi State.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Nazir Bello Kankara, said the Violent Crime Response Unit was established to improve the fight against violent crimes, including kidnapping and armed robbery.

He noted that the unit’s operational demonstrations during the event reflected its preparedness to tackle criminal activities across the state. The traditional ruler of Kabba, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dele Owoniyi, also commended the state government and the police for the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward improving public safety.

By Francis Wilfred

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency, improving service delivery, and enhancing national security through ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s immigration system.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated this on Thursday while receiving the Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria (EUROCHAM), Frederik Klinke, and other members of their delegation in Abuja. Tunji-Ojo said the reforms were introduced following investigations that uncovered widespread irregularities in the administration of expatriate quotas and residence permits.

According to him, several companies had unknowingly operated with fake expatriate quotas, while unauthorized agents exploited loopholes in the system to issue fraudulent documents and charge excessive fees.To address the challenges, the Minister said the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) developed an integrated digital platform that links expatriate quota approvals directly to residence permit processing.

He explained that the platform enables real-time verification of approvals, eliminates duplication, and ensures that residence permits are issued only against valid quotas. “This integration allows us to know exactly who is residing and working in Nigeria. It improves transparency, enhances security, and removes opportunities for manipulation,” he said.

The Minister added that employers can now process applications directly online, monitor application status, receive renewal reminders, and obtain digitally verifiable permits without relying on third-party consultants.

Speaking earlier, Ambassador Mignot commended the reforms and the improvements recorded in immigration administration. He called for further measures to strengthen Nigeria’s work permit system and attract more foreign investment. Klinke also advocated sustained dialogue and collaboration between Nigeria and its European partners to promote investment, job creation, and stronger bilateral relations.