Author: Our Correspondent

  • Sokoto Police Command Investigates Murder, Robbery, in Sabon Birni Lake Area of Sokoto State 

    Sokoto Police Command Investigates Murder, Robbery, in Sabon Birni Lake Area of Sokoto State 

    By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto 

    The Sokoto State Police Command is actively investigating a horrific incident involving criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, armed robbery and receiving stolen property that occurred in Sabon Birni town on July 5, 2025.

    according to report, on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at about 9:00 PM, One Ashiru Iliyasu ‘M’ and Sulaiman Salihu ‘M’, both residents of Sabon Birni town, allegedly armed themselves with a hoe and criminally conspired to lure Kasimu Yahaya ‘M’, an Okada rider, to an uncompleted building on the outskirts of the town under false pretenses.

    Tragically, upon arrival, the suspects reportedly attacked the victim with the hoe, beating him to death. In an attempt to conceal the crime, they disposed of the victim’s body inside a soakaway pit at the location. The suspects then stole the victim’s Bajaj motorcycle.

    The Police spokesman DSP Ahmad Rufai in a statement said following the murder and robbery, the suspects allegedly sold the stolen motorcycle to one Sanusi Shu’aibu ‘M’, also a resident of Sabon Birni town.

    Through investigative efforts, the Sokoto State Police Command apprehended the three suspects:

    1.  Ashiru Iliyasu

    2.  Sulaiman Salihu

    3.  Sanusi Shu’aibu

    During interrogation, the first two suspects (Iliyasu and Salihu) confessed to their involvement in the conspiracy, armed robbery, and culpable homicide of Kasimu Yahaya. The third suspect, Sanusi Shu’aibu, has denied the allegation of knowingly receiving stolen property.

    The case remains under active investigation by the Anti-homicide Unit ofthe State Investigation department. Investigators are working diligently to gather all relevant evidence, corroborate statements, and ensure a thorough understanding of the events leading to this brutal crime.

    The Police Command therefore urged anyone with information related to this incident, the movements of the suspects, or the victim on the day in question to come forward immediately. Information can be provided confidentially at the nearest police station or through designated police hotlines. Public cooperation is vital to ensuring justice is served a police report stated

  • Oborevwori Lauds Seplat Energy’s CSR, Commitment to Host Communities

    Oborevwori Lauds Seplat Energy’s CSR, Commitment to Host Communities

    By Anne Azuka 

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday commended Seplat Energy Plc for its consistent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and strong engagement with host communities.

     He assured the oil and gas firm of continued support and a conducive environment for unhindered operations in the state.

    Governor Oborevwori gave the assurance when he received the management team of Seplat Energy, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Roger Brown, at Government House, Asaba.

    He praised the company’s approach to community relations, particularly its empowerment programmes, education support, and healthcare interventions, describing them as key to maintaining peace in oil-producing areas.

    Governor Oborevwori, said; “before I became governor, I closely monitored your operations; how you engage with your host communities and empower them. From school donations to teacher training and medical outreach, you have shown strong commitment to corporate social responsibility. So, what you are saying today is not new to me.

    “All the efforts you have made regarding community empowerment, donation of learning materials, teacher training, and other CSR activities, are commendable.

    “These are the things that foster peace between international oil companies and their host communities. Your efforts promote peace, and with peace, production increases. As I have said in my MORE Agenda, we will continue to provide the enabling environment for you to do more.”

    The governor commended Seplat Energy’s employment policy, noting that 30 percent of its operational workforce comes from Delta State.

    However, he called for greater inclusion of host community members in leadership roles within the company, saying; “It’s not just about employing the locals; we want to start seeing them in management positions as well. I believe that one day this will happen”.

    Continuing, Governor Oborevwori said;  “I have been briefed recently about the challenges your company is facing in your deep operations. I feel you intentionally left that off camera. But I want to assure you that such issues will not happen again.

    “Today, we are respected at the national level because of our contributions to the centre, and that’s only possible through peace and cooperation.

    “We believe in resolving grievances through dialogue rather than confrontation, because confrontation doesn’t benefit the people or the companies. If you are not working, there is no way you can comply with your CSR.

    “As a people, we know that economic sabotage reduces our crude oil production quota, discourages investors, and limits job and wealth creation. I assure you that we will continue to work together for mutual benefit.”

    Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Energy, Mr. Roger Brown said Delta State remained strategic to Seplat Energy’s growth, hosting two of its most valuable onshore blocks.

    He noted that 30 percent of the company’s workforce prior to the ExxonMobil acquisition were Delta indigenes and highlighted recent milestones, including the near-completion of a 1 million scf/day gas plant in Sapele with integrated Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and future Compressed Natural Gss (CNG) facilities.

    Brown also outlined the company’s ongoing CSR interventions: impacting over 50,000 students through the Pearls Quiz Programme, establishing five STEAM labs, and providing eye care to 2,000 patients under the “I Can See” initiative.

    He also announced plans to end routine gas flaring this year 2025, five years ahead of Nigeria’s national target.

  • Governor Mutfwang easing transportation burden in Plateau says Director of Press Dr Bere Gyang 

    Governor Mutfwang easing transportation burden in Plateau says Director of Press Dr Bere Gyang 

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    Director of press and Public affairs to the Plateau state Governor Barister Caleb Mutfwang, Dr Bere Gyang has said his principal is doing excellently well in easing transportation burden in Plateau. 

    Bere made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Jos. 

    According to Bere ” When Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang took over the reins of leadership in Plateau State, many knew change was inevitable but few could have imagined the sweeping transformation unfolding in the transport sector today. “

    Bere added that “With the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration that created abnormality in the transportation industry, the Plateau State Governor refused to sit on his hands. Instead, he rolled up his sleeves, thought outside the box, and took the bull by the horns.”

    One of his earliest interventions, the introduction of the Metro Bus Service, quickly won the hearts of Plateau citizens. With fares as low as ₦200, the buses became a lifeline, especially for workers, students, traders, and everyday hustlers trying to make ends meet. In quick succession, additional buses were injected into the system based on public demands, crisscrossing more routes and bridging the mobility gap. 

    Bere also said that ” The revival and reorganization of the Plateau Express Service also saw more vehicles hitting the roads, connecting not just local government areas within the state but also stretching out to other parts of the federation.”

    Today, these buses are so well-patronized that demand often outstrips supply, a testament to how deeply the people have embraced them, saving up to N40,000 per individual monthly. 

    Yet, like a farmer who does not rest after planting maize but goes ahead to sow yams as well, Governor Mutfwang was not done.

    The rail shuttle between Jos and Bukuru, a visionary masterstroke that has added steam to the ongoing transportation revolution, commenced operations officially last week. At just ₦200 per trip, this service has become an instant hit, offering residents a safe, clean, affordable, and time-saving alternative to the ever-congested roads.

    The economic benefits are already speaking volumes. For many, the train has cut down commuting costs drastically, money saved is money earned. With the rising cost of fuel, the train service is like water to a thirsty land, relieving pressure on household incomes and boosting productivity across sectors, he added. 

    The statement also reads that “in the social front, the train is connecting the Jos-Bukuru axis closer together. Residents now wake up with less anxiety about getting to their places of work, schools, and markets. Punctuality has improved, and time once wasted in traffic jams is now being used for more meaningful engagements. “

    It is often said that “when the rhythm of the drum changes, the dancer must adjust his steps.” The people of Plateau have adjusted, joyfully to this new rhythm set by Mutfwang’s transportation blueprint.

    Convenience, too, has been taken to new heights. Trains, unlike buses or cars, run on a dedicated track. No holdups, no bottlenecks, and no roadside drama. The shuttle runs on schedule, dependable as the sunrise.

    Commuters are now enjoying their rides in a relaxed, safe atmosphere, with scenic views that remind us all why Plateau remains the Home of Peace and Tourism.

    Speaking of tourism, the reintroduction of the rail system opens up a fresh corridor for adventure seekers and visitors to explore Jos and its environs with ease. With consistent investment, the rail line could soon connect more tourist hotspots. As the saying goes, “when the road is good, the journey becomes a pleasure.” In this case, the train ride is already turning into an experience.

    The environmental impact is another feather in the administration’s cap. In an age where carbon emissions are a global concern, the shift to rail transport helps reduce vehicular congestion and air pollution. It is a strategic, future-looking move that aligns Plateau State with modern sustainability goals.

    Through all of this, one truth has become glaring: Governor Caleb Mutfwang is a man of action, not empty words. He understands that governance is not about making noise but about making positive impact on the people.

     In revamping the transportation sector, he has not only provided physical movement for the people but also stirred hope, restored dignity, and strengthened the social contract between the government and the citizens.

    If truly “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” then Plateau State has already taken giant strides under this administration. With each passing day, the state is inching closer to a fully integrated, efficient, and people-focused transportation system.

    Indeed, Governor Mutfwang is not just moving people, he is moving Plateau forward. And if the early signs are anything to go by, the rail shuttle is only the beginning of even greater things to come, the statement further reads. 

  • Yakubu Gowon University Acting VC, Prof Lar, gets vote of confidence for tenure extension 

    Yakubu Gowon University Acting VC, Prof Lar, gets vote of confidence for tenure extension 

     

    By Israel Adamu, Jos 

    Cross section of  natives  of  the Federal Capital  Territory (FCT )  at the weekend pleaded with the  the federal government to extend the tenure of Professor Patricia Lar, the acting vice-chancellor of the  Yakubu Gowon University formerly named the University of Abuja.

    This was contained in a statement Jointly signed by  Bulus  Zwahu and Zwakwachi Yohanna and made available to newsmen.

    They stressed that the acting Vice Chancellor Prof Patricia Lar is doing a lot in the university and called on the Federal government to extend her tenure. 

    The statement reads “We are so pleased with the acting VC Prof Lar,We are seeing the good works that you are doing in the University  ,May God  empower you to do more. 

    ” There is massive transformation in the university and we are pleading that her tenure is extended. “

    They lauded  Pro  Lar for the disciplinary measures introduced by her administration,which has contributed immensely to the overall peace and massive development in the Institution.

    They described her leadership style as “humane and inclusive”, noting that the acting VC’s approach to governance has brought calm to the campus

    The added that the acting vice-chancellor has stabilised the university since her appointment in February.

    They praised President Bola Tinubu for intervening and commended Tunji Alausa, minister of education, and  the university’s pro-chancellor, for their support for Lar.

    Prof Patricia Lar has  proven  that she excels excellently in any task before her. 

    According to some of the natives , Lar has ended staff victimisation, resumed dialogue with unions and student bodies, and addressed issues like stalled promotions and infrastructure decay.

    Although her mandate is for six months, they want it extended to allow for the completion of ongoing reforms.

    We appeal to the Federal government to extend her tenure so that she would continue to do the good works she is currently doing in the institution, they added. 

    We are passing a vote of confidence on her for her good works and we call on her not to be distracted, but rather continue doing the good works, she is doing in the institution. 

    Prof Patricia Lar stands out as one of the most supportive and encouraging academic leaders  we have ever encountered in recent times . 

    According to them ” Her  doors are always open to ideas, and she provides unwavering support to help students and researchers thrive.

    From what we have seen so far ,we are confident that Prof Lar is passionately committed to positioning the institution among the top-ranking universities not only in Nigeria or across Africa, but globally. 

    She is fully investing  in anything that contributes to the advancement of the university. 

    Her leadership fosters a strong academic culture, inspiring both students and lecturers alike and empowering the next generation of researchers.

    We look forward to your rising. We will keep praying for you. , they added.

  • Attack on Plateau rural communities Army redelpoys  Sector Commander

    Attack on Plateau rural communities Army redelpoys Sector Commander


    By Israel Adams

    The Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has reportely  redeployed the Sector 6 Commander, Colonel Thomas Paave. 

    The command has also deployed Lt. Colonel Isaac Indiorwhey as the new commander of the sector. 

     Sector 6 base is located in Riyom Local Government Area, where  several persons were killed by gunmen. 

     It could be recalled that on Tuesday morning, 27 residents of the Tahoos community in Riyom were attacked and killed  resulting in widespread condemnation.

     Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Special Envoy on Peace and Security, Prof. Chris Kwaja, had demanded the removal of soldiers from flashpoints in the state on Friday for what he described as failure to provide security in the area. 

    During his recent visit to the attacked community, Governor Mutfwang had complained about the handling of security issues in the community by the personnel of the operation.

    However, the redeployment of the former commander followed the complaint against him. 

    Although the spokesperson of the command couldn’t be reached for confirmation, reliable source from the sector 6, confirmed the development to Daily Trust stating that a new commander has been deployed to the sector following the redeployment of colonel Thomas Paave. 

    The personnel of the operation who does not want his name in print, explained that “Colonel Paave, was the 4th commander to be replaced within the short span of three-months. It is true that he  has been changed from sector 6, as you rightly asked. This is not the first time. In three-months this is the 4th change. Now Lt Col Isaac Indiorwhey, is in charge of the sector. 

    “All the commanders were assigned by our commander based on their track of good performance, but any time there is problem like what happened recently in the area, the people there would complain that they don’t want the commander and want him removed, “ the soldier said.

  • Bayelsa Pushes for 33 LGAs, State Police, and Fiscal Federalism in Constitution Review

    Bayelsa Pushes for 33 LGAs, State Police, and Fiscal Federalism in Constitution Review

    Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa 

     Bayelsa State has proposed the creation of 25 additional local government areas (LGAs) to add to its existing eight, highlighting the strain of overpopulation in some LGAs, with certain areas hosting over 150 communities. 

    The state also advocated for fiscal federalism, the establishment of state police, and sweeping electoral and judicial reforms during a public hearing on the 1999 Constitution review.

     The event, organized by the South-South Centre A (Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo) of the House of Representatives’ Committee, took place at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Saturday.

    The Bayelsa State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr.Biriyai Dambo, presented the state’s position, stressing that the proposed LGAs, already created by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly under Section 8(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), are financially viable.

     He emphasized that Bayelsa has the resources to sustain the new councils, which are intended to address administrative and developmental challenges caused by overpopulated LGAs.

    On fiscal federalism, Bayelsa urged that states gain full control over their onshore and offshore natural resources, proposing a revenue-sharing model where states retain 60% of resource-derived income and remit 40% as tax to the federal government. 

    Dambo noted that the creation of new councils would enhance service delivery and representation in underserved communities, particularly in rural areas where access to government resources remains limited. 

    He cited examples of LGAs struggling to manage large populations, which has hindered effective administration and infrastructure development.

    The state also strongly supported the creation of state police, arguing it would bolster security and crime-fighting capabilities, aligning with the principles of true federalism.

     Bayelsa further called for reforms to grant greater local government autonomy, revise the exclusive and legislative lists, strengthen the Independent National Electoral Commission, and overhaul the judicial system.

    Governor Douye Diri emphasized the necessity of constitutional amendments to reflect the evolving aspirations of Nigerians. “A robust democracy hinges on the people’s right to amend the Constitution, ensuring it remains a dynamic instrument responsive to our needs,” Diri said. 

    He underscored Bayelsa’s commitment to a federal system that is equitable and addresses historical injustices in resource allocation and LGA distribution, promoting holistic development across the Niger Delta and Nigeria.

    Representatives from Delta and Edo states, including Delta’s Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, and Edo’s Attorney General, Samson Osagie, endorsed the review process, describing the 1999 Constitution as controversial and in need of updates to address its gaps.

     They expressed optimism that the exercise would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework.Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and chairman of the South-South Centre A Committee, assured attendees that all submissions would be meticulously reviewed and forwarded to the full Constitution Review Committee for deliberation in the House. 

    He highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement in fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

    The hearing saw the presence of prominent figures, including Dr. Gloria Diri, wife of the Bayelsa governor, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, federal lawmakers such as Dr. 

    Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor), Mrs. Marie Ebikake (Nembe/Brass), Dr. Mitema Obordor (Ogbia), and Rodney Ambaiowei (Southern Ijaw), as well as Bayelsa State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, and his Delta counterpart, Emomotimi Guwor. Traditional rulers, including the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, and the chairman of the state traditional rulers council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, also attended.Bayelsa’s push for additional LGAs stems from the need to address developmental disparities and improve governance at the grassroots level. 

    The state’s advocacy for state police and fiscal federalism reflects growing regional demands for decentralization. 

    Bayelsa argued that state-controlled police forces would be better equipped to address localized security challenges, such as militancy and oil theft, which have plagued the Niger Delta. By retaining a larger share of resource revenue, the state believes it can fund critical infrastructure and social programs, reducing dependence on federal allocations and fostering economic self-sufficiency.

  • Farmers in Southern Plateau decay low rainfall 

    Farmers in Southern Plateau decay low rainfall 

     

    By  Israel Adamu, Jos 

    Farmers in southern Plateau are decrying the low rainfall in various communities across the area with crops reportedly wilting and discoloring. 

    The Southern zone of Plateau, located in the lowlands, comprises six local government areas of  Langtang North, Langtang South, Mikang, Shendam , Wase and Qua-an Pan where various farming activities such as maize , rice, groundnuts, millet and beans cultivation take place. 

    Our correspondent reports that Southern Plateau experienced late rainfall in the last farming season, followed by sufficient rain. However, this year, drought set in mid-season after the crops had already started.

    Speaking with DAYBREAK NIGERIA, Nandul Solomon a resident of Langtang South decried the lack of rain in the zone. 

    He said crops grown by farmers have started drying up as a result of the drought. 

    Some other farmers in the areas  who spoke to our correspondent on Sunday, said they have been experiencing short rainfall for nearly 25 days, resulting in the drying up of crops. 

    The farmers said if the situation continues, they would lose millions of naira, considering that the crops have not yet reached maturity level, explaining that this year’s short rainfall has left many farmers worried about the potential impact on crop yields and food security.

     Yusuf Maidoki, a resident of Yelwa community in Shendam LGA, lamented the development, saying, “I have planted groundnuts in large quantities and expected a bumper harvest, but with this development, I’m worried about the outcome. We hope it rains anytime soon.” 

     Joseph Domle, a resident of Langtang in Langtang North LGA, also lamented the development, stressing that if the shortage of rain continues, the situation would be devastating. He said, “We’re facing short rainfall in our area since the farming season started. We hope it rains soon because the situation is worrisome.” 

     Another farmer from Qua’an Pan LGA, Daniel Ishaku, who cultivates yams, expressed concern over the absence of rainfall in his community and surrounding villages, praying that God would bring rain to support farming activities.

    Our correspondent reports that National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Climate Prediction Centre (CPC), had  predicted that the northern part of Nigeria will experience short rainfall in late July and early August this year.

  • Disquiet in NYSC over none-release of promotion examinations results

    Disquiet in NYSC over none-release of promotion examinations results

    by Gabriel Achadu

    There is disquiet among staff of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) over the withholding of the results of the promotion examination conducted for the senior staff of the agency between 26th May and 1st June 2025.

    It was discovered that the indecision of Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, to grant approval to the report submitted to him nearly two month ago, is largely responsible for the growing low staff morale at the agency.

    The Minister, charged with driving youth-focused initiatives and policies in government, and whose ministry supervises NYSC, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu and assumed office in 2023.

    But, ill-advised by some entrenched interests, the non-approval of the promotion results is negatively impacting over 100 million Nigerian youths who, upon graduating from higher institutions, are nurtured and remoulded to mature patriotic Nigerian citizens by the NYSC.

    However, this establishment is being plagued by acute and excruciating bureaucratic red tape resulting in the none-release of the results of the staff promotion examination, concluded nearly two months ago.

    The promotion examination affected all cadres of qualified officers on Grade Levels 07 to 16, and should have been released not later than two weeks after the results were submitted to the Minister, but is yet to be made public.

    It was gathered from informed sources at the Ministry that, “in the absence of a Governing Board, as is the case at the moment, the results of the promotion examination conducted by the Senior Staff Committee is yet to be ratified by the supervising Minister, Mr. Olewande”.

    The sources further disclosed that “the Senior Staff Committee of the NYSC, made up of the serving Director-General of the NYSC, all the Directors at NYSC, the Director, Human Resources Management, of the Ministry of Youth Development and a Representative of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, have since completed their duty and submitted it’s report.

    “After the examination and the selection of staff who passed the examination on merit, it should normally not take more than two weeks for the Minister to ratify the report and return to the Director-General NYSC, who will order the release of the promotion letters to promoted officers.

    “The current delay, resulting from indecision of the Minister, is curious and requires urgent intervention before stories begin to fly out on the promotion results outcomes,” the concerned staff member of the Ministry stated.

    Further investigation by this newspaper revealed the negative impact of entrenched interests, whose preferred candidates had failed to hit the pass mark set by the Committee, and have, therefore, sworn to frustrate and set aside the entire process.

    Efforts to speak with the Minister when our reporters visited the ministry were firmly frustrated by his staff, who refused access to our reporters in spite of clearly explaining the reasons for the visit.

    At the NYSC Directorate headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, they also refused to speak to our reporters, fearing victimisation.

    However, informed sources confirmed that the delay is negatively affecting work output and dampening the morale of staff of the NYSC.

  • IGP disburses N37M to families of deceased officers in A’Ibom

    IGP disburses N37M to families of deceased officers in A’Ibom

    By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

    Families of deceased officers of the Nigerian Police in Akwa Ibom have been presented with N37 million by the Nigerian Police for paying the ultimate price in the line of duty.

    The cheques issued on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun and presented by state Police Commissioner Buba Azare in Uyo on Tuesday was part of the IGP Family Welfare and Group Life Assurance Schemes presented to Thirty-three (33) beneficiaries who are next-of-kin to deceased officers.

    Azare, while presenting the cheques to the beneficiaries, expressed his appreciation for the IGP’s generosity, stating that the cheques will help the families tremendously and serve as a reminder that even if their loved ones are no longer with them, the sacrifices they made can never be forgotten.

    He acknowledged the deep sense of concern of the Inspector General of Police, especially on the wellbeing of the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force.

    The CP reaffirmed that the police is relentless in its welfare scheme for its personnel, and would not back down on the initiative, especially for all deceased officers who sacrificed their lives fighting for the peace and progress of the country and admonished the beneficiaries to make good use of the money given to them.

  • Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited Crisis: A Wake-Up Call To FCT Regulatory Authority

    By Othuke Evroh

    The recent protest by the residents of ACO Estate in the Abuja Municipal Area Council(AMAC), against the blasting operations by Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, a Chinese- owned quarry, has yet again, brought to the front burner the knotty dilemmas and the failures of regulatory agencies surrounding quarry operations and new settlers in the FCT at large.

    Led by the Estate Chairman, Sunny Kulutuye, the residents of ACO Estate numbering over 100 and commercial motorcyclists last Saturday, barricaded all access roads and entryway to the quarry site, using some vehicles to barricade all entrances to the site and by so doing, precluding the quarry site from working. The protesters lamented that the blasting had caused damage to their roofs and homes.

    While it is not the concern of this paper to authenticate the veracity of the claims put forward by the residents, it is instructive to state that Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, the Chinese- owned quarry company in question holds a valid licence to operate and carryout legitimate quarry operations in the current site. As a matter of fact, Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, got its Lease by 8 Cadastre Unit(CU), on 25th September, 2014. And as at that time, there were no settlers living in the safety area of the site.

    It is also imperative to state that the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette 2013, on the National Environmental(Quarrying and Blasting Operations) Regulations 2013, Part IV and V of the Blasting Operation Plan and Operating Mechanisms and Guidelines for Blasting, numbers 18 and 20, among others, state thus.

    (18)- A person shall not carry out quarrying and blasting of rocks below ground level unless with a permit duly obtained from the relevant authority.

    (20)- A person shall not locate a quarry or engage in blasting within three kilometers(3km) of any existing residential, commercial or industrial area.

    Suffice it to also state that on the 9th of January this year, Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited submitted its application for permit to purchase Explosives and Accessories to the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development(Mines Inspectorate Department), and the permit in that regard was granted by the Ministry on 14th February, 2025.

    Similarly, on the 14th of July, 2025, Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, in furtherance to the above, sent a notification for Blast to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and was granted permission by the Ministry to carry out blasting at its quarry site located at ACO Village, AMAC, FCTR, Abuja on its proposed dates of 15th and 16th of July, 2025. These documents are on record.

    Therefore, it is noteworthy to reiterate that Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, got its Lease by 8 Cadastre Unit(CU), on 25th September, 2014, and as of the time its Lease was approved and availed by the relevant authority, there were no settlers living within the safety area of the site as stipulated by the extant law or gazette mentioned above.

    From the foregoing, it is crystal clear that the source or root cause of the conflict lies in the recent settlers or residents’ encroachment into the designated safety zone around the quarry site. Suffice it to state that the Environmental laws in the 2013 gazette as quoted above, stipulate a minimum distance of 3km between residential, commercial or industrial areas and quarry sites. This regulation established with good intentions and purposes has been obviously violated and disregarded by the ever teeming settlers and residents of the FCT.

    The above situation or predicament raises several questions about the government’s role and its regulatory agencies in enforcing environmental regulations and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The singular fact that residents have been allowed to settle in close proximity to the quarry site speaks volume of the degree of dereliction of duty and suggests a failure on the part of the authorities to effectively enforce existing laws and regulations.

    I therefore, as a matter of utmost urgency, call on the government to take immediate action to address the concerns of the residents while also ensuring that the quarry company continues to work, operate in a safe and environmentally responsible manner as dictated by the law and without any form of harassment, infringements or undeservered interference from the residents of ACO Estate.

    While I sympathise with the residents of ACO Estate for their loss of at all, I still strongly maintain that the government must ensure the proper implementation of state laws or regulations pertaining community settlements and the protection of its citizens lives and property.

    Driven by the unending rural-urban migration, the FCT has continued to witness an unending influx of thousands of Nigerian citizens from different parts of the country in their search for the good life. By taking proactive measures to nip this predicament in the bud, the government can prevent similar conflicts and ensure the continuous wellbeing and safety of its citizenry.

    I will conclude by stating that the ACO Estate protest serves as another wake-up and a reminder that the government must exist to provide the good life and in addition, protect the property, ensure the wellbeing and existents of its citizens.

    The residents’ protest serves as a wake-up call for the government to reassess its regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms. It is imperative that the government takes concrete steps to address the concerns of the residents and ensures that the quarry company operates in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
    In addition to above, none of the so-called settlers has a valid building plan to build or develop any building within blasting zone. Similarly, they claimed to the allocated the land within ACO housing estate, they should provide any document relating to the said claims.