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Buhari Pleads With Nigerians to give service chiefs More time
President Muhammadu Buhari has asked Nigerians to give the military and other security agencies more time, cooperation, and support and also give them information on bandits and other criminals.
Buhari said this in his Christmas message to Nigerians on Thursday, which was made available to journalists by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.
The President said he was still committed to securing the lives and property of citizens as he had promised to do before he came to power. He, however, pleaded with Nigerians to be more patient with security agencies.
He said, “For me, providing security for all residents in the country remains an article of faith. It formed a vital segment of this administration’s three-point agenda right from inception, and we must follow through with it.
“I cannot in good conscience shirk this cardinal responsibility to secure lives and property. I feel pained each time a breach of peace and security occurs in any part of the nation. I am even more distressed when our youths, especially school children, are the targets and victims of mindless and malevolent elements in society.
“As a parent, I share the emotional torture and agony parents and guardians go through whenever their children and wards fall into the cruel hands of these enemies of decency and good society.
“I plead with fellow compatriots to give our military and other security agencies more time, cooperation, and support by volunteering credible intelligence/information on activities of armed bandits, insurgents, and other criminal elements within their communities in order to put an end to this blight on our security landscape.
“To be sure, the problems are beyond the simplistic options being bandied around. We shall remain focused on following the complex, multi-dimensional route to reducing the incidents of insecurity to the barest minimum.
“Our people must be free to live and move without let or hindrance. This is crucial not only to enthroning an atmosphere of calm and social cohesion but for the economy to grow.”
With the worsening cases of insecurity in the country, many Nigerians, including lawmakers and groups have called for the sacking of the country’s service chiefs but Buhari has rejected such suggestions.
In his Christmas, Buhari noted that the problems of insecurity facing the nations required more than the “simplistic options” being suggested by Nigerians.
December 24, 2020
Unknown Gunmen Kidnap Oyo Lawmaker’s Sister, Demand N20m Ransom
Some gunmen have kidnapped Tejumade Babalola, a sister to a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Sunkammi Babalola.
Daybreak gathered that Tejumade Babalola was kidnapped in the Montan area of Ibadan.
Her brother, Sunkammi Babalola is currently representing Egbeda State Constituency in the state House of Assembly.
The victim was reportedly kidnapped on Monday while returning from her shop.
Daybreak gathered that the victim was on a commercial motorcycle when the gunmen in a car double-crossed them, shot sporadically into the air and forced her into their car.
The gunmen were said to have requested a ransom of N20mfrom the family of the victim.
Public Relations Officer of the State Police Command, Mr. Olugbenga Fadeyi when contacted on Thursday said he was not aware of the incident as it was not reported to the police.
“I am not aware of the incident. It has not been reported to the police.
“You know that there is no way they can report to the police because the police station in the area has been burnt.”
But, the victim’s brother, lawmaker, Babalola when contacted confirmed the abduction of his sister.
Babalola in a telephone conversation with Daybreak on Thursday said that three men in a Toyota car kidnapped his sister on Monday.
“It is true. I was not there when the incident happened. They called me and they told me that three gunmen kidnapped my sister.
“They kidnapped her and they forced her into a waiting car. They forced her into the car, Toyota car, with ash colour and took her to an unknown destination.”
December 24, 2020
Gov. Sanwo-Olu recovers from COVID-19
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has recovered from COVID-19, his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, announced on Thursday.
“Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu tests negative to COVID-19. Now out of isolation,” Akosile tweeted with a video that showed the governor stepping out to address a press at the State House in Marina.
The state health commissioner, Akin Abayomi, had announced on December 12 that the governor tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
Narrating his experience while speaking with journalists on Thursday, Sanwo-Olu said, “It was not mild, I was not asymptomatic, I felt all of the things you would feel – headache, sore throat, cough, tiredness, I felt it.”
He, therefore, urged Lagosians to protect themselves and seek medical attention when they experience any of the symptoms of the virus.
Other governors who had tested positive for the virus and recovered include the Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu; Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed; Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, amongst others.
Lagos, which is one of the epicentres of coronavirus management in Nigeria, has recorded over 26,000 infections and more than 200 associated deaths since the outbreak of the virus in the country.
The state government recently returned COVID-19 protocols at religious centres and also banned a number of social places from holding gatherings as the country battled the second wave of the pandemic.
December 24, 2020
President Buhari’s 2020 Christmas Message to Nigerians
PRESIDENT BUHARI’S 2020 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE TO NIGERIANS
I felicitate with our Christian brothers and sisters in particular and all Nigerians in general on this joyous occasion of Christmas 2020, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
In Christendom, Christmas season represents joy, peace, hope, love, goodwill and imminent salvation. These worthy values which Jesus’ Advent symbolize, are very much needed in our country at this time when we are confronted with diverse challenges like rising spate of armed banditry, kidnappings, insurgency, economic recession and upsurge of COVID-19 infections.
I wish to, therefore, enjoin fellow compatriots to appropriate the hope that comes with Christmas and reinvest trust in this Administration’s determination and unwavering commitment to restore peace, security and prosperity to our dear country.
Under my watch, the Federal Government will continue to provide the needed support within available resources to the gallant members of our armed forces and security agencies as they confront threats to our citizens. While I commend them for their efforts so far, I urge them to do more to checkmate increasing incidents of security threats especially in the northern parts of the country as well as the entire nation in varying degrees. Their display of tact, camaraderie, and expertise that led to the recent return of abducted schoolboys of Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, will remain a milestone in the annals of the country.
For me, providing security for all residents in the country remains an article of faith. It formed a vital segment of this Administration’s three-point agenda right from inception, and we must follow through with it.
READ ALSO: FRSC assures of free traffic flow along Lagos/Ibadan Expressway
I cannot in good conscience shirk this cardinal responsibility to secure lives and property. I feel pained each time a breach of peace and security occurs in any part of the nation. I am even more distressed when our youths, especially school children, are the targets and victims of mindless and malevolent elements in the society. As a parent, I share the emotional torture and agony parents and guardians go through whenever their children and wards fall into the cruel hands of these enemies of decency and good society.
I plead with fellow compatriots to give our military and other security agencies more time, cooperation and support by volunteering credible intelligence/information on activities of armed bandits, insurgents and other criminal elements within their communities in order to put an end to this blight on our security landscape.
To be sure, the problems are beyond the simplistic options being bandied around. We shall remain focused on following the complex, multi-dimensional route to reducing the incidents of insecurity to the barest minimum. Our people must be free to live and move without let or hindrance. This is crucial not only to enthroning an atmosphere of calm and social cohesion, but for the economy to grow.
Let us use this season of goodwill and joy to renew our faith in the ability of this Administration to make a lasting difference in the lives of our hard-working people. Our Social Intervention measures and other economic policies are already yielding positive results even at modest rates.
We shall deliberately target our youths so that they will not fall into the trap of unpatriotic elements to foment social disobedience leading to avoidable loss of lives and property.
Let me reiterate that while the right to peaceful association and protest is guaranteed under our laws, this Administration will not fold its arms and watch protests however well-intended, degenerate into wanton killings of law enforcement and other security personnel as well as destruction of private and national assets.
It is gladdening to note that the various schemes and components of the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) are being implemented faithfully to support micro-small businesses. I am particularly delighted that artisans, small-time transporters, traders and farmers are the main beneficiaries as we continue to provide safety nets to the most vulnerable members of our society as well as business owners to mitigate the harsh economic environment occasioned by COVID-19.
In spite of dwindling national revenue worsened by the pandemic, we will do all that is required to fully implement the 2021 Budget of Economic Recovery and Resilience. We are optimistic that all things being equal, we should be able to exit recession at the shortest possible time.
There is every indication that our country is already experiencing a second wave of COVID-19 infection. As we celebrate Christmas with families and friends, I urge all citizens and residents to adhere strictly to the non-pharmaceutical prevention guidelines of regular hand-washing, wearing masks and social/physical distancing with a view to mitigating the spread of this devastating virus. While national and state institutions are trying their best, we must take individual responsibility and resist the strong temptation of compliance-fatigue by following the recommended protocols put in place by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 and beat the ravaging pandemic.
I have absolute confidence in the spirit of resilience of our people to do the needful and remain vigilant even as this festive season witnesses increased travels and celebrations. Staying alive to enjoy future festivals should be the watchword.
I wish all Nigerians divine protection and Merry Christmas.
December 24, 2020
FRSC assures of free traffic flow along Lagos/Ibadan Expressway
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Thursday assured commuters and transporters that it would sustain the current free flow of traffic along the Ogun axis of the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.
The Ogun Sector Commander of the corps, Mr Ahmed Umar, gave the assurance in Abeokuta in an interview with Our correspondents.
Umar, who said there had been substantial and noticeable improvement in the traffic situation along the Ogun corridor of the expressway, pledged that the FRSC would sustain this.
He attributed the development to the recently inaugurated “Operation Zero Road Crashes” across the country by the corps.
“We have really planned ahead to check the usual traffic jam on the major highways including the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.
“The Ogun command of the FRSC has deployed 2,452 personnel across the state to monitor and control gridlocks during the Yuletide with a larger percentage on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway and Sagamu – Benin expressway.
“The personnel, made up of Regular and Special Marshals, have been deployed to traffic-prone areas and construction zones including Ogere, Mowe, Ibafo, Magboro and Kara to ensure accident and hitch-free Yuletide, especially on Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
” Thirty three vehicles, 10 motor bikes, seven ambulances and two towing trucks have also been deployed in the state for the exercise
“The heavy presence of our officials and equipment would be felt on the Ogun axis of the expressway to monitor and control traffic jams so as to ensure sanity of motorists during the festive season,” he said.
He also attributed the development to the renewed collaboration between the agency and the transporters as well as other stakeholders in the state.
“We have met and advised drivers against excessive speeding and to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs to avoid unnecessary loss of lives and property.
“We have also advised them and organised various seminars on how to keep their vehicles road worthy and obey all traffic rules and regulations to stay alive during and after the season,” Umar said.
The Spokesperson of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun, Mr Babatunde Akinbiyi, also corroborated that the free flow of traffic on the state’s axis of the expressways in an interview with our correspondents in Abeokuta.
He added that over 100 officials of the agency had been deployed in the Ogun axis of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway for the yuletide and New Year period.
“We have four Divisional commands along that stretch, namely: Akute/Ojodu-Abiodun which covers the Berger/Longbridge/Mountain Top University axis; Mowe/Ibafo Divisional Command, which covers the Mountain Top axis- interchange; Sagamu Divisional Command and Ogere Division Command.
“The stretch leads to Ibadan and our operatives are always on ground,” he said.
Mr Dotun Oluyinka , an official of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Kuto park Abeokuta, said that there had been an increase in vehicular movement on the Lagos/Ibadan expressway because of Christmas.
He said that the traffic was usually heavy around Ibafo area because “the designated bus-stop is so small and so transporters stop along the road to drop and pick passengers.’’
Oluyinka also attributed the heavy traffic to the ongoing renovation on the highway, adding that the construction workers had reduced to single lane some sections of the road.
” The frequent breakdown of trailers along the road, particularly, Ibafo and Kara areas coupled with narrow road often result in heavy traffic,” he said.
Olayinka said that the rehabilitation work on the highway had also led to expansion of some portions of the road thus easing traffic in such areas.
He, therefore, called on the government to ensure speedy completion of the project for easy flow of traffic on the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.
December 24, 2020
NSE donates 50 water pumps to irrigation farmers in Borno
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has donated 50 water pumps to be distributed to irrigation farmers in Borno.
The National President of the society, Mr Babagana Mohammed, announced the donation on Thursday in Maiduguri.
He was on a condolence/solidarity visit to Gov. Babagana Zulum over the recent killing of some farmers in Zabarmari village, Jere Local Government by insurgents.
Mohammed said the killing of farmers constituted a serious threat to food security and something urgently needed to be done by those concerned to stop it.
He lauded the administration’s effort in resettlement of displaced farmers back to their recovered ancestral villages and towns to resume their farming activities.
Mohammed said security should be everyone’s business, promising that the society would always contribute its quota to support peaceful coexistence.
“What has happened has happened and we must move ahead.
“We came with 50 ground water pumps to support farmers in your state. You are one of us as an engineer and we are proud of you,” Mohammed said.
Responding, Gov. Babagana Zulum thanked them for the concern shown, and assured them that the water pumps would be given to deserving farmers.
Zulum, who lauded the effective role of engineers in his administration’s rehabilitation and reconstruction programme, said he had five engineers in his cabinet.
He assured of. his administration’s commitment to continued partnership with the society in areas of infrastructure, water supply and Ag riculture in the state.
December 24, 2020
Again, Bandits Attack Commercial Bus In Katsina
Gunmen suspected to be bandits have reportedly attacked a commercial bus in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, abducting all passengers.
According to Katsina Post, the attack occurred along Shimfida to Gurbin Baure road.
The number of passengers on the bus is yet to be known.
The attack comes two days after gunmen abducted a traditional leader and 15 others at a community in Danmusa Local Government Area of the state.
Many cases of banditry and kidnapping have been recorded in the state. Katsina is President Muhammadu Buhari’s home state.
December 24, 2020
Gov. Lalong recovers from COVID-19 after testing negative
Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has recovered from Coronavirus after testing negative for the disease.Dr Makut Macham the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor said this in a statement on Thursday in Jos.
Lalong had gone into isolation on Dec. 17 after testing positive to the dreaded virus.“One week after the governor tested positive to the virus, he is now free of the disease after his latest test result came out negative.“The governor’s negative status was communicated to him on Wednesday night.“Lalong, who has been in isolation since Dec.17 appreciated God for the speedy recovery and thanked the people of the state, his friends and associates all over the country for praying for him,” Macham said.
He quoted the governor as advising residents to observe safety protocols put in place to curb the spread of disease. “Having contracted the virus and undergone treatment myself, I wish to reiterate that COVID-19 is not a death sentence as early detection helps to address it and reduce chances of death. “We should not stigmatise against anyone who tests positive or is suspected of having the disease.“Rather, such people should serve as motivation for others to voluntarily test in order to improve the safety of all,” Lalong said.
December 24, 2020
ASUU Strike: Students will embark on mass protest if ASUU resumes strike –NANS
The National Association of Nigerian Students has said its members would embark on a mass protest should the Academic Staff Union of Universities resumes its just suspended strike.
NANS President, Sunday Asefon, stated this in an exclusive interview with Our correspondents on Thursday.
He said it is embarrassing and ridiculous for ASUU to threaten fresh strike after wasting the academic time of Nigerian students for nine months.
Asefon said, “It is a slap on us for ASUU to say they are calling off the strike conditionally. If they call it off conditionally, we will also put on hold our plan to engage the Federal Government and ASUU on mass action. But if they also resume their strike, we will also go to the streets. If that is the only language they understand, we will speak it to them.”
Daybreak had earlier reported that ASUU National President, Biodun Ogunyemi, on Wednesday in Abuja, “conditionally” suspended its nine-month-long strike after a lot of foot-dragging by the Federal Government and the lecturers.
Ogunyemi, who said the suspension of the strike takes effect from Thursday, December 24th, 2020, had also warned that the union would resume the industrial action without notice if the government fails in meeting its part of the agreement.
Details later…
December 24, 2020
NYSC loses corps member to Kogi highway robbers’ attack
THE National Youth Service Corps in Osun State on Wednesday confirmed the death of one of its corps members, Bomoi Sulaimon Yusuf, who was shot dead along Jere-Abuja road.
The late corps member had completed the 2020 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1B orientation programme at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede, Osun State, on Tuesday and departed together with others to the northern part of the country.
Funmi Okundaye, an Assistant Director of the corps in the state, in a chat with newsmen, said the management contacted the family of the deceased immediately it received the news.
Okundaye further explained that the Bomoi had left the camp together with other colleagues since Tuesday, adding that others in the same vehicle with the late corps member, also sustained injuries when their bus came under attack in the early hours of Wednesday.
She said, “He sat in front of the bus they travelled in. The vehicle came under attack by suspected armed robbers in the early hours of Wednesday.
“Others in the bus who also sustained injuries were treated in different hospitals in the area where the incident occurred. Some of those injured had been discharged. We mourn the departed soul and we contacted his family in Kaduna immediately we received the news.”
December 24, 2020