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Across West Africa, Law and Order, News

Towards Sustainable Peace: Minister Badaru Urges Collective Action on ECOWAS Security Needs

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The Nigerian Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has opened 43rd Ordinary Meeting of ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja with a call on member States to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats of terrorism, organized crimes, climate change and other forms of criminalities.

In his opening remarks, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to addressing the pressing security challenges facing the West African sub-region as well as highlighted the complexities of the current security landscape, noting that the rise of global populism and revisionist ideologies has heightened the vulnerability of the region. He asserted that economic growth and sustainable peace are intrinsically linked.

He urged member states to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats, including terrorism, organized crime, climate change, cyber-crime, and pandemics.

“The imperative for us in the sub-region is to strengthen our bond and collective resolve is greater now than ever,” Minister Badaru stated.

“We must recognize that we are collectively as strong as our weakest link. It is essential that we close ranks against these threats and refocus our strategy to deny terror and insecurity a breeding ground”, he added.

The Minister underscored the significance of the discussions planned for the meeting, which will focus on critical issues such as the ECOWAS Standby Force, Peace Support Operations, and Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea.

He expressed confidence that the deliberations would be characterized by collaboration, innovation, and a shared determination to craft sustainable strategies that address the security needs of the region.

Badaru also announced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force, a pivotal step in the collective fight against terrorism and insurgency, reinforcing the commitment of member states to ensure the safety and security of their citizens.

In rounding off, the Minister expressed profound gratitude to the Chiefs of Defence Staff for their unwavering dedication and professionalism in safeguarding the well-being of the people of West Africa.

He urged all participants to approach the discussions with purpose and unity, recognizing the potential of their collective efforts to shape a more secure and prosperous future for the sub-region.

Breaking News, Politics

Leadership Claim: Edozie Njoku is an Impersonator – NRM Founding Chair Senator Dansadau

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The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has been plunged into crisis following claims by Edozie Njoku that he is the party’s National Chairman. However, the founding national chairman of the NRM, Senator Saidu Muhammed Dansadau, has raised an alarm over Njoku’s claim, describing it as impersonation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Senator Dansadau stated that Njoku was never a member of the party and therefore could not have become the National Chairman. “The APGA-dismissed man was never a registered member of the NRM, and he can prove me wrong if he has done that,” Dansadau said.

According to Dansadau, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has, in a letter to the party, also confirmed that only the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) has the legitimate right to call for a party convention. This is in accordance with the provision of Article 8.1.2 (a-c) of the party constitution.

Njoku’s claim is not new, as he was previously removed as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) by the Supreme Court.

Senator Dansadau hailed recent efforts of the judiciary and security agencies in dealing with political cases, saying, “Firstly, kudos to the Nigerian judiciary for their recent judgments on political cases, and to the Nigerian security agencies for their efforts.”

“However, it’s imperative that both institutions deal decisively with ‘political traders’ who view political parties as mere business ventures. These individuals prioritize personal gain over the nation’s well-being, exacerbating Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges,” Dansadau added.

Senator Dansadau highlighted that the country’s underdevelopment stems from its politico-economic system, which emphasizes wealth accumulation and often enables individuals to cheat the system with impunity.

He then appealed to the National Assembly to urgently legislate laws that would help prosecute those who cause party leadership crises for selfish reasons. “Until we have such laws in place, someone like Edozie Njoku will continue to perpetrate crises in several political parties that he was never a member of,” Dansadau warned.

The NRM has scheduled its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting for February 8, where the date for the party’s National convention would likely be fixed.

Senator Dansadau has advised anyone interested in contesting for any vacant position in the party to purchase the party’s scratch card, register online, and be accepted as a member first. “We will not condescend to imposition, and anyone who wishes to lead the party must follow the due process,” Dansadau said.

He equally commended the judiciary and security agencies for their recent roles in dealing with political cases.

Law and Order, News

CSO Lauds CNS Ogalla’s Transformational Leadership of Nigerian Navy

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The Civil Rights Advancement Crusade (CRAC) has commended Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, for his exemplary leadership and transformation of the Nigerian Navy.

Under his visionary guidance, the group said the Navy has tackled maritime security challenges head-on, addressing crude oil theft, illegal refining, piracy, and sea robbery.

In a statement signed by Samson Ogorry, the CRAC said Vice Admiral Ogalla’s strategic approach has enhanced the Navy’s capabilities, ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain.

According to him, the Operation Delta Sanity, initiated under his leadership, has significantly reduced illegal activities in the Niger Delta region, safeguarding the country’s economic interests.

Ogorry added that the Navy has exhibited exceptional professionalism, steadfastly upholding respect for human rights, prioritizing the welfare of personnel, and championing accountability.

The CRAC also acknowledges the Navy’s improved logistics and human capital development under Vice Admiral Ogalla’s leadership.

Ogorry further said that enhanced training programs and infrastructure development have boosted personnel morale and efficiency.

“The Nigerian Navy has witnessed significant improvements under Vice Admiral Ogalla’s leadership,” the statement added.

“Maritime crimes have decreased, and the Navy’s increased visibility and swift response to security threats have reassured stakeholders of their commitment to protecting national assets.

“The Navy’s community engagement initiatives have fostered greater cooperation with local stakeholders, promoting a culture of security consciousness.

“Vice Admiral Ogalla’s leadership has demonstrated that a secure maritime domain is essential for national prosperity. His commitment to professionalism, innovation, and teamwork has earned him admiration from Nigerians and the international community.

“The CRAC notes that Vice Admiral Ogalla’s leadership has yielded tangible economic benefits, including increased revenue generation from secured maritime trade and reduced insurance premiums for Nigerian-bound cargo.

“The Navy’s proactive stance against crude oil theft has minimized revenue losses, ensuring that the country’s natural resources are harnessed for national development.

“Furthermore, Vice Admiral Ogalla’s commitment to accountability has instilled transparency and discipline within the Navy, ensuring that personnel conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, both on and off duty.”

The CSO urged the CNS to sustain his transformational leadership until all emerging maritime security challenges are addressed.

The organisation calls on all stakeholders to support Vice Admiral Ogalla’s vision for a more secure and prosperous Nigeria and urged the federal government to provide necessary resources to enhance the Navy’s capabilities.