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ICPC calls for synergy between armed forces, para-military agencies in Nigeria

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7 months ago

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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has called for proper synergy among armed forces and paramilitary agencies to stem the tide of corruption in Nigeria.

The call was made on Wednesday in Abuja by the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, at the opening ceremony of a three-day workshop tagged “21st Century Policing: Capacity Building Techniques and Brand Management for Security Image Makers.”

Dr. Aliyu, who spoke through the Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Okparaodu, said ICPC is willing to work with other sister agencies in the security sector to prevent corruption.

His words: “Undoubtedly, the war against corruption cannot be won in a swoop, neither can it be won by ICPC or any anti-corruption agency alone, but by a series of efforts involving stakeholders like you. This is where your role as the image makers of your agencies comes to the fore.

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“As public relations professionals and image makers for your organisations, you should not only report the right things about your organisation but be seen to be doing the right things. You are not expected to cover up acts of corruption in the name of projecting the image of your organisation.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Provost of Anti Corruption Academy of Nigeria, Prof. Olawale Babawale, revealed that since its inception in 2014, the academy has successfully trained over 24,000 participants,even across the ECOWAS sub-region and the African Union, using hybrid methods.

He explained that given the strategic role of public relations practitioners as the image makers of their organisations, they are expected to be the bastion of integrity and veritable partners in the war against corruption especially for the military, paramilitary, law enforcement, and registered private security organisations.

Prof. Babawale said: “The learning objectives have been formulated in such a way that participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills that would enable them to become viable partners in the anti-corruption war, while also carrying out their duties effectively, using contemporary strategies. This way, we believe that the foundation for a long-term sustainable assault on corruption is laid.”

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Participants were drawn from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, among others.

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Kano Reps Seek Legal Expertise from Women Lawyers to Improve Lawmaking

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12 minutes ago

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November 27, 2024

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By Gloria Ikibah

Members of the Kano State Caucus in the House of Representatives have emphasized the critical role of legal professionals in enhancing their legislative duties. The caucus made this call during a meeting with the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Kano State Chapter, held in Abuja on Tuesday

Speaking on behalf of the caucus, the leader of the Kano and Northern Caucus, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, acknowledged that while lawmakers bear the primary responsibility for crafting legislation, their work can be significantly enriched through collaboration with legal experts.

“Those of us here are called lawmakers, but while making laws, we need fine and brilliant minds like yours to assist us,” Doguwa said. He pointed out the importance of avenues like public hearings and constituency offices where legal professionals can provide valuable input.

“When we have professionals like you collaborating with us, it ensures that our critical duty of lawmaking is executed with precision. Despite my 34 years in the House, having been elected six times, I acknowledge that I am not perfect. I am not a lawyer, and there are gaps only your expertise can fill,” he admitted.

Doguwa also highlighted the ongoing constitutional review process as an opportune moment for legal professionals to contribute meaningfully. “Virtually all the laws in the Federation can be reviewed. They are not cast in stone. Your insights will help us address gaps in legislation, such as with the Petroleum Industry Act, which continues to generate debate,” he said.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of FIDA Kano State Chapter, Barrister Bilkisu Suleman, outlined the organization’s mission to provide free legal services to underprivileged individuals, particularly women and children.

“FIDA is an international body of legal professionals dedicated to promoting the rights of women and children. Our services are offered pro bono, and we allocate time to advocacy, legal representation, and mediation,” Suleman said.

She elaborated on the organization’s efforts to ensure access to justice, including handling sensitive cases in courts, mediating disputes, and conducting community sensitization programs.

“Our work often involves resolving family disputes outside the courtroom to foster peace and stability. We mediate cases, even if they are already in court, because ensuring harmony within families is crucial,” she explained.

Suleman also highlighted the challenges of addressing legal issues in impoverished communities and stressed the importance of collaboration with lawmakers to improve societal welfare.

“We deeply appreciate the efforts of representatives in promoting the welfare of society and encourage continued cooperation to make meaningful impacts,” she concluded.

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Acting COAS Oluyede Commits To Achieving Lasting Peace In Nigerian

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1 hour ago

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November 27, 2024

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By Gloria Ikibah
The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured Nigerians of his commitment to achieving lasting peace across the nation if confirmed in a substantive capacity.
Oluyede stated this when he appeared before the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Defence and Army at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Wednesday.
Addressing the committee, Oluyede emphasized the importance of collective efforts in tackling the country’s security challenges, and noted that every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace. He also highlighted the necessity for robust alliances with neighboring countries and strengthened collaboration among security agencies.
He said: “I am honored this evening to be considered worthy to play a part in these efforts, and I look forward to contributing my utmost best by working with the National Assembly and other stakeholders in bringing lasting peace to the length and breadth of our dear country, Nigeria.
“I humbly appear before you today to be confirmed as the 24th Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army. This opportunity has arisen due to the tragic passing of the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, after a brief illness.”
Oluyede recounted his recent appointment as Acting Chief of Army Staff, explaining that it was initially intended to be temporary.
“Before his passing, I had been appointed by Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to act in his place, pending his expected full recovery and resumption of duty. Following Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s demise and state funeral on 15 November 2024, Mr. President, in his wisdom, deemed me worthy to fully continue the excellent work being done by the Army, subject to confirmation by the National Assembly,” he said.
With over 30 years of service in the Nigerian Army, Oluyede assured the committee of his preparedness for the role.
“My exposure to national security issues at the junior, middle, and senior cadres of the military profession has prepared me adequately for this assignment. In the past five years, I have operated at senior operational and management levels of the Nigerian Army, gaining insight into its overall functioning,” he stated.
Acknowledging both the achievements and setbacks of the Army in recent years, the Acting COAS pledged to lead with a vision for positive change if confirmed; this is as he underscored the need for unity in addressing Nigeria’s security issues.
“I see my nomination as a privileged opportunity to bring about more positive changes to the Nigerian Army, enabling it to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities. If confirmed, I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me by Mr. President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people.
“The security environment in which we find ourselves as a nation requires a united effort from every Nigerian. We also need strong bilateral and multilateral alliances with our neighbors and enhanced collaboration among security agencies,” he said.
He commended President Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in creating a secure environment conducive to socioeconomic development, and stressed the importance of tactical air support for the Army.
“Aircrafts have different strata of employment. The air support we require as an army is at the tactical level, where aircraft are readily available during combat operations. The Air Force, being the main player in this sphere, provides strategic cover. We need tactical aircraft and an air wing to support our operations effectively,” he explained.
Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to fostering cooperation among the Armed Forces, noting that such synergy is essential for improving security and promoting socioeconomic development.
“There is already robust cooperation between the Armed Forces, and I intend to enhance this to ensure better outcomes for Nigeria,” he added.
During the screening, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson, addressed the evolving security challenges facing Nigeria.
He said: “Our country continues to grapple with an evolving spectrum of security threats, ranging from insurgency and banditry to communal clashes and cyber threats. For over a decade, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, launching numerous operations and providing vital support to internal security efforts,” Benson said.
He commended the Armed Forces for their recent successes, and acknowledged the need for sustained efforts to achieve peace.
“It is clear that more work remains to be done to achieve sustainable peace across all regions of the country,” he said.
The Chairman emphasized the importance of adopting innovative strategies to address modern security threats.
“The current dynamics of global security demand innovative and adaptive strategies. Threats are no longer confined to traditional battlefields; they now extend to cyberspace, economic domains, and even the socio-political fabric of nations. We must prioritize a forward-looking approach to national defense, ensuring that our military is well-equipped and adequately trained to address both conventional and emerging threats,” he stated.
The chairman further highlighted the role of the National Assembly in supporting the Armed Forces.
“Our task today is not only to assess the qualifications and vision of the nominee for Chief of Army Staff but also to establish a collaborative roadmap for tackling Nigeria’s security challenges. As partners in the pursuit of a secure and prosperous Nigeria, we remain steadfast in our commitment to legislative oversight and support for the Armed Forces,” he said.
Benson also assured the committee’s dedication to ensuring accountability and transparency in military operations.
“We will continue to provide the necessary legal frameworks, advocate for adequate funding, and monitor the implementation of appropriations. The position of Chief of Army Staff carries immense responsibility, and the individual in this role must lead with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the protection of lives and property,” he noted.
He therefore urged Oluyede to foster synergy among security agencies and prioritize the welfare of troops.
“If confirmed, you will be expected to foster synergy among security agencies, prioritize the welfare of troops, and uphold the trust of Nigerians. This committee will ask questions that reflect the concerns of our constituents and the nation. We urge you to provide comprehensive and candid responses to guide our deliberations,” Benson said.
Rep. Benson expressed optimism about Oluyede’s potential contributions to national security.
“Your role is pivotal in Nigeria’s journey toward lasting peace and stability. We look forward to working with you to achieve this goal,” he said.
The outcome of the screening exercise will be reviewed and presented to the House during plenary on Thursday.
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Court fix Dec 10 to decide ex-Gov Bello’s bail

Published

6 hours ago

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November 27, 2024

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By Francesca Hangeior

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory sitting at Maitama on Wednesday remanded the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Trial Justice Maryann Anenih ordered that he should remain with the anti-graft agency till December 10, when the court will rule on his application for bail. 

Equally remanded in custody were Bello’s two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.

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The defendants had pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge the EFCC preferred against them. 

EFCC had specifically urged the court to deny the former governor bail.

The agency, through its team of lawyers led by Mr. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, told the court that Bello, who is the 1st defendant in the matter, repeatedly refused to make himself available for trial. 

It told the court that several efforts to secure his presence before the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, where he is facing another charge, proved abortive.

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Consequently, the Commission opposed a bail application that Bello filed through his legal team that was led by a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Mr. Joseph Daudu, SAN.

Daudu, SAN, had after the former governor and his two co-defendants—Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu—pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge the anti-graft agency preferred against them, drew the attention of the court to a bail application his client filed on November 22.

In the application he predicated on six grounds, the former governor argued that he enjoys the presumption of innocence under the law. 

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