Sunday, November 9, 2025
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Exposing The Falsehood In Sowore’s Narration On Police Promotions

By Danjuma Lamido

It has come to my attention that Omoyele Sowore, once again, has taken to Facebook to peddle yet another baseless narration, claiming that his so-called “police protest” was the reason many police officers were recently promoted. Nothing could be further from the truth.

For the avoidance of doubt, promotions in the Nigeria Police Force follow a laid-down process guided by rules, regulations, and institutional standards.

It is not an impromptu street drama staged by paid activists seeking foreign funding. Sowore should stop arrogating to himself glory for what he never did, nor could ever do.

Nobody “smuggled in undeserving beneficiaries” into the promotion exercise as Sowore mischievously alleged.

Every officer who earned a new rank did so on merit, in accordance with due process and the professional structures of the Police Service Commission and the Force. The integrity of that system must never be undermined by propaganda designed only to score cheap political points.

Nigeria today is building the Police Force it deserves, disciplined, professional, and increasingly reformed, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

It is unfair and insulting for Sowore to attempt to reduce such institutional progress to the noise of an unplanned protest.

Sowore needs to be reminded that protest is not, and has never been, a criterion for police promotion in Nigeria.

Even more importantly, the reckless publication of government documents without approval is not activism, it is a criminal offence.

Nigeria deserves better than false narratives. And the men and women of the Police Force deserve their hard-earned respect, not the dangerous distortions of opportunists.

 

Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com

Gov Diri Appoints Sawyer As Bayelsa Head Of Service

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Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has approved the appointment of Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer as Head of the Civil Service of the state.

This was disclosed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, in a statement on Tuesday.

The appointment of Sawyer, a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, followed the retirement of Barr. (Mrs.) Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema on August 31, 2025.

The new HoS joined the Bayelsa civil service on June 8, 1998 as a Medical Officer.

He was born on May 14, 1970 in Odi community, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state, and began his education at Town School, Okrika in Rivers State.

He finished in 1981 to attend Okrika Grammar School where he sat for the West African School Certificate examinations in 1986.

In 1988, Sawyer gained admission at the University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State, where he studied and obtained the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree in 1996.

He also attended the University of Lagos for a Master’s degree in Public Health in 2000 as well as the National Post-Graduate Medical College, Lagos in 2005 and later obtained a Part 2 Fellowship in Public Health at the same institution in 2010.

Dr. Sawyer has already defended his dissertation at the faculty level for a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Clinical Sciences and Public Health at the state-owned Niger Delta University Faculty of Clinical Sciences.

The newly appointed HoS is equally a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

FG, Gombe State Sign MoU For Takeover Of Kumo General Hospital As Federal Health Facility

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…As Minister Applauds Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s Trailblazing Strides in Health Sector

The Gombe State and the Federal Government have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the takeover of the newly constructed General Hospital Kumo, converting it into a Federal Medical Centre to ensure its immediate commencement of operations.

The Hospital was constructed and fully equipped with cutting-edge medical facilities by Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s administration.

The MoU signing ceremony took place at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare headquarters in Abuja, with Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, signing on behalf of Gombe State, while Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, signed for the Federal Government.

Also witnessing the agreement were the Gombe State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, Gombe State Commissioner for Health and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs. Daju Kachallom.

Speaking at the event, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the development as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to expand access to quality healthcare, not only for Gombe citizens but for the entire North East region.

“This hospital is not just for the people of Gombe State. Given the central location of Gombe within the subregion, it will serve as a critical referral facility for the entire North East and beyond,” the Governor stated.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the hospital’s conversion and for his commitment to strengthening the health sector nationwide under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He assured that Gombe State would fully support the smooth and effective implementation of the MoU.

The Governor also gave an overview of the dilapidated health system his administration inherited and outlined the strides made so far to change the narrative.

Among these are the revolutionary improvements in Primary Health Care (PHC), including the provision of at least two fully functional PHCs in each of the 114 political wards, a feat achieved through strategic investment and partnerships.

He further pointed out the reconstruction and establishment of three state-of-the-art General Hospitals, one in each senatorial district, as part of his administration’s comprehensive health reform agenda aimed at expanding access to essential and specialist care.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Health commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his vision and execution in transforming the healthcare system in Gombe, especially at the primary care level.

“In the health sector, you have been outstanding and consistently setting the pace. We appreciate your commitment and partnership. Your administration reflects the very spirit of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in delivering high-impact projects that directly improve the lives of citizens,” the Minister said.

He noted that the newly acquired Kumo facility would become the 16th Federal Hospital established under the current administration, and assured that the Federal Government would immediately begin mobilizing resources, personnel, equipment and operational support to ensure the hospital begins functioning without delay.

The Minister also responded positively to Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s request for Federal Government intervention in the Snakebite Treatment and Research Centre in Kaltungo, assuring the Governor of the Ministry’s readiness to partner with the state on that critical facility.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, lauded the collaborative spirit between Gombe State and the Federal Government and emphasized the significance of such partnerships in bridging healthcare access gaps across the country.

Police Intercept Suspected Gunrunners, Recover GPMG And Over 1,200 Rounds Of Ammunition In Katsina

The Nigeria Police has announced a major breakthrough in its sustained fight against illegal arms trafficking, with the interception of suspected gunrunners and recovery of a cache of weapons in Katsina State.

According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operation took place in the early hours of September 1, 2025, when a patrol team from the Katsina State Command intercepted two suspects along the Ingawa–Karkarku village road.

The suspects, identified as 25-year-old Abdussalam Muhammed and 23-year-old Aminu Mamman, both residents of Baure village in Safana Local Government Area, were arrested following credible intelligence and a swift tactical response by police operatives.

A search of their blue Volkswagen Golf vehicle with registration number RSH-528 BV led to the recovery of one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), 1,063 rounds of 7.62x39mm AK-47 ammunition, and 232 rounds of 7.62x69mm PKT ammunition, all concealed inside the car.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the weapons were being transported from Hadejia in Jigawa State to Safana LGA in Katsina State for distribution to criminal networks operating in the region.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the gallantry and prompt action of the officers involved, urging them to sustain the momentum in tackling organized criminal groups. He reiterated the Force’s commitment to dismantling arms trafficking syndicates and other threats to national security.

The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue to uncover the source and network behind the arms supply. The Police also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to aid in ongoing security operations.

PSC Visits Arase Family, Prays For Peaceful Repose Of His Soul

…. Says Nigeria Has Lost A Great Patriot

…. opens condolence register at its Corporate Headquarters

The Police Service Commission says the passing of its immediate past Chairman, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, retired Inspector General of Police was tragic, and a great loss not only to the Commission but the nation.

According to a press release on Monday, 1st September 2025 signed by the PSC Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, Dr. Arase was a distinguished officer, a cerebral leader, and a pathfinder whose life of service to the nation remains exemplary. As Chairman of the Police Service Commission, he provided visionary and stabilizing leadership, guiding the Commission with uncommon wisdom. His foresight and commitment to institutional growth culminated in the successful relocation of the Commission to its befitting Corporate Headquarters at Jabi, Abuja — one of the many legacies of his tenure.

He dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria, leaving behind a record of integrity, courage, and reform that will continue to inspire generations of officers and administrators.

The Board, Management, and Staff of the Police Service Commission extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigeria Police Force, and the entire nation. May God grant his family the strength to bear this great loss, and may his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

Meanwhile the Commission today, Monday September 1st 2025, paid a condolence visit to the Abuja home of its former Chairman. The delegation was led by Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, retired Justice of the Supreme Court and Honourable Commissioner representing the Judiciary in the Commission who stood in for the Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni. Also in the delegation are DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police, Alhaji Mohammed Abdulfatah, Honourable Commissioner representing the Organized Private Sector and Directors/ Staff of the Commission.

The delegation Commiserated with the family of its former Chairman and prayed for the peaceful repose of his loving soul.

The Commission has also opened a condolence register at its Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

Simon Ekpa Convicted Justice Served

A court in Finland has found him guilty for terrorism related offenses.

Simon, the self-appointed Prime Minister of Biafra, has been sentenced to six years imprisonment by a court in Finland for terrorism offenses.

He had been charged with using his social media accounts to incite terror acts in Nigeria. Next is that of his ally and fellow *content creator, Mazi Nnamdi kanu

Kudos to FGN for securing his conviction. This is a classical case of justice served irrespective of borders. A matter that started just after his arrest in November 2024 and commencement of trial in December, has delivered judgment! That is the way to go. Speedy justice.

You can see back here in Nigeria, kanu has been on trial for 6years. Thumbs up to the DSS boss for revisiting these terrorism-related cases and pushing for accelerated hearing including that of 2022 Owo church attackers, Albanawi, and Yelwata invaders. MNK is sure to receive his, soonest.

OMO! This new DSS Oga no come play. No delays as you commit

Eze Commends Rivers Electorates For Boycotting The Sham LGA Election Conducted By A Group Of Individuals Unknown To Law

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Expresses Confidence in the Judiciary to Thrash the Entire Exercise
….Counsels the public to disregard the cooked up trash being circulated as a result of the Local Government Councils election as There was no election in Rivers State but allocation of votes to Wike’s cronies

“.. …Though some people are feeling that this evil act against democracy is a test run with 2027 in view but Eze insisted that with what Rivers State demonstrated during the comic election, it shows that collectively we can rescue Rivers State from Tinubu and Wike and ensure that they are retired from politics accordingly come 2027….”

Erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze has commended Rivers people for shunning the purported local government election held Saturday August 30, 2025.

The election managed by a team unlawfully appointed by the Sole Administrator – Ibok-Ette Ibas, whose own appointment by the President, remains in clear contravention of the constitution, had the sole motive of installing stooges and moronic followers of the FCT Minister into the local council administration, as part of efforts of the President to revive the moribund political structure of the FCT Minister who had been fighting the Governor of the State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, in the pursuit of his selfish, private vendetta.

In a statement made available to the media, Eze said the reaction from electorates across the state embodies an outright rejection of the political banditry of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and his disdainful acts of sabotage against the efforts of the administration of Gov. Fubara, in restoring the gains of previous administrations lost to his kleptocratic regime which was plagued by avarice and insatiable pursuit of power, wealth and fame and without any record of average performance.

Eze said the LGA election, though not contested as there were only 23 contenders for the chairmanship of the 23 local government areas all of who are followers of the FCT Minister, it is surprising to learn that result sheets for the entire poling units of the state were hijacked and kept in a private hotel in Port Harcourt, where figures were being distributed to give the Sham a tincture of an election.

Eze counsels the public to disregard the cooked up trash being circulated as a result of the Local Government Councils election as there was no election in Rivers State but allocation of votes to Wike’s cronies

It is pathetic to learn that in Emohua, Ikwerre, Obio-Akpor, Port Harcourt City and other local government areas where voters shunned the charade, the results churned out by the electoral body manned by this unlawful team led by the man from Cross-River indicate that the 23 chairmanship contestants scored votes in tens and hundreds of thousands.

Video footage from some communities in Emohua Local Government Area show RSIEC ad-hoc staff thumb-printing the entire ballot papers for the APC because not even a single voter turned up at the poling unit, yet a factional APC Chairmanship candidate, Chidi Lloyd was declared winner with over a hundred thousand votes.

For an uncontested election to be this manipulated, it clearly shows that Wike has never won any election in his political life as he thrives in electoral malpractices and has never won any election. Recall that the FCT Minister lost his polling unit to the Labour Party during the 2023 presidential election. He could not deliver Tinubu. But on getting to the collation centre the entire results were changed.

The APC Chief noted that it is regrettable to find that the bunch that saw to the killing, insulting, mocking and maiming of legitimate and foundation members of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State are the same people today fronting to be APC members and today allegedly elected into the various administrations of the 23 local government areas in the August 30 illegal Local Government Councils poll, assuring that every mortal will be rewarded according to his works.

He however noted that he remains confident that the Courts, in due time, will set aside the charade held August 30, and return orderliness to the Rivers polity, stressing that the political banditry in Rivers State contravene every recognized standard of civilized behaviour in the context of developing nations who are still nursing their nascent democracies.

Though some people are feeling that this evil act against democracy is a test run with 2027 in view but Eze insisted that with what Rivers State demonstrated during the comic election, it shows that collectively we can rescue Rivers State from Tinubu and Wike and ensure that they are retired from politics accordingly come 2027

Nigeria Police Mourns Former IGP Solomon Arase

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the passing of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, NPM, fdc, FCIA (Rtd.), who died in the early hours of Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Cedarcrest Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness.

According to a press release signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the sad news was officially conveyed to the current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, by the late IGP’s first son, Mr. Solomon Osabohien Arase Jnr.

Born on June 21, 1956, in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase had an illustrious career marked by excellence in service and contributions to national security. He studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and later obtained degrees in Law from the University of Benin and the University of Lagos, as well as a Ph.D. in Public Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

Enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on December 1, 1981, Arase served in several key positions, including Principal Staff Officer to three successive IGPs between 2002 and 2008, Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, pioneer Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau, and Deputy Inspector-General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department.

He was appointed the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police in April 2015, serving until his retirement in June 2016. In January 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission by former President Muhammadu Buhari, a role he held until June 2024. A Fellow of the Defence College and a member of the Body of Benchers, Arase was also renowned for his academic pursuits and philanthropy through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), which supported indigent students and children of deceased police officers with scholarships.

During his tenure as IGP, Arase introduced key reforms, including the establishment of the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) to strengthen accountability and safeguard citizens’ rights. His leadership was widely regarded as a model of professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation.

In a condolence visit to the family in Abuja on Sunday, IGP Egbetokun, on behalf of officers and men of the Force, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Arase as a visionary leader whose contributions to policing and national security will remain indelible. He prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved family.

The Nigeria Police Force noted that the memory of the late IGP will remain etched in the hearts of both the Force and the nation he served with honour and pride.

May his soul rest in peace.

NIPOST Alerts Customers on New U.S. Policy Suspending Duty-Free Postal Shipments

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The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has announced adjustments to its operations following a new policy directive from the Government of the United States of America suspending de minimis exemptions on postal shipments.

The development stems from an Executive Order titled “Suspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries” issued under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The policy affects all postal operators and administrations worldwide, not just Nigeria.

According to NIPOST, effective August 29, 2025, all items sent from Nigeria to the United States, except letters and documents, will now attract a prepaid customs duty of $80 (or its Naira equivalent) at the point of acceptance.

The agency further explained that the change is already impacting global logistics, as airline and cargo carriers adopt stricter measures for U.S.-bound shipments. This, it noted, could lead to longer transit and processing times, as well as additional Customs checks upon arrival in the United States.

NIPOST said it is working closely with the Universal Postal Union (UPU), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and airline partners to reduce service disruptions and maintain efficiency.

“We reassure our customers that NIPOST remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient postal and courier services despite this global regulatory adjustment,” the management stated.

Zamfara Central Stakeholders Call On Dan Isan Gusau To Step Forward For Senate 2027

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The Coalition of Youth, Students and Entrepreneurs for Good Governance on Sunday convened a Town Hall Meeting and Dialogue on the theme “Good Leadership and Representation as Tools for Development” at Taula Hall, Gusau, where stakeholders across Zamfara Central resolved to call on the Dan Isan Gusau / Magayakin Tsafe / Sadauki Babba na Tudun Wada to step forward for the Senate in 2027.

The forum brought together youths, students, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders to deliberate on the qualities of credible leadership and the importance of effective representation in driving development in Zamfara State.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the Founder of AUG Foundation, Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau (Dan Isan Gusau / Magayakin Tsafe / Sadauki Babba na Tudun Wada), in recognition of his humanitarian contributions. The award was formally presented on behalf of the Coalition by its Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Anka, who commended the Founder for his tireless service.

“We are proud to honour Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau for his consistency in empowering youths, supporting students, and standing with vulnerable groups across Zamfara. His record of accessibility and integrity is an inspiration, and this award is a testament to the impact he continues to make,” Anka said.

Immediately after the award, the AUG Foundation represented by its State Coordinator Abdul Bala Gusau, alongside Huzaifa Sani and Comrade Nurudeen Salisu provided direct cash support to 160 beneficiaries, including youths, students, and persons with disabilities.

Participants resolved to continue promoting civic engagement, peaceful democratic participation, and issue-based politics. They also appealed to credible and competent leaders to respond to the needs of citizens by offering themselves for service.

Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau (Dan Isan Gusau / Magayakin Tsafe / Sadauki Babba na Tudun Wada),

In particular, the gathering collectively called on Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau to consider contesting for the Zamfara Central Senatorial District seat, describing him as a leader who embodies the people’s desire for responsible and people-oriented representation.

The Coalition emphasized that this appeal is purely a civic resolution and does not constitute a political campaign or endorsement of any party. It reaffirmed its strictly non-partisan stance and commitment to exercising constitutional rights of free expression, association, and peaceful assembly.