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Eze Hits Back At APC Loyalist Over Comments On Atiku, Amaechi, Obi

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…. Calls Him Political Chameleon

“….In addition, Eze reminded Akindele that the entire world is aware of how disgraceful, the 2023 presidential election allegedly won by Tinubu, was conducted.

“Stealing an election won by others and describing it as an electoral victory is totally utter madness, foolish, rubbish and a historical aberration, Eze told Akindele.

Reacting on Akindele’s statement on whether or not Atiku or Obi have won any election in Nigeria, Eze argued that, depending upon the understanding of what Akindele meant by election, both have never participated in any credible, free and fair election in Nigeria to warrant such an absurd comparison….”

Former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, on Monday, berated one Ayekooto Akindele, a self acclaimed chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), over his recent comments against the persons of former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; former Transportation Minister, Barr. Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party.

Eze described the statement by Akindele as attention-seeking, and a ranting of a political chameleon, who faces his pot-belly and attention where he can gain monetary reward.

“That comment by one Akindele, a self acclaimed chieftain of the APC is best described as attention-seeking, utter rubbish, foolish and a high display of market day ignorance.

“The insinuation by the so called Akindele that Amaechi have not won any election since Wike left him is provocative, and a gutter narrative to score cheap popularity” Eze stated.

Instead, Eze, a former member of the APC Legacy Media Team pointed out that the narrative by Akindele would have been that Minister Nyesom Wike, have not won any credible election since he left the camp of Rivers State most celebrated and loved politician, Rotimi Amaechi.

By making such a statement, Eze said, Akindele has only succeeded to exhibit his ignorance about who Amaechi is in Nigeria’s political setting.

To relegate Akindele to the murky waters of political neophytes, Eze queried the infantile blind loyalist on when actually did Wike leave the Amaechi camp and what is his political relevance since then, if not turning himself as a political thug chieftain, who uses security agencies, INEC and the Judiciary in all elections he has participated.

Eze stated that it was not in his character to join issues with a morally and politically debased persona like Akindele, but for his false narratives against Nigeria’s most followed, admired and trusted visionary politicians of international repute.

“As much as it is not my intention to accord any credibility to a public seeking fellow like Ayekooto Akindele, it is imperative to correct his erroneous postulation to avoid the general public from accepting such a heinous fallacy” Eze said.

To make mince meat of Akindele’s assertion, Eze explained that Wike himself had in various public fora acknowledged the fact that Peter Obi won the election in Rivers State, which he in his usual manner credited to Bola Tinubu. So, which election did Wike win?

“Is it the 2015 gubernatorial election which Dr. Dakuku Peterside of the APC defeated him hook, line and sinker before the Supreme Court in its usual manner turned it to his favour. Do you call that an election victory, Eze queried Akindele.

The APC Chieftain posited that since Wike left Amaechi’s political camp, he has only succeeded in turning himself, a political nuisance in the politics of Nigeria.

“Exhibiting his ignorance, Akindele forgot that Amaechi was the Campaign Director General, who supervised the election of President Muhammadu Buhari on the two occasions he contested presidential election under the platform of the APC. So, which election did Amaechi lose? Eze asked.

“Has Amaechi contested any election since he left the Rivers State Government House or are you talking about the APC Presidential Primaries which was a Charade and disgrace to the entire world in which it was sold to the highest bidder; and if that is what you have in mind, then you are totally ignorant of what election is all about” Eze told Akindele.

In addition, Eze reminded Akindele that the entire world is aware of how disgraceful, the 2023 presidential election allegedly won by Tinubu, was conducted.

“Stealing an election won by others and describing it as an electoral victory is totally utter madness, foolish, rubbish and a historical aberration, Eze told Akindele.

Reacting on Akindele’s statement on whether or not Atiku or Obi have won any election in Nigeria, Eze argued that, depending upon the understanding of what Akindele meant by election, both have never participated in any credible, free and fair election in Nigeria to warrant such an absurd comparison.

“Sanitize INEC, our security agencies and the Judiciary, and see if Atiku or Obi will not defeat your Tinubu’s type of candidate accordingly, Eze told Akindele.

Recall that Ayekooto Akindele, had stated that President Bola Tinubu remains in a stronger political position than his potential challengers ahead of the 2027 general election.

Akindele had compared Tinubu’s political track record with that of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi.

According to Akindele, Atiku has consistently failed to win any presidential election since 2007, despite multiple attempts, arguing that his repeated defeats suggest that he has struggled to gain the national acceptance required to secure the country’s top office.

Turning his attention to Rotimi Amaechi, Akindele claimed that the former minister of Transportation has not achieved electoral success since his fallout with the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

On Peter Obi, Akindele noted that the former Labour Party presidential candidate has not won any significant election since the death of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the late leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

In contrast, Akindele praised President Tinubu’s consistent electoral achievements.

In view of Akindele’s self serving gutter narrative, Eze expressed happiness that Nigerians and the international community are in the know of who Atiku, Obi and Amaechi are, in the political database of Nigeria’s most admired political juggernaut.

On a final note, Eze counseled Akindele and his likes to always learn to accord respect to high ranking politicians, patriots and democrats like Atiku, Obi and Amaechi, saying the fact that they are yet to rule Nigeria, does not mean they are political eke uke dogs (local breeds) like Akindele, who ride roughshod their names to score cheap political goals.

Nigeria Police Force On A New Path Of Professionalism Under IGP Egbetokun

By Adewole Kehinde

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, deserves commendation for his visionary leadership and reform-driven approach to repositioning the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for greater professionalism and efficiency.

His recent approval of the elevation of the Police Legal Section into a Directorate of Legal Services, alongside the upgrade of the Police Medical Section into a Directorate of Medical Services, marks a historic step in institutional strengthening.

For too long, the Nigeria Police Force has grappled with structural and systemic bottlenecks that have hindered the optimal delivery of its constitutional mandate.

By elevating these critical sections, the IGP has not only recognized their strategic importance but has also provided a platform for officers in these specialized fields to operate at par with global best practices. 

The Directorate of Legal Services will now be better positioned to provide robust legal advisory, ensure diligent prosecution of criminal cases, and protect the institution against the misuse of the law by external actors.

In an era where human rights and the rule of law remain cornerstones of democratic policing, this upgrade could not have come at a better time. It underscores the IGP’s commitment to aligning policing operations with justice, fairness, and due process.

Similarly, the transformation of the Police Medical Section into a full-fledged Directorate of Medical Services is a bold testament to the IGP’s concern for the welfare of officers and men of the Force.

For decades, police personnel and their families have lamented the inadequacy of medical facilities within the institution. With this elevation, there is renewed hope that the Directorate will receive better funding, improved manpower, and the capacity to provide accessible, quality healthcare services to personnel who sacrifice daily for national security.

These reforms are not mere administrative changes; they are evidence of a broader vision to professionalize the Nigeria Police Force.

By institutionalizing specialized directorates, IGP Egbetokun is laying the foundation for a more accountable, responsive, and modern policing system that prioritizes both service delivery and the welfare of its workforce.

At a time when public confidence in security institutions is crucial, the IGP’s reform agenda is a breath of fresh air. Nigerians can only hope that these bold steps will be matched with sustained implementation and adequate government support.

Indeed, the Inspector General of Police has shown that with visionary leadership, the Nigeria Police Force can evolve into the professional, people-centered institution that Nigerians deserve. For this, he merits the commendation of all well-meaning citizens.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole

International Police Academy Appoints NDLEA Officer Director

The International Police Academy (IPA) has appointed Deputy Commander General (DCG) Joseph Ogirima Icha of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as Director of International Counter Narcotics Training.

According to a press release on Wednesday 20th August 2025, signed by the NDLEA Director, Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, according to the IPA Executive Board, the appointment of Icha on honorary basis is a recognition of his professional contributions to the fields of law enforcement, security, and academic advancement, as well as the shared global commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking through training, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.

The International Police Academy is a New York, US based globally respected institution with presence in the United States, Europe, and over 140 countries, dedicated to providing advanced education and research opportunities for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians.

“DCG Joseph Ogirima Icha has been officially appointed as a Director of the Academy-Honorary Member of the International Police Academy (IPOA) and UNIPOL International Police University in recognition of their distinguished contributions to law enforcement, security, and academic advancement”, the certificate of appointment endorsed by IPA President, Shuaib Adam and Executive Director/CEO, Dr. Alexander Jan stated.

DCG Joseph Ogirima Icha

DCG Icha is the Director of Training and Manpower Development at the NDLEA’s National Headquarters in Abuja, where he has been instrumental to building the capacity of the Agency’s personnel through cutting-edge training programmes, international collaborations, and reforms aligned with global best practices.

In his congratulatory message to Icha, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) described the appointment as a clear testament to the professionalism, commitment and international relevance of NDLEA officers, especially at a time when Nigeria is well recognized internationally as a strategic partner in the global drug control architecture.

According to him, “this appointment is not just a personal achievement for Icha, but a collective pride for the Agency and indeed the country. It shows that the world is watching the reforms and progress being made in Nigeria’s drug law enforcement efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It is also a challenge to all our officers and men to continue to give their best in the service of our fatherland, knowing that excellence does not go unnoticed.”

Marwa urged him to see the position as an opportunity to further project Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in drug law enforcement and use the platform to promote capacity building for officers from other countries grappling with similar challenges.

Enugu Police Arrest 18-Year-Old, Accomplice Over Murder Of 5-Year-Old Cousin

The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old, Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, for the alleged kidnapping and brutal murder of his five-year-old second cousin, Obodoagu Wisdom.

Police also confirmed the arrest of his accomplice, Sunday Michael, 24, a security guard at 9th Mile and native of Mayo-Belwa LGA, Adamawa State. The duo was apprehended on 11th and 12th August 2025 by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad following intelligence reports linked to ransom demands.

The victim was first declared missing on 26th July 2025. Investigations revealed that the prime suspect enlisted his accomplice to demand a ₦1 million ransom from the boy’s father in a bid to conceal his involvement. When the ransom was not paid, the suspect reportedly murdered the child and buried him in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi LGA.

During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to the crime. The prime suspect later led police operatives to the site, where the child’s remains were exhumed in the presence of medical personnel, who confirmed the death.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and assured that the suspects will be prosecuted upon conclusion of investigations. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating violent crimes and ensuring justice.

PSC Approves Promotion Of 952 ASPs To DSPs

…. decline promotion of 176 found to have retired and another 3 suspected to have died
…. Argungu warns beneficiaries to imbibe the spirit of nationalism and respect for laws and regulations of the service

The Police Service Commission has approved the promotion of Nine hundred and fifty-two (952) Assistant Superintendents of Police to the next rank of Deputy Superintendents. The Commission also declined the promotion of 176 ASPs found to have retired from Service and another 3 suspected to have died.

According to a press release on Wednesday August 20th 2025 signed by the PSC Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani the decisions were some of the highlights of the first Plenary Meeting of the 6th Board of the Commission held at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission in Jabi Abuja.

Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd) congratulated the newly promoted Officers but warned that going forward, they must imbibe the spirit of nationalism and respect for the laws and regulations of the Police Service.

DIG Argungu noted that the Commission will no longer tolerate diversionary and unauthourised actions by serving Officers, especially when they have duly established channels to ventilate any grievance.

He assured them that the Commission will continue to ensure that their career progression are not hindered or trampled upon.

Some of the newly promoted Officers include; Maidawa Yakubu, Edwin Thomas, Chagga Yakubu, Sabo Hassan, Omini Dickson, Bassey Alobo, Enyinnaya Ejimadu, Grace Okon, Rose Bassey, Fidelis Offorbuike, Adamu Isa Audu and Ofem Uket.

Others are Elvina Ochia Chukwu, FCID special fraud unit, Ikoyi Lagos; Kyrian Igwe, Enugu State Command; Ndidiamaka Onwude, O/C JWC, B Division, Kpirikpri, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Command, Rosemary Obianuju Egbo, Area Command, Warri, Delta State; Tabitha Gotan, Uya Bassey Johnson, Abia state Command, Elizabeth Ajik, NPF-NCC, FCID; Sunday Prince Ajaegbu, 44 PMF Force Headquarters Abuja and Deborah Danjuma, SPU BASE 7 Abuja.

Olowu Yetunde Olatunde, Ogun state Command, Felix Okpaleke, 32 PMF, Abakaliki Zakka Bulus, FCT Command Abuja, Kudirat Elegba, SPU Base 2, Lagos, Isioma Omodion, Delta State Command, Ukpabio Ayi Akiba, Rivers state Command and Edna Emeh Bassey were also some of the ASPs elevated to the new rank of Deputy Superintendents of Police.

The Commission’s approval has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Commission Chief Onyemuche Nnamani.

IGP Egbetokun Elevates Police Medical Section To Directorate Status

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the upgrade of the Nigeria Police Force Medical Section to a full-fledged Directorate of Medical Services.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the elevation underscores the IGP’s commitment to comprehensive police reforms and the welfare of officers, men, and their families.

The newly established Directorate is expected to strengthen healthcare delivery within the Force, improve coordination, and ensure sustained investment in both preventive and emergency medical care for serving and retired personnel, as well as host communities across the country.

Under the new structure, the Directorate will be headed by the Force Chief Medical Director, who will supervise other Directors and medical professionals to guarantee specialised oversight, efficient resource allocation, and modernised healthcare services.

Egbetokun noted that the initiative goes beyond welfare, describing it as a strategic investment in national security. He stressed that safeguarding the health of officers enhances the Force’s collective capacity to effectively protect lives and property.

The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to implementing reforms that will boost morale, strengthen professionalism, and deliver enduring welfare systems for its personnel.

NITDA Commends Google, Microsoft, TikTok For Compliance with Code Of Practice On Online Safety

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commended Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for their continued compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries, following the submission of their 2024 compliance reports.

The Code, jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), sets clear guidelines for promoting online safety and addressing harmful content.

According to the compliance reports, the platforms recorded:

* 754,629 registered complaints from users,
* 58,909,112 pieces of harmful content taken down,
* 420,439 contents removed and reuploaded after successful user appeals, and
* 13,597,057 accounts closed or deactivated.

NITDA described the development as a significant milestone in fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment for Nigerians. The agency also emphasized that the achievement reflects the provisions of the Code, which requires major service platforms to register in Nigeria, comply with local laws, fulfill tax obligations, and prioritize user safety.

“While we acknowledge these commendable efforts, building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders,” said Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA.

She added that the agency remains committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulators to strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

Gov Diri Approves Land For Police Zonal Command

…..1th AIG Assumes Duty

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has given approval for the allocation of land to the Nigeria Police Command Zone 16 for construction of administrative and residential structures.

Senator Diri gave the approval on Tuesday when the new Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Johnson Adenola, the Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, and other officers of the command paid him a courtesy visit in Government House, Yenagoa.

The governor directed the Ministry of Lands and Survey and the Secretary to the State Government to liaise with the command for allocation of the land in response to AIG Adenola’s request,

He said the location of the headquarters of the command, which covers Bayelsa and Rivers states, in Yenagoa, was a pride to the state as it has greatly enhance security.

His words: “The zonal command covers Bayelsa and Rivers states with headquarters in Yenagoa. It is a pride to host it in Yenagoa.

“It has been five years since you have been operating from your temporary office, which was provided by the state government. Your request for land is hereby granted.

“I direct the Commissioner for Lands and Survey and the Secretary to the State Government to liaise with the zone to allocate a befitting land to the command in Yenagoa.”

The state’s helmsman thanked the new AIG for acknowledging the concerns he raised with his predecessor, particularly on the issue of multiple road blocks on the highways, and expressed the optimism that the command will address the challenges.

“Listening to you, clearly you have come hitting the ground running. You are already aware about my concerns as indicated in your speech that l am averse to police road blocks. Every 50 metres, there is a checkpoint and yet these police road blocks do not check crime and criminality. I am glad we have an AIG who is not going to be part of road blocks.”

He urged security agencies to adopt a non-kinetic approach through intelligence gathering to tackle security issues as security was everybody’s responsibility.

Diri stated that his administration had deployed the use of technology through the installation of closed circuit television cameras in major parts of the city as well as drones to curb crime in the state.

“For me, it is better to avert crime than to go about carrying guns to look for criminals. Let us use more of intelligence and technology.”

Earlier, Mr. Johnson Adenola said he assumed office last month as the 11th AIG Zone 16 and expressed appreciation to the state government for its support to the command.

He assured the governor of his loyalty and commitment to enhancing security in the state.

“I came to pledge my loyalty and support to the efforts of the state government in ensuring peace and tranquility in the state. We are making effort to have better policing and ensure a people-friendly and rule of law-compliant force,” Adenola said.

Editorial: Time To Tackle Fake News Hiding Behind The Police Logo

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In recent times, Nigerians have witnessed an alarming trend: the deliberate circulation of fake news and misinformation disguised with the official logo of the Nigeria Police Force.

These fabrications are not only misleading but are calculated attempts to sow confusion, erode public trust, and create unnecessary tension in our society.

While the Police have often resorted to issuing press releases to clarify matters, the truth is that debunking alone is no longer enough. Each time falsehoods are dressed in the credibility of the police emblem, they gain traction before the truth even has a chance to catch up.

The danger lies not only in the misinformation itself but in the erosion of confidence in one of the most important institutions tasked with protecting lives and property.

The misuse of the police identity for propaganda or mischief is more than an ethical failing, it is a crime. It portends serious security risks, from inciting public unrest to misleading citizens during emergencies.

A false police statement, for example, could cause panic, misdirect communities, or even endanger lives during crises.

This is why the Nigeria Police must go beyond simply issuing disclaimers. Arrests and prosecutions of perpetrators must follow.

Those who weaponize misinformation and exploit the authority of the police insignia should face the full weight of the law. This will serve as both punishment and deterrent.

We also call for greater investment in digital monitoring and collaboration with technology companies to swiftly identify and trace the sources of such content.

In addition, Nigerians themselves must become more discerning. Citizens have a responsibility to verify news from official police channels before sharing, rather than amplifying unverified claims.

Our democracy and security thrive on trust. The continued misuse of the police logo for fake news strikes at the heart of that trust. The Nigeria Police must therefore treat this as a matter of national security, because that is precisely what it is.

Only a combination of swift debunking, digital vigilance, and decisive legal action will stem this tide of dangerous misinformation.

Police Debunks Viral USSD Codes Claim, Warns Against Misinformation

The Nigeria Police has dismissed as false a message circulating on social media suggesting that dialing USSD codes \*#61# and ##002# could help mobile users detect and remove phone hackers.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Force clarified that the advisory did not originate from the Police and should not be regarded as an official communication.

The NPF urged members of the public to always verify information through official platforms and exercise caution against the spread of misinformation.

While warning against reliance on unverified tips, the Police also encouraged Nigerians to adopt genuine safety practices to protect themselves from online threats.