Villeworth Security Services Ltd

week 13

PORT HARCOURT AND ENVIRONS

Navy Arrests 22 Chinese, 4 Ships Suspected Of Illegal Entry

The Nigerian Navy has arrested four ships and 22 persons, suspected to be Chinese, who allegedly entered Nigeria’s territorial waters illegally. The Commander of the Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Godwin Ochai, who announced the arrests, said the vessels were carrying large tonnes of fish. He named the vessels as Liadda Zhong Yu 15177, Liadda Zhong Yu 15178, Liao Zhung Yu 15030, and Liao Zhung Yu 15029. Ochair spoke while handing over the 22 suspected illegal immigrants in Onne, Rivers, on Tuesday to the Nigeria Immigration Service and the State Department of Fisheries for further investigations. He said the suspects breached international maritime laws and procedure by fishing in Nigeria’s territorial waters without permit. Ochai said the navy was still conducting investigation into the mission of the ships.

Telecom Mast Collapses, Kills 2, Injures 3 In C’river

Two persons, an old man, Adindu Fynecountry, and an 11-year-old girl were, Wednesday, evening killed in Odukpani, a Calabar suburb when a telecommunications mast collapsed following a rainstorm. An eyewitness, Asuquo Okon, said the incident happened at 6p.m. when strong winds that preceded a downpour pulled down the mast. He said many others were injured. The dead and those wounded were taken to the General Hospital, Calabar. Another eyewitness, Mr. Nnasia Isoni, said the collapsed mast destroyed his house including certificates and personal effects worth over N6 million. Secretary of Odukpani LGA, Edet Eyibio, described the incident as unfortunate and traumatising, especially the loss of lives and property. According to Eyibio, remedial measures will be taken by the council to ameliorate the impact of the incident on the victims.

Anambra: Obiano Sworn-in, As Obi Bows Out

Chief Willie Obiano, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and winner of the November 16 2013 governorship election in Anambra state, was, on Monday, was administered with both the oath of office and allegiance as the new Governor of the state by the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi amidst pomp and celebrations. Highly elated, Governor Obiano expressed gratitude to the people of the state for reposing confidence in him and his Deputy and pledged that the tradition of excellence his predecessor, Chief Peter Obi, entrenched in Anambra state would be sustained.

Police Arrest Man, 30, With Explosives In Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command on Monday arrested a 30 year-old man a large quantity of explosives, including detonators and a cordless wire. The suspect, who was identified as Ibrahim Aliyu was apprehended in Ndele Town in Emohua LGA of the state at about 2.30pm. State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, disclosed that Aliyu confessed to be a member of a kidnap syndicate based in Ogbogoro Town in Rivers State. Aliyu, according to the state police boss, was also a member of a bank robbery syndicate that operates between Port Harcourt and Akwa Ibom State. Ogunsakin disclosed that the suspects had confessed that though he (Aliyu) purchased the explosives in Port Harcourt, his aim was to take them to one ‘Alhaji’ in Yobe State.

Kidnapped Radio Presenter Regains Freedom

Wazobia FM Presenter, Anthony Akatakpo, popularly known as Akas Baba, who was abducted by unknown gunmen from his house a week ago regained his freedom yesterday. Thisday gathered that his abductors dumped him at a deserted area in the Emohua axis of East-west Road at about 2am yesterday, same time he was kidnapped Thursday last week. Family sources said the kidnappers had been treating the gunshot wound they inflicted on Akas Baba since his abduction. Akatakpo was shot on the leg and kidnapped by a group of armed men who stormed his residence in Rumuekini, Obio/Akpor LGA of Rivers State on Thursday, March 13. Confirming the release of the Radio presenter and comedian, his elder brother, Patrick Akatakpo, said the family was in a prayer session when they received a call from the police that Akas Baba was found along the East-west Road in the early hours of Thursday.

Abducted Bayelsa Commissioner’s Sister Regains Freedom

Mrs Joyce Ebua, the 60-year-old elder sister of Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports, Mitema Obodor, who was abducted recently, has regained her freedom. She was freed in the early hours of Thursday. It was learnt that Ebua was freed after ransom was paid. The victim was abducted by some gunmen at her Oloibiri residence in Ogbia LGA of the state about 8.55pm on March 13, 2014. The Commissioner for Sports, Mitema Obodor, confirmed Ebua’s freedom. The elated commissioner, however, maintained that the family did not pay any ransom to secure her freedom. Obodor said some officials of the State Security Service gave support in ensuring Ebua’s freedom.

Man Kidnaps Sister’s Two Children

The police in Calabar, Cross River State, have launched a manhunt for an indigene of Akwa Ibom State simply identified as Ukeme for kidnapping two of his sister’s children. Promise Charles Eyo (5) and Goodluck Charles Eyo (3) were having fun at their No. 93 Esierebom Street, Calabar South Local Government Area home when their uncle disappeared with them in a jiffy. Mother of the missing children, Mrs. Uduak Charles Eyo (38), an indigene of Ndiya Ikot Offiong in Akwa Ibom State, revealed that on March 6, at about 10am, she went to the bathroom for a bath leaving her kids under the care of her brother, Ukeme and one “Papa” who was with them. Once through with the shower, she came out but could not trace the where about of the two children. But she became apprehensive when some hours passed without Ukeme returning to the yard with the children. Repeated calls to his cell phone could not go through as he had switched off prompting her to become hysteric.

Oil Theft: Navy Seizes 87,500 Litres Of Stolen Fuel

In its determination to end oil theft in the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Navy has seized 87,500 litres of substance suspected to be diesel. The product worth N14.4m was said to have been confiscated by security operatives on patrol around Isaka creek in Rivers State. Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS Pathfinder), Commodore Godwin Ochai, who disclosed this on Friday in Port Harcourt, said seven suspected oil thieves were also arrested while shipping the product to an unknown destination. Ochai, who handed over the suspects to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation, said the action of the Navy was aimed at putting an end to the continued attack on the country’s oil installations. He said, “The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin, has ordered the strategic deployment of troops on our waterways to stop recurrent attacks on Nigeria’s oil installations.

BENIN/WARRI/ESCRAVOS

15 Perish in Auto Crash along Lagos Benin Express Way

At least 15 persons lost their lives penultimate Sunday in a ghastly motor accident along Benin/Lagos express way. The accident, which occurred around Igbogune town in Edo state, involved   a Toyota Hiace and a trailer with registration number LSR 649XK, Lagos. All the passengers on board the ill-fated bus that belongs to a popular transport company, GOD IS GOOD, died on the spot.

LAGOS AND ENVIRONS

10 Die in Auto Crash Along Lagos-Ibadan Highways

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) yesterday confirmed the death of 10 travellers on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. FRSC Oluyole Unit Commander, Sanya Adeoye, disclosed that in the multiple accident involving three vehicles -two trucks and one 18-seater Toyota Hiace commercial bus. Four people survived while 10 other were burnt beyond recognition. According to him, the Lagos-Ibadan bound vehicle had stopped on the road to allow one of the trucks coming out from NSCE Quarry to pass when unfortunately another truck also coming from Lagos ran into the commercial bus and smashed it on the stationed truck. He said the accident was as a result of over speeding, violation and dangerous driving. He said the commercial bus went up in flames which later spread to other trucks. Meanwhile, efforts were made by the FRSC Unit Commander to reach out to families of the victims through the driver's manifest, which was not burnt.

Police Arrest Woman for Abusing Bedwetting Niece

The police Tuesday paraded a 27-year-old woman, Joy Amodu, for allegedly inflicting grievous injuries on a 10-year-old girl for bedwetting. The victim had told the police that the suspect beat her up and inserted hot ointment in her genitals. Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the suspect, who claimed to work with a private security company in Lagos, beat up the victim and inflicted injuries on her. The victim was later referred to the Military Hospital, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi for better treatment. An NGO, the Hands that Cares, took over the case and settled the hospital bills, while calling for prosecution of the suspect. The suspect admitted to the charges, but said she never meant to inflict the injuries on the girl, adding that she was angry with her for bedwetting.

One Killed, Scores Injured In Lagos Cult Clash

One person was killed and several others injured in a fierce cult war in Ijora Badia area of Lagos. Trouble started Tuesday morning after one Niyi, popularly known as Niyi Star, an awaiting trial inmate, allegedly stormed 5, Ijora Oloye Street, accompanied by six members of his gang. They reportedly stormed the abode of one Ade Ojora, said to be a member of a rival cult, and beat him up. Ojora, said to also be on the command’s wanted list, reportedly died owing to loss of blood in an undisclosed hospital around the area. Youths from Ijora Oloye, said to have been armed with dangerous weapons, were going for a revenge mission when they were stopped by policemen. Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Ngozi Braide, expressed surprise over the fleeing suspect’s release from prison.

Mile 2 Residents, Workers Send SOS to over Insecurity

Residents and people working around Mile 2 area of Lagos State have called on the Lagos State Government and the state Police Commissioner to provide adequate security for the area. In recent times, motorists and passers-by on the route between Berger-Yard and Mile 2, have been attacked and robbed by a gang, which specialises in vandalising cars of unsuspecting motorists before dispossessing them of their valuables, while pedestrians are also not spared. One of the latest victims blamed the state government and Police for not doing anything about the situation, despite several complaints by people, who were either robbed or have their vehicles damaged by the hoodlums during such attacks.

Gunmen Shoot Policeman At Lagos Airport

Pandemonium broke out at the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos, when two gunmen on a power bike shot a mufti-wearing policeman, near the access toll-plaza, on Thursday. Eyewitnesses said that the policeman attached to the Hajj Camp Police Station and identified, simply as Abayo, was walking toward the access gate at about 3pm when the two men accosted him, shooting him before speeding off towards the Nigeria Airforce Base. Confirming the incident, one Dr Alex Okoh of the Airport Health Authority, who witnessed the attack, said he was in an ambulance when he saw people running and he saw a man lying saw pool of blood. He ordered the driver of the ambulance to take the policeman to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, for treatment. The medical personnel, however, said she had no knowledge of what led to the shooting.

Pastor Uses Machete On Wife For Missing Church Programme

An Ogun State Chief Magistrate’s Court has remanded a Pastor, Samuel Daniel, in prison for using a machete on his wife. He was arraigned on a two-count charge of assault and providing false information. The accused, who was a Pastor with an Apostolic Church in Ode Remo area of the state, reportedly went to his wife’s place of work at Itori village in Owode-Egba on December 10, 2013 and used the machete on her for abandoning church programmes. He was reported to have taken his wife to the hospital and reported the case at Owode-Egba Police Station, but lied that two unknown persons attacked his wife. After an investigation, he was reportedly arrested by the Police and charged to court. Presiding Magistrate, E. J. Ojikutu granted him N100,000 bail with two sureties in the like sum and adjourned till May 26, while the accused, who appeared to have suffered partial stroke, remain in prison.

Police Raid Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant’s Office over Arms, Arrest 25

The Oyo State Police Command has raided the Ibadan campaign office of Seyi Makinde, a governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2015 elections where about 25 of his supporters were arrested. It was gathered that the office was raided following a petition that arms and ammunition were stored there. The Iwo Road office was raided by a combination of security men from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and Operation Burst, who were fully armed. During the raid that lasted for one hour, women and men including a pastor were whisked away by the policemen. The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olabisi Ilobanafor, confirmed that police arrested 26 miscreants at the campaign office of the politician based on information that the people always engage in criminal activities and that they were with arms and ammunition.

Robbers Invade Church, Steal Phones, Money

At least 15 armed robbers invaded the Christ Apostolic Church in Alagbado, Lagos State, stealing about 40 phones and money estimated at N2m. The robbers, who operated for about 20 minutes, were said to have also attempted raping some of the church members before they left the church premises. It was learnt that the men came around 2am penultimate Friday while the over 450 congregation was engrossed in a prayer session. A member of the church, who craved anonymity, said some of the members had observed a strange man making phone calls while the vigil was on. The head usher of the church was said to have been shot at close range, when he tried closing the door against the robbers, who he originally thought were arriving late for the programme. The bullet was said to have shattered the glass at the entrance, and landed on the pulpit. When the gun men got in, the church members were said to have been ordered to lie face down, while they started ransacking them. The pastor of the church, who identified him, was said to be under pressure to withdraw his incriminating statement from the police.

Three To Die For Kidnapping, Murder

An Akure High Court on Thursday sentenced three men to death by hanging after being found guilty of kidnapping and murdering a one-and-half-year-old Rachael Akingboye. The convicts are Olusegun Obaro, Jonah Lase and Theophilus Friday. The presiding judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, said the first and second accused persons (Obaro, Lase) were guilty of kidnapping and murder, while the third accused person was only guilty of murder. The convicts were charged with two counts bordering on kidnapping and murdering Akingboye, “contrary to and punishable under Section 3 of the Ondo State Anti-Kidnapping and Abduction Law, 2010, punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ondo State.” The accused were said to have kidnapped the deceased in the night from her parent’s residence at Ikorigho in Igbokoda on June 17, 2011.

Pipeline Explosion Rocks Ogun Community

A pipeline belonging to the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation burst into flames in the early hours of Thursday in Ilora Village, Ogijo, Sagamu LGA, Ogun State while suspected oil thieves were siphoning oil. Officials of the NNPC, Ogun State Fire Service, and the National Emergency Management Agency, who were the first responders, were unable to locate where the hose that was used in siphoning the oil went to. It was learnt that the oil thieves passed their hose from the pipeline through a swamp which was not accessible. The hose was said to have traveled through a distance of about four kilometers. The Spokesperson of the National Emergency Management Agency, South-West Zone, Ibrahim Farinloye, said the fire started around 3.30am and was put out by 10.30am. He said the fire could have escalated if not for the timely intervention of the officials, adding that normal oil transport had resumed.

GENERAL

Jonathan Grills Moro, Parradang over Deaths at Immigration Recruitment

At least 16 job seekers were killed during stampede at some centres during the weekend screening for recruitment into the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). For over two hours Monday, Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, and the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), David Parradang, were grilled by President Goodluck Jonathan on the circumstances that led to the deaths. The duo is under fire following the deaths that occurred during stampedes at the recruitment centres in Abuja, Minna and Benin. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and several groups have joined in the call for the probe and removal of the minister and the NIS boss for their alleged culpability in the tragedy. The minister in a statement by his Special Assistant, Media, George Udoh, said he was extremely traumatised by the death of the job seekers despite efforts to enthrone transparency and credibility in the recruitment.

NSA: FG to Launch Economic Master Plan for North-east

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), Tuesday called on Muslims to back the on-going fight against insurgent groups such as the outlawed Boko Haram sect. He also announced the plan by the federal government to launch an economic master plan to accelerate development and employment in the conflict-ravaged North-east. Nigeria, in an effort to end the five-year-old insurgency in the North-east, which has led to the deaths of over 5,000 people, has also entered into a deal with France, Cameroun, Chad, Benin Republic and Niger to curtail the activities of the terror group. Giving reasons why Muslims should support the efforts of the government to stop Boko Haram, Dasuki, during the 'Roll out of Nigeria's Soft Approach to Counter Terrorism,' described terrorism as un-Islamic.

Soldiers Ambush, Kill Eight Terrorists In Yobe -Military

Troops operating in the North-East have ambushed a group of terrorists on a mission to penetrate and attack Goniri Community in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. This was contained in a statement on Monday by the Director of Defence Information and Coordinator, Joint Information Centre Counter Terrorism Campaign, Maj.-Gen Chris Olukolade. Olukolade said the terrorists mission was foiled as they were ambushed by troops, who were already alerted on the insurgents’ intention. Goniri is not far from Buni-Yadi where the terrorists killed schoolchildren recently. The director also said the soldiers, operating around Gamboru Ngala and Dikwa Local Government Area towards Nigeria’s borders with Chad and Cameroon, were busy throughout the weekend. He said the troops were recovering weapons hidden by terrorists who were dislodged from the area.

Boko Haram Kills Two, Torches Churches In Borno

As members of the Boko Haram were displaced from their Sambisa Forest stronghold and forced back from Maiduguri by the Nigerian Army, indication emerged on Monday that they may have relocated to the southern part of the state. Members of the Boko Haram sect invaded Pela Birni village in Hawul LGA of Borno State, killing two residents and setting ablaze two churches and many residential houses. Pela Birni is one of the most populated villages under Kwajjafa District in southern Borno with a large Christian population. The gunmen reportedly came to the village at about 10pm on Sunday with sophisticated weapons. They opened fire on their targets, displacing hundreds of residents, who are now taking refuge around the mountainous areas of Kwajjafa district and its environs. The Chairman of Hawul LGA, Dr. Andrew Malgwi, confirmed the incident.

350 Killed In Boko Haram, Army Clash

No fewer than 350 people lost their lives on Friday as the orgy of bloodletting in some parts of the country continued with the clash  between  Boko Haram insurgents  and the Special Forces in  Maimalari, Maiduguri, Borno State. The insurgents had attacked the 21 Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army in the wee hours of Friday. It was learnt that the dead included insurgents who attacked the military formation and their members who were held at the biggest detention facility on the premises of the headquarters of the Brigade. It was gathered that the insurgents targeted the detention facility within the 21 Armoury Brigade where most of the hardened members of the sect were detained. The military authorities were said to have received an intelligence report of an impending attack on the barracks and prepared for the insurgents. It was learnt that the insurgents attempted to divert the attention of the military by carrying out the attack in military uniforms and vehicles painted in military colours.

Controversy Over Turkish Airlines Arms Shipment To Nigeria

There was controversy on Wednesday over reported arms shipment to Nigeria by two Turkish Airlines. The airline allegedly shipped weapons to unknown groups in the country a development that reports said was exposed by an incriminating phone call. But the airline, with operations in the country, has denied the claim though it confirmed that it carried arms into Nigeria in accordance with international laws. According to the French news agency, however, an Assistant Executive of the Turkish Airlines, Mehmet Karatas, in the leaked conversation allegedly told an advisor to Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Mustafa Varank, that he felt guilty over the national flag carrier’s arms shipment to Nigeria. The leaked call had the potential to harm the airline’s image, which is 49 per cent state-owned and is in an aggressive push to become a global player. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy on Wednesday said the Turkish Airlines recently brought arms into the country for it through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. Navy spokesman, Commodore Kabiru Aliyu, who confirmed this, said the arms came in on March 11 and were subsequently inspected by its director in charge of combat. He said the arms had been moved to the Naval Base on March 12.

Jonathan Sacks NNPC Director, Appoints New GEDs

President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday sacked the Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mr. Abiye Membere, and appointed five new ones to fill existing vacancies. According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the new appointees and their portfolios are Mr. Ian Udoh, Group Executive Director, Refining and Petrochemicals; Dr. Dan Efebo, Group Executive Director, Corporate Services; and Ms. Aisha Abdurrahman, Group Executive Director, Business Development. Others are Mr. Adebayo Ibirogba, Group Executive Director, Engineering and Technical; and Dr. Joseph Dawha, Acting Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production. Abati said the appointments took immediate effect.

Senate Raises the Alarm over Killings in Benue, Katsina, Kaduna, Others

Disturbed by the spate of killings in Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Katsina and some other parts of Nigeria, the Senate yesterday mandated its committees on Security and Intelligence, Defence and Army, Police Affairs and Interior to henceforth embark on a fact-finding mission with a view to unravelling the root cause of the menace. The committees are expected to report findings in two weeks. The decision followed a motion sponsored by Senators Barnabas Gemade (Benue North-east), George Akume (Benue North-west), Gyang Pwajok (Plateau North), Joshua Dariye (Plateau Central), Victor Lar (Plateau South) and Nenadi Usman (Kaduna South). Gemade, who also said the roles of the police and the military were now at a critical point as a result of the introduction of religious and ethnic colouration into the crisis, added that the situation had become highly contagious with grave effects on social and economic lives of affected communities.

Fulani, Farmers' Clashes House Urges FG to Deploy Troops to Benue

The House of Representatives has also urged the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar and Chief of Army Staff, Lt- Gen. Kenneth Minimah, to urgently dispatch soldiers to Benue State to curb the increased attack on villages across the state by the nomadic herdsmen. Hon. Benjamin Aboho, who moved a motion of urgent national importance, informed the House that the violence occasioned by the herdsmen had spread to the neighbouring states of Nasarawa and Plateau, thereby constituting a threat to national security. Aboho's motion was unanimously taken as the House mandated the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to establish a refugee camp and provide relief materials to the victims in the affected areas.

Tension In Kaduna As Death Toll Hits 114

Tension rose in Kaduna town and environs on Sunday, following the killing of over 100 people in three villages in Kaduna State on Friday night. There was a heavy security presence at all churches in the state capital and environs where the Christian faithful had converged to worship. It was observed the movement of combat-ready policemen and other security agents in trucks at the Sabo Tasha and Refinery areas of the city to maintain law and order as people spread rumours that all was not well in those parts of the state capital. The victims of the massacre were said to have been buried in mass graves. The umbrella body of the Southern Kaduna people in the state, the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union, on Sunday put the death toll from the attacks at 114. It said over 40 attacks had been recorded so far in the Southern Kaduna communities since 2011. The group also accused Fulani herdsmen as being behind the attacks. Police spokesman, Aminu Lawan, said a detachment of policemen had been deployed in the area, while investigations into the incident had begun.

Terror: Nigeria, France, 4 Others Join Forces

Following the upsurge in Boko Haram insurgency in the North-Eastern part of the country,  Nigeria has entered into agreement with France, Cameroon, and three of her other neighbours in a bid to contain the menace of the terrorists. This is to increase the level of coordination and exchange of intelligence as well as hold regular meetings of experts with a view to containing the menace. This is just as 85 high schools in Borno State are being shut indefinitely amidst fears of massive attacks by Boko Haram terrorists. Nigeria’s other neighbours who also agreed to ensure effective policing of common borders to avoid the infiltration of terrorists and other criminals as well as the repatriation of suspects in conformity with existing protocols are the Republic of Benin, Chad and Niger. The recent meeting of the Directors-General of External Intelligence Services is believed to be a boost to activities of the multi-national task force comprising troops from Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad.

NAF Commences Aerial Surveillance Of Benue

As part of efforts to stem the unending bloodbath between Benue farmers and suspected Fulani herdsmen, the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has commenced the aerial surveillance of the affected communities in a bid to nip such clashes in the bud. The Air Officer Commanding, AOC, Tactical Air Command of NAF, Air Vice Marshal Umar Omeiza, who flagged off the exercise in Makurdi, the Benue State, said the operation was in compliance with the directive of the Chief of Air Staff. Omeiza said the exercise would afford security operatives in the state the opportunity to have a comprehensive aerial view of the entire state to mobilise and effectively secure the lives and property of the people.

Boko Haram: Anti-terror Group Calls for Urgent Global Intervention

A group, Nigeria Arise Against Terror (NAAT), has called on the international community to help the federal government in the fight against terrorism. NAAT stated this in support of the clarion call by the Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda, for global effort to urgently end the orgy of terrorism ravaging the North-east region of the country. In a statement issued by NAAT Publicity Secretary, Malam Abba Aliyu, the interim National Coordinator of the group, Hon. Emeka Kanu-Nwapa, said NAAT had reasons to believe that most of the attacks in the region recently suggested that the war has gone beyond the Boko Haram insurgency and has now gone international. NAAT further urged other well-meaning leaders and statesmen in the country to add their voices to the campaigns against the terror and violence in Benue, Plateau and Nasarawa States, noting that terror against one is terror against all.

Fulani Suspends Dialogue with Berom, Protests Rustling of Cattle

The Fulani community in Plateau State has said it has suspended its participation in the current dialogue between its members and the Berom community as a result of continuous massive cattle rustling witnessed in the last two weeks. The Fulani community lamented that its decision was “sequel to the killing of two young herdsmen and outright shooting of 40 cattle on March 7. The Berom and Fulani have been at loggerheads for close to a decade, leading to loss of many lives and properties. Dialogue and reconciliatory sessions organised by the CHD between the parties had since 2002 witnessed the leaders of the two groups talking frankly on the matter with a view of finding a lasting solution. However with the recent letter of protest by the Fulani, the hands of the clock may have been drawn back.

Jonathan Cancels Fatal Recruitment Exercise

President Goodluck Jonathan has cancelled last Saturday’s recruitment by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), which turned tragic when over 16 job seekers died in stampedes at various centres nationwide. He directed the conduct of a fresh employment process that will be supervised by a special committee headed by the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Joan Ayo, to fill the vacancies in the NIS. Also, in a bid to appease the families of the deceased applicants and those injured during the exercise, the president has ordered that they should be given preferential treatment in the recruitment process.

Finally, President Appoints Bulkachuwa Head of Appeal Court

After about three years without a substantive President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), President Goodluck Jonathan, Wednesday, announced the appointment of Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa as the next president of the court. With her appointment, two women would effectively be in charge of the two major appellate courts in the country – the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, was appointed by the president in July 2012. The appellate court had since August 2011 been without a substantive head following the suspension of the then president, Justice Ayo Isa Salami, by the NJC. President Jonathan also approved the appointment of 25 justices for the Court of Appeal. A statement by the acting Director, Information, National Judicial Council (NJC), Soji Oye, said the appointment followed the recommendation of the council under the leadership of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. The appointment is in line with the new Court of Appeal (Amendment) Act which increased the number of justices of the court from 70 to 90.

INTERNATIONAL

EU to Deploy Troops to CAR

The European Union on Wednesday drew up plans to send 800 to 1,000 soldiers to Central African Republic (CAR) to join 6,000 African and 2,000 French troops by the end of April. Gen. Philippe Ponties, Head of EU military operation in the CAR, said in Paris that this became imperative because there was a link between the problems facing the CAR force and the political crisis in Ukraine. This was coming after France accused the EU of shirking its responsibility for international security after a plan to send up to 1,000 troops to Central African Republic this week seemed set to collapse. Ponties said so far two brigades of about 300 soldiers as well as Special Forces and police units had been committed to the EUFOR mission.

Crimea Parliament Declares Independence

The crisis in Crimea escalated on Monday as the region’s parliament declared the Black Sea peninsula an “independent sovereign state” and asking to be incorporated into the Russian Federation. The announcement came hours after the region’s election commission confirmed that 96.7 per cent of participants in a referendum voted to break away from Ukraine and as EU foreign ministers met to finalise sanctions on individuals linked to the crisis. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree recognising Crimea “as a sovereign and independent state”, presidential sources say. The EU and US earlier imposed sanctions on a number of officials from Russia and Ukraine over the vote.

Morocco Arrests 102 Illegal African Migrants

Morocco’s authorities arrested on Tuesday 102 illegal migrants who were attempting to enter the Spanish enclave of Melilla from Morocco, reports say. About 600 illegal migrants tried to force their way to Melilla in the Mediterranean from Tigurfateen River, according to reports. Besides the 102 illegal migrants arrested by the authorities, 28 others were injured while climbing the barbed wire surrounding Melilla and were taken to the hospital, the release said. Thousands of migrants fleeing poverty and unrest in Africa attempt to enter Europe each year via Morocco. Most of them try to enter Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish port enclaves near the Moroccan territory. Morocco and many European countries have tightened the security control against the illegal migration.

Lebanon Car Bomb Kills Hezbollah Leader

A suicide car bomb attack has killed at least four people in a Hezbollah-dominated area of the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, near the border with Syria. Among those killed in the attack, was Hezbollah’s local leader, Abdul Rahman al-Qadhi. The blast was carried out by a suicide attacker. Hezbollah members knew he was about to carry out the attack, and tried to stop the vehicle. Hezbollah-dominated areas in eastern Lebanon and south Beirut have suffered a series of deadly attacks, many of them suicide car blasts, since the powerful Shia movement acknowledged sending fighters to Syria to support President Bashar al-Assad’s troops as they battle rebels. The latest attack was claimed by Jabhat al-Nusra in Lebanon, as well as by the little-known Liwa Ahrar al-Sunna in Baalbek, a Sunni Muslim armed group opposed to Hezbollah’s involvement in the Syrian conflict. The attack came hours after the Syrian army, backed by Hezbollah fighters, captured Yabroud, a former rebel bastion in Syria near the Lebanese border.

15 Dead In Afghan Suicide Bomb Attack

A suicide bomb attack in northern Afghanistan has killed at least 15 people including women and children, officials have told the BBC. Another 27 were wounded in the attack in Maymana, the capital of Faryab province, provincial governor Mohammadullah Batash said. The bomber is believed to have detonated his explosives near the entrance to a busy market. The attack comes as Afghans prepare to hold presidential elections on 5 April. No group has so far said it carried out the bombing. However, Taliban insurgents and the al-Qaeda affiliated group the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan are active in the volatile region. Mr Batash said the attacker had been riding a three-wheel motorcycle when he detonated his explosives. The Taliban have threatened to target anyone who takes part in the polls.

Israel Attacks Syrian Army Sites

Israel says it has attacked several Syrian military sites in retaliation for a bombing that wounded four of its troops in the occupied Golan Heights. Among the targets were a headquarters, a training facility and artillery batteries, the Israeli military said. The Syrian army had “aided and abetted” the attack on a patrol near the ceasefire line on Tuesday, it added. There has been no comment yet on the air strikes from Syria and it is not clear if there were any casualties. The Israeli air force has conducted several aerial attacks on Syria since the uprising began three years ago. Those air strikes are believed to have prevented the transfer of stockpiles of rockets from the Syrian government to Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shia Islamist movement that supports President Bashar al-Assad. These latest operations though were direct acts of retaliation, reports the BBC’s Kevin Connolly in Jerusalem.

Two Egyptian Army Officers Killed In Clashes With Militants

Two Egyptian army officers were killed on Wednesday during a raid on militant hideouts near the Nile Delta, the army said. “An army colonel and a bomb disposal expert were shot dead after militants and the army exchanged gunfire in the Arab Sharkas district of al-Qanatir al- Khayriya, an army spokesman said. Several tanks carrying explosive materials exploded. He added that six militants were killed during the raid. Egypt has witnessed an escalation of attacks against security forces since the military ousted former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi last July. A recent Interior Ministry report said 200 soldiers and policemen have been killed in such attacks. Most of the attacks have taken place in the restive Sinai Peninsula in the north of the country, but lately attacks have targeted several security headquarters in the capital and Delta cities. The Sinai-based group Ansar Beit al-Maqdis, which is reportedly linked to al-Qaida, has claimed responsibility for most of the attacks.

US Navy takes Control of Libya Oil Tanker

The US has taken control of a tanker full of oil loaded from a rebel-held port in Libya, officials say. The raid by Navy Seals took place in international waters off the coast of Cyprus, they say. Libya’s Prime Minister Ali Zeidan was dismissed by parliament last week after the Morning Glory evaded a naval blockade to leave a rebel-held port. The port of Sidra is under the control of militias who want autonomy for eastern Libya.

Ukraine Crisis: EU, US Impose Sanctions Over Crimea

The EU and US have announced travel bans and asset freezes against a number of officials from Russia and Ukraine. The moves follow Sunday’s referendum in Crimea, in which officials say 97% of voters backed breaking away from Ukraine and joining Russia. The individuals targeted by the sanctions are seen as having played a key role in the referendum, which Kiev, the US and EU deem illegal. Pro-Russian forces have been in control of Crimea since late February. Moscow says the troops are pro-Russian self-defence forces and not under its direct control. The crisis follows the ousting on 22 February of Ukraine’s pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych, who had sparked months of street protests by rejecting a planned EU trade deal in favour of closer ties with Moscow.

Suicide Attack Kills 16 in Afghanistan

A suicide bomber killed at least 16 people at a crowded market in northern Afghanistan on Tuesday, officials said, despite a tightening of security for presidential elections less than three weeks away. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack in Maimanah city, the capital of remote Faryab province which borders Turkmenistan and has a mixed population of Uzbek, Turkmen and Pashtun ethnic groups. Taliban insurgent leaders had vowed to target the presidential election, urging their fighters to attack polling staff, voters and security forces before the April 5 vote to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. “It was a suicide bombing in the middle of Maimanah city during the Tuesday bazaar,” provincial governor Mohammadullah Batash, said. The bomber used a three-wheeler packed with explosives. Abdul Ali Haleem, the provincial health director, said 16 people had died and 40 were treated for injuries, among them a pregnant woman and two children aged six and seven.

Russian Forces Seize Two Ukrainian Bases In Crimea

The United States warned Moscow it was on a "dark path" to isolation on Wednesday as Russian troops seized two Ukrainian naval bases, including a headquarters in the Crimean port of Sevastopol where they raised their flag. The dramatic seizure came as Russia and the West dug in for a long confrontation over Moscow's annexation of Crimea, with the United States and Europe groping for ways to increase pressure on a defiant Russian President Vladimir Putin. "As long as Russia continues on this dark path, they will face increasing political and economic isolation," said U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, referring to reports of armed attacks against Ukrainian military personnel in Crimea. Biden was in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, as part of a quick trip to reassure Baltic allies worried about what an emboldened Russia might mean for their nations. Lithuania, along with Estonia and Latvia, are NATO members.

Ukraine Proposes Demilitarised Zone In Crimea

Ukraine has proposed that Crimea, scene of a Russian-backed armed takeover, be declared a demilitarised zone by the United Nations with a pull-out by both Russian and Ukrainian forces. “The Ukrainian government will immediately appeal to the United Nations to recognise Crimea as a demilitarised zone and take necessary measures for Russian forces to leave Crimea and prepare conditions for redeployment of Ukrainian forces,” security chief Andriy Parubiy said on Wednesday. Earlier, several men in civilian clothing, later joined by military-looking personnel believed to be Russian, had seized the Ukrainian naval headquarters in the Crimean port of Sevastopol. Referring to his demilitarisation proposal, Parubiy, secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, said he hoped the UN would support the idea.

Indian Court Convicts Four Over Gang Rape

A court in the Indian city of Mumbai has convicted four men of the gang rape of a photojournalist last year. The men have been found guilty of five offences, including gang rape, unnatural sex and destruction of evidence. Sentencing is set for Friday. The 22-year-old woman was attacked by five men while on assignment in a deserted mill in August. The fifth accused, believed to be under 18 at the time of the incident, is being tried in a juvenile court.

Lebanese Army Deploys In Restive Border Town as Death Toll Rises

Lebanese army deployed in the town of Arsal along the border with Syria, reopening the main road linking the town to the rest of Lebanon after a night of violent protests. The mainly Sunni town had been sealed off by residents from the mostly-Shia neighbouring town of Labweh, where one person was killed last week by rocket fire. The closure of the main road out of Arsal prompted fury among Sunnis in other parts of Lebanon, and many took to streets across the country on Tuesday night to burn tires in protest. In the wake of the tensions, President Michel Sleiman was meeting on Wednesday with Prime Minister Tammam Salam and top security officials, an official reported. Tensions between residents of the two towns have increased since the fall of the Syrian rebel bastion Yabroud, just across the frontier, on Sunday. At least 11 people have been killed in three days of clashes in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli linked to the conflict in Syria, security sources and the Lebanese army said.

DR Congo, Angola to Resolve Border Conflict

Ministerial delegations from Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola on Tuesday in Brazzaville agreed to resolve the border dispute between the two countries. The two parties at the end of their meeting agreed that Pangui village in Kimongo district belongs to the Republic of Congo. They also agreed to set up a joint border demarcation committee of experts, besides allowing free movement of people between their neighboring villages. Georges Chikoti, Angola’s Foreign Minister, said the two parties were determined to peacefully resolve the border dispute, and recommended the holding of the seventh session of Republic of Congo-Angola Joint Commission in Brazzaville as soon as possible.

Taliban Kill Nine Including Foreigners In Kabul Hotel Attack

Taliban gunmen killed nine people, including four foreigners, in an attack on a luxury hotel used by United Nations' staff in Kabul on Thursday, before being shot dead in a shootout with Afghan security forces, police and government officials said. The assault on the heavily fortified Serena Hotel was the latest in a string of bold attacks by the insurgents seeking to spoil an presidential election on April 5, which would mark the first time in Afghanistan's history that one elected government hands power to another. Four Taliban fighters snuck into the hotel early on Thursday evening and hid for three hours before storming into the restaurant and opening fire on people inside, according to interior ministry spokesman Sediq Sediqqi. They then battled Afghan Special Forces for more than an hour inside the hotel before being overwhelmed. The victims included four women, three men and two children. The Serena hotel has been attacked several times during the Taliban insurgency, but Thursday's assault was the most deadly.