Uncategorized Test by Godswill Idachaba May 3, 2024 Published by Godswill Idachaba May 3, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized A Precarious Step by Olivia Aniunoh May 2, 2024 Published by Olivia Aniunoh The Gambia, once a beacon of progress in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), teeters on the edge of a harmful regression. In 2015, the country outlawed FGM, a practice that removes or alters healthy female genital organs for non-medical reasons. This landmark legislation and a national strategy to end FGM by 2030 offered hope for a future free from this harmful tradition. However, a recent bill seeking to repeal the ban questions the country’s commitment. The proposed repeal, currently under debate in the Gambian National Assembly, has sparked an international outcry. Rights groups warn it would dismantle years of progress and encourage a practice that violates girls’ rights and carries severe health risks. The World Health Organisation estimates over 200 million girls and women globally have undergone FGM, with the Gambia ranking among the countries with the highest prevalence rates. The justifications for repeal are rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. Proponents argue the ban disrespects tradition and infringes on parental rights. However, Islamic scholars in the Gambia, a Muslim-majority country, have debunked the misconception that FGM has any religious basis. The implications of a repeal extend far beyond The Gambia’s borders. It could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging other countries with high FGM rates to consider similar rollbacks. This, in turn, could lead to a domino effect, reversing hard-won gains in the global fight against FGM. Nigeria, still grappling with the prevalence of FGM practices, must take heed. While FGM is illegal under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015, enforcement remains weak. Section 6 of the VAPP Act outlines the consequences for those involved in Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The Act stipulates that anyone who carries out FGM on someone or arranges for it to be done can face up to four years in prison, a fine of up to ₦200,000, or both. Additionally, if a person tries to, assists in, encourages, or provokes someone else to engage in FGM, they could be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail or fined up to ₦100,000, or both. The Gambian situation is a stark reminder of the constant need for vigilance. Nigeria has the third-highest number of women and girls who have undergone FGM globally. While the national prevalence has decreased slightly, it is concerning that the practice is increasing among girls aged 0-14, with chilling stories of forced FGM circulating in the media. Regional variations exist, with the South East and South West having the highest rates. To enhance its legislative framework and effectively combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Nigeria must adopt a strategic approach that addresses both the legal and cultural aspects of this complex issue. The current penalties for FGM in Nigeria are insufficient to act as a deterrent. The maximum fine of ₦200,000 (approximately $150) does not reflect the severity of the crime, nor does it provide a substantial disincentive to those who might consider engaging in or facilitating FGM. By substantially increasing fines and extending prison sentences for those found guilty of FGM, Nigeria can send a clear message that this practice is unacceptable. Additionally, the government should ensure stricter enforcement of existing laws, including thorough investigations and prosecutions. This approach would deter potential offenders and demonstrate the country’s commitment to protecting the rights and health of its women and girls. FGM is deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, making it essential to engage community leaders to eradicate it. Traditional and religious leaders in Nigeria hold significant influence and can play a pivotal role in shifting societal perceptions. By involving these leaders in ongoing dialogues about the dangers and long-term consequences of FGM, it is possible to promote cultural shifts that favour alternative rites of passage and more progressive views on women’s health and rights. Outreach programs, educational campaigns, and workshops tailored to these influential groups can foster a supportive environment where change is welcomed and sustainable. Many Nigerian women who have undergone FGM experience lasting physical and psychological trauma. FGM has no medical benefits and causes severe physical and mental trauma. It can lead to infections and childbirth complications. The government – state and federal – must invest in comprehensive healthcare services designed specifically for FGM survivors. This should include not only medical care for the immediate and long-term health issues related to FGM but also mental health support to help women cope with the emotional and psychological impact. Establishing dedicated clinics, training healthcare professionals, and providing support groups can create a safety net for survivors, offering them the care and resources they need to rebuild their lives. On the regional front, The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) must take a proactive approach to advocate for human rights by emphasising the harmful impact of FGM on women and girls. To do this, ECOWAS can engage with key stakeholders in the Gambia, such as government officials, civil society groups, and religious and traditional leaders, encouraging open discussions about the adverse effects of FGM. By initiating these conversations, ECOWAS can motivate Gambian authorities to sustain their commitment to human rights and gender equality, reinforcing the importance of the anti-FGM ban. In addition, The Gambia’s obligations to international human rights agreements, like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, should be upheld. ECOWAS should encourage the Gambian government to honour these agreements and stress that repealing the ban on FGM would undermine progress toward women’s empowerment and human rights. A strong public statement from ECOWAS condemning the proposed repeal of the FGM legislation can send a clear message about its commitment to safeguarding the rights of women and girls. By supporting local Gambian civil society organisations through funding, capacity-building, or technical assistance, ECOWAS can also enhance grassroots efforts to end FGM and promote regional cooperation through conferences and workshops to share successful strategies. This approach will help create a unified front against harmful practices like FGM across the ECOWAS region. Nigeria must lead the global efforts against FGM. Legislation alone cannot eradicate a practice deeply entrenched in tradition. Educational campaigns and support for alternative rituals and survivor care are essential. The Gambian situation is a cautionary tale, underscoring the need for unwavering commitment and a holistic approach. Nigeria must learn from this precarious tightrope walk and ensure its steps towards ending FGM remain firmly forward. May 2, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized Streaming! : Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Manchester City – Prediction, injury list, team news, lineups by thenextier April 26, 2024 Published by thenextier Hello, Thenextier.com “#Football” – Seeking to climb back to the Premier League summit, reigning champions Manchester City travel to the American Express Stadium to face Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday night. The two teams meet for the first time since the end of October last year when the Citizens survived a late Seagulls fightback to claim a 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium. Match preview – Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Manchester City Amidst all the uncertainty over the future of head coach […] Read More April 26, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Daily AnalysisUncategorized Tariff Hike Amid Economic Gloom by Olivia Aniunoh April 4, 2024 Published by Olivia Aniunoh Nigerians, already grappling with rising inflation and a stagnant economy, were dealt a fresh blow on April 1, 2024. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced a staggering over 300 per cent increase in electricity tariffs for Band A customers, those “receiving” an average of 20 hours of power supply daily. This translates to a jump from ₦68 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to a jolting ₦225. In July 2020, NERC adopted the idea of price discrimination, dividing customers into five different bands (A, B, C, D, E) based on the level of consumption, hours of available energy supplied, geographical area and overall living conditions. While NERC claims the hike applies only to 15% of consumers, representing the most urban and presumably affluent segment, the implications ripple far wider. With planned hikes for other tariff bands, it is essential to dissect the rationale behind the hike, its potential economic consequences for development, and the simmering discontent it exposes. The Nigerian government has long subsidised the power sector, a burden exceeding ₦1.14 trillion budgeted for 2024, pointing to its unsustainability. NERC argues that an increase is necessary to improve service delivery and attract investment and revenue to the ailing power grid. Proponents claim higher tariffs incentivise Distribution Companies (DisCos) to reduce inefficiencies and improve service. However, scepticism teems. Nigerians have endured decades of unreliable power supply despite previous tariff hikes. DisCos are often seen as unable to deliver on the minimum availability due to technical limitations. This has been a long-running issue for over a decade. Privatising the power sector in the mid-2000s aimed to improve efficiency, but concerns about DisCos arose soon after. Critics point to inflated billing practices, estimated bills without proper metering, and a failure to invest in infrastructure upgrades. These issues contribute to power outages and hinder overall service quality. The Nigerian public and government have grown increasingly frustrated with this situation. Unfortunately, these issues have not translated into a swift resolution, leaving a cloud over the country’s electricity distribution chain. Businesses, the backbone of the economy, face a double-edged sword. Increased production costs due to higher electricity bills could translate to consumer price hikes, further fuelling inflation. On the other hand, reliable power could incentivise investment and boost productivity. But for many businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the initial financial strain could be crippling. For ordinary Nigerians, the tariff hike is a bitter pill to swallow. With inflation hovering around 30 per cent, household budgets are already stretched thin. The increased cost of electricity may force many to cut back on other essentials like food and healthcare. This could exacerbate social inequalities and dampen economic activity. Nigeria’s recent electricity tariff hike is another blow to the nation’s shrinking middle class. With disposable incomes already strained, these households will face a significant increase in vital expenses. This could force them to limit discretionary spending or even forgo running essential appliances, further hindering their quality of life and potentially pushing some back towards poverty. The timing of the hike could not be worse. Public trust in government policy is low, and frustration over economic hardship is simmering. The hike will likely stoke social discontent, potentially leading to protests and unrest. The recent hike could also lead to an increase in energy theft through meter bypass. The rising electricity costs put a more significant financial burden on Nigerians, especially those in the strained middle class. This economic pressure might incentivise some to bypass meters to avoid paying the higher rates. Meter tampering and bypassing are, unfortunately, not new problems in Nigeria. Previous economic hardships have been linked to increases in these practices. With a new financial strain, those who have yet to bypass their meters may be more tempted now. DisCos has faced criticism for a lack of adequate measures against electricity theft. Potential thieves may perceive a lower risk of getting caught if these weaknesses persist. However, it is essential to note that this is a possible consequence, and the impact depends on several factors. Increased public awareness campaigns about the dangers and repercussions of meter bypass, along with stricter enforcement efforts by DisCos, could mitigate the risk. Nigeria’s path to stable electricity hinges on tackling the root cause of its woes, which is insufficient power supply. Currently, the electricity demand far exceeds what is being generated. The overflow creates instability (blackouts, voltage fluctuations). Even the most efficient distribution companies can only effectively distribute electricity with enough supply. This is akin to trying to distribute water efficiently from a leaky bucket. Nigeria needs to diversify and expand its power generation capacity. This includes exploring renewable energy sources like solar and wind alongside reliable options like improved natural gas plants. Many existing power plants are outdated or poorly maintained. Investing in repairs and upgrades could significantly increase available power. The infrastructure for transmitting electricity from generation plants to distribution points needs an overhaul. Upgrading the transmission lines will minimise power loss during transmission, ensuring more generated power reaches consumers. Creating a more attractive environment for private investment in the power sector can bring additional resources and expertise to boost generation capacity. While tackling distribution issues is essential, it is like patching a hole in a sinking boat, it will not solve the underlying problem. By prioritising increased and reliable power generation alongside improvements in distribution, Nigeria can work towards a future of stable electricity. The NERC must ensure the DisCos comply with the minimum availability based on tariff bands. The government should also explore alternative solutions, such as promoting renewable energy sources and tackling inefficiencies within the power sector. Nigeria’s gamble on a higher electricity tariff is a risky one. While improving the power sector is laudable, the potential for economic hardship and social unrest cannot be ignored. The government must tread carefully, balancing the need for revenue with the well-being of its citizens. With transparency, well-targeted investment, and a genuine commitment to reform, Nigeria can turn this shock into a spark that ignites a brighter future for its power sector and economy. April 4, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 – The Vow by thenextier April 2, 2024 Published by thenextier “Uncover the Truth: Dive into The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 Online” Exploring the Key Moments in Watch The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 Title: Watch The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 Online Watch Online: The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 In the bustling world of television dramas, few shows capture the essence of law enforcement with as much heart and authenticity as “The Rookie.” As we dive into Season 6, Episode 5, viewers are treated to a narrative that not only pushes the boundaries of storytelling but also delves deep into the complexities of its characters. This episode, in particular, stands as a testament to the show’s commitment to exploring the nuanced realities of being a police officer in Los Angeles, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. From the opening scene, the episode sets a tone of suspense and intrigue. The streets of LA serve as more than just a backdrop; they are a character in their own right, teeming with stories waiting to be told. As our protagonists navigate this urban labyrinth, the episode masterfully intertwines their personal struggles with the professional, creating a rich tapestry of human experience. The assertive storytelling ensures that viewers are not just passive observers but are emotionally invested in the journey of each character. One of the key moments that define this episode is the intense confrontation between Officer Nolan and a suspect from a high-profile case. This encounter is not just a physical showdown but a moral battleground, testing Nolan’s principles against the harsh realities of his job. The tension is palpable, drawing viewers to the edge of their seats as they witness a character they’ve grown to admire face one of his most challenging moments yet. The scene is a brilliant showcase of the show’s ability to blend action with deep emotional resonance, making it a highlight of not just the episode but the season as a whole. Another pivotal moment comes when Officer Chen finds herself in a situation that challenges her understanding of justice. Her storyline provides a compelling look at the dilemmas faced by those who wear the badge, offering a nuanced perspective on the concept of right and wrong. It’s moments like these that elevate “The Rookie” above typical procedural dramas, by not shying away from the moral complexities inherent in law enforcement. The episode handles these themes with a deft touch, ensuring that the narrative is both thought-provoking and thoroughly engaging. As the episode progresses, the personal and professional lives of the characters begin to intersect in unexpected ways, adding layers of complexity to their relationships. These intersections are handled with a finesse that speaks to the show’s understanding of human dynamics, making the storylines all the more compelling. The interactions between the characters are charged with emotion, highlighting the bonds formed in the line of duty and the toll it takes on their personal lives. In conclusion, Season 6, Episode 5 of “The Rookie” is a masterclass in storytelling. It skillfully navigates the highs and lows of life in law enforcement, presenting a narrative that is as engaging as it is insightful. For those looking to watch this episode online, prepare to be taken on a journey that is both exhilarating and deeply human. The episode not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of justice, duty, and morality, making it an essential watch for anyone captivated by the intricacies of the human experience. Character Development and Plot Twists in The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 __WPAICG_IMAGE__Title: Watch The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 Online In the bustling world of television dramas, where characters and plots twist and turn like a rollercoaster, “The Rookie” stands out for its unique blend of heart-pounding action and deep, emotional storytelling. Season 6 Episode 5 is no exception, offering viewers a masterclass in character development and plot twists that not only entertain but also provoke thought and evoke a wide range of emotions. As we dive into this episode, it’s clear that the creators have meticulously woven a narrative that challenges the characters and surprises the audience, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. From the opening scene, the episode grabs your attention, setting the stage for an hour where every moment counts. The characters we’ve grown to love and understand are pushed to their limits, revealing layers and depths that were previously unseen. This is particularly evident in the development of Officer Nolan, whose journey from a rookie to a seasoned officer has been the heart of the show. In this episode, his decisions and moral compass are tested like never before, showcasing a complexity that enriches the character and the series as a whole. Moreover, the episode skillfully introduces new dynamics that challenge the status quo, forcing characters to reevaluate their relationships and alliances. These shifts are not just for shock value; they are carefully crafted to drive character growth and propel the story forward. The interactions between the characters, filled with tension and unexpected camaraderie, highlight the show’s ability to blend drama with moments of levity, making the narrative all the more engaging. The plot twists in this episode are particularly noteworthy. Just when you think you have figured out the direction of the story, a curveball is thrown that changes everything. These twists are not arbitrary but are deeply rooted in the characters’ backstories and motivations, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. They serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, especially in the high-stakes world of law enforcement depicted in “The Rookie.” What sets this episode apart is its ability to balance character development with plot progression. The writers have mastered the art of advancing the story while ensuring that each character’s journey is given the attention it deserves. This delicate balance is what keeps the audience invested, as they are not only intrigued by the unfolding mystery but also deeply connected to the characters navigating it. In conclusion, Season 6 Episode 5 of “The Rookie” is a testament to the show’s enduring appeal. It demonstrates the power of thoughtful storytelling, where character development and plot twists are interwoven to create a compelling narrative. For those looking to watch this episode online, prepare for an emotional and thrilling ride that exemplifies the best of what television drama can offer. As the credits roll, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the next episode, ready to dive back into the world of “The Rookie” and the richly drawn lives of its characters. The Impact of The Rookie Season 6 Episode 5 on the Series’ Overall Narrative In the grand tapestry of television narratives, few episodes manage to pivot the storyline in a manner that leaves a lasting impact on the series’ overall trajectory. “The Rookie” Season 6 Episode 5 is one such episode, a masterstroke that not only elevates the series but also cements its place in the annals of memorable television. As viewers find themselves eagerly searching for ways to watch this pivotal episode online, it’s crucial to understand the magnitude of its influence on the series’ narrative. From the onset, “The Rookie” has captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of the challenges and triumphs faced by the Los Angeles Police Department’s newest recruits. However, Season 6 Episode 5 transcends the typical procedural drama, weaving a complex narrative that tests the mettle of its characters in unforeseen ways. This episode is not merely a continuation of the storyline; it is a catalyst that propels the series into uncharted territories, challenging both the characters and the audience to reconsider their perceptions and expectations. The episode’s brilliance lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate character development with high-stakes drama, ensuring that every moment feels both personal and epic. The characters, whom viewers have come to know and love, are thrust into situations that demand more from them than ever before. Their responses to these challenges do not just contribute to their individual arcs but also redefine their relationships with each other. This intricate interplay between character and plot ensures that the episode’s impact resonates well beyond its runtime, setting the stage for future narratives. Moreover, Season 6 Episode 5 skillfully employs thematic elements that echo throughout the series, imbuing the episode with a sense of continuity and depth. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong are explored with a newfound intensity, compelling viewers to engage with the series on a more profound level. This thematic richness not only enriches the episode itself but also enhances the series’ overall narrative, making subsequent episodes more meaningful in the context of the questions and challenges raised. The episode’s impact is further amplified by its visual storytelling and direction, which are nothing short of cinematic. The use of lighting, camera angles, and pacing not only heightens the emotional stakes but also visually distinguishes this episode from its predecessors. This attention to detail ensures that the episode is not just a narrative pivot but also a visual feast, reinforcing its significance within the series. In conclusion, watching “The Rookie” Season 6 Episode 5 online is not just an opportunity to follow the latest developments in the series; it is an invitation to witness a pivotal moment in television storytelling. This episode’s profound impact on the series’ overall narrative is undeniable, marking a turning point that will be referenced and remembered as a defining moment in the series’ legacy. As the series continues to unfold, the reverberations of this episode will be felt, reminding viewers of the power of well-crafted storytelling to challenge, inspire, and transform. April 2, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
News ReportsUncategorized Suicide Bomber Detonates Bomb in Borno, Injures Two by Olivia Aniunoh March 19, 2024 Published by Olivia Aniunoh Two people have sustained varying injuries after a suspected suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device strapped to his body near a mosque in Biu Local Government of Borno State. The state Public Relations Officer, ASP Daso Nahum, confirmed the incident on Monday. Nahum said the victims have been rushed to the hospital. He said the incident occurred at about 8 pm on Sunday while the Muslim faithful were observing their night prayers. He said, “The male suicide bomber, who was suspected to be heading to the mosque, detonated the Improvised Explosive Device close to the roundabout, killing himself. ”Two passersby who were wounded by the explosive were immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment. ”A combined team of security personnel were immediately deployed to the scene of the incident to restore normalcy.” The police boss, however, urged the people to heighten their level of vigilance, especially during this period of Ramadan when most Muslim faithful are observing late night prayers. He said, “People should make sure that they are vigilant and should not hesitate to report any suspicious moves to the security agencies.” Source: Punch March 19, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Where to Watch and Stream by thenextier March 7, 2024 Published by thenextier Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 “The Void” Jen enrolls at the clinic, and the gang helms new beginnings amidst a secret family and a breakup. Extraordinary Info Title : Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Episodes : The Void Air Date : 2024-03-06 Genre : Comedy, Action & Adventure Production : Sid Gentle Films Language : English Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Cast People also ask: Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 What happens in Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1?, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1, Where to Watch Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1?, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Release Date, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Archives, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Cast & Crew, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Spoilers, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 watch full episodes streaming online, Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Where to Watch and Stream, How to watch Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 Online, Where can I watch Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 for free?, Source: Extraordinary Season 2 Episode 1 (www.falegnameriagagliardi.it) March 7, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized Where to Watch Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4? by thenextier March 7, 2024 Published by thenextier Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 “Avian Flu” Harry gets distracted from his mission, while Mike and Liv make a huge discovery. Resident Alien Info Title : Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Episodes : Avian Flu Air Date : 2024-03-06 Genre : Sci-Fi & Fantasy Production : UCP Language : English Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Cast People also ask: Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 What happens in Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4?, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4, Where to Watch Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4?, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Release Date, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Archives, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Cast & Crew, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Spoilers, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 watch full episodes streaming online, Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Where to Watch and Stream, How to watch Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 Online, Where can I watch Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 for free?, Source: Resident Alien Season 3 Episode 4 (Lambeteja.com) March 7, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized Again, Gunmen Kill POS Operator in Ebonyi by NextierSPD March 1, 2024 Published by NextierSPD Unknown assailants have shot and killed a point of sales, POS, operator, Mr Louis Enoshi, a native of Umuogudu Akpu Ngbo in the Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. A reliable source from the Area told DAILY POST in a telephone conversation that unidentified armed persons stormed the house of the deceased in Ezzamgbo at about 2:00hrs of Wednesday morning, demanding cash and in the process, shot him dead. It was also gathered that the gunmen made away with the mobile phone, cash and POS machines of the victim. “At the early hours of today, 28th February 2024, at about 2 am; Mr. Enoshi Louis, a native of Ndiagu Orie of Umuogudu Akpu Ngbo, was shot in his resident at Ezzamgbo in Ohaukwu LGA; Ebonyi State, by unidentified armed persons. “He died on the spot, they made away with his Firstmonie POS machines, physical cash and phones. Leaving the wife who is pregnant with two kids devastated”. Ohaukwu Local Government has become a home for insecurity, killings and destruction of lives and property in recent times. Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Police Command is yet to react at the time of filing this report. Calls placed to the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Joshua Ukandu did not go through. Source: Daily Post March 1, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized Residents Barricade Kaduna-Abuja Highway Over Kidnapping by NextierSPD March 1, 2024 Published by NextierSPD Residents of Gonin-Gora in the troubled Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Thursday barricaded the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway protesting the abduction of unspecified number of people in the area. They residents stormed the highway protesting and urging the government to do something over the incessant attacks by bandits in the area. According to eyewitness, kidnappers on Wednesday night through the early hours of Thursday had attacked the community, kidnapping unspecified numbers of the residents. The incident which an eyewitness said happened from 11:00pm Wednesday through to 3:00am Thursday, forced residents to troop out to protest what they described as the audacity of the hoodlums in attacking the area. “The hoodlums operated uninterrupted for over four hours without any security operatives at sight. This forced the residents to come out this morning to protest the incident. “We were woken up by gunshots as the bandits entered the community shooting indiscriminately. Several residents were taken away to unknown destinations by the heavily armed attackers that invaded the area. “They came in large numbers at about 11:00pm and operated for several hours. The residents, mostly youths have taken their destiny in their hands and blocked the highway, forcing motorists to be stranded before the military came in shooting and thereafter dispersed them. It was a hectic day,” an eyewitness who’s also a resident of the area, told PUNCH Metro. The Joint Task Force of security operatives were deployed to the scene to ease traffic flow. Our correspondent gathered that some residents of the area had fled the community in fear that the bandits might possibly return. While reacting to the incident, the state government warned residents against taking the law into their hands by blocking roads and harassing innocent Nigerians. The Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said the warning followed the blockage of the Gonin Gora area of the Kaduna-Abuja Road by some protesters on Thursday morning, in response to reports of a bandit attack in Unguwan Auta of Gonin Gora general area, Chikun LGA, thus denying commuters access through the route. The commissioner said, “The Kaduna State Security Council has warned against blockage of public roads and harassment of innocent citizens by persons conducting protests. “This follows the blockage of the Gonin Gora area of the Kaduna-Abuja Road by some protesters on Thursday morning, in response to reports of a bandit attack in Unguwan Auta of Gonin Gora general area, Chikun LGA… “The members of the security council, comprising the Commissioner of Police, Audu Ali, Director of Department of State Services, Abdul Adamu Eneche; Garrison Commander, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Muhammad Kana, and the Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, in the company with security forces, dismantled the roadblocks erected and subsequently opened up the road for use by motorists. “The members of the Kaduna State Security Council while interacting with community leaders, expressed dissatisfaction with the menace of blocking roads, a situation which infringes on the rights of citizens and travellers using these roads and other public utilities.” He noted that as of the time of the security update, citizens and motorists were plying the Gonin Gora area of Kaduna-Abuja Road without obstruction. The state command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incident but declined further comments, noting that the CP, Audu Ali and other top security officials of other sister agencies had addressed the issue involved. Source: Punch March 1, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail