How security forces foil ISWAP’s attempt to establish base in Oyo from where they wanted to spread to South-West

Published

2 weeks ago

January 10, 2025

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How security forces foil ISWAP’s attempt to establish base in Oyo from where they wanted to spread to South-West

In a major security breakthrough, operatives have thwarted a plot by the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) to set up a strategic base in Oyo State aimed at coordinating terrorist activities across the South-Western states of Oyo, Osun, and Kwara.

The foiled plan was uncovered as ISWAP militants, fleeing the conflict zones in Borno State, attempted to consolidate their forces in the region.

Sources revealed that fleeing insurgents had made contact with a known ISWAP member operating around the Oke-Ogun axis in northern Oyo State.

This individual, already linked to kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area, was reportedly scouting locations for a new base to launch operations in Oyo, Osun, and Kwara.

The group’s plans began to unravel when security agents intercepted a meeting between the insurgents in Osun State, leading to a series of arrests.

The plot, initially aimed at setting up a stronghold in Afijio local government area of Oyo, was disrupted after authorities received critical intelligence.

However, it is believed that the mastermind of the operation managed to evade capture and fled to the Old Oyo National Park.

This area, known for its proximity to the Kamoko Forest, which stretches across Kaduna, Niger, Kwara, and Oyo States, is seen as a key route for insurgents seeking to infiltrate the South-West.

Security personnel in Oyo and Osun States were quick to act, resulting in the seizure of several AK-47 rifles and the apprehension of numerous militants. Authorities are continuing their efforts to track down and neutralize the remaining insurgents involved in the plot.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the developments on Monday, revealing that the insurgents had intended to establish a camp near Fashola Farms in Oyo.

However, security forces swiftly blocked the site, preventing further escalation. According to sources, the area in question was located just five kilometers from the farms, and efforts to establish a base in the region have now been halted.

Intelligence sources revealed to the Nigerian Tribune that the site initially identified by terrorists as a potential base—located about five kilometers from Fashola Farms in Oyo State—has been successfully blocked by security forces, preventing the establishment of a militant stronghold.

Terrorist groups, particularly those linked to the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), had been utilizing the Kamoko Forest route, which stretches from Kaduna, through Niger, Kwara, and connects to Oyo State via the Old Oyo National Park.

This forested corridor was being used by insurgents to move deeper into the South-West, with plans to set up operations in the region.

Security forces quickly acted on intelligence about the terrorists’ intentions, launching an intensive pursuit that led to multiple arrests. A source close to the operation revealed, “The terrorists were actively working to establish a base in the South-West, but once we received intel, we moved swiftly, and efforts are ongoing to dismantle their plot.”

Further sources confirmed that an ISWAP linkman operating in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State had been scouting potential sites for the group’s planned meeting and coordination.

However, security forces successfully intercepted and disrupted these plans, scattering the insurgents and forcing them to abandon their efforts to set up a base in the region.

In response to the foiled plot, security agencies in the North-West states of Kaduna, the North-Central states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the South-Western states of Oyo, Osun, and Ogun, have been placed on high alert to prevent any further attempts by terrorists to infiltrate and establish a camp in the region.

In a separate security incident, a traditional worshiper in Iseyin, Oyo State, was arrested for attempting to incite religious discord. Sources revealed that the man had been making inflammatory statements about the Holy Quran and planned to target the Holy Bible in a bid to provoke religious conflicts in the region.

Although the man fled to Lekki, Lagos State, security agencies in Oyo and Ogun States worked diligently to track him down, ensuring that his attempts to spark unrest were thwarted.

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Nigerian Govt reacts to emergence of Donald Trump as United States President

Published

2 hours ago

January 22, 2025

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Nigerian Govt reacts to emergence of Donald Trump as United States President

In a bid to bolster international relations, the Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening ties with the United States, following the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

On Tuesday, the federal government extended its congratulations to the newly sworn-in US president, emphasizing the longstanding cooperation between the two nations.

The message, issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the areas where both countries have worked together for mutual benefit.

“Nigeria and the United States have maintained a productive partnership across various sectors, particularly in advancing good governance, promoting sustainable development, and combating terrorism and violent extremism,” the statement read.

“We look forward to enhancing this strong and historic relationship, ensuring that it continues to serve the interests of our people.”

As both nations seek to strengthen their strategic ties, the federal government remains optimistic about the future of this important international partnership.

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JUST IN; POS operators to increase charges on transactions

Published

2 hours ago

January 22, 2025

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JUST IN; POS operators to increase charges on transactions

Point-of-Sale (POS) operators in Nigeria may soon increase service charges following the Federal Government’s approval of a 50% hike in telecommunications service tariffs.

The Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN) disclosed this development, citing the impact of the tariff hike on their operations.

Ogungbayi Ganiyu, AMMBAN’s National Public Relations Officer, explained that mobile money agents rely heavily on telecom services, particularly data, for their transactions.

“The telecom tariff hike will impact the operations of our members. I am afraid this may also have a multiplier effect on service charges,” Ganiyu said.

He added that while POS operators may try to absorb the additional costs, the financial strain could eventually force them to increase charges to sustain their businesses. “We have not sat down and looked at the latest tariff hike,” he stated, indicating that further deliberations would determine the next steps.

The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has already vowed to challenge the Federal Government in court over the steep tariff increase, which marks the first adjustment in telecom charges since 2013.

With telecom services being the backbone of POS operations, the new tariff hike could create widespread implications for mobile money agents and their customers nationwide.

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JUST IN; Saudi Arabia sponsors several Nigerians for Hajj

Published

3 hours ago

January 22, 2025

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JUST IN; Saudi Arabia sponsors several Nigerians for Hajj

The Saudi Arabia embassy in Abuja has hosted a farewell ceremony for 20 Nigerians selected for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme for Umrah 2025.

A statement issued by the embassy in Abuja said the ceremony held under the leadership of Faisal Al-Ghamdi, the Saudi Ambassador to Nigeria.

It said the initiative highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting Muslims and fostering spiritual connections through pilgrimage.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme, initiated by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Al Saud, provides Muslims the opportunity to undertake the lesser Hajj with full sponsorship.

The statement quoted the ambassador as thanking King Al Saud and the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, for their dedication to Islam’s holy sites.

He also praised their exceptional leadership in enhancing the services provided to pilgrims and ensuring that their journey to the sacred sites is both spiritually fulfilling and seamless.

“The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince have prioritised the well-being of pilgrims, viewing it as a sacred duty and an immense honour.

” Through this programme and other initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen bonds of brotherhood among Muslims while ensuring their comfort and safety during their spiritual journey,” he said.

Al-Ghamdi, according to the statement, said the country had invested over 100 billion dollars in the recent expansion and modernisation of the two holy mosques.

According to him, these ambitious projects, encompassing state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced crowd management systems and cutting-edge technology, reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to accommodating the increasing number of pilgrims.

He added that Saudi Arabia was sparing no effort in mobilising resources to improve pilgrimage experience for all Muslims.

Al-Ghamdi also emphasised the importance of adhering to the country ‘s laws and regulations, designed to maintain order and ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims.

“The leadership of Saudi Arabia remains fully committed to serving the guests of God.

” This is a responsibility we hold dear, and we continuously strive to enhance the spiritual and logistical aspects of the pilgrimage experience,” he said.

Guests at the occasion expressed appreciation for the opportunity made available through the sponsorship initiative.

NAN reports that the programme provides pilgrims with the opportunity to perform the lesser Hajj, covering all costs, including travel, accommodation and other logistics. (NAN)