JUST IN; Drunk Driver crashes into Military Men, leaving multiple Soldiers dead
JUST IN; Drunk Driver crashes into Military Men, leaving multiple Soldiers dead
A deadly incident has sent shockwaves through the military community in Lagos, as four soldiers attached to the Myoung Barracks in Shomolu are feared dead, with others injured, after a suspected drunk driver plowed into them.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday morning during the soldiers’ physical training, has sparked widespread concern and panic within the military ranks.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene, with one soldier recounting, “There’s blood everywhere. I was spared because I was at the back.”
According to sources who spoke with Daily Post, the driver of the vehicle, who is suspected to have been under the influence, was reportedly accompanied by three young men, who were believed to be internet fraudsters, colloquially referred to as ‘Yahoo Boys.’
The vehicle crashed into the group of soldiers near the Army Sports Camp at Myoung Barracks, leaving several soldiers seriously injured and others tragically dead.
Amidst the chaos, one of the car’s occupants managed to flee the scene, while the other two were apprehended by the military.
The situation quickly escalated, with the suspects beaten and their vehicle destroyed by enraged soldiers at the site of the crash.
As authorities continue to investigate the incident, the military community remains in shock, grappling with the loss of their comrades and the dangerous circumstances surrounding the crash.
In fierce firefights that lasted over four hours in Bama and Gwoza, the commander and many other militants were killed.
11 RPG bombs, 760 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 220 rounds of 12.7mm linked ammunition, one AK-47 rifle, 440 rounds of 7.62mm by 54mm ammunition, General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), a Mowag armored tank engine, a QJC W85 anti-aircraft gun, three light machine guns, and one M60 machine gun were among the substantial arsenal of weapons that the troops seized during the operation.
Meanwhile, in Jibia Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, Nigerian soldiers rescued 10 hostages, including seven women and three children, from a notorious terrorist commander who surrendered to the troops. The commander also handed over two AK-47 rifles.
In Delta State, a significant victory was achieved as soldiers captured a high-profile commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Ekene Ifeanyi. He was apprehended in his hideout within the Issele Asagba Forest in Oshimili South LGA.
A statement by the Army confirming the offensive said, “In a relentless and ferocious crackdown on terrorism, gallant troops of the Nigerian Army have once again demonstrated their unyielding resolve to obliterate terrorist enclaves, dealing a devastating blow to their operations.
“The latest offensives, executed with precision and overwhelming firepower, sent the terrorists into a state of utter disarray, forcing them to abandon a massive cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives as they fled for their lives.
“On Saturday, 1 March 2025, troops deployed in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State launched a ruthless and coordinated assault on a well-fortified terrorist stronghold following credible intelligence that insurgents were regrouping to unleash havoc on villages around Fallujah and its environs.
“The ensuing fierce gun battle raged for hours as troops overpowered the terrorists, neutralizing several of them while systematically dismantling explosives laid en route their camp.
“In the aftermath of the onslaught, troops recovered an astonishing cache of deadly weapons, including 11 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs 760 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 220 rounds of 12.7mm linked ammunition, one AK-47 rifle and 440 rounds of 7.62mm by 54mm ammunition.
“The troops also conducted a thorough clearance operation in Unguwan Abdullahi, a terrorist-infested settlement, where they annihilated all terrorist life-support structures and unearthed stockpiles of food items buried underground, depriving the terrorists of crucial sustenance.
“As troops advanced ahead of Garin Fallujah, they engaged the terrorists in a blistering firefight, forcing them into a chaotic retreat.
“In the process, a notorious terrorist commander, Abba Alai (Amirul Khahid of Alafa) a high-value target who had long been on security watchlists, was neutralized.
“Weapons recovered in the operation are one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 rifle magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one radio set, a DSHK heavy machine gun barrel, one motorcycle and assorted medical supplies
“The troops further cleared Ukuba Forest capturing alarming assortment of heavy weaponry and military-grade equipment.
“These include 2 General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), Mowag armored tank engine, Heavy-duty vehicle engine block with components, one QJC W85 anti-aircraft gun, 3 light machine guns, One M60 machine gun, 2 RPG launcher tubes, one QJC cradle one HK21 machine gun, one G3 rifle magazine, a fabricated 60mm mortar tube and 3 Improvised Explosive Device (IED) cylinders.
“In a separate operation troops strategically positioned in Gwoza Local Government Area as part of a blocking force to prevent insurgents from escaping Sambisa Forest delivered yet another crushing blow on the terrorists.
“The coordinated offensive in Gobara village saw the insurgents abandon their weapons and fled in panic.
“A meticulous search of the area led to the discovery of 57 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three AK-47 rifle magazines, a locally fabricated dane gun, two prototype firearms suspected to be used for terrorists’ training.
“In a heartwarming development, troops also rescued an elderly woman who had been held hostage by the terrorists for 10 years.
“Meanwhile, acting on credible intelligence, troops in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno state stormed a notorious kidnappers’ hideout in Shirkaki village, where they apprehended a prime suspect who had long been on the security watchlist.
“The swift and precise operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 rifle magazines, one pump-action shotgun, four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and six cartridges.
“In Katsina State, at Unguwan Baki village, Faskari Local Government Area, terrorists attempting an attack were met with superior firepower, forcing them to flee into the forest, abandoning their motorcycles.
“Also, in a rare but telling development, a high-ranking terrorist commander in Jibia local government area of Katsina State voluntarily surrendered to troops, handing over two AK-47 rifles.
“He also freed 10 captives, including seven women and three children, signaling his decision to abandon a life of terror and embrace peace.
“In Zamfara State, troops engaged another group of terrorists, neutralizing one while the rest scattered in confusion, leaving behind two motorcycles.
“Troops deployed to Niger State equally engaged terrorists in a pitched battle, compelling them to flee into the dense forests of Dakwala and Chikuba.
“Troops subsequently launched a sweeping clearance operation, recovering 36 abandoned motorcycles and demolishing all terrorist hideouts in the area.
“In Baruten Local government Area of Kwara State, troops stormed a known kidnappers’ enclave in Karunji village, forcing the criminals to flee in terror on sighting the advancing troops, leaving their captives behind.
“The successful rescue operation led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, 6 Dane guns and 3 motorcycles.
“Meanwhile, in a significant counterterrorism breakthrough, troops deployed to Delta State captured a high-profile IPOB/ESN commander, identified as Ekene Ifeanyi, in his hideout within Issele Asagba Forest of Oshimili South Local Government Area.
“The suspect, who had been on the security watchlist, was a key figure in establishing IPOB/ESN terrorist cells in Delta State. During interrogation, he confessed to being a top IPOB operative.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede while commending the troops’ resilience, has reiterated his resolve to make their welfare a priority, adding that they deserve the best for their selfless service.
“He also affirmed that the Nigerian Army remains unyielding in its resolve to eradicate terrorism and criminality across the nation.
“With unwavering commitment, unmatched firepower and relentless pursuit, troops will continue to hunt down remnants of the nation’s adversaries, ensuring that peace and stability prevail across the country.”
News
Monarch criticises ‘King of Street’ title conferred on Portable by another Monarch
Monarch criticises ‘King of Street’ title conferred on Portable by another Monarch
Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu, has expressed his extreme dissatisfaction of the contentious awarding of the “King of Street” chieftaincy title to musician Habeeb Olalomi Okikiola, popularly known as “Portable,” by Oba Abdulfatai Akamo, the Olu of Itori.
Oba Akinyemi wrote in an open letter, signed by the king himself, that the title was foreign to all Yorubaland palaces and that it should be reversed to avoid any possible disturbances.
He stated that the title should have been confined to the local jurisdiction of Itori, suggesting it be named “King of Itori Street” rather than the broad and ambiguous “King of Street.”
Oba Akinyemi further criticized the decision, particularly given that Portable is currently facing trial in Ogun State High Court for alleged assault on state government officials. He argued that the title was conferred without proper consideration and at a time when the singer is embroiled in legal controversies.
The letter concluded by emphasising that the “King of Street” title, which was bestowed upon Portable during Oba Akamo’s 21st Coronation Anniversary, is entirely unknown in Yoruba royal traditions, branding it as not only illegal but also a potential catalyst for chaos if not immediately rescinded.
” Using the title “King of Street” can be interpreted as the King of all Streets in the State. This is unacceptable. Olu Itori ought to have limited the title to his domain. Kabiyesi ought to have titled it “King of Itori Street” and the musician would know that his title is only confined to Itori Kingdom.
“All streets in Ogun State have their Kings and they know how they choose them, so this generalization of the title Street should be reversed to prevent any problems in the State and beyond.
“Apart from the wrong title given to Portable, His Royal Majesty’s decision to install the musician as a Chief was not well thought out because of the unruly and questionable behaviour of the singer who is currently facing a trial in a competent court in Ogun State. Giving him a chieftaincy title is like encouraging him to wreak more havoc. An effort that will make the musician live a better life is what is necessary.
“In fact, the unruly self-made kings in the fuji industry have caused lots of divisions among themselves which is entirely different from the love and good legacy the pioneers left behind. Portable is one of the self-made kings who need to refine their lives.
“My advice, once again, is that His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulfatai Okikiola Akamo, Olu Itori should revoke the title given to the controversial musician and advocate for a rebranding of the musician so that he can abandon his shenanigans and reckless lifestyle.
“Rebranding will make the musician turn a new leaf and go higher in his musical career. The title does not belong to us as Monarchs, so revoking it will remove the stigmatization that the title has been having on the Traditional Institution.
“In conclusion, I want to use this opportunity to draw the attention of the Chairman of Ogun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland to the untraditional and illegal installation done by Olu Itori.
“Chairman sir, may your years on the throne be very long. Kindly use your revered office to request Olu Itori to correct the anomaly he has created, as this effort will remove any blemish that the controversial installation has had on our respected Institution”.
News
Former IGP speaks on extension of tenure for current IGP Kayode Egbetokun
Former IGP speaks on extension of tenure for current IGP Kayode Egbetokun
Former Inspector General of Police, Sunday Ehindero, has said the extension of the tenure of the present IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, was not illegal, as long as it was based on competence.
In a statement, titled ‘’The Tenure of IGP Egbetokun: The Controversy over the Extension of Tenure,’’ Ehindero also said President Bola Tinubu reserved the right to decided who to work with as IGP.
‘’In the case of Egbetokun, I know him very well, he was the ADC to President Tinubu while I was the Assistant Inspector General of Police in Zone 2, Lagos and Ogun states while Mr. Okiro was the Commissioner of Police of Lagos State in the year 2001.
‘’If President Tinubu chooses to work with him for the duration of four years and that is backed by law, so be it. He is his choice. You cannot by any yardstick say Egbetokun is incompetent or not qualified for the job.
‘’Competence backed by law should be the overriding factor in the appointment and tenure of an Inspector General of Police. Let Egbetokun serve his four years tenure extension in peace. He deserves it by virtue of his competence, performance and academic qualifications,’’ Ehindero said.
Speaking further, he said: ‘’The extension of the tenure of Inspectors General of Police had always been controversial. My tenure extensions twice in 2005 for one year beginning from March 2006 and 2007 for three months were not without controversies.
‘’In fact, the President and I were taken to court for my tenure elongation. At the end of the day, the court ruled that it was a non-issue and dismissed the case. At that time in 2006, there were no legislations in relation to the tenure elongation of an Inspector General of Police other than the Civil Service Rules and the Police Act and Regulation, CAP 359, Laws of The Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
‘’Ever since, there had been series of legislation permitting the elongation of the service of an Inspector General of Police. You have the Police Act,2020 and the Police Amended Act 2024. The latter Act of 2024 allows the Inspector General of Police to enjoy an uninterrupted tenure of four years irrespective of his age of over sixty years or thirty-five years’ service.
‘’I agree with Mr. Okiro, Inspector General of Police Rtd when he said, for reasons of policy implementation, the need to prevent a competent Inspector General of Police from spending ten months or less than two years, as some have done in the past, because of age, the four-year tenure for the Inspector General of Police is welcomed. In which case there will be no policy somersault. ‘’As regards those officers that are aggrieved in relation to the tenure elongation, the crisis is accentuated by the bastardisation and the confusion about the date of enlistment and the date of appointment.
‘’How these could be mixed up is unfathomed by me. If you enlisted as a constable, and acquired, in the course of your service, academic credentials that qualify you to be appointed as a Superior Police Officer, your date of enlistment supersedes your date of appointment.”
‘’No doubt about this. On attaining 60 years of age or 35 years in service you must retire. The date of enlistment supersedes the date of appointment. Of course, for those appointed as Assistant Superintendent of Police who had never served in the force, the dates of enlistment coincide with their dates of appointment.