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Police Oversight: National Assembly Pledges Support For PSC 

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

As a two-day workshop on Strengthening Institutional capacity for effective Police oversight began today, Wednesday 2nd July, 2025 in Abuja for Board Members, Directors and Heads of Departments and Units of the Police Service Commission, PSC,the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abdulhamid Mallam-Madori Ahmed who declared the workshop open acknowledged the challenges facing Police oversight and the urgent need to enhance institutional frameworks that promote transparency, professionalism and Public trust in law enforcement.

According to the Commission’s spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, Senator Ahmed said that Commission plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force operates within the highest standards of integrity and service delivery.

 

Ahmed said the theme of the workshop “underscores the critical need for robust, accountable and efficient Policing system in Nigeria”.

 

The Senate Committe Chairman disclosed that the workshop presents a unique opportunity for Board Members, key Management and technical officials of the Commission to engage in capacity building initiatives that will further empower them to carry out their oversight mandate effectively.

Senator Ahmed urged the participants to take full advantage of the workshop adding “the knowledge and skills you acquire here will not only enhance your individual competences but will also contribute significantly to the broader goal of transforming Policing in Nigeria.

 

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Police Institutions, Honourable (Barr) Aliyu Wakili Boya in his goodwill message said Strengthening institutional capacity for effective Police oversight require a multi-faceted approach involving independent oversight bodies such as the Commission, Police Accountability measures and community engagement.

 

Hon. Boya said this includes enhancing the capacity of external oversight bodies, promoting Transparency and accountability within the Police Force, and fostering trust and Cooperation between Police and the Community.

He said Strengthening the Police Service Commission capacity, fostering accountability within the Police and encouraging public participation, “Nigeria can create a law enforcement system that is transparent, accountable and respected by the citizens it serves” adding “as a parliament, we are committed to ensuring the legal support is provided for initiatives that require legislation”.

 

The Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, in his opening address said in a rapidly evolving security landscape, “the need for robust oversight mechanisms cannot be overstated. According to the PSC Chairman “effective oversight is not just about accountability – it is about building public trust, fostering operational excellence, and ensuring that Policing aligns with democratic values and the rule of law.

 

DIG Argungu noted that while the Commission have made progress in executing our mandate, there are still challenges such as procedural bottlenecks, funding, gaps in legal frameworks and the dynamic nature of Policing demand”.

 

He urged the participants to actively engage in all the sessions, ask critical questions and contribute to the development of practical solutions. ” let us approach this workshop with an open mind, a collaborative spirit and a shared determination to translate discussions into tangible reforms” adding that “as we commence this workshop, let us remember that the ultimate beneficiaries of our efforts are the Nigerian people – who rightfully expect a Police Force that is professional, accountable and human rights-compliant”.

 

DIG Argungu noted that the success of this initiative will be measured by the Commission’s ability to institutionalize the knowledge gained and implement Reforms that enhance public safety and confidence in policing.

 

The Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme, Napoleon Enayaba in his goodwill message said ” at the heart of this workshop lies a fundamental principle: that oversight is indispensable to trust. “The Police Service Commission, as Nigeria’s constitutionally mandated civilian oversight body, plays a critical role in ensuring professionalism, transparency and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.”

 

Mr. Enayaba said UNDP’s engagement in the workshop through the supporting Police Accountability and Transformation Project, ” is anchored in our broader commitment to people-centred security”

 

He said the Reforms must not only strengthen institutions but must also deliver real improvements in people’s everyday experiences of safety, dignity and justice”.

PSC Extols President Tinubu On Completion And Commissioning Of Roads In Dakibiyu, Jabi.. Says Wike Has Transformed FCT For Good

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Police Service Commission has expressed sincere gratitude and commendation to Mr. President on the Completion and commissioning of roads in Dakibiyu District Jabi in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

 

According to a Statement released by the Commission’s Head, Press And Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON today, officially commissioned the newly constructed collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Street) from Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Arterial Road N1 and other connecting Roads in Dakibiyu District of Jabi, Abuja.

 

The Commissioning which attracted eminent Nigerians was held along Asuquo Okon Street by the Corporate Headquarters of the Police Service Commission in Jabi Abuja.

 

The Secretary to the Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani who represented the Commission at the ceremony extolled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold steps in infrastructural development of the country which had suffered several years of neglect.

 

Chief Onyemuche who spoke at the sidelines of the Commissioning ceremony said the PSC is one of the major beneficiaries of the newly constructed road project and will remain eternally grateful to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike for his decision to rehabilitate the roads around the area.

 

He noted that visitors to the Commission will henceforth enjoy the good road network while settlements around Dakiyibu will be opened up for businesses and other related endeavours.

 

Chief Nnamani called for support for this government as it continues to give Nigerians the dividends of democracy.

 

He noted that the Commission will continue to ensure that the Nigeria Police operates within the law and encouraged to give off their best in the service of the nation.

NDLEA is central to action plan on drug control and crime prevention – AU Commission

 Africa needs to act fast on projected 40% rise in drug use prevalence, Marwa warns

By Ebinum Samuel

The Commission of the African Union has said the formulation of new action plan on drug control and crime prevention on the African continent won’t be complete without inputs from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its central role in law enforcement in the region.
The AU Commission stated this on Monday 30th June 2025 during an assessment visit to the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja by a three-member delegation including the team lead Dr. Olubusayo Akinola, Head of Social Welfare, Drug Control and Crime Prevention; Dr. Abiola Olaleye, Senior Drug Epidemiology and Research Officer; and Prof. Johan Strijdom, Senior Drug Control Consultant. The visit was to evaluate the African Union Plan of Action on Drug Control and Crime Prevention (2019-2025).
According to Dr. Akinola, “we’re here to understand the status of implementation of this continental action plan on drug control and crime prevention. We are in the process of re-evaluating and starting another continental action plan that will take us from 2026 to 2030. So, we have identified a few countries to understand how this action plan was actually implemented in the member states. And if there are gaps and the new and current emerging trends that we can include.

“So, we understand very well the work of NDLEA and we believe that the formulation of the new action plan will not be finalized and concluded until we have inputs from NDLEA Nigeria, because you are basically on the forefront when it comes to law enforcement on the entire continent.”
The AU Commission delegation commended the NDLEA for its sustained provision of critical and policy-relevant data, which has significantly informed and shaped the work of the Commission over the years. The visit, according to the delegation, aimed to obtain a comprehensive update on the current status of implementation of national drug control strategies, identify operational and institutional gaps, and explore potential areas for technical assistance, particularly in relation to capacity development, forensic science capabilities, canine detection units, and other strategic enablers of drug control efforts.

Welcoming the delegation, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized the importance of the mission, stating that he considered it imperative to receive the team personally due to the strategic relevance of their engagement. “We are particularly pleased that the African Union is giving due weight to the implementation of the continental action plan, not merely as a theoretical exercise, but by undertaking direct field consultations with national counterparts. This grounded, evidence-informed approach will undoubtedly result in a more pragmatic and responsive framework for implementation,” he noted.
Marwa highlighted the urgency of addressing the continent’s growing drug challenge, adding that while global projections estimate a 10–11% rise in drug use prevalence, Africa is expected to experience a surge of up to 40%. “This disparity signals a looming crisis that demands coordinated and accelerated action. We deeply appreciate the AU’s leadership in this space and commend your proactive efforts,” he added.

Journalist seeks LASG, Police clarification on disputed child alleged hand over to suspected traffickers

 

 

An investigative reporter in a Freedom of Information (FoI), sent a request to the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and another to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, seeking clarification on alleged handing over of a disputed paternity child to suspected traffickers.

 

The FoI, dated 16th June 2025 and signed by the Editor, Security News Alert, Juliana Francis, was addressed to the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, through the Lagos State Commissioner for Information.

 

Also copied were the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) and Family Social Services, Igando-LDCA, Alimosho, Lagos.

 

Another FoI was sent to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, on the same subject matter, copied the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer and the Head, Gender-Based Violence Unit, Lagos State Police Command.

 

The FoI request to Lagos State Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development reads: “Under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, we hereby apply for confirmation of allegations of human rights abuses perpetrated against a 10-year-old girl and shoddy investigations.

 

Securitynewsalert.com is an online medium dedicated to reporting security and human rights violations in Nigeria.

 

“Over the past months, we have been conducting an investigation focused on finding out those who trafficked and then inflicted bodily harm on the minor, hoping to hold them accountable.

 

“Our investigation has raised serious concerns about Gender Unit Culpability and the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD) attempting to allegedly truncate justice, allowing traffickers to escape justice and handing the child in question to one of the parents without due process.

 

“This is a case of child trafficking, child physical abuse, child labour, child deprivation of education and child paternity first reported at the Festac Police Station and transferred to the Police Gender Unit.

 

“This case involves a 10-year-old girl identified as Kosarachi, repeatedly allegedly brutalised with shoe heels by her madam, Mrs Ifeoma Okoye, who was assisted by her wealthy church, Christ Holy Church International, to flee Lagos last year, but now back, according to sources.

 

“The case, which started with child trafficking and maltreatment, including sexual abuse; (b) subjected to torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

 

“(c) subjected to attacks upon his honour or reputation; or (d) held in slavery or servitude, while in the care of a parent, legal guardian, school authority or any other person having authority for the care of the child.

 

“Section 14 of the CRA says that every child has the right to free, compulsory and universal basic education, and every parent or guardian shall ensure that their child or ward attends and completes their basic school education.

 

“Okoye, Mrs Chikodi and Gift also breached Section 25 of CRA, which states thus, ‘Subject to this Law, no child shall be—(a) subjected to any forced or exploitative labour, or (d) employed as a domestic help outside his own home or family environment.’

 

“The Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (NAPTIP) in Nigeria criminalises the exploitation of humans. Article 5 of the Act states that parties must criminalise practices that exploit humans, including sexual and labour exploitation, while Article 3(b) says that ‘consent is irrelevant if any means of trafficking are used, such as force, deception, coercion, or abduction. Even if these means are not used, it is still trafficking if a child is involved.”

Traditional ruler arrested for allegedly r3ping 12-year-old girl in Ondo

 

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a traditional ruler (Baale) in Laaagba community, Ondo East Local Government area of Ondo State, for allegedly r3ping a 12-year-old girl.

According to a police source at the Ondo Area Command, the traditional ruler, whose name was given as Chief Adeniyi Ifedayo, was said to have lured the girl into his house in the community and harboured her in the house for two weeks where he s3xually assaulted her.

Recounting her ordeal, the minor, who is currently recuperating in an undisclosed health facility in Ondo town, said she was lured to the house of the monarch by a commercial motorcycle rider in the community.

“The Baale kept me in his house for two weeks and feed me with pap, while he assaulted me s3xually on daily basis,” she narrated.

“My parents became worried about my whereabouts and eventually raised an alarm, declaring me missing. After two weeks, the Baale took me on a motorcycle and dumped me at a location in Akure.”

The Area Commander of the Ondo Area Command of the Nigeria Police, Mr. T. Y. Pickson, who confirmed the incident said case was transferred to the State Police Command in Akure for further investigation.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, also confirmed the arrest of the suspect, stating that the case has been transferred to the State Police Headquarters, where a thorough investigation is ongoing.

IPOB opposes federal government’s ranching proposal, accusing it of ‘land grabbing’.

 

The Indigenous People of Biafra, has condemned the announcement by President Bola Tinubu, proposing the establishment of cattle ranches in Abuja, the ancestral homeland of the Gbagi people and other states across the country.

The pro-Biafran group said the move is nothing but Ruga repackaged and a sinister land-grabbing strategy cloaked in government policy.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful, said it is a shame that in the 21st century, the Federal Government is prioritising cow colonies over education, security, and innovation.

Powerful said what began as the “need for grazing” centuries ago led to the total subjugation of proud territories, adding, “the rise of alien emirates, and the transformation of indigenous owners of the land into strangers in their ancestral homes. Abuja is about to witness the same fate if this madness is not stopped.”

The statement read in part, “President Tinubu unaware that no sensible country in the world keeps cattle around its capital city?

“Let him point to any major city—from Nairobi to New Delhi, São Paulo to Seoul—where cattle are granted permanent settlements around central governance zones.

“This absurdity is uniquely Nigerian, and disgracefully so.”

While saying that the land around Abuja belongs to the Gbagi people, Powerful said, “To dispossess them by executive fiat is an unforgivable act of aggression and cultural genocide.”

He added, “Today, the Gbagi are being pushed to the margins; tomorrow, there will be an Emir of Abuja. And in 60 years—just like what befell the Hausas—the Gbagi will be footnotes in history, reduced to relics of their own heritage.

“Let it be known that IPOB shall resist any attempt—direct or indirect—to impose this toxic expansionist agenda anywhere in Biafraland. No inch of our territory will be given for herder settlements, cattle corridors, or so-called ranching. Our forests, our villages, our farmlands are sacred to us—not bargaining chips in a federal contract of death.

“Let them be transported by rail, just as is done in civilised societies. That’s how a serious nation handles its livestock economy—not by slaughtering indigenous peoples and seizing their homes under the guise of ranching.”

According to him, no progressive nation erects ranches next to homes, schools, and marketplaces. The fact that this administration cannot comprehend this basic logic is a reflection of its failure, not ours.

“IPOB stands with the Gbagi people and every other indigenous nationality facing existential threats from Fulani neo-colonial conquest dressed up as national policy. Our diversity must be respected, our cultures preserved, and our ancestral lands protected. Let the killings in the name of cows stop. Let the bloodletting cease. Let Nigeria choose reason over ruin,” the statement added.

Kefas, Kekere-Ekun, Argungu, Others Pay Tributes As Justice Galumje’s Wife Is Buried -PSC saddened by the loss; Argungu

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

The curtain was finally drawn on Mrs Zeporah, wife of Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, retired Justice of the Supreme Court and Honourable Commissioner representing the Judiciary in the Police Service Commission as her remains were lowered to earth on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at her husband’s compound in Didan, Kurmi Local Government Area of Taraba state. Eminent Nigerians, including high ranking judicial and senior Government officials were present to bid her farewell. There were also several traditional rulers, strong delegation from the Police Service Commission, senior Police Officers, friends and relatives. Didan home of Justice Galumje practically was on stand still as honour was given to whom it was due.

 

Those who spoke at the funeral Mass included the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal Kano, Mohammed Danjuma, the Chief Judge of Taraba state; Senator Emmanuel Bwacha; the Chairman Police Service Commission, relatives, officiating Ministers; the Chief Mourner and some of his Children.

In a condolence message, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas said the state mourns the loss of a woman who was not only a “devoted wife and mother but also a quiet but formidable force of grace, character and strength. “Though she lived away from the spotlight, her light shone brightly through the life she lived -marked by unwavering faith, sacrificial love, and quiet dignity “.

 

The Governor noted that “behind your long and illustrious career of integrity and distinction on the Bench stood a woman of immense courage, patience, and support. Her life was a testimony to the power of calm strenght and moral clarity, and her legacy will forever live in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her”, the Governor added.

 

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, in her condolence message said ” Mrs Galumje was known to many as a graceful, supportive and God fearing woman whose devotion to her family were evident to all who encountered her”. “Through the many years of your distinguished service to the nation as a judicial officer, she stood beside your lordship with quiet dignity and unwavering encouragement.”

 

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni in a letter of Condolence to the family said the Commission is profoundly saddened by “this painful loss, particularly coming so soon after the passing of your dear brother. We cannot begin to imagine the weight of grief that you and your family must be bearing at this moment”. DIG Argungu whose condolence message was presented at the funeral service in Didan by Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, Head of Press and Public Relations of the Commission noted that Justice Galumje’s strenght, humility and service to this nation “have long inspired us all. “In this difficult hour, may the Almighty God grant you the fortitude to bear these irreparable losses and may the soul of Mrs. Zeporah Paul Adamu (late) rest in perfect peace”.

 

The PSC Chairman assured Justice Galumje of the Commission’s support and solidarity during this time of mourning. The entire staff of the Commission stand with you in this moment of sorrow”.

 

The Chief Mourner, Justice Galumje on behalf of his family thanked all “the people who came from far and near and contributed in various ways to make this funeral ceremony a success. “We say may the good Lord reward you all for all your efforts and grant you journey mercy back to your various homes:

AIG Zone 5 Meets With Stakeholders Over Warri Delineation Crisis

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

As part of efforts to prevent any breakdown of law and order following INEC ward delineation exercise in Warri, Delta state, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, conveyed a security meeting with stakeholders from Warri and its environs. The meeting was held yesterday at the office of the AIG Zone 5 Benin-city, the Edo state capital.

 

In attendance were the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command, Asaba, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, the Area Commander Warri, the Local Government Chairmen, Warri South West, Warri North and Warri South, the spokesperson and representative of Gbaramatu Kingdom, the representative from the Palace of the Olu of Warri, representatives of Isaba kingdom, representatives of Itsekiri, representatives of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, representatives of the Pere of Ogbe-Ijoh kingdom, representatives of Agbarha Warri Kingdom, amongst other highly placed figures.

CP Abaniwonda disclosed that following the Delineation exercise carried out by INEC in Warri, there has been problems among the three ethnic groups in the area, and, he seeks the help of the AIG Zone 5 to step in to avoid further escalation and break down of law and other.

The AIG responded that he conveyed the meeting at the Instance of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, noted that there is no difference between the Ijaws, Itsekiris and the Urhobos and warned them all to avoid any issues that will cause a repeat of the 2003/2004 crisis.

 

The AIG further appealed to the stakeholders on the need for them to control their youths, and refrain them from making inciting and inflammatory statements, especially on the social media. He reiterated that when a life is lost, nobody can bring it back.

 

Amongst the speakers were the representative of the Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom, the Rep of Okere Urhobo Kingdom, the rep of Isaba Kingdom, the rep of Agbarha Warri Kingdom, the rep of Gbaramatu kingdom, the three local government chairmen and all speakers all sued for peace and noted that they do not want a crisis in Warri. They also noted that the delineation exercise carried out by INEC has not been finalised and that INEC has asked all aggrieved parties to study the draft and bring up their complaints, observations and contributions.

 

The AIG warned that any further breakdown of law and order will not be tolerated, and the trend of name-calling and social media protest will not be tolerated henceforth, stressing that anyone caught will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

He also warned that no ethnic group should refer to another ethnic group as Customary Tenants.

The meeting ended with all parties agreement to work towards the peace and security of Warri kingdom, they pledged to call their youths to order and work towards maintaining the existing peace in order to bring back economic prosperity in Warri, Delta State.

Staff welfare: Marwa commissions NDLEA/NOA vision centre  Commends partnership with Nigerian Optometric Association on premium eye care for NDLEA staff and their families

By Ebinum Samuel

 

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has commissioned a high-tech Vision Centre at its National Headquarters Annex in Abuja as part of efforts to promote and prioritise staff welfare as well as to boost their morale.
The facility, a product of strategic partnership between the Agency and the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) and its partner, OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, is designed to provide comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality eye care services to NDLEA personnel and members of the public.

Speaking at the brief ceremony, Marwa expressed deep appreciation to the NOA and its partners for considering the NDLEA worthy of such a vital collaboration. “We are here with every sense of fulfilment and happiness to commission this Vision Centre,” he stated, while reflecting on the personal and public importance of vision health. Drawing from his own experience with eye care, Marwa urged officers, men and women of the Agency to prioritize regular eye checkups, noting that vision is key to productivity and quality of life. He also commended the dedication of the team of optometrists managing the centre, while acknowledging their pioneering role and voluntary service. “We appreciate you for accepting to serve in this capacity even in uncharted grounds. This Centre is a worthy addition to our several initiatives to promote and cater for the wellbeing of our workforce”, he added.

 

 

In his remarks, the NOA President, Dr. Chimeziri Anderson, described the commissioning as the culmination of a purposeful collaboration with the NDLEA and OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation. He recalled how the idea for the centre was birthed during a meeting in Lagos and praised the leadership of the Agency for embracing the initiative. “This Vision Centre is one of only a few we have established within government institutions. It stands out as a model for sustainable eye care delivery. With support from our partners in France and Dubai, we are bringing world class equipment and services here, ensuring access to premium eye care and quality eye glasses for NDLEA staff and their families”, Dr. Anderson stated.
The Director, Medical Services of NDLEA, Dr. Audu Okpe in his welcome remark noted that the establishment of the NDLEA-NOA Vision Centre marks another milestone in the Agency’s growing portfolio of staff welfare initiatives under the leadership of Brig Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa. “It also underscores a broader commitment to fostering public health partnerships between security institutions and professional medical bodies in Nigeria”, he stated

Three kidnappers who collected ₦75m ransom from 10 victims arrested in Edo

 

Three suspected kidnappers who allegedly abducted 10 victims between January 2024 and April 2025 and collected over ₦75 million from the victims and their families in Edo State are now in police net.

The suspects identified as Asemota Osamede (38), Michael Tomminiwei (43) and Kelly Aitoya (34), belong to a four-man kidnapping syndicate that have been terrorizing Benin City and environs.

They allegedly kidnapped about 10 victims between January 2024 and Aprill 2025, and have collecting over ₦75 million from the various victims and their families.

They, however, met their Waterloo on April 10, 2025, when they kidnapped one Mrs Vivian Diode, who operates a saw mill at Eayan, a suburb community along the Benin-Auchi road, Benin City.

The kidnappers reportedly forcefully collected N1.5 million from her bank account while in captivity and also collected N6 million ransom from her family members before releasing her.

About a week after releasing the victim, the suspects reportedly called the family members again and demanded additional ₦3 million with a threat to kidnap her again or assassinate her if they failed to pay the money.

Following the threat, the family reported the incident to the police and the anti cultism unit of the command swiftly responded and in the process arrested the three suspects.

It was further gathered that during investigation, it was discovered that aside Vivian, the suspects have successfully kidnapped 10 persons and have collected over ₦75 million in ransom between January 2024 and April 2025.

The State Police Command Spokesman, CSP Moses Yamu, who confirmed the incident, said the suspects confessed belonging to a four-man kidnapping syndicate operating with one Ak47 riffle and two pump action gun in Benin City.

He added that investigation has been completed and the suspect would be charged to Court.

“The case concerning the kidnap of Vivian, the suspects have been arrested and investigations completed, they would be charge to Court,” he said.