GRPolitics
ALARM: Gov. Bello has raised 12-man killer squad, PDP Campaign Council alleges


By: Oliseama Okwuchukwu
The Kogi State Presidential Campaign Council of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP-PCCO) said on Sunday night that it has uncovered “a grand plan of the 12 man killer squad of the governor Yahaya Adoza Bello and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to give organised bloodshed a new meaning.”
“The council is compelled to believe the various sources of intelligence within government circles without any iota of doubt that plans have been finalised to roll out an operation “blood on the mountain” in Kogi State starting from the 23rd of January 2019,” said a statement signed by the Head, Media and Publicity, Usman Austin Okai.
According to the statement, “It is in consideration of the facts in our possession that we are constrained to submit that unless outgoing governor, Yahaya Bello is called to order, cautioned and reprimanded by all lovers of democracy, the 2019 elections in Kogi State will trigger a chain of events which will cause an inferno that will consume at least 1,729 lives across the state. We remind the world that less than 4 days after our battle cry on the proliferation of weapons in the state and unauthorized possession of heavy arms by persons directly linked to the state cabinet, an execution ceremony held in Okene where in one night, at least 3 members of the opposition were snatched from their beds, paraded before their family members who were compelled to watch as they were sat naked on bare grounds and shot in either the chest, head or groin at least 3 times each by thugs loyal to the Kogi State Governor.
“Those who seek evidence of this should visit Inoziomi, Obehira-Egba and Obeiba.
“We also remind the world that outgoing Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello was caught on tape boasting of a capacity to authorise the death of any individual opposed to the APC winning the coming elections.
“It is our belief that since the sinking Kogi State Governor like His adopted father President Muhammadu Buhari has failed on all indices with which governance and leadership are measured, extreme violence is a last resort as means to guarantee a positive outcome in view of the coming elections.
“The council therefore alerts Nigerians that as at now, over 3,000 assorted automatic weapons have been acquired by the Governor and distributed to different locations across the state.
“In Kogi Central the homes of the current Commissioner for Water Resources and His Local Government affairs counterpart double as arms depots where raw acid, AK47 rifles, British pump action rifles, night vision googles, IEDs and an unknown quantity of enriched uranium are currently stored.
“What this means is that a mini factory producing nuclear weapons of mass destruction currently exists on Nigerian soil.
“We also note that the sole administrator of Okehi LGA has in His residence 3 bales of complete military camouflage comprising uniforms for the Nigeria Army and Navy. We say this on record and openly challenge the DSS and directorate of military intelligence to clear themselves of complicity by conducting a televised raid on the location.
“It is for the records that it must be clearly stated that Ogugu community in Olamaboro LGA, Kogi East is the war theatre command centre from where Mr. Edward Onoja; who doubles as chief of staff, government house, Lokoja holds court vetting a list of individuals including Moslem clerics, youth leaders and community leaders who must be decimated before February 16th.
“As a matter of fact, we are aware that an emergency session was summoned by Mr. Onoja earlier this week wherein clear orders were handed to selected members of cabinet, local government sole administrators and senior special assistants to the governor to the effect that they must work together with well trained and armed thugs in Ayingba, Ankpa, Kabba, Ijumu, Okehi, Ajaokuta, Ejule and Idah.
“Similarly, last week in Ayingba, hardliners in the APC held a closed door session on how destruction of campaign materials of the PDP will be destroyed. The litmus test was An invasion of the home of Capt. Joe Agada in Ogugu to disrupt a party meeting, the destruction of campaign billboards of Hon. Barry Idakwo and disruption of a rally organized by Hon. Benjamin Ikani Okolo.
“Whereas the Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Council would ordinarily wish that the facts before it is inaccurate, we are concerned that a principal actor in the line-up is a certain candidate of the APC contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives elections.
“This candidate who is a special envoy of the outgoing Kogi State Governor has been roundly indicted and is being investigated by the Nigeria Police for ritual killing and trading in human organs.
“We therefore ask – is the Kogi State government house now a transit point where human parts are sold and purchased?
“What other clue is there to the fact that indeed all is set for large scale violence of an unimaginable magnitude to be unleashed on Kogi State with an aim to instill palpable fear in voters such that for fear of who the next victim may be, they would rather remain indoors on the day of voting?
“Pursuant to the foregoing, we draw the attention of the acting inspector general of Police to the various makeshift militant training camps along the water ways of Lokoja and task Him to adopt a pragmatic approach to Kogi State as means of boosting the confidence of Kogi people in the police force because the current governor had the immediate past I.G. in His pocket.
“We invite the presidency to note that as at the 17th of January 2019, a batch of 703 men passed out of training and are currently incubating in the home of one of the prime actors in the failed assassination of Sen. Dino Melaye and other locations in Kabba and Mopa both in Kogi West.
“We notify the office of the National Security Adviser that the Kogi State government is in touch with some individuals who were before now standing trial for murder and remanded in Koton Karfe prisons from where they were taken out by outgoing governor Yahaya Bello for reasons best known to Him.
“We are aware that not less than 6 persons who until December were standing trial and remanded in Koton Karfe prisons for homicide, gun running and murder are currently lodged in hotels in Lokoja and are walking the streets of Kogi State as free men courtesy the Kogi State government in exchange for the rendition of unknown services during the coming elections.
“The 2019 presidential election is less than 30 days away. We therefore consider it a patriotic obligation to the Nigerian state to call on the world to focus on Kogi State.
“We acknowledge that already Kogi people are looking forward to exercise their rights to vote for a new set of leaders who can steer the affairs of the state in a manner that conforms with civilisation.
“We therefore task the Ag. Inspector General of Police to deploy resources towards taming the tide of violence that is brewing in Kogi State.
“We demand that the policemen providing security to prominent thugs in Kogi State be withdrawn and also demand their immediate arrest because Nigeria cannot afford to have more IDP camps.
“We also demand a round the clock aerial surveillance of all the water ways and boundary communities in Kogi State with proof.
“The will of Kogi people will not be circumvented by a band of executive urchins whose only purpose is to spill blood, maim, kill and enthrone a reign of terror in Kogi State.
“We therefore call on our supporters to be vigilant and escalate to the campaign council any strange movement, activities of strange persons as well as any unusual happening in their immediate environments to assist our ongoing efforts to collate and publish a compendium of actions of the Kogi State government and governor which are capable of destroying the fragile peace of the state and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”


When the President called to inform me of his decision to magnanimously confer on me the the National Award of Commander of the Federal Republic, CFR, on account of my much advertised role in the struggle for the validation of the June 12th election and affirmation of Chief MKO Abiola’s mandate, my first reaction was why only me and not all those unsung heroes.
Those officers and men who actively participated in that struggle, risking their careers and even lives.
Although I was one of the leaders of that movement within the military, my contribution was by no means bigger than theirs.
While I have been recognised and celebrated, including this National Honour by the President, they have remained anonymous.
It is therefore incumbent upon me to reveal the identity of these patriots if only to acknowledge and commend their contributions to the emergence of the current democratic dispensation.
The fact that Chief Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12th election won over 80% of the Armed Forces votes, clearly demonstrated the contribution of the other members of the military. I should add that this list is by no means exhaustive.
There are a lot more participants who have remained unknown to me since they served under others.
I apologise to all those whose names I must have missed. May God recognise and reward your sacrifice.
Top on my list is my deputy at the Armoured Corps Centre and School, Col MA Garba, whose commitment was so strong that he continued with the execution of our plans after some of us were arrested, detained and mercifully retired in October, 1993. He went on, as he should, to attain the enviable rank of a Major General in the army. Others are:
Others are:
-Lt col Lawal Jaafaru Isa.
-Lt col UF Ahmed.
-Lt col MS Dasuki.
-Lt col ML Gwadabe.
-Lt col J. Temlong.
-Lt col Musa Shehu.
-Lt col Chris Eze.
-Lt col HM Dzarma.
-Lt col Isa Jibrin.
-Lt col JOS Oshanupin.
-Lt Col A Oloruntoba(kabiesi Olugbede of Gbede kingdom).
-Lt col Moke.
-Lt col Happy Bulus.
-Lt col Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
-Col J Okai.
-Col E. Ndubueze.
-Lt col Yakubu Muazu.
-Lt col Yahaya Abubakar ( current Etsu Nupe).
-Major Saad Abubakar (current Sultan of Sokoto).
-Maj Abba Maimalari.
-Maj Jamil Tahir.
-Maj Buzugbe.
-Maj LP Aprezi.
-Maj MK Yake.
-Maj J Dawah.
-Maj Suleiman Wali.
-Maj Dauda Komo.
-Maj Lucky Torrie.
-Maj JS Zaruwa.
-Maj M Sumaye.
-Maj Sani Bawa.
-Maj Ndaliman.
Maj Ahmed.
-Maj M Bawa.
-Lt col JB Ahmadu.
-Capt Junaid Bindawa.
-Capt Lar.
I therefore accept this award with all sense of humility on behalf of all these officers and men. Obviously, it goes without saying that this award will be doubly more meaningful if the democracy we all fought for delivers the real dividends.
This can happen only if leaders at all levels govern with the fear of God and in accordance with the tenets of democracy.
It remains the hope and prayers of all patriots that nothing is done to derail this infant democracy.
To achieve the stability and progress of our democracy, leaders must prioritise good governance over politicking for self aggrandizement.
The three co-equal branches of government must operate independently while cooperating with each other.
One enduring lesson from the conduct of the officers and men is their decision to operate above sycophancy but to hold their superior officers to account.
Sadly, this does not appear to have a positive impact on our political leaders. Sycophancy everywhere has become the scourge of selfless and accountable leadership. It is the reason for the arrogance and vanity we see in our leaders at all levels. Men of straw are widely and falsely being elevated to the position of icons by self seeking sycophants.
Mr President must lead in a war against sycophancy in all its forms. This must allow for no exceptions including the rapidly growing trend of naming and renaming public institutions, facilities and other infrastructure after a President or State Governor while in office.
The other day, the Senate President was reported to have predicted that President Bola Tinubu will win the 2027 election with 99.9% of the votes! Even allowing for the fact that this Senate President is widely known for his humorous incitement, Mr President will do well to shun such oracles.
God bless Nigeria.
Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, Colonel (Rtd)


The Kogi State Government has commended Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, Member Representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, for his unbending commitment to the security and wellbeing of his home state, describing him as “a patriotic Kogite who leads by example.”
Faleke, an indigene of Kogi State, recently donated a brand-new Hilux patrol vehicle to support the operations of the newly commissioned Smart Police Divisional Headquarters in Ekinrin-Adde, Ijumu Local Government Area.
The high-tech facility which was facilitated by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund in its collaboration with the Government of Kogi State to ensure security at every corner of the state by modernizing and digitizing security operations in the state.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, conveyed the appreciation of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to the federal lawmaker, stating that Hon. Faleke has demonstrated what it means to place security above politics and people’s well-being above personal ambition.
“The Government of Kogi State wishes to reecho the open commendation earlier given by His Excellency during the commissioning of the Smart Police Divisional Headquarters,” Fanwo said.
“As a Government, we appreciate the demonstrative contribution of Hon. James Faleke to the security architecture and infrastructure of the state. This is how to lead the people with emphasis on security above politics, patriotism above scheming with the lives of our people.”
Fanwo added that Hon. Faleke has played key underground roles in support of intelligence, logistics, and coordination with security agencies, working quietly but effectively with the State Government to ensure lives and property are better protected in Kogi State.
The Commissioner expressed confidence that Faleke’s latest intervention would significantly strengthen security not only in Ijumu but across Okunland, Kogi West, and the entire state.
“This is one intervention that we are sure will improve the security of Ijumu, Okunland, Kogi West, and Kogi as a whole. This is how to make an impact without playing to the gallery. What the people need are concrete interventions that can save lives, not selfish arrangements that protect personal interests at the expense of the people.
“The people know those who are genuinely working for their security, those working closely with the State Government to achieve lasting peace in Kogi State. They also know those who are merely playing politics with the lives of the people.”
The Government urged political and business leaders of Kogi origin to emulate Hon. Faleke’s sense of responsibility and selfless service to the people.
“Hon. James Faleke has set an example for others to emulate. He has shown that the lives of his people matter. He is not doing all of these to protect a personal interest or his investment or the investment of his friends. He is doing it to protect the Kogi people, his people”, he said.
Fanwo also disclosed that the Government is closely monitoring the activities of illegal miners and their collaborators, vowing that those compromising the security of the state through economic sabotage will face stiff consequences.
“We are aware of the activities of illegal miners and their enablers. Let it be known that the state will not tolerate any action that puts the lives of our people at risk. We are taking bold steps to ensure that criminal actors do not jeopardize the peace we are working hard to build.”
The Kogi State Government reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with patriotic stakeholders like Hon. James Faleke in its mission to secure every corner of the state and preserve the gains already made in law enforcement and public safety.
GRPolitics
The Intellectual Sins of June 12: A Reckoning with Nigeria’s Democratic Conscience
Article Written by Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola


Every June 12, Nigeria observes a significant date that embodies both the aspirations for democracy and the painful betrayal of that dream. This day commemorates the 1993 presidential election, celebrated as the most free and fair in the country’s history but ultimately annulled by the military regime led by General Ibrahim Babangida.
While the focus has often been on the political and military figures involved, there has been less emphasis on the intellectual shortcomings that contributed to this democratic failure.
These shortcomings—the “intellectual sins” of June 12—include silence, complicity, and ideological failures that continue to impact Nigeria’s pursuit of democracy.
The Election That Could Have Changed Everything:
On June 12, 1993, Nigerians came together to vote for Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, a well-known southern Muslim celebrated for his wealth, philanthropy, and political acumen. His electoral victory was more than just a tally of votes; it became a powerful symbol of national unity and a collective longing for civilian governance following years of military rule.
The military’s annulment of the election results, based on vague security concerns and claims of irregularities, was profoundly disappointing. This decision was not merely a political manoeuvre; it represented a significant betrayal of the democratic values that the election was meant to uphold.
The Silence of the Intellectual Class:
One of the most troubling aspects of the June 12 crisis was the widespread silence—or, even worse, the rationalizations—by many in Nigeria’s intellectual elite. University professors, public commentators, and thought leaders, who should have served as the nation’s moral compass, largely failed to speak out against the annulment. Some even justified it, wrapping their arguments in legal jargon or appealing to national stability.
The silence in this situation was not neutral; it was an act of complicity. During times of national crisis, when the intelligentsia chooses to remain silent, this absence is not merely a lack of comment—it is an endorsement of the status quo. Nigeria’s intellectual class’s failure to provide a strong defence of democracy in 1993 highlighted a more profound issue: a lack of genuine commitment to democratic governance.
Ethnic Chauvinism and the Failure of National Integration:
The annulment highlighted the fragility of Nigeria’s national identity. Although Abiola had widespread appeal across the country, the decision to invalidate his victory was perceived mainly as influenced by northern political elites who were uneasy about a southern Muslim becoming president. This perception, whether accurate or not, strengthened the belief that Nigeria’s democracy is held captive by ethnic and regional interests.
Once again, the intellectual class fell short. Instead of confronting the ethnicization of politics, many scholars and commentators either overlooked it or contributed to it. The chance to use June 12 as a catalyst for national integration and civic nationalism was missed.
The Legal and Constitutional Vacuum:
The events of June 12 highlighted Nigeria’s fragile legal and constitutional framework. The annulment of the election exposed the country’s institutions as inadequate in preventing executive overreach and safeguarding the electoral process. At that time, there was a lack of an independent judiciary capable of contesting military actions, an ineffective legislature to oversee government activities, and a civil society that was not sufficiently strong to mobilize in response.
The Institutional weakness in Nigeria was not a coincidence; it stemmed from years of intellectual neglect. The country’s legal scholars, constitutional designers, and policy thinkers did not create a system robust enough to resist authoritarian tendencies. Consequently, the annulment of electoral processes directly resulted from this inadequacy.
The Myth of Transition Without Transformation:
The military’s commitment to transitioning Nigeria to civilian rule was fraught with inconsistencies. The annulment of the June 12 elections exposed the illusion that democratic governance could be realised without a fundamental change in the country’s political culture. The transition program itself was characterized by a top-down approach, a lack of transparency, and a focus on maintaining the interests of the elite.
Many intellectuals were drawn into the myth surrounding a purportedly democratic transition process. By actively participating in advisory roles, they inadvertently lent credibility to a system that lacked true democratic principles. Their failure to critically examine the underlying foundations of this transition program represents a significant intellectual oversight.
The Repetition of History:
The aftermath of June 12 has had lasting repercussions for Nigeria, as the country seems trapped in a cycle of repeating past mistakes. Key issues such as electoral malpractice, the dominance of elites over democratic institutions, and the suppression of dissent are still prevalent in the political landscape. Unfortunately, society has not fully grasped or embraced the vital lessons from June 12, indicating a failure to learn from history.
The recurring failures In Nigeria’s democracy highlight a deeper intellectual shortcoming, as there is a reluctance to engage in critical self-reflection and necessary institutional reform. It is simpler for leaders to honour June 12 through ceremonies and speeches rather than address the uncomfortable realities that emerge from this historical moment.
A Path to Redemption:
Nigeria needs to initiate a new democratic renaissance to address the intellectual shortcomings highlighted on June 12. This revival should focus on enhancing civic education, implementing institutional reforms, and reaffirming a strong commitment to democratic values.
1. Enhancing civic education within society is essential to ensuring the vitality of democracy. This involves prioritizing the teaching of democratic principles, critical thinking, and active citizenship in schools, universities, and media outlets. By doing so, citizens will become more aware of their rights and responsibilities, thus fostering a more engaged and informed populace.
2. Strengthen Institutions: A functioning democracy requires that the judiciary, electoral commission, and legislature operate without political interference. Achieving this necessitates legal reforms and a significant cultural shift in how power is exercised and contested within society.
3. Empower a New Generation of Public Intellectuals: Nigeria requires independent thinkers who prioritize democratic values over ethnic or political affiliations. These intellectuals should courageously challenge authority and advocate for democratic principles, unafraid of potential repercussions.
4. Confront the Past Honestly: The June 12 crisis serves as an important historical event that should be incorporated into school curricula and discussed in public forums. It carries significant moral lessons that are essential for understanding the past. By acknowledging and confronting this history, Nigeria can work towards establishing a more just and democratic future.
Conclusion: Democracy as a Moral Imperative
June 12 serves as a powerful reminder of Nigeria’s complex democratic journey, highlighting both its potential and challenges. Rather than merely marking the date with hollow statements, engaging in a genuine reflection on the past is essential. The mistakes of that time—characterized by silence, complicity, and ideological failures—should not be repeated. As we honour this day, we must recommit ourselves to the ideals embodied by Abiola’s victory, including justice, unity, and the empowerment of the people.
Democracy transcends being merely a system of governance; it is fundamentally a moral obligation. Every citizen, particularly those influential in shaping public opinion, has the responsibility to uphold and defend democratic principles with bravery, clarity, and firm conviction.