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Sanwo-Olu Pays N60M Compensation To Families Of Slain Police Officers
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu compensated the family members of the six police officers who were lynched in Lagos State in the wake of the violence that trailed the recent nationwide EndSARS protests may not have died in vain he sum of N10 million each.
The Governor’s gesture, the beneficiaries said, has not only wiped off their tears, it has also brightened their hope to attain the future their slain breadwinners had envisioned.
As part of the promise to the families, Sanwo-Olu also announced scholarship awards to the children of the deceased officers up to the university level.
The Governor presented cheques to the wives and children of the slain officers at the 14th Town Hall meeting on security held at Civic Centre on Victoria Island. The yearly event with the theme: “Lagos Security: Resilience in the Face Adversity”, was organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).
The late police officers are Yaro Edward, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Inspector Ayodeji Erinfolami, Inspector Aderibigbe Adegbenro, Inspector Samsom Ehibor, Sergeant Bejide Abiodun and Inspector Igoche Cornelius.
Sanwo-Olu described the slain officers as “heroes”, saying the deceased sacrificed their lives to secure lives and properties in the State. He said the compensation was the State Government’s modest reward for their gallantry, pointing out that the gesture would help the families to heal from the loss.
He said: “Some of our gallant police officers paid the supreme price for our security and safety during the recent EndSARS protests. These are the officers deployed to protect our families from hoodlums but they were lynched in the violence. Today, I am happy to announce and present N10 million compensation through LSSTF to each family of the officers. All their children have also be placed on scholarship up to university level, courtesy of the State Government.”
The Governor, at the event, received the report of security activities across the State in the last 12 months from Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu, expressing his delight at the downward trend observed in sophisticated crimes, such as kidnapping and armed robbery, in the last one year.
As Lagos embarks on rebuild effort, Sanwo-Olu reiterated that security would remain a top priority for his Government. He noted that Lagos was on the verge of bridging technological and logistical gap in its security architecture before the violence that trailed EndSARS protest erupted.
The coordinated arson of the past weeks, the Governor said, has necessitated the need to tighten security across the State, giving assurance that the State Government would invest more in intelligence-led policing and improve operational capacity and welfare of personnel serving in Lagos.
He said: “We must sustain the steady progress Lagos has recorded in the security of lives and businesses. The issue of security is a shared mission. The more we are able to engage the citizens, the better we will become at nipping crimes in the bud. Our Government will continue to proactively engage all stakeholders as part of ongoing exercise to address all security concerns.
“We have taken proactive measure of making the necessary budgetary provision for security. We will be committing N37.8 billion to Public Order and Safety in 2021 because we fully understand the correlation between development and security. We will stop at nothing to flush out criminal elements whose sole aim is to foment chaos and perpetrate crimes. Lagos will offer no hiding place for bandits and criminals.”
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the Government would be committing funds to social protection to address contributing factors to crimes, including substance abuse, unemployment and poor education. He said the State remained focused on addressing issues that led to recent youth agitations, adding that programmes would be rolled out to cultivate young people’s trust and get them to embrace participatory governance.
The Governor thanked the private sector for its support for Lagos security initiative and partnership with the Government through LSSTF.
Odumosu, in his extensive report, said his men rose to the occasion of effectively combating crimes in Lagos because of constant logistics supplies from the State Government.
Despite the trauma the police personnel went through during the EndSARS protests, the police chief said the Command re-mobilised officers to guard troubled communities where police stations were burnt and destroyed.
Giving the breakdown of crimes recorded in Lagos from October 2019 to last September, Odumosu said the Command foiled 273 cases of armed robbery, arresting 1,181 robbers in operations. He said 27 robbers were killed in the encounter during the period.
The police boss said the State recorded a sharp decline in kidnapping in the past year, an effort he linked to improved intelligence-driven operations. He, however, said cases of cultism and drug abuse were on the rise, promising to beam focus to the issues.
Executive Secretary, LSSTF, Dr. AbdulRazaq Balogun, observed that there was a decline in donations to the Funds in the current year, a factor he linked to the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and establishment of similar trust funds agencies by other States.
He said LSSTF had provided 90 patrol vehicles and six units of outboard engine boats for security operations across the State in addition to logistics support provided for the personnel.
He said: “There’s need to acquire more equipment, particularly crowd control assets. Lagos has always set the pace for other States. We deserve to have a security architecture that can withstand any form of adversity.”
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Shocking departure of Rafatu Salami: Thunderbolt on journalism
By Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji
I still find it difficult to believe sudden demise of Rafatu Salami. I first came in physical contact with her when I joined International Press Institute (IPI), Nigeria. Before then, we had never met, but only knew our names while practicing journalism
That our maiden meeting was at the 3-day conference of International Press Conference (IPI), in October 2024, held in Government Reservation Area (GRA), Ikeja axis of Lagos State and I can attest to the proactive nature of Rafat, which I admired, as she was up and doing to ensure a successful outing. That skills coupled with her accommodating nature made us to be professionally close
In similar vein, our second encounter was during a training organized for senior journalists in Nigeria by the Nestle Nigeria Plc held between September 11 to 13, 2024. Interestingly, myself and Rafat represented International Press Institute (IPI) and this also provided opportunity for two of us to be more united in journalism.
I recalled vividly that she exhibited her cerebral skills at the training session with robust contributions, and also added glamour to the programme, with her no dull moment nature, which also caught attention of all participants.
I can attest to the accommodating nature of Rafat, and it will be difficult for all other participants that we knew each other less than two years, because her accommodating nature was superb. She always relates with me as if we have known each other for decades.
The known outspoken and vibrant late female journalist is somebody I cherished because of her humility, proactive nature and hardwork among other qualities, particularly in the media industry. She doesn’t believe in failure, but always optimistic that there should be positive results for whatever project she shows interest
In October 25, 2024 she sent me a message about a proposed conference being organized by an establishment to take place in Abeokuta, and asked me to help secure venue and attend to other logistics, which I swiftly responded to, as a way to also appreciate her, because if you handover an assignment to her, Rafatu would also ensure that she provide good results
In the course of our discussions, I even encouraged her to come and join Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), which I am also a member, because of her competence in the media, and in response she said she would join when she attain the position of Deputy Director in her office, explaining that she was still an Assistant Director.
She expressed optimism that she would soon get her promotion which will pave way for her to join the Guild.
However, on November 3, 2024 when I didn’t hear from her about the proposed conference, I was curious to know cause of delay, but sent me a message that she had been experiencing excruciating pain on her legs and could not walk or sit, but making attempt to walk round her room.
I felt for her, and had to recommend a pain relief lotion which I sent the image to her so she can buy and start applying on the legs, I was thinking it was just a minor pain at that time. She appreciated my concern, and replied me she would source for it.
Below is first round of our WhatsApp contact chat
[09/12, 11:00 pm] Ijesakinsman: Uv done ur conference in Abeokuta?
[09/12, 11:01 pm] Rafatu IPI: No. I’ve been incapacitated for 8 weeks now
[09/12, 11:02 pm] Ijesakinsman: What went wrong
[09/12, 11:02 pm] Rafatu IPI: Had excruciating pain on my right leg, could not walk or sit
[09/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: But I have begun walking around my room now
[09/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: At least I go to toilet without support
[09/12, 11:05 pm] Ijesakinsman: God perfect ur healing
[09/12, 11:05 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen
But I became shock on December 12, 2024 when I her saw on wheel chair during the conference of International Press Institute (IPI) held in Abuja. Honestly, I was dazed with that picture posted on the Institute membership platform.
I could not resist to keep mute over the development and had to send text to her later in the evening of the event, telling her that I never, knew the medical situation was so heartbreaking, and in response said she cried for hours before she could accept to use the wheel chair to attend the event
This worrisome development motivated me for regular and daily contact with her both on chat and video calls, to know how she’s fairing everyday. This our regular conversation was between December 9 to 17, 2024, as produced below, not until early morning of Friday, just about 48 hours of our chat and video discussions with her, I got the sad news.
Yet I still didn’t believe, because I still spoke with her few days. My curiosity made me to put a call across to her phone at about 7am, that was when it dawned on me, when receiver of the phone call who identified himself as a brother-in-law confirmed the bad news which shattered the day for me and the journalism family.
One thing that is clear is that we cannot query God, who knows everything. Rafat has done her bit, came and gone, but her good work, particularly in the media industry will forever remain a reference point in the nobble profession. No doubt, her sudden exit will be felt in the journalism world, which was her love profession. God rest her soul.
As I earlier stated above, second version of our conversation between December 9 till Tuesday December 17 before her final exit from this sinful world is produced below
[12/12, 1:32 pm] Ijesakinsman: I never knew is that serious that ur on wheel chair
[12/12, 1:35 pm] Rafatu IPI: Yeah
[12/12, 10:23 pm] Ijesakinsman: God will perfect the healing
[12/12, 10:50 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen
[12/12, 11:02 pm] Ijesakinsman: Honestly, I was shocked when I saw it.
[12/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: I cried for a whole day before agreeing to use it
[12/12, 11:06 pm] Ijesakinsman: U don’t need to cry, just be optimistic. I can understand cos I know how proactive ur, and to be confine on wheel chair can be difficult experience. I know God will heal you
[14/12, 11:53 pm] Rafatu IPI: Getting better by the day
[14/12, 11:54 pm] Ijesakinsman: I already have you in my prayer point
[14/12, 11:54 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen and amen
[14/12, 11:56 pm] Ijesakinsman: Honestly, I was shocked when I saw that ur pix at conference. But am optimistic that you will get over it
[14/12, 11:56 pm] Rafatu IPI: By the special grace of God, the worst is already behind us
[14/12, 11:57 pm] Ijesakinsman: God grace
[15/12, 7:20 pm] Ijesakinsman: God grace and very soon you will rise up to your feet and be more agile and proactive
[15/12, 7:30 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen and amen
[16/12, 11:49 pm] Ijesakinsman: How are u fairing now
[16/12, 11:49 pm] Rafatu IPI: Much better. Thank you sir
[16/12, 11:50 pm] Ijesakinsman: You will walk on ur own
[17/12, 1:11 am] Rafatu IPI: Amen
Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji is founder Penpushing Media and member International Press Institute(IPI). He wrote this piece from Abeokuta, Ogun State, Headquarters of the Penpushing Media
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FG Pledges Enhanced Security for Southeast Region
… Adequate security is vital for business prosperity – Badaru
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has assured the people of the South-East of enhanced security measures, emphasizing that a secure environment is crucial for business growth and prosperity.
During his operational visit to Enugu in the South-East, the Minister addressed officers and personnel of the 82 Division/Joint task force south East Operation Udo ka under the General officer commanding, Major-General H.T Dada .He appreciated their performance while urging them to intensify their efforts in combating insecurity in the region. He also engaged with key stakeholders, including heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, students, and other community leaders, to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing the current security challenges. Other military platforms visited by the Minister included the Nigerian Airforce base Emene, Enugu.
“President Tinubu has directed me to engage with you all to find sustainable solutions to insecurity. Without security, there can be no peace or development,” Badaru stated. He acknowledged the entrepreneurial spirit of the South-East populace, asserting that security and peace are essential for businesses to thrive. “We seek your candid suggestions and information on how we can practically enhance security and foster lasting peace in this region,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to eradicating all forms of insecurity in the South-East . He elucidated on the progress made by the Tinubu administration over the past year in combating insecurity across the nation, particularly in these region.
“There is a renewed determination to intensify our efforts against all forms of insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership,” he declared.
In his remarks, Major General Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division/ JointTask south East Operation Udo ka, announced that the Army is implementing robust strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment for the upcoming festive season. “Through the Joint Security Task Force in the South-East, code-named ‘Operation UDO KA’, we aim to create a secure atmosphere that facilitates the usual mass return for Christmas,” he stated.
Additionally, retired Major General John Nwoga emphasized the role of social media in exacerbating insecurity, noting that the circulation of old videos depicting criminal activities contributes to fear and panic within communities. “It is imperative for our people to collectively address the negative impact of misleading information and fake news proliferated through social media,” Nwoga urged.
Furthermore, the Minister visited Imo State in continuation of his operational tour of southEast on Friday 22nd November 2024. He addressed the troops at the FOB okigwe, 211 Quick Response Group, Nigerian Airforce owerri and Naval Base Oguta in Imo State. He expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR message to them and that they should improve on their successes.
The Honourable Minister also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hope Uzodimma of imo state to extend his gratitude to the Governor for all his support to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army/ Joint Task force south East, Operation udo ka. “All the officers and men appreciates you.”
The Ministry of Defence remains committed to fostering a secure and peaceful environment conducive to business and community development in the South-East. We are determined to end insecurity in Nigeria.
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Rented Crowed, APC AKIDA Leader with Zamfara State Govt. Buses Embark on Campaign of Calumny at DSS Office
Godiya Hamza, a Media Analyst, writes from Abuja
The orchestrated campaign of calumny against the Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle MON by a group of street orchins recruited by the leader of APC AKIDA Tijjani Ramallan is very preposterous and indecent.
This is politics too far, Ramadan has been attacking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR right from campaign days. He never supported or participated in APC activities, he has been jealous of Matawalle loyalty to our President.
Tijjani Ramallan has been sponsoring Banditry and romancing with criminals.
The leader of the APC AKIDA Tijjani Ramallan is being sponsored by the state government to attack the person of Dr Matawalle. It is expected that by now the DSS should have arrested him . He has found himself as a willing tool to be manipulated by Governor Dauda Lawal in attacking Dr Matawalle.
The earlier smear campaign embarked by zamfara state government which was stopped by a court order has forced them to shift to the use of APC AKIDA to carry out their mischief.
What zamfara people need is good governance and not wasting the state resources in trying to pull Matawalle down.
Pull him down syndrome pays no body.
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