The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s tax administration system, citing taxpayers’ attitudes towards taxation as a key challenge.

Idris made this statement while serving as Chairman at the 2024 Annual Public Lecture, AGM, and Awards of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kaduna State chapter. 

The event, held under the theme “Tax Reform: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance,” brought together stakeholders to discuss the proposed Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.

The Minister highlighted the importance of reforming the tax system to enhance national economic growth, underscoring the critical role of public relations in facilitating meaningful dialogue and fostering public trust.

He stated: “The theme has brought to the fore yet again, the place of constructive dialogue as a vital pillar of democracy while noting that the ongoing review of the country’s tax laws is timely and crucial, especially as part of a larger set of macroeconomic reforms, just as he commended the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for an excellent job, in terms of public engagement.

According to the Minister, “The topic before us today is a sensitive yet important and inescapable one: taxation. It was the American statesman, Benjamin Franklin, who famously said that “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.

“Let me make it clear that, even with our keenness for fundamental reform of Nigeria’s governance and fiscal systems, the Tinubu administration will never do anything to undermine the ideals of participatory democracy. The current mandate and responsibility that we have for governing and reforming Nigeria at this time came by way of democracy, and we will continue to live up to those very high democratic standards and expectations.

“All over the world, effective taxation is important as a source of financial power for governments to provide social services for their citizens. However, there is plenty of reason to believe and assert that Nigeria’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reform, on account of design and implementation flaws as well as the general attitudes of taxpayers toward taxation.

“In light of this, the ongoing review of the country’s tax laws and realities is timely and crucial, especially as part of a larger set of macroeconomic reforms aimed at setting the country on an irreversible path of growth and development. The full details of the new tax bills are available in the public domain – one must commend the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for an excellent job in this regard, in terms of public engagement – so I will not attempt to go over these details again here.

“What I will say is that it is very inspiring and heartwarming to see Nigerians from all walks of life coming out to express their views and opinions on these matters of critical national importance, as such is the very essence and meaning of democracy. In spite of the challenge of trust deficit that tends to crop up around matters of governance in Nigeria, we have still been able to have what can be adjudged as robust debate on this sensitive issue.

“President Tinubu has also been very clear that the Executive will listen to and work with all stakeholders to ensure that all concerns are duly and comprehensively addressed. We will continue to ensure open lines of communication and engagement with the National Assembly and all other stakeholders on these taxation bills. We are all in this together, as one people, one nation, and just as we are being called upon to make collective sacrifices, we will also collectively reap the abundant social and economic benefits of all of these necessary reforms.

“It is at times like this that we are reminded of the important roles of Public Relations in the maintenance of a functioning and healthy society. By facilitating purposeful communication, building mutual understanding, and transparent promotion of ideas, Public Relations practice and practitioners can help create a culture of collaboration and progress.

“Also, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to implement an ambitious fiscal reform agenda that will devolve more resources to Nigeria’s State and Local Governments, and ultimately to the Nigerian people, in the spirit of true federalism, citizen engagement will become ever more critical.

“Those of us who manage communications for the Federal Government understand that we have a lot of work on our hands. We are up to the task, and we will continue to deploy innovative and comprehensive mechanisms to provide the public with insights and enlightened information that will bolster public trust and confidence in the reform narratives of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“We will also be looking to count on the strong support of the NIPR, among many other stakeholders. Which is why this dialogue is very much welcome, and commendable.

“Society advances by mutually respectful engagements, where we give voice to diverse opinions, and respect those who we disagree with. We will certainly not always agree on all issues, perhaps not even on most. But we will always be guided by the fact that the things that unite us – our common humanity, our nationhood, our sense of patriotism, our collective vision for a Nigeria that works for all – will always be more important and more meaningful than our differences of age, religion, region, ideology, gender, culture, and social class,” the Minister said.

Earlier, the President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku pleaded the institute’s support for the expected reality and implementation of the tax reform in the country by using the vocal voices of the institute across the country.

Also the Lead Discussant, Professor Mustapha Bagudo Muhammad gave a thorough insight into the numerous advantages of the reform while all the Panelists including Senator Shehu Sani, Professor Cosmos Eze and Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf all gave their nod to the proposed tax reform.

Senator Sani in his submission said, countries like Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates have started taking measures to address their post oil feature, adding that the Tax Reform is one of the very important steps for Nigeria and Nigerian economic feature.

Speaking also, Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and former Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kaduna State, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab both argued that the tax reform was necessary, however called for more awareness creation and sensitization.

The senior pastor of House on the Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has revealed that the depreciation of the naira has led to a significant economic downturn, causing the church to spend eight times what it cost to organise Experience 19.

He revealed this during a press briefing ahead of the Experience concert, which took place on Friday night in Lagos.

Adefarasin emphasised the undeniable impact of the economic downturn, stating, “The Nigerian economy is getting tougher; it takes someone who believes in God to organise this. What we spent last year is now eight times that amount this year because of the naira depreciation.”

He continued, “For 19 remarkable years, we have gathered—under the open skies of Tafawa Balewa Square and in countless homes across the world—to partake in a divine encounter. THE EXPERIENCE has transcended its beginnings as a local gathering, growing into a global phenomenon that bears witness to the unfailing faithfulness of God.

“Millions join us each year, united in worship, with one purpose: to glorify the name above all names—Jesus Christ, the King of kings. The lights that pierce the night—from raised hands, glowing screens, and illuminated faces at the TBS—are more than fleeting visuals. They epitomise hope, unity, and a shared testament to the transformative power of faith in God. Whether you are here in Lagos or joining from across the oceans, we are one people, with one heart, one voice, and one victorious proclamation: JESUS WINS.

“What began as a vision 19 years ago has evolved into a movement of eternal significance. THE EXPERIENCE is more than an event; it is a sacred moment where worship converges with unity, where borders blur, and the divine speaks.

“Though our themes may differ from year to year, the foundation remains steadfast. Every melody sung, every prayer lifted, every hand raised to heaven announces the enduring truth that it has always been—and will always be—all about Jesus.

“As you reflect on these words, consider the far-reaching impact of this throng—not just for those who are present, but for a world yearning for better nations and a more sincere, hopeful existence.

“THE EXPERIENCE is a celebration of faith’s resilience, a movement that transcends trials to attest to the unshakeable truth that, regardless of the circumstances we endure or the darkness that confronts us, we stand unshaken in the certain knowledge that Jesus, the Light of the world, always wins.”

The highly anticipated concert featured a host of award-winning international and Nigerian gospel artists, who delivered soul-lifting performances, adding credibility to the widely viewed annual event.

As the world continues to battle the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, new variants of the virus are emerging, each presenting unique challenges.

One such variant is the recently identified XEC strain, which has raised concerns due to its potential impact on global public health.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

COVID-19 can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, including death.

The first known case was identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been a number of prominent variants, including Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron, and XEC.

The XEC strain was first detected in Germany in June 2024 and has since spread to 27 countries.

It has been found in several countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, with at least 600 confirmed cases in the past four months.

Countries affected include Germany, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Canada, China, Norway, Poland, and the Netherlands.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that the XEC strain is a subvariant of the Omicron lineage of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Like other variants, the XEC strain has raised concerns due to its potential for increased transmissibility and partial immune escape.

This means that individuals who have been infected with previous strains or who have been vaccinated may still be at risk of reinfection.

However, vaccines remain the most effective defence against severe illness.

The WHO further explained that the XEC strain, like other COVID-19 variants, primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the XEC strain is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants.

Surveillance data from the UKHSA indicates that the admission rate for patients testing positive for all strains rose to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week leading up to October 6, 2024.

Experts believe the XEC strain is more transmissible due to its numerous mutations. Symptoms of this strain are similar to those of other COVID-19 variants, including fatigue, headaches, sore throat, and high temperatures.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, noted, “Our current surveillance shows that around 13 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases are of the XEC lineage.

However, current information doesn’t suggest we should be more concerned about this variant. We are monitoring it closely, and vaccination still offers the best protection.”

While the symptoms of the XEC strain are generally similar to those of other COVID-19 variants, they can range from mild to severe.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. Some individuals, especially those with underlying health conditions, may experience more severe complications.

The elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the more severe effects of the virus.

In Nigeria, experts are urging the public to remain vigilant and informed about this new strain, which could alter the course of the ongoing fight against the virus.

Although the XEC strain has not been officially reported in Nigeria, the Coordinating Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has been monitoring the situation closely and is advising healthcare providers to be cautious.

The Ministry emphasised the importance of precautionary measures to prevent the potential spread of the variant into Nigeria.

Experts stressed that vaccines remain the most effective tool in protecting against severe disease.

With Nigeria’s vaccination drive ongoing, citizens were strongly encouraged to participate.

Dr Adesola Adebayo, a public health expert, highlighted the continued importance of following public health guidelines:

“The emergence of the XEC strain is a reminder that the pandemic is far from over.

“It’s crucial that Nigerians continue to adhere to safety guidelines and take personal responsibility in preventing the spread of COVID-19.”

Adebayo further stated, “Vaccination, adherence to safety protocols, and public health measures remain essential in protecting ourselves and our communities.”

According to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigerians can access the COVID-19 vaccine at public and designated private health facilities, COVID-19 diagnostic centres, motor parks, shopping malls, markets, event centres, and schools.

Amongst others were public places across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The XEC strain serves as a stark reminder that the battle against COVID-19 is ongoing.

Hence, Nigerians are urged to stay informed, get vaccinated, and adhere to public health guidelines to protect themselves and their communities from this evolving threat. (NAN)

Something truly intriguing unfolded this week in the bustling city of Abuja. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken over a massive estate comprising 753 duplexes, sparking widespread curiosity and questions.

This situation goes beyond mere buildings; it tells a short tale filled with secrets and suspense that has captured the attention of the entire nation. 

Imagine a sprawling estate, covering a vast 150,500 square metres in the Lokogoma District of Abuja. This area boasts 753 exquisite duplexes, but there’s a mysterious story behind them.

The EFCC believes these properties are linked to a former powerful government official suspected of using illicit funds to acquire them. Now, the EFCC has stepped in to take action. The sheer size of the estate marks it as the largest single asset recovery in the EFCC’s 21-year history.

Led by Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC successfully secured a court order last Monday to take control of these properties. However, what makes this case even more intriguing is that the identity of this former official has not been formally disclosed to the public.

This secrecy has sparked curiosity and even a hint of suspicion among the people. Journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens are questioning why the EFCC is withholding this information.

In response, the EFCC has stated that they are currently focusing on the properties as they piece together the full story. While this approach is strategic, it has left the public eager for further details.

The excitement peaked when Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie supported the EFCC’s decision to seize the properties, marking a significant victory for the commission in its fight against corruption.

Nonetheless, this ruling has left many waiting anxiously for more information. Who is the mysterious figure behind these duplexes? What fraud did he commit? How? How much was involved? What kind of embezzlement? Is he in jail or at large? Which ministry or government department did he defraud to build that estate? What is the worth of that estate?

The EFCC explains that they must adhere to legal protocols to ensure the investigation is conducted properly. This careful approach is vital for maintaining the integrity of the process.

Across Nigeria, this story has become the talk of the town. Many people are applauding the EFCC, believing they are effectively combating corruption and safeguarding Nigeria’s resources. These supporters view the seizure as a positive step towards accountability and justice. However, others, such as activist Omowole Sowore, argue that the EFCC should be more transparent about what they know.

This debate has sparked lively discussions, with everyone eager to learn more about the unfolding situation. The public’s demand for transparency underscores the importance of open communication in significant cases like this. As the dust begins to settle, calls for greater transparency and honesty are growing louder.

Mr Ola Olukoyede has emphasised the crucial need to reclaim assets like these to halt corruption in its tracks. He sees asset recovery as a key tool in preventing corrupt individuals from reaping the benefits of their unlawful activities.

Despite this, the public remains on edge, awaiting the next chapter of this unfolding story. This situation is not merely about a collection of houses; it pertains to ensuring that Nigeria remains fair and just for all its citizens. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future actions against corruption.

So, as you reflect on this intriguing story, remember: fighting corruption is not solely the EFCC’s responsibility; it is something we can all play a part in. Stay curious, ask questions, and hold our leaders accountable. And who knows? Perhaps one day, you’ll be the one helping to unravel a significant mystery—just kidding (or perhaps not)!

But in all seriousness, let’s continue to advocate for the truth and work collectively to improve Nigeria. Our vigilance and demand for accountability will help ensure that justice prevails and that our nation continues to thrive.

An Akure Magistrate’s Court in Ondo State has ordered the remand of a 38-year-old man, Moses Udoh, in prison, for the alleged indecent sexual assault of his daughter.

The Police Prosecutor, Taiwo Oniyere, said that the defendant committed the offence on November 26, at 10.20 p.m., at his residence located at No 20 Igboniki Street, along LAO, Akure, Ondo State.

Oniyere, told the court that Udoh, on several occasions forcefully had sexual intercourse with his biological daughter.

According to him, the defendant severally threatened to kill the victim if she reported him to anyone.

According to the charge sheet, offence committed contravene Sections 25(a) and 86(2) of the Ondo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of 2021.

The plea of the defendant was not taken due to the nature of the offence.

Police prosecutor therefore urged the court to remand the defendant to prison, pending legal advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

The trial Magistrate Temilola Olusola-Olujobi, thereafter, ordered his remand in prison.

Olusola-Olujobi also ordered the transfer of the case to the Family Court and adjourned it to December 10 for trial, because of the age of the victim. 

Meanwhile, in an interview, the victim narrated how her father, severally violated her in his room and threatened to kill her if she open up to anyone.

‘He started when I turned 10’

According to her “My father has been forcefully having sexual intercourse with me through my front and my back.

“He started it when I was 10 years old and I cannot count the number of times he has done it.

“Whenever my father was sleeping with me in the night, he would increase the volume of his radio, so that my voice would not be heard by neighbours around.

“He instructed me not to tell our neighbours about it and also threatened to kill me and the person.

“When I noticed that blood was coming out of my anus, which is now causing discomfort for me, I decided to tell his sister.”

A group of northern youths, Arewa Youths Initiative For Energy Reforms (AYIFER), has called on the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, to do all within his powers to deliver the Kaduna Refinery on time and in good standard.

This was contained in a statement signed on Friday by Alhaji Bashir Al’Amin, National Coordinator, and Mr. Gideon Yakubu, General Secretary, and made available to newsmen.

According to the group, the hopes of the entire northerners lie in the completion of work and inauguration of crude productions in the Kaduna Refinery.

AYIFER urged Kyari to deliver a standard and full fledged petrochemical refinery, similar to the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, and resist any temptation to deliver the type in Port Harcourt, which it said, has been criticized by host communities and stakeholders, describing it as a blending plant.

The statement further quoted the group as expressing optimism that Kyari would deliver a standard refinery to the north, since it’s the only refinery legacy domiciled in the region, after the dearth or near collapse of other legacy industries and factories.

“We have not been to Port Harcourt Refinery since it was reopened, but the commentaries therefrom, especially the host communities and other Nigerians, are not encouraging at all. Some of these comments are uncharitable to Mallam Mele Kyari and even to the NNPCL, an embarrassment to the nation as a whole.

“We believe so much in Mallam Mele Kyari, as a seasoned geologist and explorationist and we know, at the right time, he would come out to address all the issues raised about the Port Harcourt Refinery. We will know by then if all their claims are genuine or not.

“But in the meantime, we are calling on him, to expedite action on Kaduna Refinery, so we can be at par with other regions in the country.

“We equally beg the NNPCL, headed by our able brother, to do professional work in rehabilitating the old refinery and deliver a standard and functional petrochemical refinery and not the type they call blending plant in Port Harcourt.

“We know that he is an extremely busy person and a lot too is happening around him. We have tried severally to pay courtesy visit to him, to intimate him about our demands, to no avail. We understand his tight schedules and we also know some sycophants may have access to him and want to mislead him. He should resist any temptation that could make him to do something that can jeopardize his good image. It’s our duty to protect him, because if he fails, we have failed. He is a young man that God has blessed. He needs our prayers.

“Since the extinction of groundnut pyramid in Kano, textiles in Kano and Kaduna, PAN in Kaduna, etc, and the Kaduna refinery getting moribund, a lot of our youth lost their jobs and all our hopes in the north are tied to this legacy refinery, trusting Almighty Allah would use our brother to deliver it well, and on time, too.

“We are solidly behind him in prayer and we shall come out soon to celebrate him, when our expectations are met, insha Allah,” the statement read.

Local rice prices in Nigeria surged 137.32 per cent in October 2024 compared to the same period last year, making it one of the country’s 10 most expensive staple foods.

The sharp rise was noted in the National Bureau of Statistics’ Selected Food Prices report for October 2024, which provided an in-depth overview of food price trends across Nigeria.

According to the NBS report, the average price of local rice in October 2024 stood at N1,944.64, a significant increase from N819.42 in October 2023.

The surge in local rice prices highlights the ongoing inflationary pressures on food prices, which have become a key concern for Nigerian households struggling with the rising cost of living.

On a month-on-month basis, local rice prices also saw an increase of 1.56 per cent, up from N1,914.77 in September 2024, further highlighting the persistence of inflationary trends within the food sector.

Geographically, there were significant variations in the price of local rice across Nigeria. Kogi State recorded the highest price for local rice at N2,693.41, while Benue State recorded the lowest price at N1,267.25.

These price disparities across states reflect regional variations in supply, demand, and the distribution channels for staple foods.

It is also indicative of the challenges that local farmers and producers face in meeting demand amid rising production costs and logistical challenges.

The NBS report also indicated that food inflation in Nigeria remained high in October, standing at 39.16 per cent year-on-year from 31.52 per cent in October 2023.

The year-on-year rise in food inflation reflects broader economic challenges, including the effects of exchange rate volatility, fuel price hikes, and supply chain disruptions.

On a month-on-month basis, the food inflation rate rose by 2.94 per cent, up from 2.64 per cent recorded in September 2024.

The NBS’ inflation report for October 2024 read, “The Food inflation rate in October 2024 was 39.16 per cent on a year-on-year basis, 7.64 percentage points higher compared to the rate recorded in October 2023 (31.52 per cent).

“The rise in Food inflation on a year-on-year basis was caused by increases in prices of the following items: guinea corn, rice, maize grains, rice, etc (bread and cereals class), yam, water yam, coco yam, etc (potatoes, yam and other tubers class), palm oil, vegetable oil, etc (oil and fats class) and Milo, Lipton, Bourvita, etc. (coffee, tea and cocoa class).”

The incremental rise in food inflation is a concerning trend for Nigerians, as it suggests that food prices are likely to continue their upward trajectory, putting further pressure on household budgets.

In addition to local rice, agricultural rice, typically sold by local farmers, saw an even steeper price increase.


The price of agricultural rice in October 2024 experienced a year-on-year increase of 138.90 per cent to N2,023.68 from N847.08 in the corresponding period of last year.

Prices of agricultural rice varied significantly across different states, with Nasarawa reporting the highest price of N3,120.49, while Benue had the lowest at N1,354.87.

Agricultural rice, which is usually a more affordable option compared to processed local rice, has become significantly more expensive, further exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis for many Nigerians.

The PUNCH observed that the prices of Ofada rice and imported rice had also seen significant increases, contributing to the broader trend of rising food prices in Nigeria.

Ofada rice, a local variety grown predominantly in the southwestern region of Nigeria, experienced a sharp price rise.

In October, the average price of Ofada rice stood at N2,428.65, up from N811.83 in October 2023, representing a 199.16 per cent rise year-on-year, reflecting the growing demand for the staple and the rising cost of production.

The price of Ofada rice varies considerably across states. In Osun State, for example, the price of Ofada rice was reported at N3,400, while in Adamawa State, it was slightly lower at N1,425.

Also, imported rice, which is largely sourced from international markets, has seen considerable price hikes, influenced by the devaluation of the naira, import tariffs, and global price fluctuations in the rice market.

The average price of imported rice in October 2024 rose to N2,471.28 per 1kg bag, up from N1,016.12 per 1kg bag in October 2023, reflecting an increase of 143.21 per cent year-on-year.

Kogi State recorded the highest price for this rice at N3,187.35, while Niger had the lowest at N2,017.04.

The increase is largely attributed to the ongoing challenges in the foreign exchange market, which have made importing rice more expensive, as well as the higher global rice prices exacerbated by factors such as the Ukraine conflict and rising energy costs.

The rise in the price of imported rice is further compounded by Nigeria’s reliance on imports to meet domestic demand for rice.

While local production has grown in recent years, it has still not been enough to fully meet the country’s needs, thus leading to an increased dependence on imported rice.

The rising prices of local rice, Ofada rice, and imported rice have played a major role in driving up food inflation in Nigeria.

Last month, the Senator representing Jigawa North-West Senatorial Zone, Babangida Husaini, called on the Federal, State, and Local Governments to address the rising cost of basic food items, which continues to escalate nationwide despite the harvest season.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has assured that its employment process will be transparent and inclusive.

Kyari assured the 45,689 job applicants that they would take the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBT) as part of the oil company’s recruitment process on Saturday (today).

According to NNPC spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, Kyari, while addressing applicants at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Centenary Resource Centre in Maitama, Abuja, said he was at the centre to ensure the process is smooth, transparent, fair, and credible.

“As an equal opportunity employer, NNPC Ltd. has made special provisions to ensure that applicants with disabilities can take the test without any hindrance,” he said.

The NNPC boss reiterated that only the most qualified candidates among the 45,689 applicants will be selected for employment.

In a related development, in a brief statement on its X handle on Saturday, the national oil company joined in celebrating the International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs).

NNPC promised inclusivity to the persons living with disability who were shortlisted for the recruitment exercise.

“In honour of the International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities, NNPC Limited proudly engaged with our staff living with disabilities and some shortlisted candidates for the ongoing recruitment CBT exams.

“This occasion reaffirms our commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and creating opportunities for everyone. Together, we are fostering a culture of excellence and equal representation,” it read.

Eight suspected armed robbers, including a rusticated operative of the Nigerian Army, have been arrested in Enugu over alleged armed robbery and financial fraud.

According to the Enugu State Police Command, the suspects specialized in interstate armed robbery and financial fraud.

A release by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said their arrest followed coordinated operations involving the Emene Division, Crack and Octopus Tactical Squads, alongside the neighbourhood watch group, adding that items recovered from them were firearms, ammunition, cash, and other stolen items.

Ndukwe gave the names of those arrest as Ismaila Isah (23), Sadik Ahmed (a dismissed soldier, 28), Abbas Usman (33), Mubarak Garba (24), Abubakar Haruna (23), Abubakar Sani (32), Obiri Chukwuebuka (22), and Bright Omeniru (22).

He added that two locally-made pistols loaded with a live and expended cartridge and a cash sum of three hundred thousand, four hundred and fifty naira (₦300,450.00) were recovered.

“Further recovered are ten laptops, land documents, ten mobile phones, assorted jewellery and watches, one MP3 player, one headphone, four power banks, two SIM cards, footwear, and bags,” he said.

He said, “The operation commenced on November 12, 2024, around 3:30am when operatives from the Emene Division, supported by neighbourhood watch members, responded to a distress call regarding an armed robbery at an estate in Emene.

“During the operation, Ismaila Isah was apprehended with one locally made pistol, the said ₦300,450.00, and some stolen items, while others escaped.”

He said Ismaila was later transferred to the Crack Tactical Squad for further investigation, noting that his confessional statements and subsequent discreet investigations led to the arrest of Sadik Ahmed, Abbas Usman, Mubarak Garba, Abubakar Haruna, and Abubakar Sani at their hideouts in New Garriki, Awkunanaw, Enugu. Another locally made pistol and additional stolen items were recovered.

According to him, operatives from the Octopus Tactical Squad utilised an intelligence report and arrested Obiri Chukwuebuka and Bright Omeniru in Owerri, Imo State, adding that during interrogations, the suspects admitted to using phones stolen by the syndicate to fraudulently withdraw funds from victims’ bank accounts. He said two SIM cards from different networks were also recovered.

Quoting him, “Investigations reveal that the suspects confessed to committing multiple armed robberies within the Enugu metropolis and using the victims’ mobile phones’ SIM cards to also commit acts of fraud. They further confessed to moving and selling the stolen proceeds in Imo and other states.

“Sadik Ahmed, the dismissed soldier, admitted to exploiting his background as a former security agent to bypass checkpoints during the interstate shipment of the stolen items.”

The suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations, said the PPRO.