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Hunters Urge Federal Government to Empower Them in Battle Against Bandits and Terrorists
Amid the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in states such as Plateau and Benue, local hunters and farmers are urging the Federal Government to officially recognize and support their efforts to combat bandits, Boko Haram insurgents, and other criminals who operate in the country’s forests. These groups, including the Nigerian Forest Security Service, Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria, Agbekoya Farmers’ Society of Nigeria, and the Oodua Peoples Congress, believe they have the expertise, training, and deep forest presence necessary to take on terrorists and armed criminals.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Recent attacks have caused significant loss of life, such as the massacre of 51 people in the Plateau State’s Bassa Local Government Area. In response, President Bola Tinubu directed security agencies to address these issues and overhaul Nigeria’s security strategy. However, the hunting and forest guard groups assert that local hunters have long been an underutilized resource and could be a key force in reducing insecurity.
Joshua Osatimehin, Commandant General of the Nigerian Forest Security Service, emphasized that while forest operatives have the necessary knowledge of the terrain and experience living and working in the forests, they cannot act effectively without legal backing. Osatimehin argued that without proper governmental support, taking action against criminals could lead to accusations of illegal activities.
“We need government backing to provide us with the necessary resources and authority to take effective action against the criminals. We know the terrain well, and with the right support, we can make a significant difference,” he said. He also highlighted the critical role of local hunters in defending the forests before military or police forces can intervene.
Danladi Perry, National Secretary of the Professional Hunters Association, called for enhanced patrols and surveillance, particularly along routes often used by attackers. He suggested that government support could facilitate more intensive monitoring of forest areas, potentially preventing many attacks before they occur.
Adegbenro Ogunlana, Secretary-General of the Agbekoya Farmers’ Society, stated that spiritual means were already being deployed to protect the South-West from insecurity. Ogunlana shared that spiritual practices were essential in combating criminal activities, but emphasized that a coordinated, physical effort backed by the government would be crucial for long-term success.
In a similar vein, Alhaji Muhammad Ahmed, Commander of Patrol and Guards in the North-Central region, stressed that a proposed bill currently before President Tinubu could provide the legal framework needed to formalize the role of local hunters and forest security operatives. Once signed into law, the bill would authorize the deployment of both physical and spiritual strategies to address security threats effectively.
These groups are calling on the government to take immediate steps to formalize their involvement in tackling Nigeria’s security crisis, which they believe is vital for restoring peace and stability in affected regions.
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a historic breakthrough with the emergence of its first female pilot, Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun, who recently earned a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The achievement was celebrated by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, marking a significant step in the agency’s drive to strengthen its aviation capacity for surveillance, logistics, and anti-smuggling operations.
At a ceremony attended by senior officers, the Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, described the development as a landmark moment for the service.
He said Balogun’s transition from cabin crew to certified commercial pilot represents a major breakthrough for the Customs aviation unit and highlights the agency’s commitment to professional growth and inclusivity.
He added that the milestone reflects expanding opportunities within the Service as it continues to integrate air assets into its enforcement and border monitoring operations.
Balogun expressed gratitude for the support she received, noting that her journey required dedication and resilience, while pledging to apply her new skills in advancing the Customs mandate with professionalism and discipline.
The development has been widely described within the Service as an inspiration for greater female participation in technical and specialised roles.
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Osun 2026: APC Candidate Oyebamiji Pledges Inclusive Governance For Non-Indigenes, Interest Groups.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), has pledged to ensure inclusive governance by integrating non-indigenes and various interest groups if elected in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
He said his administration would operate a structured system that promotes participation and representation of all segments of society in governance.
The pledge was conveyed by a former lawmaker and ex-Special Adviser on Civic Engagement, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, after he represented the candidate at an engagement with members of the Arewa community in Ibokun, Obokun Local Government Area.
Oyintiloye said the plan is aimed at strengthening the link between government and grassroots communities, ensuring public policies reflect citizens’ real needs.
He added that all groups would be actively involved in both policy formulation and implementation to drive development in the state.
Oyebamiji also promised continued engagement with farmers, traders, artisans, and non-indigene communities as key stakeholders in governance.
Responding, leaders of the Arewa community commended past inclusion efforts and pledged support for the APC candidate ahead of the election.
Barely a year after its inauguration in Akwa Ibom State, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been plunged into a deep factional crisis.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Multiple factions are now locked in a struggle for control of the party, leaving members uncertain about the legitimate leadership structure.
One faction is led by John Akpanudodehe, a former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while another is headed by the embattled state chairman, Dick Duke.
Although the leader of a third faction could not be immediately confirmed, findings indicate that another group also exists within the party.
Sources further suggest that the Akpanudodehe-led faction is seeking to remove the current chairman through a recently held congress that has sparked controversy.
In response, Dick Duke convened a stakeholders’ meeting over the weekend, where he rejected the legitimacy of the said congress.
He said the party had formally written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to distance itself from the exercise, citing a subsisting court order.
According to him, his tenure as state chairman is still valid until May, and any congress conducted before then would be unlawful.
Duke added that the party would only proceed with proper congresses after the expiration of his tenure and the resolution of legal issues, in line with due process.
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