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DHQ Clarifies Katsina Border Clash as Nigeria, Niger Strengthen Security Cooperation
DHQ Clarifies Katsina Border Clash as Nigeria, Niger Strengthen Security Cooperation
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has explained the circumstances surrounding a recent border incident involving local vigilantes and Nigerien troops in Mazanya Village, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, assuring that the situation has been fully resolved.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, stated in Abuja that new measures have been adopted to prevent a recurrence.
According to Onoja, the incident occurred on November 29 around 3 p.m. when a convoy of Nigerien soldiers entered Mazanya to fetch water—a long-standing practice permitted between the two neighbouring countries. However, the unusually large size of the convoy, comprising four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep, was misinterpreted as a hostile movement by local vigilantes who opened fire.
He noted that the misunderstanding was swiftly addressed through dialogue between Nigerian security officials and the Nigerien commander.
“The Nigerien troops eventually fetched the required water and returned to their side of the border without further incident,” he said.
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Onoja added that the Nigerien commander emphasized the need for prior notification before future cross-border water-fetching missions, especially those involving senior officers or large troop formations. Both sides committed to improving communication.
To reinforce cooperation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria convened a Joint Border Security Meeting on December 1, focusing on strengthening liaison structures, enhancing communication channels and preventing similar misunderstandings.
The DHQ reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong bilateral ties with the Republic of Niger, noting shared cultural, economic, and security bonds, as well as common challenges including terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, and transborder crimes.
“The Defence Headquarters remains committed to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and seamless coordination with the Republic of Niger,” Onoja said.
He assured residents of Mazanya and other border communities that the situation is under control, with both countries pledging to ensure civilian safety. Onoja urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, noting that lessons from the incident are being taken seriously and concrete steps are underway to prevent future occurrences.
DHQ Clarifies Katsina Border Clash as Nigeria, Niger Strengthen Security Cooperation
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Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
The Delta State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu in Anambra State, arresting key suspects linked to the case.
Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe disclosed on Sunday that operatives of the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), acting on credible intelligence, apprehended 25-year-old security guard Godwin Mngumi on 6 December 2025. Mngumi allegedly murdered the retired judge, and authorities also recovered the deceased’s mobile phone from him.
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According to Edafe, Mngumi confessed to inviting a friend, Nnaji Obalum, and another accomplice — who remains at large — to the residence where the crime was committed. Obalum has since been arrested, while a manhunt continues for the third suspect.
The arrests mark a major step forward in the effort to bring all perpetrators of the high-profile murder to justice.
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
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Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
The Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has made significant strides in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crimes. Recent operations, including an intelligence-led arms recovery in Abraka and the arraignment of 18 suspects, highlight the command’s intensified enforcement efforts across the state.
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Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe said on Saturday that the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), under ASP Julius Robinson, executed a successful operation on December 6, 2025, targeting cult-related activities and the proliferation of illegal firearms. Acting on credible intelligence, officers conducted a coordinated search at No. 2 Umeghe Community, Abraka, the residence of Isiakpere Friday, 67.
The move underscores the Delta State Police’s commitment to restoring safety and security in communities affected by criminal and cult-related activities.
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
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Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
The Nigerian Army has temporarily frozen both statutory and voluntary retirements for certain officers, including Generals, following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. The decision aims to bolster manpower as the country faces a surge in kidnappings and worsening insecurity.
The move comes after more than 600 abduction cases were reported in November 2025, including the kidnapping of over 300 students in Niger State, 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and 25 students in Kebbi State.
An internal circular dated December 3 and signed by Maj. Gen. E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff cited provisions in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service Officers (HTACOS) 2024, allowing service extensions “in the interest of the service.” The memo explains that officers usually retire upon reaching age limits, completing 35 years of service, or failing promotion/conversion boards, but these rules can be overridden during national emergencies.
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The suspension affects officers who have:
- Failed promotion examinations three times
- Been passed over repeatedly at promotion boards
- Reached rank age limits
- Failed conversion boards thrice
- Completed 35 years of service
Officers granted extensions will remain in service but will not be eligible for further promotions, courses, secondments, or extra-regimental appointments. Those unwilling to continue can still proceed with standard exit procedures.
Commanders have been instructed to communicate the directive and manage morale across units, with the policy to be reviewed once national security conditions improve.
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
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