NGIJ Seeks Partnership with NOA to Strengthen Accountability, Civic Values in Nigeria

NGIJ Seeks Partnership with NOA to Strengthen Accountability, Civic Values in Nigeria

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has called for a strategic partnership with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to strengthen civic education, combat misinformation, and promote accountability in governance, as both institutions identified investigative journalism as critical to Nigeria’s democratic development.

The call was made on recently when a delegation of NGIJ, led by its National President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, paid a courtesy visit to the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, and the management team of the agency in Abuja.

In his address, Aliagan said the mandates of NGIJ and NOA were naturally complementary, noting that while NOA is charged with civic education, value re-orientation and public enlightenment, investigative journalism provides verified facts and evidence that enable citizens to make informed decisions and hold public institutions accountable.

He described investigative journalism as pro-accountability and pro-transparency, stressing that it is not antagonistic to government but rather designed to strengthen institutions and rebuild public trust. 

According to him, when facts are responsibly presented and aligned with civic values, citizens become better informed, more responsible and more engaged in democratic processes.

Aliagan identified misinformation, declining public trust in institutions, social tension and civic apathy as major threats to Nigeria’s democracy, urging closer collaboration between journalists and NOA to address the challenges through joint public enlightenment campaigns, capacity-building on fact-checking and counter-disinformation, as well as platforms for constructive engagement with the public.

He further called for an enabling environment for ethical journalism, access to information and institutional support for investigative reporting, noting that investigative findings should be seen as tools for civic education rather than adversarial attacks on government. 

He expressed hope that the courtesy visit would mark the beginning of a structured and enduring partnership between NGIJ and NOA in the collective task of nation-building.

Responding, Issa-Onilu lamented what he described as the steady decline of investigative journalism in Nigeria, arguing that the erosion of depth, accuracy and attention to facts in media practice has weakened the profession and contributed to misinformation and social division.

According to him, journalism has increasingly become superficial, with little emphasis on interpretation, context and fact-based reporting, thereby making it difficult to distinguish between professional journalism and unverified content circulating on social media. 

He stressed that facts are fundamental tools for civic orientation and national unity, warning that when facts are no longer treated as sacred, society becomes vulnerable to ignorance, manipulation and conflict.

The NOA boss said investigative journalism plays a vital role in national development by promoting fairness, balance and objectivity, and by compelling government to do the right thing through informed public scrutiny. 

He noted that poor investigative reporting had contributed to knowledge gaps among citizens, particularly on governance and electoral processes, adding that such gaps often fuel misinformation and unhealthy public discourse.

Issa-Onilu also highlighted challenges faced by NOA in fulfilling its mandate, including limited resources for voter education and civic enlightenment, and pointed to widespread public misunderstanding of electoral processes as evidence of the consequences of weak civic education and poor quality reporting.

He pledged the agency’s support for NGIJ, offering to facilitate collaboration through NOA’s network of Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMOs) across local governments nationwide, who, he said, provide grassroots feedback to government and could serve as valuable community-level sources of information for investigative journalists.

The DG further proposed the establishment of a joint committee between NOA and NGIJ to explore concrete areas of collaboration, including public enlightenment campaigns, counter-disinformation initiatives and mechanisms for strengthening investigative journalism in the public interest.

Members of the NGIJ delegation at the meeting included Comrade James Ezema, Vice President (Investigation); Mallam Abdullahi Gulloma, National Public Relations Officer; Abdulrahman Obaje, FCT Chapter Chairman; Mr. Leonard Oru; Mr. Kunle Awoniyi; and Falmata Zarna.

Both organisations expressed optimism that sustained engagement and structured collaboration would contribute to rebuilding public trust, strengthening democratic culture and promoting national cohesion through responsible journalism and effective civic orientation.

Joint air, ground military offensive takes out bandit kingpin Kachalla Kabiru in Kogi

Joint air, ground military offensive takes out bandit kingpin Kachalla Kabiru in Kogi 

Joint air, ground military offensive takes out bandit kingpin Kachalla Kabiru in Kogi – Sources

A major counter-banditry operation involving Nigeria’s top security architecture has reportedly eliminated a feared criminal kingpin in what is described as a significant blow to the expanding network of armed groups operating across the North-Central and parts of the South-West.

Security sources confirmed that operatives working under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser, alongside the Department of State Services and troops of the Nigerian Army 2 Division, neutralised the bandit leader known as Kachalla Kabiru during a February 13 operation in Kogi State.

The mission, which combined precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force with ground assaults, followed weeks of intelligence gathering and aerial surveillance that tracked the movement and location of the suspect within forest corridors linking Kwara State to the Obajana axis in western Kogi.

A senior security operative involved in the exercise said the coordinated attack also took out several of Kabiru’s top commanders.

“The target and his key lieutenants were neutralised in a joint air and ground offensive after actionable intelligence confirmed their enclave,” the source disclosed.

For more than a decade, Kabiru had been on the radar of security agencies as one of the earliest bandit figures to establish a strong operational base in Kogi — a state increasingly viewed as a strategic gateway between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions..

Intelligence reports indicate that he relocated from the North-West at the peak of the banditry surge and gradually embedded himself in border communities and dense forests, where he built a trans-regional kidnapping and arms-running network.

From these enclaves, his group allegedly coordinated attacks and abductions across Kogi, Kwara, Benue, Enugu, Edo, Ekiti and Ondo states, exploiting porous boundaries and difficult terrain to evade security forces.

Another intelligence official described the late kingpin as a “logistical clearing house” for armed groups, facilitating the movement of fighters, weapons and kidnapped victims across multiple zones.

His operations were also believed to have links with extremist elements, including factions with ideological and operational affinity to Boko Haram, raising concerns among security planners about the convergence of terrorism and organised criminality in the North-Central.

Though not historically listed among the worst-hit states in Nigeria’s banditry crisis, Kogi’s geographic location has made it increasingly vulnerable in recent years.

The state serves as a major transit route connecting the Federal Capital Territory to the South-West and South-South, while its vast forest belts provide cover for criminal groups fleeing sustained military offensives in the North-West.

Security experts have repeatedly warned that the gradual southward movement of bandit groups could reshape Nigeria’s security map if not decisively confronted. Kabiru’s network was considered a key enabler of that shift.

The reported killing is being viewed within security circles as a breakthrough that could disrupt coordination among armed groups operating across state lines.

By targeting a figure said to be central to recruitment, weapons supply and ransom-driven kidnapping operations, the operation is expected to temporarily weaken criminal collaboration in the North-Central corridor.

However, security experts cautioned that the impact will depend on sustained follow-up operations to dismantle the remaining cells and prevent the emergence of splinter leaders.

As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official confirmation from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the DSS, the Nigerian Army or the Nigerian Air Force.

The development comes amid intensified military and intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling bandit enclaves and cutting off their supply chains nationwide.

If formally confirmed, the neutralisation of Kabiru would signal a growing shift toward intelligence-driven, joint-force missions — a strategy security authorities have increasingly adopted to target high-value criminal actors rather than relying solely on conventional troop deployments.

For communities across Kogi and neighbouring states that have endured years of kidnappings and violent attacks, the operation offers cautious hope — but also a reminder that the wider battle against organised armed groups is far from over.

BREAKING: “We Are Being Hounded Off Our Own Inherited FarmLand, late Ooni Ademiluyi descendants.

BREAKING: “We Are Being Hounded Off Our Own Inherited FarmLand”—Family of Late Ooni Ajagunlawarikan Ademuliyi Cries Out, Alleges Oppression by Royal Grandson

The family of the late Late Ooni Ajagunlawarikan Ademuliyi issued a desperate appeal for intervention, alleging a relentless campaign of intimidation and land grabbing by one of their own—an Honorable Kanmi who is also a grandson of the revered royal patriarch.

In an emotion-laden interview with members of the Ademuliyi dynasty, the family revealed that the contested farmland, located in the Idi Igi area, was fairly allocated and entrusted to them by their father long before his passing. They claim the land was formally placed under the joint caretakership of Isaiah Fabeku, Sunday OjuAanu, and Baba Paul in 2007—a decision, they insist, that was widely acknowledged and undisturbed until recently.

Speaking with quiet authority, Isaiah Fabeku confirmed the historical allocation:

“This was done in 2007, in Idi Igi,The land was clearly shared. The wives of Ademuliyi were allocated 27 plots; Adeyeye and Adebowale wives received four each. It was all done peacefully.”

But peace, the family says, has now turned to persecution.

“He wants to take what the women were given”

At the heart of the dispute is a bitter irony: the man they accuse of orchestrating this hostile takeover is a blood relative. Honorable Kami, a grandson of the Ademuliyi family, was himself a beneficiary—having received his own share of the land from his father. Yet, according to distraught family members, his contentment with his portion has curdled into covetousness.

“He now wants to seize the portions allocated to Ademuliyi’s wives,” a family source disclosed. “He is threatening these women simply because they are women. He believes he can take what belongs to them by force—and disturbingly, he appears to be doing this with the backing of the palace.”

A daughter speaks: “Leave our inheritance alone”

An anguished Mrs. Tejumade Adegboola Ademilyi daughter of Soko Adebayo Ademiluyi—himself a son of the late Ooni Ajagunlawarikan—delivered a stirring appeal:

“We do not want any interference or monitoring of these farmlands. Our father gave them to us. We have managed them in peace. Whatever tributes are generated from the land are remitted to the family. We are not defaulters. We are not rebels. We simply want what is ours.”

A plea to the public

With tensions mounting and fears of forceful eviction growing, the family is now appealing to the public, human rights groups, and traditional institutions to intervene before the situation escalates.

“We only want peace. We want to add more to the farmland, not lose what we already have. We are not fighting for power—we are fighting for our inheritance, our dignity, and the memory of our father,” Mrs. Ademiluyi added, her voice trembling.

Demolitions in Makoko, a waterfront community in Lagos, have displaced thousands of residents, with families saying they were given little warning and no clear relocation plan.

Demolitions in Makoko, a waterfront community in Lagos, have displaced thousands of residents, with families saying they were given little warning and no clear relocation plan. 

The centenary-old community has an estimated population of 80,000 to 200,000, but large parts of the settlement have been destroyed. Anger over the demolitions recently spilled onto the streets in Lagos city, with witnesses reporting the use of tear gas. Residents allege that three people, including a woman and two infants, died, though police say this has not been verified. 

The Lagos State Government says the demolitions were for safety reasons, citing buildings near high-tension power lines, and has promised support for those affected. The BBC’s Chiamaka Dike visited Makoko to speak to displaced residents and document the aftermath.

Troops storm bandit leader Dankami’s camp in Zamfara, neutralise 20, destroy stronghold

Troops storm bandit leader Dankami’s camp in Zamfara, neutralise 20, destroy stronghold

Troops of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have stormed the camp of a notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, neutralising 20 terrorists and destroying the stronghold.

A military source told Zagazola Makama  that the decisive, well-coordinated offensive followed credible intelligence that over 100 bandits had converged at the camp to plan coordinated attacks on communities and logistics movements.

According to the source, the troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilantes, conducted week-long surveillance before moving to intercept the terrorists.

“Contact was established on Jan. 31, 2026, as the terrorists advanced. They engaged the troops in a fierce firefight and attempted a flanking manoeuvre, but this was repelled by superior firepower,” the source said.

He said 20 terrorists were neutralised in the encounter, while several others fled with gunshot wounds. Follow-up operations, the source added, were ongoing to assess further casualties and recover additional items.

The raid yielded significant recoveries, including assorted weapons and ammunition, bicycles, food supplies, medical drugs, clothing, detergents and other logistics materials.

“The Gwaska Dan Karmi camp was completely destroyed,” the source said.

He noted that troops remained highly motivated, with combat efficiency assessed as strong and unwavering.

151 Abducted CSMC Members Regain Freedom in Kaduna Relief and jubilation swept through the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Worldwide, Ayo Ni O.

151 Abducted CSMC Members Regain Freedom in Kaduna Relief and jubilation swept through the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Worldwide, Ayo Ni O, following the safe release of 151 members who were abducted in Iburu, Kajuri Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The church confirmed that the victims, who were kidnapped on January 18, 2026, have all returned safely after spending over two weeks in captivity. The announcement was formally made on Monday, February 2, 2026, by the Chairman and Spiritual Father of the church, His Most Eminence, Prophet (Dr.) Emmanuel Abiodun Adewale Alogbo. According to the church leadership, the release followed sustained prayers, dialogue, and strategic engagements with relevant authorities. The development was verified through reports submitted by the church’s liaison officers in Kaduna, including Senior Special Apostle I. A. Adeyemi and Senior Special Apostle Pastor Solomon Katanga. Prophet Alogbo described the incident’s resolution as a victory of faith, dialogue, and collective responsibility, emphasizing that collaboration between religious leaders and government institutions played a critical role in the outcome. He particularly commended the Kaduna State Government for its intervention, praising Governor Uba Sani for his responsiveness and commitment to peaceful engagement. Special recognition was also given to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sani Liman Kila, and the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs (Christian Matters), Rev. Ishaya Jangado, for facilitating effective communication and coordination. The church also acknowledged the support received from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Organization of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), and Christian communities within and outside Nigeria, noting that global prayers and solidarity contributed to sustaining hope throughout the ordeal. While celebrating the safe return of its members, the church disclosed that welfare and medical teams have been deployed to provide psychosocial care and rehabilitation for the victims and their families. Church leaders concluded by calling for sustained peace and improved security in Kaduna State and across Nigeria, urging stakeholders to ensure that the safety of citizens remains a top priority, irrespective of religious affiliation.

AWUJALE SELECTION: GOVERNOR ABIODUN RESPONDS TO MISLEADING REPORTS

AWUJALE SELECTION: GOVERNOR ABIODUN RESPONDS TO MISLEADING REPORTS

Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, has clarified circulating reports suggesting a confrontation between him and the Council of Afobajes regarding the Awujale selection. According to official sources, these claims are completely false and misleading.

The Governor held a respectful consultative meeting with the Council of Afobajes, consistent with meetings he held in the past with the Olori Ebis that were hitherto polarized which fostered their harmonization and, through such earlier engagements, he also persuaded one of the kingmakers to withdraw a filed litigation. 

The discussions he had focused on matters of mutual concern in the interest of the progress in traditional affairs within Ijebuland.

Contrary to the rumors, Governor Abiodun did not issue threats, ultimatums. Statements attributed to him, including “No Kuye, No Awujale”, are entirely fabricated and bear no relation to the Governor or his administration. No Afobaje will attest to such an occurrence, as it never happened. This is once again the fabrication of falsehoods by mischief makers.

The governor remains committed to upholding due process, respecting the autonomy of traditional institutions, and ensuring a fair process in the selection of a new Awujale for Ijebu. His administration continues to prioritize dialogue, harmony, and the preservation of cultural values.

We all know how highly the Governor holds the throne of Awujale which he has consistently demonstrated .

Members of the public, traditional stakeholders, and the media are urged to disregard these unfounded insinuations and rely solely on verified information from official source