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CP Abubakar Charges Enugu Operatives to Sustain Tempo As Command Reels Out One Month Achievements
The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, Abubakar Lawal, has charged men and officers of the Command to sustain the tempo of achievements recorded against criminals and criminal elements in the state in the last one month, spanning March to April 2022.
The CP made the remarks in a press statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Daniel Ndukwe, a copy of which was made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), noting that the Command has recorded major operational breakthroughs and confirmed the arrest of 46 suspects and recovered various items in furtherance of its operational strategies.
The statement in details:
‘Police Operatives of the Command have between March and April 2022, successfully arrested a total of forty-five (45) male and one (1) female suspects involved the offences of conspiracy, murder, rape/defilement, kidnapping/abduction, armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearm, stealing, vandalism and cultism.’
‘The operational activities led to the rescue of four (4) abducted/kidnapped victims, recovery of twenty-five (25) firearms of different makes, thirty-one (31) live ammunition of different calibres, fifty-three live cartridges, three (3) motor vehicles, six (6) tricycles, two (2) motorcycles and other incriminating exhibits’, NAOSNP gathered.
‘Accordingly, investigation into most of the cases have been concluded and charged to court, while others are currently being investigated, with brief descriptions of the ongoing investigations relayed as follows: sequel to the receipt of a report alleging that on 27/04/2022 at about 2300hrs, one Onyemaechi Okorie aged 19, of Uburu in Ohaozara LGA of Ebonyi State, murdered his male co-worker in a construction site at Independence Layout Enugu, Police Operatives of the Command serving in New Haven Police Division, swung into action and arrested him on the same date.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect engaged the deceased in a serious fight and used a rod to hit him on the head. The victim was immediately moved to the hospital for treatment, but was later confirmed dead by doctors on duty and the corpse deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy. Meanwhile, the case has been transferred to the State CID Enugu for conclusive investigation and prosecution.’
‘In a different development, on 25/04/2022 at about 1430hrs, Police Operatives serving in Anti-Cultism Squad of the Command, acted on a distress call and arrested one Haruna Abdulazeez aged 22, of New Artisan Market, Enugu and Mohammed Falani aged 32, of Nkporogu, New Layout, Emene Enugu, while their cohorts escaped. They suspects are alleged to have at gunpoint robbed their victims of cash and other valuables, at New Layout, Emene. Their arrest led to the recovery of 1 Pump Action gun with 5 live and 6 expended cartridges, 1 Dagger, 2 tricycles with reg. numbers: ENU 678 WE and NSH 254 UD respectively, cash sum of sixty five thousand, one hundred and fifty naira (N65,150.00) and 1 Tecno IPOD. The case will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.’
‘The above is in addition to the same Operatives arresting one Chukwuebuka Eze (a.k.a. “Nwarie”) aged 23, Abumchukwu Ezinwa (a.k.a. “Virgin Boy”) aged 26, Chibuzor Nnonah aged 27 and Ikenna Ukwu (a.k.a. “Kasie”) aged 29, on 25th and 20th April, 2022. Their arrest is sequel to the receipt of credible information alleging that the suspects and others at large, snatched a tricycle from their victim at gunpoint on 18/04/2022, at Akegbe-Ugwu Primary School, after beating and tying him up. The suspect confessed to the crime and being members of Vikings Confraternity, while the said yellow-coloured tricycle without reg. number has been recovered. Meanwhile, further discreet investigation that will lead to the apprehension of the fleeing members of the criminal gang and prosecution of the suspects is ongoing’, NAOSNP gathered.
‘On their part, Police Operatives serving in Ikirike Police Division of the Command, on 21/04/2022 at about 2130hrs, arrested one Ogochukwu Ugwu aged 24, of MTN Mast, Akwuke Awkunanaw, Enugu South LGA; following the receipt of credible information alleging that him and cohorts at large, have been perpetrating acts of armed robbery within Enugu metropolis. Hence, the Operatives mounted security surveillance on the criminal gang and arrested the suspect along Agbani Road Enugu, while his cohorts escaped. 1 locally-made long gun with 1 live cartridge and the gang’s operational tricycle were recovered; while the case has been transferred to the Anti-Robbery Section of State CID Enugu for conclusive investigation and prosecution.’
‘In another development, Police Operatives serving in Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Command, on 19/04/2022 at about 1000hrs, arrested one Ogbonna Moses aged 38, of Ibagwa-Aka, Igbo-Eze South LGA, following the discovery of 2 Beretta Pistols, 13 rounds of .9mm and 3 rounds of 7.62mm calibres of live ammunition in a bag of onions he was traveling with from Jos to Enugu on 15/04/2022. Meanwhile, further discreet and conclusive investigation into the case is ongoing.’
“In a different development, acting on credible information alleging that a group of suspected criminal elements were sighted along Kenyetta, Uwani Enugu, on 14/04/2022 at about 2000hrs, Police Operatives serving in Uwani Police Division, swung into action and on sighting the Operatives, the hoodlums escaped leaving behind a bag. The bag was recovered, searched and 1 AK-47 rifle without magazine, but loaded with 1 round of live 7.62mm calibre of ammunition, was recovered. Meanwhile, discreet investigation to fish out the fleeing suspects is ongoing at the State CID Enugu.’
‘In another development, on 11/04/2022 at about 0330hrs, Police Operatives serving in Anti-Cultism Squad of the Command, acting on credible information, arrested one Oha Nkemjika Kelechi (a.k.a. “DMX”) aged 28, of Umueze, Nkanu West LGA; Peter Orji Ikechukwu (a.k.a. “Don 50”) aged 26, of Ishi-Ozalla, Nkanu West LGA and Okpe Onyekachi (a.k.a. “Certificate”) aged 21, of Obollo-Afor, Udenu LGA. The suspects confessed to being members of Vikings Confraternity and having, along with their cohorts at large, serially robbed traders at Amagugu Road, Garki Market, Awkunanaw Enugu on 05/01/2022. 1 locally-made cut-to-size single-barreled gun with 3 live cartridges, 1 dagger and 1 cutlass were recovered from them, while the suspects will be arraigned and prosecuted in court upon conclusion of investigation.’
‘In an interesting development, on 09/04/2022 at about 2055hrs, Police Operatives serving in Central Police Station (CPS) Enugu, arrested one Juliet Donatus (female) aged 35, residing in Zaria, Kaduna State. Her arrest was as a result of a tip off alleging that she was found attempting to sell a male child at Old Park Enugu. The said child, who is 8 years old, was rescued while the suspect confessed to have stolen the victim from Zamfara State and brought him to Enugu in search of a buyer. The case was transferred to Gender/Anti-Human Trafficking Section of the State CID Enugu for preliminary investigation and has been further handed over to Kaduna State Police Command for conclusive investigation and prosecution.’
‘Furthermore, on 08/04/2022 at about 1100hrs, Police Operatives serving in Enugu Metro Area Command arrested one Nura Mohammed aged 23 while others escaped, sequel to the Operatives swift response to a tip off alleging that some boys in possession of guns were sighted at New Artisan Market, Enugu. 1 Berretta pistol with 6 rounds of live ammunition was recovered from him; while the case is undergoing conclusive investigation at the Firearm Section of the State CID Enugu.’
‘Similarly, Police Operatives serving in Uwani Police Division, on 31/03/2022 at about 2120hrs, intercepted in a tricycle and arrested one Chisom Ikechukwu aged 23, of Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu South LGA. His arrest led to the recovery of 1 cut-to-size double-barreled gun with 1 live and 1 expended cartridge, 1 knife, 1 Samsung Android phone and 1 Police beret. Also recovered is the tricycle with reg. number: ENU 120 VG he was operating. Meanwhile, the case has been transferred and is undergoing conclusive investigation at the Anti-Robbery Section of the State CID Enugu.’
‘Also, in continuation of a case of conspiracy and kidnapping, Police Operatives of the Command serving in the CP Monitoring Unit, between 24th and 22nd March, 2022, arrested one Oko Chukwudi (a.k.a. “Anka-Dede”) aged 27, Ifeanyi Eze (a.k.a. “Abrinanwa”) aged 36 and Sunday Ede Aneke (a native doctor a.k.a. Aneke-Ikenga) aged 34, all of Akpugo, Nkanu West LGA, for being members of the criminal gang alleged to had conspired and kidnapped one Amechi Oguama (male) on 20/10/2021. It will be recall that three (3) other members of the said kidnapping gang namely: one Chioma Uwa (female and a.k.a. “Dr. Happiness”), Chekwube Nwatu (male and a.k.a. “Cheche”) and Emeka Uwa (male a.k.a. “Akimbo”), had earlier been arrested, arraigned in court and remanded in Correctional Custodial Centre. All the newly arrested suspects confessed to having been actively involved in the kidnapping of the said victim and the receipt of ransom of over ten million naira (N10,000,000.00) by the criminal gang, while 1 Berretta pistol with 1 .9mm round of live ammunition was recovered from them. Meanwhile, the suspects will be further arraigned in court and prosecuted alongside the previous suspects, once supplementary investigation into the case is concluded.’
In conclusion, the PR-savvy police officer, ASP Daniel Ndukwe shared: ‘To this end, the Commissioner, while applauding the support received from security stakeholders, which made the achievement of these modest operational breakthroughs possible, has commended and charged the Operatives to sustain the tempo in the Command’s quest to rid the State of unrepentant criminals and their activities. The CP further calls on citizens of the State to remain law-abiding, vigilant and continue to support the Police by promptly reporting criminals and their activities to the nearest Police Station or by calling the Command’s emergency hotlines on: 08032003702, 08075390883 or 08086671202. They can alternatively send e-mails to contact042ppro@gmail.com and/or report security incidents using the Upgraded NPF Rescue Me App, which can be downloaded on Android and iPhone App Stores.’
The Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists committed to promoting ethical journalism, media development, and impactful public advocacy across Nigeria, has announced a Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The one-day conference is in collaboration with the International Society of Substance Use Prevention Professionals (ISSUP) Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos.
The programme, themed: “Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist’s Role in Prevention and Advocacy,” will hold on Thursday, 25th June, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos.
The initiative is designed to equip journalists, editors, publishers, bloggers, broadcasters, and digital media practitioners with the knowledge and practical tools needed to report accurately, ethically, and responsibly on drug abuse, substance use disorders, mental health, rehabilitation, and prevention strategies.
The programme aligns with the global objectives of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, to strengthen action and cooperation toward achieving a world free from drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
According to the organisers, substance abuse remains one of the most pressing public health and social challenges confronting Nigeria, particularly among young people. The media, therefore, has a critical responsibility to inform, educate, shape public attitudes, challenge harmful narratives, and amplify evidence-based prevention efforts.
The capacity-building programme will feature presentations by experts in substance use prevention, mental health, public health advocacy, law enforcement, and journalism. Participants will engage in discussions on responsible reporting, fact-based storytelling, stigma reduction, prevention communication, and strategic advocacy aimed at supporting national and community-level responses to drug abuse.
NOMA Chairperson, Theresa Moses, stated that journalists occupy a unique position in influencing public perception and promoting positive behavioural change.
“The media is more than a channel for information; it is a powerful force for education, advocacy, and social transformation. Through responsible reporting and strategic storytelling, journalists can help prevent substance abuse, support recovery efforts, and contribute meaningfully to building safer and healthier communities,” she said.
She further noted that as gatekeepers of information and shapers of public discourse, media professionals have a responsibility to ensure that reporting on drug-related issues is accurate, balanced, evidence-based, and free from stigma, while highlighting prevention, treatment, and recovery pathways.
The event is expected to bring together journalists, media executives, government officials, healthcare professionals, development partners, civil society organisations, youth advocates, researchers, students of mass communication, and other stakeholders committed to advancing a drug-free Nigeria.
For partnership, sponsorship, participation, and media enquiries, interested organisations and individuals are encouraged to contact the organisers.
Media Contacts: Call: 08034499132, 08165322757 or 09034242439
Email:nomamedia25@gmail.com
News
‘He Died a Natural Death’ – Katsina Govt Announces Death of Gen Rabe Abubakar in Kidnappers’ Captivity
A Retired Major-General and former Director of Defence Information, Rabe Abubakar, is dead.
According to the Katsina state government, Abubakar died in bandits’ captivity.
The retired major-general and his wife were abducted in May while travelling through Katsina.
On June 6, a video showing Abubakar and his wife appealing to the Katsina government for the release of detained bandits and livestock surfaced online.
A statement on Saturday by Nasiru Mu’azu, commissioner for internal security and home affairs, said Abubakar died from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement reads.
“Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various Security Agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late General and the country at-large.
“The Governor has described this incident as a “dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities.”
The Katsina government added that it remains committed to working with the federal government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are brought to justice.
“We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken,” the statement added.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace.”
By Henry Ukazu
Dear Destiny Friends,
The power in a name, or inspiration and influence they come with, when properly triggered and applied, cannot be overestimated. Influence and name are powerful, and run pari passu. This is because in the journey of life, there are certain heights one can’t attain even with their resources. And that’s where ‘names’ and influence come in.
One might have all the grades, skills, and knowledge, but getting an opportunity might be difficult. Imagine having a good grade in school, but can’t find a commensurate job. As a matter of fact, someone with less qualification and experience might get the job simply because a man of influence endorsed their candidacy. That’s why the saying; ‘a good name is better than riches’ is tantamount to a man with access to power is more influential than a man with knowledge but no access.
For one to succeed in our contemporary society, they need a helper who could either be a mentor, benefactor, an inspiration, or someone with influence, or all in one. All these refer to one thing – name. Names are powerful and open doors. A name can serve as an inspiration which can open doors of opportunity for anyone. I remember the day one of my mentors said to me that for his name to be on my resumè, I must earn it. That’s how powerful names can be.
To further buttress how powerful a name can be, let’s consider the following – In 2018, as a budding author, I reached out to one of my mentors, Chief Dele Momodu to give me a column to write in his online newspaper which is considered one of the biggest, if not the biggest online newspaper in Nigeria. He graciously agreed, advising me to be consistent.
Guess what, since that date, I haven’t missed a week. One may be wondering how I have been consistent,; well the answer is not far fetched, I couldn’t imagine failing Chief Dele Momodu. I couldn’t imagine producing articles that are below standard. In all sincerity, assuming someone else without a big name gave me the opportunity, maybe, I wouldn’t have taken it very seriously like I did for Chief Dele Momodu. This goes to tell you names are powerful.
Can you imagine working for the President of the United States of America or Elon Musk? One will almost be perfect. The same energy and detailed attention one pays to President Trump or Elon Musk will be different if given an opportunity to work for an elected council man or a businessman. This is because one would not like to risk a lifetime opportunity to serve with a man of influence.
The importance of inspiration in the life of a progressive man cannot be overemphasized. Everyone needs inspiration. Inspiration can come from various angles. It can be from a benefactor, mentor, teacher, parent, friend, a Minister of the gospel, or even one’s child.
Let me share a personal experience I had with another of my mentors – Dr. Joe Abah. In 2025, he organized #fitseptember physical exercise where he advised his followers to do a 30 push for the month of September. Again, in January, he organized #fitjanuary and I actively participated in it, and since then I haven’t missed one single day without exercising for at least ten minutes. Why is this analysis important? The name Dr. Joe Abah is a household name in Nigeria social-political space. Assuming it was a regular person who made the announcement on X, the comment wouldn’t have attracted the kind of attention that made it go viral.
Furthermore, it is worthy of note that there are five kinds of authority when it comes to principle of power in a name. They are; Revealed knowledge, empirical knowledge, rational knowledge, intuitive knowledge and authoritative knowledge. The focus here is on authoritative knowledge.
One may be wondering what authoritative knowledge is. This is a kind of knowledge reserved for those who have expertise on a particular issue or subject matter expert. When such a person speaks, their words are like law.
Let’s talk about men of influence. Men of influence are priceless. According to Apostle Joshua Selman, there are four kinds of destiny helpers: Divine Connectors, Men of Influence, Gifted People, and Burden Bearers. For the sake of this article, I will focus on men of influence. These are gatekeepers, mentors, or established experts with high credibility. Their endorsement or advocacy can override limitations, grant you access to closed doors, and elevate your trajectory.
In summary, honor men, but fear God because men are vessels God uses to bless people and humanity.
Henry Ukazu writes from New York. He works with the New York City Department of Correction as the Legal Coordinator. He’s the founder of Gloemi. He’s a Transformative Human Capacity and Mindset coach. He is also a public speaker, youth advocate, creative writer and author of Design Your Destiny Design and Unleash Your Destiny . He can be reached via info@gloemi.com
