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The Progressives Unity and Development Forum (PUDF) has cautioned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore against proceeding with the planned nationwide protest demanding the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, warning that it could be hijacked by hoodlums and turn violent.

The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is scheduled to hold on October 20, with Sowore describing the date as “sacrosanct.” According to him, the march to Aso Rock Villa would be a peaceful demonstration meant to demand justice and the immediate release of the pro-Biafra leader, who has been in custody since June 2021.

However, in a statement released to journalists on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Abraham Nwanchukwu, the PUDF urged Sowore, IPOB, and their supporters to suspend the planned protest in the interest of national peace and security.

“Sowore should be told now, before the D-day, that similar protests in the past spiraled out of control, with hoodlums taking advantage to loot and destroy public and private properties,” the group said.

The statement expressed concern that the planned march could easily be hijacked by “political opportunists and criminal elements” who may seize the moment to cause unrest and attack government buildings.

Citing examples of past protests in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos, the PUDF recalled that several peaceful demonstrations in the past ended in widespread destruction of infrastructure and loss of lives due to infiltration by miscreants.

“Against this background, we are calling on IPOB, Sowore, and other supporters of the planned protest to shelve the action and adopt more civic and responsible means of engagement,” the statement continued.

Nwanchukwu emphasized that while citizens have the constitutional right to protest, such actions must not endanger public safety or national unity.

“Nobody has a monopoly of violence, and we are issuing this warning to prevent any action that could provoke counter-reactions or threaten national peace,” he added.

The group further urged security agencies to remain vigilant before, during, and after October 20 to forestall any potential breakdown of law and order. It also appealed to Nigerians to resist being used by groups “seeking to destabilize the country under the guise of activism.”

“We all want a just and peaceful Nigeria,” PUDF said. “But protests that degenerate into chaos only bring pain to innocent citizens and deepen divisions in the country.”

Background:
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in June 2021. His continued detention, despite several court rulings granting him bail, has sparked recurring protests and calls for his release from rights groups, political leaders, and international organizations.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, recently reaffirmed that the protest would go ahead, insisting it would be peaceful and constitutionally protected.

PUDF, however, insists that caution must prevail to prevent what it described as a “repeat of the 2020 #EndSARS experience,” where a peaceful youth protest against police brutality was later hijacked by hoodlums, leading to violence, arson, and deaths across major cities.

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Would you like me to rewrite this version in a BBC-style neutral tone (for publication on TruthNigeria or similar outlets) or keep this Nigerian newspaper tone (like Punch or Vanguard)?

By Ladi Magaji

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has lauded the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a well-deserved recognition of competence, integrity, and merit.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, and signed by its spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it called a “well-considered choice,” noting that Professor Amupitan’s nomination and endorsement by the Council of State marked a positive step toward restoring credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

According to the MBF, Professor Amupitan, a distinguished son of the Middle Belt from Kogi State, is eminently qualified for the position, having built an illustrious career as a scholar, legal luminary, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

The Forum highlighted that Professor Amupitan had served with excellence in academia, particularly as a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he mentored many of Nigeria’s current generation of lawyers. It emphasized his deep understanding of constitutional law, governance, and electoral jurisprudence, qualities it said uniquely prepared him to handle the enormous responsibilities that come with heading the nation’s electoral body.

“The Middle Belt Forum warmly congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) on his nomination as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and his subsequent endorsement by the Council of State. We equally extend our profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this well-considered choice,” the statement read in part.

The Forum further expressed optimism that under Amupitan’s leadership, INEC would regain public trust and restore integrity to the nation’s electoral system, which it said had been seriously eroded under the previous administration of the commission.

“It is the considered opinion of the MBF that the immediate past leadership of INEC left behind a legacy marred by serious electoral irregularities and widespread loss of public trust. Professor Amupitan’s appointment, therefore, presents an opportunity to rebuild the integrity of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission and ensure that elections truly reflect the will of the people,” the statement continued.

The MBF underscored the enormity of the task ahead, noting that the new INEC boss would now preside over Nigeria’s “democratic recruitment process,” overseeing elections at all levels — from the Presidency and Governorships to the National and State Assemblies.

“Professor Amupitan now assumes a role that is no less critical: he would now be the head handler of Nigeria’s democratic recruitment process, overseeing elections from the Presidency to Governorships, and from the National Assembly to State Legislatures,” the Forum said.

Expressing full confidence in the new appointee, the MBF said it was convinced that, true to the Middle Belt’s long-standing values, Professor Amupitan would discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God.

“We are confident that, in keeping with the Middle Belt’s tradition, he will discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God,” the group added.

The Forum also called on the Nigerian Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation process to enable Professor Amupitan to immediately begin the critical task of deepening electoral integrity and strengthening democratic governance.

“We trust that the Nigerian Senate will, in its wisdom, screen, clear, and confirm this outstanding patriot to enable him to commence his vital task of deepening electoral integrity and democratic governance,” the MBF said.

In conclusion, the Middle Belt Forum reiterated its gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing merit and competence in his selection, describing the appointment as one that resonates with the nation’s desire for credible leadership at the electoral commission.

“Once again, the Middle Belt Forum heartily congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) and expresses sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing merit, character, and competence in this appointment,” the statement concluded.

Today, we celebrate not just your birthday, but the extraordinary light you bring into every life you touch. You are a rare blend of brilliance, humility, and boundless optimism — a leader whose energy inspires confidence, whose wisdom ignites innovation, and whose compassion restores hope.

In just 40 years, you have built a legacy many can only dream of — leading with purpose, transforming challenges into triumphs, and turning ideas into impact. Your journey is a living testament that greatness is not born of comfort, but of courage, resilience, and faith.

Your leadership continues to shape the destiny of our great company and influence lives far beyond its walls. Through your unwavering dedication, you’ve shown that success is sweetest when shared and that true power lies in service to humanity.

As you celebrate this milestone, may God’s grace multiply upon you. May your strength never wane, your dreams never fade, and your light never dim. The world is richer because you are in it, and those privileged to know you are blessed beyond measure.

May the next chapter of your life bring even greater victories, deeper joy, and divine fulfillment. Keep soaring higher — your best is yet to come!

With love, respect, and warmest wishes,
Shedy Oka and Family

By Ibrahim Hussaini Tinja

In an era when political promises often fade after the applause of victory, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali, the member representing Yola North Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, stands out as a refreshing exception. Elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alkali has quietly built a reputation as a grassroots politician, a bridge-builder, and a trailblazer devoted to genuine service.

Since taking office in 2023, the lawmaker has demonstrated that politics can still be driven by purpose, passion, and proximity to the people. In Yola North, his name has become synonymous with accessibility, humility, and tangible impact—qualities that have endeared him to the masses and earned him respect even beyond party lines.




The People’s Politician

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s political journey is rooted in community service. Long before he stepped into the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he was known across Yola North for his compassion and consistent engagement with his people. His background as an active mobilizer gave him a deep understanding of the pulse of his constituency—its struggles, its resilience, and its boundless potential.

For Alkali, leadership is not an entitlement; it is a trust bestowed by the people, to be honored through service. This philosophy has defined his approach to governance. Rather than remaining confined to the chambers of the Assembly, he has made the constituency office a living hub of activity—listening to complaints, mentoring youths, and responding to community needs.



Legislating with Purpose

Since his swearing-in, Alkali has hit the ground running. Within two years, his legislative record reflects focus and foresight. His interventions in education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure are not random gestures—they are interconnected elements of a vision to uplift Yola North’s urban and peri-urban communities.

In the area of education, Alkali has sponsored motions and projects aimed at improving school infrastructure, providing instructional materials, and supporting indigent students. Several schools have benefited from classroom renovations, distribution of learning aids, and bursaries to deserving students. His philosophy is simple: education is the ladder out of poverty, and every child deserves a chance to climb it.

Equally, his commitment to youth empowerment has been remarkable. Through skill acquisition programs, he has trained scores of young people in tailoring, ICT, welding, carpentry, and other vocational skills. Many beneficiaries have received starter packs to begin their own businesses—creating ripples of self-reliance across communities.

“Hon. Alkali doesn’t just talk about empowering youths; he gives us tools to build our future,” says Aisha Umar, one of the beneficiaries of his tailoring initiative. “Today, I run my own small shop, and I’m training two apprentices. That’s real empowerment.”




Health, Infrastructure, and Humanitarian Touch

In the health sector, Alkali’s efforts have brought relief to many families. He has facilitated the renovation of primary health centers, the donation of hospital beds, and the supply of essential drugs to underserved communities. Periodic medical outreaches have provided free consultations and treatments for residents who otherwise cannot afford basic healthcare.

Infrastructure, too, has not been left behind. Roads, boreholes, and solar street lights in several wards stand as visible testimonies of his dedication. These projects have improved mobility, enhanced security, and restored dignity to communities long neglected by successive governments.

In places like Jambutu, Doubeli, and Rumde, residents point to water projects and drainage systems executed through Alkali’s constituency intervention. “Before now, we used to trek long distances to fetch water,” says Mallam Adamu Musa, a community elder. “Today, thanks to Hon. Alkali, clean water runs close to our doorsteps.”




A Model of Responsive Representation

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s leadership style combines consultation with compassion. He holds regular town hall meetings where constituents freely express their concerns and expectations. This participatory approach has strengthened the bond between him and his people, fostering trust and accountability.

In the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he is known for his calm disposition, articulate contributions, and unwavering defense of his constituency’s interests. Colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder—someone who seeks consensus rather than confrontation. His legislative interventions often reflect careful study and deep empathy.

“Hon. Alkali is the kind of leader our democracy needs,” remarks a fellow legislator. “He listens, he engages, and he acts with integrity.”




Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the impressive strides, Alkali remains humble about his achievements. He acknowledges that more work lies ahead—especially in addressing unemployment, urban poverty, and environmental degradation in Yola North. His goal is not just to deliver projects but to create systems that sustain development long after his tenure.

“We have made progress, but there is still much to be done,” he said recently. “My commitment is to continue serving the people who entrusted me with their mandate, ensuring that every initiative we undertake translates to real change in their lives.”




Behold the Man Who Has Come to Serve

In an age when public office is often viewed as a means of personal enrichment, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali represents a different breed of politician—one who measures success not by wealth or titles, but by the number of lives transformed.

His story is that of a man deeply connected to his roots, driven by empathy, and guided by a moral compass that points unwaveringly toward service. In Yola North, his footprints are not just visible—they are felt in classrooms, health centers, workshops, and homes.

Indeed, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali is redefining leadership through grassroots service—proving, one project at a time, that politics can still be noble when it is people-centered.

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Musa Maya

Kaduna

Mobile Court Tours Corporate Premises, Sanctions Violators Across Kaduna

The Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA), under the energetic leadership of its new Acting General Manager, Yahaya Yakubu Victor, has intensified enforcement of the state’s waste management laws to ensure that solid waste in Kaduna and other towns is properly disposed of.

Since assuming office, Victor has rejuvenated the agency’s environmental drive, emphasizing compliance, public awareness, and partnership with licensed waste management firms to restore Kaduna’s environmental integrity.

On Wednesday, 9 October 2025, KEPA embarked on a mobile court tour across corporate organizations in Kaduna to enforce its directive that all establishments must register and work with authorized waste management teams.

The mobile court visited several companies — including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd — issuing fines and sanctions for various environmental offenses.

Sapphire Fined ₦150,000

The court adjourned the case involving Sapphire, imposing a ₦150,000 fine to be paid before the next hearing.

Rittys Faces Legal Dispute

Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, Kaduna, was accused of using an unauthorized waste disposal company. The firm pleaded not guilty.

Barr. Steve Swam, the prosecuting lawyer for KEPA, called Emmanuel Noel, KEPA’s Assistant Director and Chief Environmental Superintendent, as the principal witness. Noel testified that Rittys initially engaged Ecoblue Management, a licensed waste contractor, but later switched to an unapproved firm.

However, David Enwerem, General Manager of Rittys, told the court that his company had since registered its waste team with KEPA and obtained a license. He alleged that KEPA later insisted on being the sole body to manage their waste, which led to the dispute.

Barr. Swam cited KEPA’s environmental regulations, urging the court to examine Rittys’ license. Upon verifying its authenticity, he requested case withdrawal, but the judge ruled that the matter should continue to a full hearing.

FCMB Sanctioned

The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) on Constitution Road, Kaduna, was fined ₦50,000 for failing to comply with KEPA regulations.
The bank had argued that it used an authorized vendor, but the court ruled otherwise.

Synlab Penalized for Obstruction

Synlab was fined ₦50,000 for non-compliance and an additional ₦30,000 against one staff member for contempt of court after obstructing KEPA officers on duty.

Mussafir Hotel, United Surgical Ltd Also Fined

Mussafir Hotel was sanctioned ₦500,000 for operating without an authorized waste management firm.
Similarly, United Surgical Ltd was fined ₦500,000 for the first offense and ₦50,000 for the second, after officials testified that the company’s staff obstructed the mobile court team.

The court dismissed the defense’s claim of inadequate notification, noting that the offense had been clearly stated in the summons.

Ecoblue: ‘We’ll Keep Kaduna Clean and Safe’

In his remarks, Mr. Uchenna Jumbo, Consultant to KEPA and Head of Ecoblue Waste Management, reaffirmed the partnership’s goal of building a cleaner and healthier Kaduna.

“We are committed to keeping Kaduna’s environment clean and safe. Every waste management organization should be registered with Ecoblue, where they will be trained on proper disposal practices,” Jumbo said.

He added that Ecoblue would track waste movements to prevent dumping at unauthorized sites, urging residents and companies to confirm with KEPA and Ecoblue before engaging waste handlers.

Jumbo expressed optimism that under Yahaya Yakubu Victor’s leadership, Kaduna would soon become “a clean, eco-friendly city with an efficient waste management system.”

‘Fruitful Exercise,’ Says KEPA Lawyer

Speaking to journalists, Barr. Steve Swam, KEPA’s lead attorney, described the mobile court exercise as a success.

“Today was very fruitful because most organizations complied after KEPA’s earlier notices. The few that failed to comply were sanctioned accordingly,” he said.

He added that the new management’s commitment to environmental reform was already yielding results.

Cleaner Kaduna in Sight

Observers say the new KEPA administration has brought renewed energy to the state’s environmental sector. The ongoing enforcement drive, backed by the mobile court initiative, is expected to transform Kaduna into a model of urban cleanliness and environmental discipline in the North.

By Mose Oiza

Kaduna State continues to lead in progressive women’s leadership as Hon. Rabi Salisu, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, has been elected Leader of the Forum of Women Commissioners from APC-governed States.

Her unanimous election took place at the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) Agenda Setting Meeting on October 7, 2025, at the PGF Secretariat in Abuja. The forum, comprising Women Affairs Commissioners from 23 APC states, focused on advancing women’s transformative leadership, economic empowerment, and inclusive governance.

Delegates hailed Hon. Rabi Salisu’s election as a major win for Kaduna State, praising her dynamic leadership and Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to women’s inclusion and empowerment. Observers noted that her elevation underscores Kaduna’s growing influence as a model of progressive governance in Northern Nigeria.

In a communiqué at the meeting’s conclusion, the Commissioners passed a Vote of Confidence on all Progressive Governors, commending their reforms in education, health, agriculture, digital innovation, and youth development.

The Forum also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold reforms, increased inclusion of women and persons with disabilities, and efforts to unite the nation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Among other resolutions, the Commissioners called for stronger synergy between federal and state women empowerment programmes, policy domestication across APC states, and enhanced accountability frameworks for inclusive growth.

The meeting, coordinated by PGF Secretariat Director-General Folorunso S. Aluko, adjourned to reconvene from December 14 to 16, 2025.

Hon. Rabi Salisu’s new role signals renewed momentum for women empowerment and cross-state collaboration under the APC’s progressive governance banner.

By Adonai Sam

The Capacity Movement has extended warm and heartfelt felicitations to His Excellency, Alhaji (Dr.) Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, CON, on the occasion of his 71st birthday, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political and developmental landscape.

In a statement signed by its National President, Alhaji Shehu Sani Sado, the Movement praised the former Sokoto State Governor for his unwavering commitment to national unity, good governance, and the empowerment of the northern region.

According to Alhaji Sado, Alhaji Bafarawa’s life and career have been defined by visionary leadership, integrity, and dedication to the service of the Nigerian people. He noted that from Bafarawa’s time as Executive Governor of Sokoto State to his enduring role as an elder statesman, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional political maturity, capacity, and patriotism.

“Your Excellency, your life has been a beacon of leadership and service,” the statement read. “You remain one of the few political figures in Northern Nigeria whose voice commands respect across political and generational divides.”

Alhaji Sado further lauded Bafarawa’s efforts in promoting peace, inclusion, and youth empowerment, particularly through mentorship and philanthropic initiatives that have touched lives beyond the borders of Sokoto State.

“As you mark this significant milestone, we join your family, friends, associates and well-wishers across the country and beyond in celebrating a life dedicated to public service, empowerment, and peacebuilding,” he said.

The statement concluded with a prayer for continued health, strength, and divine guidance for the elder statesman.

“May Almighty Allah continue to bless you with sound health, wisdom, and strength as you remain a guiding light for the younger generation and a source of inspiration for leaders across Nigeria. Happy 71st birthday, Your Excellency.”

Recall that Alhaji Bafarawa served as Governor of Sokoto State from 1999 to 2007 and has remained active in national discourse, known for his forthright views and bridge-building efforts across Nigeria’s socio-political spectrum.

ENDS

By Samuel Forani

As the crisis in Nigeria’s petroleum industry deepens with the faceoff between Dangote Refinery and key industry unions such as PENGASSAN and NUPENG dominating headlines, a quieter but more painful struggle is unfolding across the country’s filling stations.

From cities to remote villages, petrol station workers, the last link between fuel and consumers, say they are “dying in silence,” trapped in a cycle of neglect, exploitation, and silence.

Under the banner of the Concerned Petrol Station Workers (CPSWs), the group, in a press statement by Comrade Ibrahim Zango, on October 5, 2025, lamented the poor working conditions, meagre wages, and abuse they endure daily.

“We are the ones who stand under the scorching sun and in the rain to serve millions every day, yet we are treated as if our lives don’t matter.

“We are dying in silence for fear of being molested or frustrated for raising our voices, even when we are like the engine room of Nigerian petroleum sector,” he added.

Despite being vital to Nigeria’s petroleum distribution system, the workers said they remain among the most underpaid and undervalued groups in the country’s labour force.

Many, they claimed, earn as little as N20,000 to N30,000 monthly, far below the national cost of living.

“How do you survive on N20,000 in today’s Nigeria? We don’t even get allowances or medical support. If you complain, you risk losing your job,” one attendant decried.

According to the statement, petrol station workers are routinely forced to pay for fuel shortages caused by faulty pumps or accounting discrepancies beyond their control.

In addition, they face daily exposure to toxic fumes, robbery attacks, and other workplace hazards, often without protective gear or insurance, Zango said.

“When there’s a fire outbreak, robbery, or accident, the owners disappear, and the attendants are left to suffer. We are the unsung heroes of Nigeria’s oil economy,” he said.

The group also accused some station owners of silencing workers who attempt to unionise or demand fair treatment, using intimidation and physical harassment to suppress activism.

“Even the law doesn’t seem to protect us. We can’t form unions, and NUPENG has not organized us effectively. We are just on our own,” another worker claimed.

The CPSWs called on the Federal Government, the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to intervene and ensure that petrol station workers are included in ongoing discussions on petroleum sector reforms.

Their demands include fair wages commensurate with their role in the fuel distribution chain, improved working conditions including rest breaks, safety gear, and regulated shifts, and union protection to freely organise without intimidation.

Others are health and safety measures to mitigate occupational hazards, immediate action by NUPENG to organise effective leadership for petrol station workers at all levels.

“Petrol station workers are not invisible. We are not expendable. We are Nigerians who keep the economy running, often at the expense of our own health and dignity.

“Our voices must no longer be silenced. Our cry must no longer go unheard. It is time to recognise, respect, and uplift the frontline workers of the petroleum sector,” Zango said.

As the nation grapples with the high cost of fuel and instability in the petroleum market, the plight of petrol station workers adds a stark human face to Nigeria’s deepening oil-sector woes.

Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, has joined millions of citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day, describing it as a sacred milestone that embodies the nation’s resilience, unity, and unwavering hope.

In a congratulatory message, Senator Yari extended warm felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to all Nigerians at home and abroad, stressing that October 1st goes beyond a date on the calendar. According to him, it represents the triumph of self-determination, the promise of self-governance, and the collective pursuit of a prosperous future.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, the Zamfara-born statesman urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers, the courage of its people, and the enduring strength in its diversity. “From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene hills of Jos, from the industrious East to the proud heritage of the North—we are one Nigeria, bound by shared dreams and a common purpose,” he declared.

Senator Yari commended President Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to national development, security, and economic revitalization. He expressed confidence that the National Day celebration would rekindle a collective resolve to build a just and peaceful society where opportunities abound for all citizens.

“To every Nigerian, I say: stand tall, be proud, and keep believing. The journey may be long, but our spirit is unbreakable. Together, we shall rise,” Yari affirmed in an inspiring message to citizens.

He prayed for divine blessings on Nigeria, adding: “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. May God bless our homeland and guide her path.”

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By Samuel Forani

Abuja

A coalition of civil society organizations on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abuja, calling out some officers of the agency for allegedly colluding with a known fraud suspect, Mr. Sylvanus Enonche Okoh, to obstruct justice.

The protesters, led by rights advocates and youth groups, accused some officials within the NSCDC of shielding Okoh, who has been accused of defrauding multiple victims under the guise of employment racketeering and contract scams.

According to the coalition, instead of cooperating with law enforcement agencies to ensure Okoh faces justice, some NSCDC operatives have allegedly been frustrating the case and intimidating victims who dared to testify against him.

Speaking during the demonstration, Comrade Musa Ibrahim, spokesperson of the coalition, said:

“We are here today because justice is being sabotaged. This man, Sylvanus Okoh, has ruined lives through fraudulent schemes, yet those who should protect Nigerians are shielding him. We have credible information that some NSCDC officers are colluding with him. This is unacceptable.”

The protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “NSCDC, Stop Shielding Fraudsters,” “Justice for Victims of Okoh’s Scam,” and “End Corruption in Civil Defence.”

Another activist, Barrister Grace Edet, urged the Federal Government to intervene, warning that the credibility of the NSCDC was at stake:

“If nothing is done, Nigerians will lose faith in the Civil Defence Corps. We demand immediate investigation of these allegations and sanctions for anyone found culpable. Fraud must not be protected under any guise.”

The group also submitted a petition to the NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, urging him to personally oversee the investigation into the alleged misconduct of his officers.

While addressing the protesters, a senior NSCDC official, who received the petition on behalf of the Commandant-General, assured the demonstrators that their grievances would be looked into and that the agency remained committed to integrity and justice.

The protesters, however, vowed to continue their campaign until the victims of fraud receive justice and all complicit officers are held accountable.

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