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Act On Intelligence Provided By DSS-CSF Urges Security Agencies

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The Citizens Stability Forum (CSF) ,a civil society and citizen’s groups coalition calls on the security
agencies in Nigeria to act on intelligence provided by the Department of State Services (DSS) in
containing the security threats bedevilling the country.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen including NIGERIAN TRACKER

The statement which was signed by the lead convener of the group Mukhtar Lawal and Co -Convener John Azi said the current insecurity happenings in Nigeria have exposed the lack of collaboration and synergy between security agencies in the country.

The statement said the most disturbing aspect been the continuous disregard to security intelligence provided by the Department of State Services (DSS) to the Military, Police and Paramilitary security agencies, something that in some countries can be treated as treasonable offence.

 

“The Department of State Services (DSS) is one of the most important arms of Nigeria’s security setup
saddled with critical functions of prevention and detection of any crime/terrorism against the internal
security of Nigeria and provision of timely advice to Government on all matters of National security
interest among others. This function has made the DSS the fulcrum of intelligence gathering and
sharing among sister security agencies. As such when there is inefficiency in collaboration or a lack of
synergy with other security agencies the result will be that criminals and terrorist will be having a
field day and will be pulling up acts of terrorism that will otherwise be impossible for them. One may
then question what is the problem? Why is the collaboration and co-operation between the security
agencies this ineffective and who is at fault and responsible for this? To answer these questions, one
needs to understand the role that each agency needs to play in this security co-operation. The roles are
clearly defined by Nigeria’s constitution, that DSS are responsible for security (of all sort) intelligence
gathering and sharing this intelligence with relevant sister agencies while the role the other agencies is
to act on such intelligence. ”

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Mukhtar Lawal and Azi said based on all relevant evidence and happenings in the country, it is very clear that the DSS has been playing its role diligently and have been feeding the relevant agencies with intelligence before the occurrence on most of the unfortunate insecurity events that recently occurred. For example, before the Bombing, shooting and Kidnapping incident on the Abuja-Kaduna Train on the 28th of March 2022, the DSS issued a security alert about the suspicious movements and activities of terrorist elements in the vicinity of the rail lines between Rijana and Kateri to both the Military and police as well as the Nigerian Railway Corporation. Unfortunately, the disregard to such critical intelligence by relevant authorities led to the loss of lives of eight (8) Nigerian citizens, forty-one (41) hospitalised and over sixty (60) civilians kidnapped by terrorist. Likewise, before the terrorist attack on Kuje
Prison on the 5th of July 2022 where they succeeded in releasing their fellow colleagues. It is on
record that the DSS shared 44 intelligence reports relating to this threat with relevant agencies before
the attack on the prison. This has been proved by remarks from the Deputy Speaker of the House of
Representatives, Idris Wase who stated that he has went through the report, but unfortunately the
relevant agencies failed to act. These are just among the few proofs that found their way to public
domain as DSS does not flaunt its operations and activities to the public, rather most operations and
activities are classified, and as is the norm for State and Secrete Service departments all over the
world.

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The full statement of the coalition also reads as follows

“A lot of the success and ability of the DSS to meet up with its own security responsibility is down to
the excellent leadership from the DSS hierarchy led by Director-General of the DSS, Mr. Yusuf Bichi.
The DG has instilled commitment, diligence, and pro-activeness in tackling insecurity across the
county. Mr Bichi has also vigorously drive improvement in welfare and wellbeing of personnel
including improved and frequent payment of allowances, more investment in infrastructure in
commands and formations across the country, as well as providing officers and operatives with more
training and re-training opportunities. These are all geared towards creating a conducive working
environment and increasing the efficiency of the workforce. As a result, DSS personnel have shown
increased professionalism, discipline and loyalty in carrying out their duties. Of late, strong remarks
and proofs that security personnel from various military and paramilitary agencies are highly involved
in crude oil bunkering in the Niger Delta has been very disappointing to Nigerians. Among all these
security agencies it is only personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) that are mentioned to be part of this dirty and treasonable acts. This was backed by remarks from the biggest and most experience pipeline private security contractor i.e., Government Ekpemupolo A.K.A Tompolo who stated that only the DSS can be exonerated from the sabotage by some security personnel in stealing
Nigeria’s resources by promoting bunkering activities. The professionalism of the DSS led by Mr
Bichi has been nothing but excellent, for example the threat issued by the USA and Britain Embassies
recently was long gathered and issued to the relevant authorities by the DSS in a more professional
manner without causing any form of panic and the Service has since then been working behind the
scenes to nip the possible threat in the bud. The DG of the DSS is more concerned and interested in
achieving results and not craving for undue publicity.
One will wonder then, if the DSS is able to meet of its responsibilities and perform excellently, then
why are the other relevant agencies failing? The answer to this is that it entirely points to the lack of
willing leadership in these agencies. To fix this, the buck falls on the table of the President of Nigeria

Muhammadu Buhari. So many heads of security agencies have gotten away with negligence and
disregard to rule of law and it is his responsibility to ensure that decisive action is taken against any
security agency and its hierarchy that are found wanting and neglecting intelligence. To secure this
country the security agencies must work collectively together, and it is the responsibility of the
Presidency to ensure that.
It is also important to point out that such disregard of intelligence by other relevant security agencies
is likely contributed to reason why the United States and its allies including the UK and Canada are
wary of sharing intelligence with Nigeria, thus leading to the recent wrong and unfortunate situation
of going to the public with terror alert. Decision to avert such from happening again must be taken by
the Presidency and it is highly imperative that the DSS is promoted and empowered to engage through
diplomatic channels with foreign missions and their intelligence to work together to provide the DSS
with security intelligence and avoid foreign mission from releasing terror alerts to the public.
It is clear that the public commendation and appreciation of the DSS is important to the confidence
and motivation of its personnel as they work tirelessly to keep Nigeria safe. And it will be
encouraging that Nigerian’s continue to support the DSS and other security agencies as we battle
through these security challenges”

 

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Sallah Thanksgiving: NUJ President Commends Kano Correspondents’ Chapel For Fostering Love, Unity Among Journalists

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The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ),
Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has commended the leadership of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, for providing platforms and occasions that foster love, unity and progress among journalists.

Comrade Yahya stated this at Kano Press Centre, on Sunday, during the 2026 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah Celebrations, Thanksgiving And Special Prayers Ceremony, organized by Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, to appreciate God for the successful month long Ramadan fasting period and the Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations.

The NUJ National President used the occasion to urge journalists to reflect on the true meaning of the occasion and promote unity, peace, and tolerance, among themselves, in the course of their profession.

Represented by former chairman of Kano NUJ and a member of NUJ National Board of Trustees, Comrade Abbas Ibrahim, the NUJ National President, who said he has been impressed over the activities of Kano NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, within the last one year, under the leadership of Comrade Murtala Adewale, emphasized the importance of compassion, unity, and addressing national challenges, particularly food security and insecurity.

Comrade Alhassan Yahya urged other NUJ chapels to draw inspiration from Kano Correspondents’ Chapel’s unity and camaraderie, highlighting their event as a model for promoting peace and solidarity among journalists.

He encouraged other chapels to organize similar events, fostering a sense of community and cooperation, which is essential for the growth and development of the journalism profession.

In his remarks, chairman of the occasion, a Professor of Communication in Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Prof. Yakubu Mai Nasara Kurfi, described the event as not only inspiring, but heart-warming, while urging the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel leadership to sustain the tempo.

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Prof. Mai Nasara Kurfi congratulated the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel executive members for their foresight to organize the event, and promised to borrow a leaf from them as he planned to introduce such occasion in the Faculty of Communication, BUK.

The Professor of Communication also used the occasion to canvass for collaboration and synergy among the NUJ, working journalists and the Faculty of Communication, BUK, so as to ensure training and re-training of both working journalists and student journalists for enhancement of the journalism profession.

The chairman of NUJ in Kano state, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Gambo, noted that the event was not only a Thanksgiving for the successful Ramadan and celebration of the Eid El Fitr, but a symbol of unity and togetherness among members of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, and the larger Kano NUJ family.

“This even is so special because some of the prominent scholars and practitioners in the media are here. I want to thank and commend the leadership of the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel for organizing this event,” he said.

In his speech, chairman of NUJ Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Murtala Adewale, described the event as not just a celebration, but a moment to reflect on Allah’s countless mercies—granting us the strength, patience, and opportunity to observe the holy month.

According to him: “Ramadan has been a period of spiritual renewal, sacrifice, and discipline. It has reminded us of the importance of empathy, humility, and self-restraint. As journalists, these values resonate deeply with our professional responsibilities—to be fair, truthful, and guided by integrity in all that we do.

“This gathering also serves as an avenue to strengthen our unity as members of the Chapel. In the midst of our demanding schedules and the pressures of the profession, moments like this allow us to reconnect, share, and reinforce the bond that holds us together.”

He encouraged all imbibe the lessons of Ramadan, and continue to embody patience, kindness, and responsibility, “in our daily lives and in our reportage. Our society looks up to us, and we must remain committed to promoting peace, truth, and understanding.

“I sincerely appreciate all our invited guests and well-wishers who have joined us today. Your presence is a testament to the strong relationships we have built over time, and we do not take it for granted. As we share this special breakfast, let us also remember those who are less privileged and continue to extend a helping hand, as taught during the holy month.”

The event was designed as a special Thanksgiving feast to appreciate Almighty Allah for His mercies and offer prayers for peace and progress, after a 30-day spiritual rejuvenation in the fasting month of Ramadan.

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Breaking: Kwankwaso Resigns from NNPP

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Former Governor of Kano State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has announced his resignation from the party. The declaration was made through a statement posted on his verified Facebook page earlier today.

Kwankwaso, who served as the NNPP’s National Leader and spearheaded its presidential campaign in the 2023 general elections, described the decision as “not an easy one.” He explained that his departure was driven by the need for “strategic realignment” in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” Kwankwaso stated.

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In his resignation letter, Kwankwaso expressed gratitude to the NNPP’s leadership, including National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed, the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and members across all levels of the party. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, his loyal political base, pledging continued collaboration toward building “a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation.”

Kwankwaso’s exit marks a significant moment for the NNPP, which rose to prominence under his leadership and made notable gains in the 2023 elections. His next political move is expected to reshape alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, though he has yet to disclose the platform he intends to join.

Political analysts suggest that Kwankwaso’s resignation could trigger a wave of defections within the NNPP, particularly among members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, who have historically followed his political trajectory.

 

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Northern Youth Group Backs Doguwa for Kano APC Leadership, Urges National Role

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The Northern Youths Merger Groups under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa on his election as the APC State Chairman in Kano.

In a statement, the group’s National Coordinator, Hon. Musa Mujahid Zaitawa, described Doguwa as a hardworking and experienced politician capable of leading the party to victory.

The group highlighted Doguwa’s track record, noting his four-time leadership of political parties in Kano, as well as his service in two commissioner roles. According to the group, his vast experience will significantly contribute to the success of the APC.

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The Northern Youths Merger Groups also called on APC stakeholders to nominate and support Doguwa for appointment as Chairman of the APC States Chairmen Forum, which comprises representatives from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

They expressed confidence that such an appointment would strengthen efforts toward securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC in the 2027 general elections, particularly in the North-West region.

The group further noted that the North-West zone is expected to deliver massive votes in the 2027 elections, describing it as one of the APC’s strongest strongholds with seven sitting governors.

They emphasized that Doguwa’s leadership, experience, and political influence would play a crucial role in ensuring the party’s success in both the presidential and gubernatorial elections.

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