₦airaland Forum

Nobody should accuse Burutai

Bandits kill four in Kaduna

According to the spokesperson, the incident nearly escalated into ethno-religious tensions in the area.

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 21, 2021
El-rufai and bandits
El-rufai and bandits composite used to illustrate the story
The Kaduna state government confirmed on Friday that bandits killed four residents in Igabi, Giwa and Jema’a Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

“Security agencies have reported that bandits invaded Zangon-Aya town in Igabi LGA.

According to the report, two residents were killed by the bandits in the area.

“The bandits also attacked Rugar Delu, a settlement on the fringes of town and rustled about 30 cows belonging to a herder.

“The herder sustained gunshot injuries to the chest and is now receiving treatment in hospital.

He, however, did not disclose the name of the hospital.

In another incident, Samuel Aruwan, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs stated that bandits also invaded Ungwan Murtala in Yakawada, Giwa LGA and shot one person dead.

“Three other residents sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in hospital.



The commissioner said in Godogodo village of Jema’a LGA, armed bandits attempted to attack a police outpost but were effectively repelled by the personnel.

However, one person was killed by the gunmen, he said.

According to him, the incident nearly escalated into ethno-religious tensions in the area.

“Security operatives moved swiftly to douse the tension and brought the situation under control.

Mr Aruwan said Governor Nasir El-Rufai has commiserated with families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.

He appealed to residents of the town to work together and not perceive criminality from an ethno-religious standpoint.

He urged them to, instead, cooperate with security agencies and other stakeholders to tackle criminals.

https://gazettengr.com/bandits-kill-four-in-kaduna/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Buhari approved N30 million mosque, centre for herdsmen: Minister

“To put the facts straight, the memo is authentic and appropriate in all ramifications.”

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 21, 2021

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development says President Muhammadu Buhari approved the approval for constructing a “Friday mosque” for herdsmen in Borno to meet the demand of a displaced community.

It explained that the “centre” was for a community of livestock farmers displaced by Boko Haram insurgents resettled in the Ngarannam/Mafa local government area of Borno.

The Director of Information in the ministry, Theodore Ogaziechi, revealed this in a statement on Thursday.

He noted that the ministry’s memo approving N30 million to construct a Friday mosque was an official document available for public scrutiny and review.

“Our attention has been drawn to an online publication by a newspaper alleging that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has come under fire on social media following a leaked memo conveying the approval of N30m for the construction of a Friday mosque with taxpayers’ fund.

“In addition, a government official memo, dated December 10, 2020 with ref. No. FMA/PROC/AHS/SIP/2020/7742/1 stating that the Ministerial Tenders Board approved the contract, was displayed on the platform,” the government said.

The statement further explained, “To put the facts straight, the memo is authentic and appropriate in all ramifications.

“It is original and was issued by the ministry for the construction of a worship centre for a community of livestock farmers who were sacked and displaced in Borno State by Boko Haram insurgents and are being resettled in Ngarannam/Mafa local government, Borno.



“Apart from the mosque, other common facilities provided for the livestock farmers in the community include solar-powered boreholes with overhead tanks and drinking troughs for their cattle and small ruminants.”

According to the federal government, the provision of “water harvesting structures, milk collection centre, resettlement abode” and other infrastructure will ensure the herdsmen are “properly” settled and rehabilitated.

“The construction of the mosque was a special request from the community through the Borno State Government to avoid moving too far from the settlement areas for prayers and also to ensure their safety and contact with the insurgents,” the statement revealed.

It, however, added, “The memo is an official document, and it is available for public scrutiny and review. It is, therefore, unfortunate for anyone to presume that the memo leaked.

“The ministry is in no way perturbed about the matter because it received appropriate approval, carried out due needs assessment and ensured due process in the execution of the project.”

https://gazettengr.com/buhari-approved-n30-million-mosque-centre-for-herdsmen-minister/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Here's the truth.

*Israel has been in existence before 1946.

*The war between Israel and Palestine is spiritual.

*2 Sam 5:6-10 David captures Jerusalem from the fiercely independent Canaanite tribe of Jebusites in c.1004BC. He moves his capital to Jerusalem and lives in the Fortress of Zion which he calls the City of David.

*All Kings of Israel has fought Philistines(present day Palestine).

*The Land is both thier ancestral home.

*Hamas are terrorists and has taken over Palestine government after winning the election in 2006 over Fatah; so expect more wars because they are Muslims.

*Mohammed has never set his foot in Jerusalem;that an angel took him to Jerusalem after death...is the wackiest religion story ever told. Medina, Saudi Arabia is where Mohammed ended and also got buried in a mosque there.

So there's no need taking sides, it's spiritual and they'll Still fight again before this time next year.

BREAKING: Cross River Governor, Ayade Dumps PDP For APC

Ayade announced his decision moments ago at the Executive Council chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar.

BY SAHARA REPORTERS, NEW YORKMAY 20, 2021

Governor Benedict Ayade of Cross River State has dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).


Ayade announced his decision moments ago at the Executive Council chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar.


CrossRiverWatch had earlier reported that the governor was in a meeting with APC chieftains, brewing suspicions of a likely defection.

It was learnt that APC National Caretaker, Governor Mai Mala Buni; Governors Kayode Fayemi and Hope Uzodinma of Ekiti and Imo states respectively as well as the Minister for State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, were among those said to be present.


http://saharareporters.com/2021/05/20/breaking-cross-river-governor-ayade-dumps-pdp-apc

Buhari won’t entertain restructuring: Malami

“What have they done to allow the local government structures to operate optimally?”

OYINDAMOLA OLUBAJO • MAY 20, 2021
President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Nigeria's Attorney General, Abubakar Malam
President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Nigeria’s Attorney General, Abubakar Malam
The Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has faulted southern governors’ agitation for restructuring, asking them to ensure the functionality of local governments before demanding President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the country.

Public officeholders, governors, civil society organisations, experts, and religious leaders have in recent times called for restructuring to save Nigeria from disintegration.

Last week, governors from the southern parts of Nigeria held a meeting on the country’s state and demanded restructuring to ensure true federalism.

Also, governors of the Peoples Democratic Party backed the decisions of the southern governors during a meeting held in Ibadan on Monday.

But Mr Malami, who spoke during a Channels TV programme on Wednesday, condemned the governors’ agitations, asking them to allow the local governments to function before clamouring for restructuring.

According to him, until local governments begin to function effectively, the governors have no legitimate right to agitate for restructuring.

“They cannot deny the autonomy of the state legislature and state judiciary and still be clamouring for restructuring. What restructuring are we talking about?” the minister said.

Speaking on the devolution of powers to states, Mr Malami queried the governors on measures and resources at the grassroots levels, saying, “What have they done to allow the local government structures to operate optimally?”



Asked if he would advise the president to yield to the calls, Mr Malami said, “They should address it at their own level first, and let’s see what happens before now coming over to the president. It’s not about the president. It’s about the denial of the functionality of the structures at the lower level, and that is what restructuring is all about.”

Continuing, he reiterated that the governors “should allow the state legislature to operate optimally, the checks and balances required will be there.”

He added, “Once you deny them the resources and autonomy to operate, then you do not have the legitimate right to clamour or perhaps agitate for any restructuring.”

Last week, Senate President Ahmad Lawan faulted southern governors’ call for restructuring.

While fielding questions from journalists in Abuja, Mr Lawan had said, “I believe that as leaders, those of us who were elected must not be at the forefront of calling for this kind of thing. Because even if you are a governor, you are supposed to be working hard in your state to ensure that this restructuring you are calling for at the federal level you have done it in your state as well.”

Speaking further, he noted, “This is because what you may accuse the federal government of whatever it is, you may also be accused of the same thing in your state. So, we are supposed to ensure that we have a complete and total way of ensuring that our systems at the federal, state, and even local government work for the people.”

https://gazettengr.com/buhari-wont-entertain-restructuring-malami/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

What are the marriage procedures?

Wait oo. Dem no get married people for this forum?

What if the man had use her womb for rituals/sacrifice,how would she reacts? The deed is done tell the man the truth and go and register in a convent and be a rev.sister since you've repented. When you was having raw sex as e dey sweet you,you no tell us now you want to trap this simp. Your kind go even dey blame the man that he's not man enough and that it's his fault you guys are childless.

The Holy Book says; "He who finds a wife, finds a good thing"

I have seen someone I want to marry but the issue here is. I'm staying in the east while her family resides in Abuja. And I don't know much people in Abuja except my secondary school classmates and few of my village people that I learnt that they're living in Abuja and I haven't seen this people for years.
I have already told the girl that I'm coming to Abuja to see her people and as things are I'm going to stay in hotel for atleast a week so please how do I proceed with the traditional rites? I need your guidance here please.

No Bashing!!!

Bandits killed three soldiers in fresh attack: Gov. Bello

However, he revealed that the Nigerian Army was on a manhunt for the bandits, assuring that they will be arrested soonest.

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 19, 2021

Governor Abubakar Bello says bandits killed three soldiers in a gun battle in Magama, Niger.

The governor disclosed this on Tuesday shortly after a meeting with security chiefs at Government House in Minna.

Mr Bello told journalists that the military recorded the casualties in the battle that lasted for over one hour.

“Two bodies of bandits killed during the fight in the area were also recovered on Monday, while the bandits managed to escape with the rest,” he said.

The governor described the latest onslaught on the state, especially against the military, as unfortunate.

Mr Bello added that soldiers and a group of armed bandits on Monday night engaged in a gunfight leading to the death of the three soldiers.

However, he revealed that the Nigerian Army was on a manhunt for the bandits, assuring that they will be arrested soonest.

Mr Bello disclosed, during a security meeting attended by the commissioner of police, the army, Civil Defence, and the SSS, that despite banditry in Niger, normalcy was returning to some communities recently sacked by the bandits.



“No fewer than 50 communities have been resettled back in the villages.

“They were led back to their villages by the armed soldiers,” he said.

The governor, however, said that now that the rain has started, the people who are predominantly farmers would go back to their farms and start planting.

He said this had become necessary because all the affected communities in the three local government areas of Shiroro, Munya and Rafi are major agricultural communities.

The governor added that farming would commence in earnest with the security cover by the military, allaying the fear of food shortage next year.

In another development, the governor said security agencies had been put on red alert to deal with youth restiveness that has engulfed Minna in the past week.

“The youth restiveness we have been witnessing in Minna, the state capital, in the past few days is very embarrassing.

“We discussed this development extensively at the just concluded security meeting, and I have directed that anybody caught with cutlasses or any other dangerous weapons should be arrested immediately and dealt with accordingly,” said Mr Bello.



Some youths from different communities in Minna had been on the rampage in the past week, using dangerous weapons to unleash terror on residents.

It took the intervention of a combined team of security operatives mobilised from various formations to bring the situation under control.

https://gazettengr.com/bandits-killed-three-soldiers-in-fresh-attack-gov-bello/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Wait...so 500k no fit arrange traditional wedding?

Nigerian Army Strikes Boko Haram Terrorists During Meeting in Borno, Kills 40

The attack, which followed intelligence gathering, happened within the Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, with no fewer than 40 insurgents planning to execute a coordinated storm in Maiduguri and its environs killed.

BY SAHARAREPORTERS, NEW YORKMAY 18, 2021

The Nigerian troops of Operation Hadin Kai bombarded a mass gathering of Boko Haram members in Dawuri village at the weekend.


The attack, which followed intelligence gathering, happened within the Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, with no fewer than 40 insurgents planning to execute a coordinated storm in Maiduguri and its environs killed.


Nigerian troops are fighting jihadist insurgency in the northeastern part of Nigeria.
Nigerian Army
The army reportedly deployed a massive artillery gun against identified Boko Haram camps and hit the target.

A military source said the pre-emptive operation was ordered after getting a report on the movement of the fighters and their communication was also intercepted by the troops.

“The strike hit the mass gathering of the terrorists killing at least 40 of them while others escaped with various degrees of injury,” the source said.

It was learnt that the acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Brigadier General Abdulwahab Eyitayo subsequently sent words of commendation and encouragement to the soldiers for the feat.

http://saharareporters.com/2021/05/18/nigerian-army-strikes-boko-haram-terrorists-during-meeting-borno-kills-40

Who impregnated that small snake?

We are heading for secession: Miyetti Allah

“Criminality started in the South. Armed robbery, kidnapping, all started in the South. We have been watching these on television.”

OYINDAMOLA OLUBAJO • MAY 16, 2021

Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), has called for the immediate vacation of Fulanis from southern states, following the governors’ decision to ban open grazing.

Seventeen governors in the southern parts of the country had in a communiqué at the end of a meeting in Asaba banned open grazing and nomadic pastoralism across the South.

The meeting held regardless of their political, ethnic and religious differences and the focal points were insecurity occasioned by Fulani herdsmen’s attacks, banditry, secession among issues.

The nation has witnessed escalated attacks by Fulani herdsmen across the country that have not only caused loss of lives and properties, but has also heightened threats to food security and national unity with secessionist groups hinging their call on Fulani oppression.

However, the Bauchi State chapter of MACBAN faulted the governors’ decision on open grazing, asking the Fulani people to leave the South.

“This is a simple calculation. We are heading for secession. The rulers are no longer interested in the people. If some people are banned from open grazing, there is nothing more. Fulani people should move out from there. It is very simple,” Guardian quoted MACBAN Chairman, Sadiq Ibrahim Ahmed as saying.

Mr Ahmed described the Fulani people as “peace lovers”, alleging that inhumane activities such as kidnapping, robbery, and banditry began in the southern part of the country.

“Must we transport the cattle there?” he queried, stating that “I have said it before. We have an option of breeding our cattle here (North). We are peace lovers. Let them come and buy from us. It is some people’s fault.

“Criminality started in the South. Armed robbery, kidnapping, all started in the South. We have been watching these on television. And if these are being transited to the North,” the chairman said, lashing out at the federal government for failing to protect the constitution.

“The southern governors can do that. There is no problem, let them do what they want. If the northern governors feel like, they can also do it too (banning open grazing)…”

Mr Ahmed further described President Muhammadu Buhari as a “figure head”, asking him to resign and be replaced with a leader.

He said: “The President is there as a figurehead. He doesn’t know what he’s doing. He is not controlling anybody. In our country now, everyone does what he feels like. The country is already moving apart. Where is the central government, if some governors can meet and take decisions that are against the Constitution…?”

Mr Ahmed further recommended that the solution to insecurity is for the “President to step aside or for Nigerians to put heads together and elect a credible president in 2023, a leader with focus and competence. Nigeria should get a leader with a good example, who is ready to sacrifice his life for his subjects.”

Also reacting to the ban on open grazing, the National Secretary of MACBAN, Baba Othman Ngelzarma challenged the northern governors to meet with their southern counterparts and work out a solution that will be generally acceptable.

“We can’t ignore the unanimous demand of the entire governments of the south on a particular issue,” Mr Ngelzarma told The Nation on Saturday.

“If the southern governors can be in agreement on an aspect, that means it is an issue and deserves to be given serious attention,” he noted, reiterating that “In a situation where the entire southern populace is synonymous with a particular aspect, I think this aspect deserves to be given attention.

“But the northern governors need to speak with their southern counterparts so that they can come up with a solution that is generally acceptable,” he recommended.

He further explained the need for reactivation of over 400 inactive grazing reserves in the north, saying “Ranching is a long term issue. Since we have these grazing reserves lying idle, why can’t we reactivate them?

“We as an association believe settlements for the pastoralists will be the only solution that will solve the farmers/herders conflicts in the country.”

https://gazettengr.com/we-are-heading-for-secession-miyetti-allah/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost[url][/url]

Buhari begs Turkish President for more humanitarian support in North-East

The Nigerian leader held talks with the Turkish President on Saturday.

AHMED OLUWASANJO • MAY 16, 2021

President Muhammadu Buhari and President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan
President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the Turkish government to participate more in humanitarian support for the terror-ravaged northeastern Nigeria. 

The North-East has endured decade-long devastation as a result of Boko Haram terrorism with over 2.1 million persons internally displaced. 

Presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a statement on Saturday said, Mr Buhari in a telephone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, called for more humanitarian support for North-East.

“President Buhari, who had fruitful discussions, expressed satisfaction with existing bilateral ties between the two countries and called for greater Turkish participation in the economy and the humanitarian efforts in the North-East,” Mr Shehu said.

United Nations reported that “Violence and insecurity in the region has left close to 7.7 million people in dire need of humanitarian assistance – especially food, shelter, water, healthcare and protection.”

Over 20,000 persons have been killed in North-East since Boko Haram insurgents declared a war against Nigeria.

The terror group has launched attacks consistently on citizens, forcing school closure with mass abduction of students for ransom.

https://gazettengr.com/buhari-begs-turkish-president-for-more-humanitarian-support-in-north-east/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Buhari promises to help Chad stabilise

Mr Buhari said Chad should not hesitate to ask for help in areas it would deem necessary.

Mahamat Idriss Deby and President Muhammadu Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has promised that Nigeria will assist the Republic of Chad to stabilise and return to constitutional rule. 

In a statement in Abuja on Friday, Buhari’s  spokesman, Femi Adesina, said the president made the pledge when he hosted Lt.-Gen. Mahamat Idriss Deby, the President, Transitional Military Council of Chad, at the State House, Abuja.

Mr Deby took over the mantle of leadership of Chad after the death of his father, Idriss Itno, on April 19, 2021.

Idriss Itno died in battle, while leading troops to confront insurgents who came in through Libya.

The country consequently set up the transitional council.

A return to democracy is expected in 18 months. 

Mr Buhari told the Chadian leader: “We are bound together by culture and geography, and we will help in all ways we can.

“Nigerians know and appreciate the role Chad played in helping us to combat terrorism, we will continue the collaboration.” 

The Nigerian president described the late Marshal Idriss Itno as his personal friend and a friend of Nigeria, noting that Chad had been very steadfast in defending Nigeria.

He said that Chad should, therefore, not hesitate to ask for help in areas it would deem necessary. 

Buhari said that Nigeria would help to strengthen the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Multinational Joint Task Force.

“We will also help you to ensure a smooth transition in 18 months, as you have promised your people,’’ he added. 

The transitional leader had thanked Nigeria for solidarity it showed Chad after the passage of the former president.

He said that the main objective of the Transitional Military Council “are security and cohesion of our country”.

He expressed commitment to  free and fair polls in 18 months.

“You were very close to Marshal Itno. I’m here to reaffirm that relationship, and for you to support our transition.

“We rely on our brother country, Nigeria, as we have shared history, culture and geography.

“We are ready to be guided by you in our journey to constitutional rule,” he said.

Mr Deby has departed the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for Ndjamena

. 

https://gazettengr.com/buhari-promises-to-help-chad-stabilise/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Some northern governors assist bandits in kidnapping: Gov. Bala Mohammed

The governor added, “I’m calling on the federal government to work with us as governors and local governments because that’s where the solution is.”

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 14, 2021

Governor Bala Mohammed says northern governors and residents know bandits terrorising the region, and sometimes some of them help the bandits to commit atrocities.

“We are all policemen today. We know these bandits. We know where they stay and what they do,” Mr Mohammed. “Sometimes, they are aided and abetted by some of us, and we should fish them out because the police in their numbers are already overwhelmed.”

The governor added, “I’m calling on the federal government to work with us as governors and local governments because that’s where the solution is.”

According to the governor, President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime will not be able to tackle the continued deterioration of nationwide insecurity alone.

Mr Mohammed further explained, “It is the responsibility of the federal, state and the local governments, including all the traditional institutions in the country.

“These problems can only with tackled with concerted efforts and collaboration from the federal, state, and local governments.

“As a nation, we are challenged by so many aspects of misdemeanours, crime, and criminality. It is not just a federal government’s responsibility. I hope we sit down as a country to reflect and make sure we bring solutions.”

https://gazettengr.com/some-northern-governors-assist-bandits-in-kidnapping-gov-bala-mohammed/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Gireiboy:
My friend, Israel did not willingly wildraw from the Sinai Peninsula, they were defeated by the Egyptians. The whole world saw that dude,or are you from Mars?

What are you talking about here? You need to relearn whatever you were had in your thoughts about that war. The "Six-Day War" you should go and read it or watch some videos about it on YouTube

Israel vows to increase Gaza strikes until there is "total, long-term quiet" amid barrage of Palestinian rocket fire

UPDATED ON: MAY 12, 2021 / 7:15 PM / CBS/AP


Gaza City — Rockets streamed out of Gaza and Israel pounded the territory with airstrikes early Wednesday as the most severe outbreak of violence since the 2014 war took on many hallmarks of that devastating 50-day conflict. As CBS News senior foreign correspondent Elizabeth Palmer reported on Wednesday, what began weeks ago as protests in Jerusalem over restrictions at a major Muslim holy site and the planned eviction of Palestinian families has morphed into a new war.

And on Wednesday, there was no end in sight. Israel's Defense Minister said the attacks on armed groups in Gaza were to be stepped up, to bring what he promised to be "total, long term quiet."


Gaza's Hamas rulers and other militant groups have fired barrages of hundreds of rockets that at times have overwhelmed Israel's missile defenses, causing air raid sirens and explosions to echo across Tel Aviv, Israel's biggest metropolitan area, and other cities.

Israeli-Palestinian violence flares up
A Palestinian woman carrying her son evacuates after their tower building was hit by Israeli airstrikes, amid a flare-up of Israeli-Palestinian violence, in Gaza City, May 12, 2021.
MOHAMMED SALEM/REUTERS
Israeli airstrikes have leveled multistory buildings across the Gaza Strip, where 2 million Palestinians have lived under a crippling Israeli-Egyptian blockade since Hamas took power in 2007. Warning shots have allowed civilians to evacuate the buildings, but the material losses will be immense. Israel faced heavy criticism over the tactic during the 2014 war.

U.N. Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland tweeted, "Stop the fire immediately. We're escalating towards a full scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating & is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now."

Israel-Gaza Conflict
APTOPIX Israel Palestinians
Fear of war grips Mideast as religious violence spreads in Israel
APTOPIX Israel Palestinians
Israel to ramp up deadly assault on Gaza as rockets rain down
TOPSHOT-PALESTINIAN-ISRAEL-CONFLICT-GAZA-ATTACK
Israel responds to fire balloons from Gaza with fighter jet strikes
Palestinian woman looks on as she stands in front of a house destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip
Rockets fired at Israel hours after Gaza cease-fire declared
More
Just after daybreak Wednesday, Israel unleashed dozens of airstrikes in the course of a few minutes, targeting police and security installations, witnesses said. A wall of dark gray smoke rose over Gaza City.

The Health Ministry in Gaza said at least 48 people had been killed in the strikes over the last two days, including 14 children and three women, and more than 300 others wounded.


Israel and Hamas escalate attacks amid unrest...
The Israeli military insists it only targets terrorists — Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders and their installations, but as Palmer reports, the material damage is immense, and for the human beings in the over-crowded enclave, there's no safe place.

Samah Haboub, a mother of four in Gaza, said she was thrown across her bedroom in a "moment of horror" by an airstrike on an apartment tower next door. She and her children, aged three to 14, ran down the stairway of their apartment block along with other residents, many of them screaming and crying.

"There is almost no safe place in Gaza," she said.

Six Israelis, including three women and a child, were killed by rocket fire Tuesday and early Wednesday, and dozens of people were wounded. The Israeli military said Palestinian militants had fired more 1,050 rockets since the conflict began, with 200 of them falling short and landing inside Gaza.


One of the Israelis killed was a soldier hit on Wednesday by an anti-tank missile fired on his vehicle near the Gaza border.

Palmer reported on Wednesday that it's not just an air war. There's been violence on the ground, too. Overnight in Ramallah, in the West Bank, police fired tear gas to chase away hundreds of young men who, like most Palestinians, have had enough of the Israeli occupation.

Roots of latest exchanges
The latest eruption of violence began a month ago in Jerusalem, where heavy-handed police tactics during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the threatened eviction of dozens of Palestinian families by Jewish settlers ignited protests and clashes with police. A focal point was the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, a holy site sacred to Jews and Muslims.

Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since the Islamic militant group seized power in Gaza from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. The conflicts ended after regional and international powers convinced both sides to accept an informal truce.

While the violence has been widely condemned, there is no sign that either side is willing to back down. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to expand the offensive, saying "this will take time," and the unrest in Jerusalem has spread to the occupied West Bank and within Israel itself as Hamas has called for a full-scale Palestinian intifada, or uprising.

APTOPIX Israel Palestinians
An Israeli firefighter walks next to cars hit by a missile fired from Gaza Strip, in the southern Israeli town of Ashkelon, May 11, 2021.
ARIEL SCHALIT/AP
In the Israeli city of Lod, a 52-year-old man and his 16-year-old daughter were killed early Wednesday when a rocket had landed in the courtyard of their one-story home. Their car parked outside was wrecked and the interior of the house was filled by debris.

Lod also saw heavy clashes after thousands of mourners joined a funeral for an Arab man killed by a suspected Jewish gunman the previous night. The crowd fought with police, and set a synagogue and some 30 vehicles, including a police car, on fire, Israeli media reported. Paramedics said a 56-year-old man was seriously hurt after his car was pelted with stones.

"An intifada erupted in Lod, you have to bring in the army," the city's mayor, Yair Revivo, said. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and ordered a deployment of paramilitary border guards from the West Bank as reinforcements.

In neighboring Ramle, ultra-nationalist Jewish demonstrators were filmed attacking cars belonging to Arabs. In the northern port town of Acre, protesters torched a Jewish-owned restaurant and hotel. Police arrested dozens of others at Arab protests in other towns.

Israeli politics shadowing fighting
Israel is in political limbo following four inconclusive elections in less than two years.

Opponents of Netanyahu have been trying to forge a government to oust him, but they are deeply divided among themselves and will likely need the support of an Arab-backed party with Islamist roots. The current tensions might deter the party's leader, Mansour Abbas, from joining a coalition with Jewish parties, at least for the time being.

The sides have three more weeks to reach a deal. If they fail, Israel would likely begin an unprecedented fifth election campaign in just over two years.

Netanyahu appeared with one of his rivals, Defense Minister Benny Gantz, on Tuesday in a show of unity. Gantz said Israel's strikes were "only the beginning" and the military said it was activating some 5,000 reservists and sending troop reinforcements to the Gaza border.

Confrontations erupted last weekend at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, which is the third-holiest site in Islam and the holiest site in Judaism. Over four days, Israeli police fired tear gas and stun grenades at Palestinians in the compound who hurled stones and chairs at the forces. At times, police fired stun grenades into the carpeted mosque.

On Monday evening, Hamas began firing rockets from Gaza. From there on, the escalation was rapid.

In a televised address, Hamas' exiled leader, Ismail Haniyeh, said Israel bore responsibility. "It's the Israeli occupation that set Jerusalem on fire, and the flames reached Gaza," he said.

International reaction
Diplomats sought to intervene, with Qatar, Egypt and the United Nations working to deliver a cease-fire. All three serve as mediators between Israel and Hamas.

The U.N. Security Council planned to hold its second closed emergency meeting in three days Wednesday on the escalating violence, an indication of growing international concern. Council diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity because discussions have been private, said the U.N.'s most powerful body did not issue a statement because of U.S. concerns that it could escalate tensions.

The U.S. has called on both sides to rein in the violence, condemned the Palestinian rocket attacks in particular.


Israel vows to increase airstrikes on Gaza
CBS News Radio correspondent Robert Berger, who's covered the Middle East for decades, said the Biden administration appears to be treading cautiously as it wants to avoid getting off to a bad start with Israel.

Berger noted also that as Israeli cities are being bombarded, it would be difficult for the U.S. not to back Israel's right to self-defense. That's what Israel would like to hear, unequivocally, from President Biden, but Israel realizes it will come under increasing pressure from the U.S. to show restraint, so it may be trying to hit Hamas as hard as it can before diplomatic time runs out.

An official familiar with the travel plans confirmed to CBS News' Christina Ruffini on Wednesday that Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Israeli-Palestinian affairs Hady Amr had been expected to travel to Tel Aviv this week and likely still would, depending on flights being permitted to land in the country amid the ongoing rocket fire. Axios first reported on Wednesday that Amr was being despatched to Jerusalem.

The Arab League, some of whose members have grown closer to the Jewish state over the last year, said Israel's actions were "indiscriminate and irresponsible" and blamed it for "dangerous escalation" in Jerusalem.

Violence begets violence
Hamas confirmed on Wednesday that its top commander in Gaza City was killed in a strike. Israel claims it has killed dozens of the group's fighters, including a number of senior commanders. Islamic Jihad confirmed that three senior commanders were killed in a strike on their hideout in a Gaza City apartment building.

Netanyahu said Israel had attacked hundreds of targets. The fiercest attack was a set of airstrikes that brought down an entire 12-story building. The building housed important Hamas offices, as well as a gym and some start-up businesses. Israel fired a series of warning shots before demolishing the building, allowing people to flee and there were no casualties.

Israeli aircraft heavily damaged another Gaza City building early Wednesday. The nine-story structure housed residential apartments, medical companies and a dental clinic. A drone fired five warning rockets before the bombing. Israel said the building housed Hamas intelligence offices and the group's command responsible for planning attacks on Israeli targets in the occupied West Bank.

Fighter jets struck the building again after journalists and rescuers had gathered around. There was no immediate word on casualties. The high-rise stood 650 feet from the Associated Press bureau in Gaza City, and smoke and debris reached the office.

Soon after the bombing, Hamas announced that it would resume its attacks, and fired 100 rockets at the Israeli desert town of Beersheba. Hamas said the renewed barrage was in response to the strike on the building.

First published on May 12, 2021 / 2:23 AM

© 2021 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-palestinian-gaza-strikes-increase-likely/

If Iran wanted to be part of it they wouldn't have announced it.

Jones4190:
“The Gaza Strip, Golan Heights & West Bank should be returned to the Arab people”

“It is no use for Israel to talk of peace if they still hold on to Arab territories which they conquered during the Six Day War in 1967”

You don't need to be a Muslim or Christian before you conderm the attack on Arabs by Israel

It was annexed during a war so unless Israel willingly withdraw from it like they did in Egypt during the said Six-Day War...it's thiers abi you wan go join the fight?

helinues:
Na return match..

Israel defeated Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq not sure of the last country except Egypt who held where they were defending which was Gaza Strip

Egypt was defeated too...if you was talking about the Six-Day War.

Calls for secession genuine: Senate President

“I never believe that someone who is calling for secession means well or is a misguided person.”

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 14, 2021

Senate President Ahmad Lawan has given legitimacy to the calls for secession.

Mr Lawan also pointed out that he considered agitations for the country’s restructuring as genuine. However, he castigated southern governors for adding their voice to the demand for a restructured Nigeria.

Mr Lawan, who fielded questions from journalists in Abuja on Thursday, urged the governors to pay more attention to restructuring their states by working hard to provide good governance to the citizens.

According to him, the southern governors can be guilty of what they accuse President Muhammadu Buhari of not doing.

Expressing his view on the call for secession, Mr Lawan said, “The call for secession or the call for restructuring, many are genuine calls even though I never believe that someone who is calling for secession means well or is a misguided person.

“But I believe that when somebody calls for improving the structure that we have is a genuine call.”

Mr Buhari’s regime had proscribed IPOB for its secessionist agenda. IPOB has consistently called for the South-East to secede from Nigeria and become the Biafra Republic. IPOB’s leader Nnamdi Kanu, once arrested and released on bail fled to the UK. He is considered a fugitive by Mr Buhari’s regime.

Mr Lawan also frowned on how the local government system was relegated to the background in the country, saying for the nation to address its security challenges, the local government system must be functional and efficient.

“I want to take this opportunity also to say that we have diminished the local government system. I think we can attribute some of the security issues to the lack of a functional local government system,” noted Mr Lawan

https://gazettengr.com/calls-for-secession-genuine-senate-president/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

FLASH: Binance under investigation by U.S. authorities

The underlying concern is that cryptocurrencies are being used to conceal illegal transactions, including theft and drug deals, and potential tax evasion from traders.

HILLARY ESSIEN • MAY 13, 2021

Cryptocurrency exchange platform Binance is currently being investigated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as well as the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Binance is the globe’s largest crypto exchange, but closed itself off to U.S. users last year, moving them to Binance.US

The news has affected Binance Coin (BNB-USD) down by nearly 12 per cent for the session.

Bloomberg reports that officials from the DOJ and the IRS have “sought information from individuals with insight into Binance’s business,” without naming sources. The report notes that the federal agencies have not accused Binance of wrongdoing.”

This investigation is not the first time the trading platform has been scrutinized.

In March, Bloomberg reported that the trading platform was facing an inquiry from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) over whether the exchange allowed U.S. residents to trade on its platform.

The Financial Times reported that European regulators, including the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), sought to examine whether Binance complied with security rules before launching trading in stock tokens.

The underlying concern is that cryptocurrencies are being used to conceal illegal transactions, including theft and drug deals, and potential tax evasion from traders. 

In response, Binance had clarified that the company follows U.S. rules and uses technology to check transactions for signs of money laundering and other illicit activity.  

https://gazettengr.com/flash-binance-under-investigation-by-u-s-authorities/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost

Police Arrest Two Northerners Behind Recent Attacks In Imo
The two suspects are identified as Godwin Danladu and Bamaiyi Gada, according to Igbere TV, as the police confirmed that its operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle from the suspects.

BY SAHARAREPORTERS, NEW YORKMAY 13, 2021

The Imo State Police Command has arrested two gunmen who are alleged to be among the unknown gunmen causing crisis in the state in recent times.

The two suspects are identified as Godwin Danladu and Bamaiyi Gada, according to Igbere TV, as the police confirmed that its operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle from the suspects.


The two men, who hail from the North-West region, were also nabbed with military uniforms.

Imo State with adjoining South-East states have been at the centre of violence for months following unprovoked gunmen attacks on police and other security establishments which have led to confusion in the region.

SaharaReporters had on May 3 reported that policemen deployed to the South-East states were deserting their stations, and now preferred to go to work in mufti due to the pervading attacks.

It had been reported that most policemen, particularly those who are not Igbo indigenes, are desperately seeking redeployments amidst fear of the incessant attacks by “unknown gunmen.”

SaharaReporters had on April 19 reported that most policemen in Abia wear mufti, after heavily armed men attacked Uzuakoli Police Station in the Bende Local Government Area in a string of other attacks on other stations.

Investigations revealed that the officers are seeking to be deployed to investigating units such as the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), Inspector General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit, and special Squad.

It was also learnt that the affected personnel are currently meeting with their contacts within and outside the state and are willing to pay for their redeployment to be granted due to the fear of unknown gunmen.

While some senior officers believe that the officers should remain in the state to tackle the insecurity, others have already reached out to the police high command in a bid to facilitate the deployment.

Some of the officers also based their request on the need to be reunited with members of their families.

http://saharareporters.com/2021/05/13/police-arrest-two-northerners-behind-recent-attacks-imo

Buhari Urges Prayers Against Criminals, ‘Desperate’ Power-Seekers
The president in the message which he personally signed called for unity and solidarity among all citizens particularly at a time when the country...



By
Our Reporters
Thu May 13 2021

President Muhammadu Buhari has called for prayers against the tragic incidents of kidnapping and banditry and the desperate quest for political power expressed through blackmail against the existence of Nigeria as a united entity.

He made the call in a goodwill message to all Nigerians and Muslims across the globe as they mark the Eid-el- Fitr following the completion of a month of fasting.

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The president in the message which he personally signed called for unity and solidarity among all citizens particularly at a time when the country was faced with multiple challenges.

He said the problems could be surmounted when Nigerians coalesce as one. President Buhari said: “On this blessed occasion, I wish that the Eid festival brings with it peace, safety, security, brotherhood and love amongst all.

“Unity and solidarity among all citizens, Muslims and Christians are imperative especially at a time when our country is faced with multiple challenges which are surmountable only when we come together as one.

“It is important that we remember how we share, through our faiths, common bonds that should serve to unite us and not allow ourselves to succumb to those who seek to divide us, using our two great religions, for their own selfish advantages.

“We should jointly pray against the tragic incidents of kidnapping and banditry and the desperate quest for political power expressed through blackmail against the existence of our country as a united entity.

“We must resist the temptation to retreat into our communities. I urge our political and religious leaders as well as traditional rulers to encourage our citizens to turn towards one another in love and compassion,” the president said.

President Buhari, in a statement released yesterday by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, also urged Nigerians to continue to observe all COVID-19 prevention measures and celebrate responsibly during the holidays.

 

Lawan, Gbajabiamila call for unity

Speaking on the Eid-el-Fitr festival, Senate President Ahmad Lawan urged the Muslim faithful and other Nigerians to pray for peace, unity and progress of the country.

According to him, “Because of the current security and economic challenges, our country Nigeria needs the prayers of every patriot now more than ever before to achieve the peace, unity and progress that were the dreams of the founding fathers.

“I assure us that the government, including the National Assembly, will not waiver in its determination to provide robust security in the country that guarantees every law-abiding citizen the liberty to live in peace and pursue their legitimate businesses anywhere they choose.”

Also, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and his deputy, Ahmed Idris Wase called on Muslims to use the Eid-el-Fitr period to pray for peace and work towards mutual coexistence among Nigerians.

Gbajabiamila said Nigeria was facing challenges at the moment. “We should pray to our Creator for solutions even as leaders try their best to address the issues.”

On his part, Wase urged Muslims to reflect on their spiritual lives as individuals and how they could contribute more meaningfully towards the unity, stability and progress of Nigeria.

 

Govs pray for peace

The Northern Governors Forum (NGF) has called on the Muslim Ummah to make prayers the pivot of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration in order to foster unity, peace and progress of the nation.

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, said in a statement yesterday that although Nigeria was going through troubling times, there was still hope that must not be lost because hard times do not last forever.

He urged the Muslim Ummah to continue to demonstrate faith in the prayers, which were offered, especially during the Ramadan fast, saying that God did not make a mistake by creating Nigeria with all its diversities and will therefore not allow evil to prevail or destroy the country.

“The current security situation demands more action from both the government and citizens who must work together to isolate bad elements that are desperate to make Nigeria an unstable entity.

“Nigerians, particularly political and religious leaders, should avoid rhetoric that inflames passions and further divides the nation along religious, ethnic and parochial sentiments. I wish Nigerians a happy festive period and I am praying that it will be spent in peace and love,” he said.

Many governors in their separate statements offered solidarity messages and prayers for peace as the Muslim faithful marked the end of the Ramadan fasting.

Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State, in his Sallah message urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and oppose any agitations aimed at balkanising the country into hostile entities.

Similarly, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi enjoined the people of the state irrespective of their religious affiliations to live together in peace and harmony as they were all created by God to fulfil His purpose.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged Muslims in Lagos State and across the country to continue on the path of spirituality and peaceful co-existence.

The governor said Ramadan was significant to Muslims across the world as one of the major pillars of Islam, which thought abstinence from worldly pleasures, steadfastness in prayers and total submission to the will of Allah.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, called on the faithful not to do away with love, prayers, unity and harmony that formed the basis of the holy month.

He urged Muslims to engage in moderate celebration to mark the end of the fasting, saying “the situation in our dear country calls for sober reflection and prayers.”

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State said Ramadan was a season of several teachings that centred on humanity, kindness, peace and love; saying if these lessons would be retained, many of the problems afflicting the country would fizzle out.

From Ondo, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu said Ramadan entailed intense prayers. “We must pray for Nigeria and our state. The problem of banditry, kidnappings and other activities of criminal elements must be brought to an end. It is time to seek God’s face on the issue of insecurity that ravages our nation,” he said.

Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State urged the faithful to celebrate in accordance with COVID-19 protocols and encouraged them to reach out to the less privileged in the society to make them share in the joy and happiness that came with the festival.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State advised Muslims to remain steadfast and continue to pray for peace and unity of the country, noting that development and growth could only take place when the people were united.

While calling on Muslims to observe COVID-19 protocols, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State said that humanity was going through a tough time occasioned by restrictions.

Fintiri appealed to Muslims to strengthen the bond of friendship and unity.

Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in his message called on all Nigerians to take advantage of the occasion to reflect soberly and intensify prayers, emphasising that the religious event had great positive impact on the nation’s efforts in surmounting its security, socio-economic and public health challenges.

 

Rekindle hope for unity – Reps Minority Caucus

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has called on Muslims to rekindle the hopes of Nigerians in the unity of the country as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

They made the call in a statement signed by the House Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu, on Wednesday, as they felicitated with Muslims on the completion of the Ramadan fasting.

“Our caucus urges Nigerians, especially the leaders, to deploy the imbibed lessons of self-restraint and trust in God to engender honesty, justice, mutual respect, tolerance peaceful co-existence as well as love and care for one another, in line with the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammed.

“Indeed, we must, as a people, instil such virtues in our everyday life in order to salvage and stabilise our nation at this critical time,” the statement said.

 

Put politics aside, pray for Nigeria, Buhari – Tinubu

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has said that the act of sacrifice in abstaining from food, drink and other worldly things from dawn to dusk, was not simply a ritual to be performed so that Muslims might seem religious or pious to others.

“Now that the holy month of Ramadan is ending, we must counsel ourselves not to forget its great lessons. We must be better than we were before. We must treat each other with more compassion and understanding. We must build a better society free from want, violence and hatred. We must never condone and tolerate the works and words of those who would do evil or who would pit brother against brother, Nigerian against Nigerian.

“Let us put politics aside and continue to pray to Almighty Allah for our country and its entire people. Let us remember President Muhammadu Buhari and his government in our prayers that they may be given the requisite strength and wisdom to protect the nation, defeat the challenges that confront us and help establish Nigeria as a more prosperous and just land. Let us pray for our brave soldiers and security agents confronting insurgents and bandits,” he said.

 

Ensure peace with your family, neighbours – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in his goodwill message urged Muslims to ensure peace and unity within their family and in their neighbourhood.

“As Muslims, we know from both the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of noble Prophet Muhammed (SAW) that no tribe or race is superior to another, except the one that seeks piety to the Almighty Allah.

“We do not attain piety through hate or blood-letting. We attain piety through forbearance and by sharing love. That is the message that we must give some reflection as we celebrate Eid today,” he said.

 

Continue praying for Nigeria- Saraki

The immediate past Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has advised Nigerians to continue with their closeness to Almighty Allah and their prayers for His intervention in the affairs of the country, even after the obligatory fasting period.

“We should refrain from returning to our old habits and become responsible citizens who pray for the country at all times and play our roles in the quest to entrench the fear of God, discipline, unity, development, equity, justice and inclusiveness in the polity.

“The current situation in our country requires sincere change of mindset by all Nigerians. We should use this post-Ramadan period and the lessons we learnt from the fasting period to steer clear of any action which does not bode well for our country,” he said.

Speakers of various Houses of Assemblies had also prayed for peace, harmony mutual respect amongst diverse ethnic nationalities.

 
https://dailytrust.com/buhari-urges-prayers-against-criminals-desperate-power-seekers

Another IPOB commander arrested: Army

“Many of the arrested IPOB/ESN terrorists had earlier mentioned him as their key sponsor, mastermind and second in command to late Ikonso.”

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • MAY 12, 2021

Awurum Eze
The Nigerian Army says security agents have arrested a man said to be next in line to the killed IPOB Commander Ikonso.

Army spokesman Mohammed Yerima in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja disclosed that Awurum Eze was arrested in Aba after weeks of trailing.

Mr Eze, 48, a native of Umoneke Nta, Isiala-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo, had earlier escaped on May 4 when operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) stormed Isiala Mbano where he was hiding, Mr Yerima narrated.

He said that an intensive manhunt was thereafter launched towards tracing and arresting him.

According to him, Mr Eze was eventually apprehended on Wednesday in Aba after weeks of unrelenting follow-ups by operatives.

“Awurum Eze is one of the main sponsors of the numerous killings in Imo State and has been on the wanted list of security agents for more than three months.

“Many of the arrested IPOB/ESN terrorists had earlier mentioned him as their key sponsor, mastermind and Second in Command to late Ikonso.

“According to them, amongst all their leaders in Imo State, only Ikonso and Awurum have direct communication links with Nnamdi Kanu.

“He can be seen in several photographs posing with the fugitive terrorist leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Investigation by the combined team of security operatives continues,” he said. 

https://gazettengr.com/another-ipob-commander-arrested-army/?utm_source=ReviveOldPost&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ReviveOldPost