by admin | Sep 26, 2025 | diplomacy and diplomats, foreign policy, nigeria, security, Travel
A former Nigerian official and security expert has sharply condemned the most recent travel warning released by the U.S. government, calling it inflated, unhelpful, and grounded in obsolete information.
On July 15, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued an alert advising Americans to carefully think about traveling to Nigeria because of extensive instability, terrorist activities, abductions, public disturbances, and inadequate medical facilities. Eighteen states were placed in the “Avoid Travel” classification, such as Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and parts of northern Adamawa owing to threats from terrorists and kidnappers, along with some southern regions affected by criminal violence and gang activity.
In response to the warning, Ambassador Suleiman Dahiru, a former Nigerian diplomat, stated that the U.S. administration has established a habit of releasing travel advisories that fail to enhance safety but end up harming Nigeria’s global image.
It’s regrettable that the United States has developed a practice of issuing warnings, often together with its European allies,” Dahiru stated during an interview yesterday. “Unfortunately for them, none of these advisories have led to any outcome.
He criticized the United States for being hypocritical, noting that numerous dangers mentioned in the warning are actually more common inside the country.
“In only one place, America, do people visit a restaurant for food and end up getting shot and dying there. In just one country, America, individuals go to a shopping mall to browse and then meet their death there. I haven’t come across any reports about Nigerians or foreigners being murdered inside a shopping mall in Nigeria,” he stated.
Dahiru also claimed that the advice was driven by political intentions and showed insincerity.
“They are using old data or intelligence. They are also depending on conversations at beer parlors. Everything they’re discussing hasn’t occurred in Nigeria,” he stated.
He additionally condemned the United States for not working with Nigerian officials in a productive manner.
“If the United States is genuine, and if they notice some issues that are problematic, it is their responsibility to inform the Nigerian government so that the Nigerian government may implement appropriate actions to safeguard both Nigerians and foreign nationals,” he stated.
A retired official voiced worries about what he referred to as the United States’ conflicting principles and its partnership with Israel, specifically concerning the human suffering in Gaza.
“They are working together with Israel to carry out their actions without regard for human life,” he stated.
There is completely no reason to issue these false warnings, particularly since none of the alerts have led to any accident or disaster in Nigeria.
Cybersecurity specialists have also raised concerns about when and how broad the alert was, cautioning that these notices might put pressure on international relationships and deter overseas investments.
The Nigerian authorities have not released an official statement regarding the most recent alert, although they previously criticized a comparable notice, maintaining that Abuja is still secure for both locals and tourists.
A security analyst criticizes the travel warning, raises concerns about diplomatic consequences, and highlights potential financial dangers
A prominent Nigerian security expert has condemned the most recent travel alert released by the U.S. authorities, calling it standard practice yet harmful to Nigeria’s international reputation and foreign ties.
In an interview held yesterday evening, Kabiru Adamu, the Managing Director of Beacon Consulting Limited, stated that the newly issued guidance—released by the U.S. State Department and shared through its embassy in Abuja—is “a standard procedure” grounded in gathered security data covering environmental, political, and health-related dangers.
Now, regarding this new warning, the significant shift we observed was related to what they described as the uneven access to healthcare services,” Adamu stated. “Essentially, things stayed much the same… however, this specific mention carries various consequences for Nigeria.
He outlined four significant outcomes: deterioration of public perception, increased diplomatic tensions, heightened demand for healthcare system reforms, and negative impact on Nigeria’s challenging medical field.
“It strengthens the global view of Nigeria as insecure and without essential facilities. We might discourage overseas investments and travel,” he mentioned.
Adamu pointed out that the advice might deter people from the diaspora from visiting, lead to stricter insurance conditions, and raise the chances of kidnapping for ransom.
We feel somewhat let down since, as demonstrated in our June report, there has been a 79% drop in kidnapping for ransom incidents across various regions of Nigeria. Regrettably, this warning from the U.S. government failed to account for that.
He cautioned that the advice might increase risk premiums for global investors and impose operational challenges on foreign travelers and supply networks.
If the warning states ‘avoid traveling’… and critical business supplies come from such areas, it could significantly affect the capability of maintaining the supply chain.
Adamu also foresaw secondary impacts on other international embassies.
I wouldn’t be shocked if, in the next few days, you observe European Union nations issuing comparable warnings… Australia might also take the same approach. Japan could follow suit as well, merely mirroring what the United States has done.
He ended with a call for diplomatic interaction between Nigeria and the United States.
This travel warning doesn’t reflect a welcoming nation… I’m hopeful that the Nigerian authorities will improve their approach… so that future updates of this nature… may become less severe.
FG mum…
Although several attempts were made through phone calls and text messages to reach the representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, there has been no reply concerning the department’s stance on the most recent U.S. travel warning.
Nevertheless, one might remember that last month, the Nigerian administration publicly condemned an analogous notice released by the U.S. Embassy, which advised its staff not to visit military and governmental sites in Abuja, referencing increased worldwide safety issues without identifying any specific regional danger.
In reply to the alert, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, mentioned that Abuja continues to be secure for locals and tourists, confirming Nigeria’s appreciation for foreign embassies’ ability to provide warnings, but emphasizing there was nothing to worry about.
In response, when reached late last night regarding the new travel warning released by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, Alkasim Abdulkadir, the Special Advisor for Media and Public Relations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, stated: “Currently, the department is examining the details of the advisory and will provide a suitable reply.”
The travel advisory Travel
The guidance states, among other things: “Avoid traveling to: Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states because of terrorist activities and abductions. Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states because of abduction risks. Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (excluding Port Harcourt) due to criminal activity, kidnappings, and violent groups.”
National Overview: The nation experiences frequent violent crimes such as armed theft, physical attacks, vehicle hijackings, abductions, taking of captives, highway robberies, and sexual assaults.
Ransom-related kidnappings occur frequently. These incidents mainly focus on individuals with dual nationality who are traveling in Nigeria and American citizens seen as affluent. Additionally, kidnapping groups have begun intercepting victims along highways between states.
Regarding terrorism, the U.S. administration cautioned that there is a potential for violent acts by terrorists in Nigeria. This encompasses both attack operations and additional related actions.
“Violent crimes and gang activities are prevalent in this region. Offenses involve abductions and attacks against Nigerian law enforcement agencies,” it stated, noting that conflicts may erupt between farming and pastoralist groups in remote regions.
“Nigeria’s healthcare institutions typically do not meet the levels of U.S. or European setups. Several drugs remain inaccessible. This encompasses standard treatments for conditions like diabetes or asthma,” the administration cautioned.
Carry sufficient non-prescription and prescribed medications for the duration of your trip to Nigeria. Ensure immunizations are up-to-date with all routine vaccines, along with yellow fever, meningitis, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and a booster dose for polio.
Every visitor must use malaria prevention medication. Nigeria has a significant risk of malaria. The issue of fake medicines is widespread. Medical facilities usually require upfront cash payments for treatment.
Most medical facilities and healthcare providers do not recognize U.S. health insurance. Emergency care systems similar to those found in the U.S. or Europe are absent. The availability of blood supplies is frequently uncertain.
Emergency ambulance services can be inconsistent, equipped poorly, and frequently lack qualified paramedic staff. It is highly advised to obtain travel insurance, such as coverage for medical repatriation, prior to your trip.
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by admin | Aug 11, 2025 | controversies, ghana, government, nigeria, politics
Conflict escalated between Nigeria and Ghana towards the end of July as some Ghanaians marched through the streets calling for the expulsion of Nigerians after several crimes occurred in the nation, which were attributed to foreigners.
Several Ghanaian citizens organized a demonstration in Accra, calling for the swift removal of Nigerians from their nation due to claims of participation in criminal activities and societal issues.
Demonstrators held up signs bearing slogans like “Nigers Must Leave,” “Stop Abduction,” “End Sex Work,” “Cease Violent Theft,” “Combat Deception,” and “Put an End to Sacrificial Killings.”
They further blamed certain Nigerians residing in Ghana for contributing to instability and declining morality within their nation. Some protest signs held by demonstrators included messages such as “Who safeguards the rights and freedoms of Ghanaians?” “Nigerians are abducting individuals for ritual purposes,” and “Our children are disappearing.”
A popular online video showed multiple demonstrators wrapped in the Ghanaian national flag, with some wearing red attire – a customary emblem of defiance.
A woman demonstrator, wearing red and carrying a sign, stated, “Nigerians should leave because you can’t just do whatever you want in another person’s country.”
A different sign stated, “Our Health Is at Risk Because of Widespread Prostitution,” highlighting increasing public dissatisfaction with supposed health and safety dangers reportedly associated with the actions of certain Nigerian citizens within the nation.
A demonstrator, who was on a motorbike, stated that the influx of Nigerians into Ghana was contributing to rising instability within the nation.
He mentioned that there would be a moment when neither they nor their offspring could venture outside and return home without risk.
He referred to an event where a representative from the Ghana High Commission passed away in Abuja following a theft occurrence.
Development of conflict between Nigeria and Ghana
During the period of British rule, both Nigeria and Ghana (known as the Gold Coast at the time) experienced substantial movement between their populations. Nigerians, especially those from the Hausa community, were included in military and commercial groups operating within Ghana.
After gaining independence, Ghana experienced an economic surge that drew Nigerian immigrants, particularly from the Yoruba community, who were looking for prospects in trade and government roles. This period embodied an unofficial Pan-African vision: a sense of unity without borders.
Nevertheless, in 1969, the Ghanian administration led by Prime Minister Kofi Abrefa Busia introduced the notorious Aliens Compliance Order. This regulation required all foreign nationals without proper documentation to depart from Ghana within a period of fourteen days.
The decision led to the removal of approximately 140,000 Nigerians, causing a serious diplomatic conflict. Ghana defended this step as essential for protecting employment opportunities and maintaining economic stability, although it created feelings of suspicion.
By 1983, circumstances had changed. Nigeria faced financial difficulties and increasing joblessness, leading to the expulsion of more than two million migrants, approximately one million of whom were from Ghana. This period became known as the “Ghana Must Go” era, named after the distinctive suitcases commonly carried by those who were sent back to Ghana.
Although Nigeria stated it was implementing immigration regulations, many viewed it as an act of vengeance for Ghana’s previous move.
Luckily, by the end of the 1980s, more reasonable approaches took over. Leaders such as Jerry Rawlings from Ghana and Ibrahim Babangida from Nigeria worked towards healing relations. A collaborative committee was set up, opening doors for improved commerce, cultural interactions, and resolving disputes. This initiative contributed to restoring political equilibrium and demonstrated a fresh dedication to ECOWAS ideals of open mobility.
However, migration challenges came back into focus during the 2020s. In Ghana, enterprises owned by Nigerians faced targeting during crackdown operations, leading to anger in Abuja. Nigeria blamed Ghana for being hostile towards foreigners, whereas Ghana maintained that they were following legal procedures. With rising nationalistic sentiments and economic protectionist ideas spreading worldwide, these trends influenced immigration regulations across West Africa.
In 2025, demonstrations arose in Ghana demanding stricter border regulations. Known as ‘Nigeria Must Go,’ this campaign echoed previous instances and caused new diplomatic worries. Although not backed by the government, the language used could threaten stability within the region.
Still no danger to our lives
Regarding the demonstration, a young Nigerian merchant from Kasoa village in Accra, Mr. Ezikpe Ukaku, stated to Weekend Trust that there was no direct danger for Nigerians engaged in lawful trade within Ghana.
“I learned about the demonstrations urging Nigerians to depart from Ghana, yet it appeared to have been organized by some individuals to promote a specific agenda, particularly following a 2013 video featuring Eze Ndigbo who claimed to purchase property for establishing an Igbo village,” he stated.
Regarding claims of criminal activity involving Nigerians, he mentioned worries over certain Nigerians involved in trafficking young women to Ghana for sex work, or using them as intermediaries to send them to Europe, where local women are also present.
“Only this month, the largest detention in Ghana was carried out by the U.S. FBI, targeting eight Ghanaians involved in online fraud directed at Americans,” he stated.
He cited the nation’s reliable power distribution and efficient law enforcement as reasons why numerous Nigerians remain in Ghana, even though the country faces significant price increases and challenging conditions.
Additionally, Chukwuemeka Nnaji, who previously served as president of the Nigerian Union of Traders Association, Ghana (NUTAG), stated that there are currently no dangers to their lives and assets.
We’re doing well. Not much is going on. Indeed, the demonstrations everyone saw took place on Sunday, and Sundays aren’t working days around here.
So, you can simply recognize that it’s merely individuals on social media attempting to generate some form of publicity. Nevertheless, as a group, we haven’t been targeted or had our companies harmed, nor have we faced direct attacks.
In the same way, Eddison Agbenyegah, who serves as Ghana’s Deputy Head of Mission in Nigeria, reassured Weekend Trust that there was nothing to worry about.
Nigerians may proceed with their everyday tasks. The demonstrators are merely individuals who have assembled for an online campaign.
“There is no risk for Nigerians in Ghana,” he stated.
Cause for alarm- FG
In the meantime, the federal government has urged tranquility regarding the demonstrations.
In a declaration made by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, President/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), citizens from Nigeria residing in Ghana were advised against getting agitated or engaging in hostilities with others, emphasizing that the matter is being addressed through diplomatic channels.
She stated that the widespread anger directed at Nigerians residing in Ghana and labeling them as lawbreakers must be denounced by everyone.
Nigerians are not lawbreakers. They serve as positive representatives in every place they go, whereas those who engage in wrongdoing should be identified and subjected to appropriate consequences.
“Ghana and Nigeria resemble Siamese twins. They are siblings, and in line with the principles of ECOWAS and regional unity, they should maintain peaceful coexistence as brothers,” she stated in a declaration authored by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the representative of NIDCOM.
Dabiri-Erewa further urged Nigerians to ignore the videos spreading about Nigerian businesses and properties being damaged by Ghanaians, stating, “There is no proof of this, and we should do everything possible to avoid retaliatory assaults.”
Likewise, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the government would address the matter through diplomatic means.
He stated, “We will handle them through diplomatic means.”
No space for bigotry – President of Ghana
From his side, President John Mahama of Ghana has emphasized the nation’s dedication to the rules of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), noting that there is no room for racism in Ghana.
Mahama revealed this during his meeting with President Bola Tinubu’s special representative, headed by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the Presidential Palace in Accra, Ghana.
The President of Ghana reaffirmed his dedication to promoting ECOWAS agreements, particularly concerning the unrestricted movement of people and products within the area.
Mahama requested the ambassador to deliver his statement to President Tinubu, advising him not to worry about the latest demonstrations targeting Nigerians living in his nation.
He stated that Nigeria and Ghana are siblings with a common past, vowing that his administration would prevent anything from interfering between them.
He reiterated that the sharing of an old video created by a Nigerian living in Ghana more than 10 years back caused some unrest, yet he stated that the matter was quickly resolved.
He stated that the demonstrators did not exceed 50, reassuring the diplomat about the security and safeguarding of the lives, assets, and enterprises of Nigeria and Nigerians in Ghana.
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by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | crime, crimes, criminal justice, news, nigeria
On Thursday, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, commonly referred to as Amotekun, announced that approximately 61 alleged criminals were apprehended by the Ondo State joint security team. This group includes 28 suspects believed to be part of a kidnapping ring along with another 33 individuals involved in different unlawful acts within the region.
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, the State Commander of Amotekun, revealed this information at a parade for the criminals held in Akure, which serves as the state’s capital. According to him, these individuals were arrested within the past fortnight due to their involvement in suspected acts such as kidnap, attempted homicide, armed burglary, and fraud related to visas.
Adeleye disclosed that 28 of the suspects were part of a gang detained for allegedly abducting and swindling 72 Ghanaians and Nigericans who were trying to migrate overseas for improved prospects.
As he stated, the syndicate, headed by someone from Ghana, enticed many of its targets within Ghana with promises of obtaining safe visas to go to the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Australia.
The head of Amotekun stated: “As you know, the government of Ondo State, led competently by Dr. Seun Akeredolu, established a committee along with a task force to address the increasing security concerns in Ondo State over the past few days.”
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This led to our code-named mission: Operation Daadaa. Security personnel from various units across Ondo State, such as the Amotekun Corps, the Police, the Army, and the Civil Defence, conducted intensive operations in the Alagada, Ago Ademekun, and Ago Oyinbo Forests. These efforts also covered regions within the Ose and Owo local government areas, along with both Akure North and South local government areas in Ondo State.
Today, we are marching with 61 suspected individuals. These suspects were apprehended for different offenses throughout the state. Regarding the kidnapping incidents, we’ve presented both the victims and those arrested as perpetrators; these individuals confirmed each other’s identities during their encounters.
We also took down a group of 28 individuals involved in kidnapping, human trafficking, and cattle theft.
They lure innocent members of the public with promises of assisting them obtain U.S. visas. There are currently 28 Ghanaians who were enticed to go to Akure; upon their arrival, the criminal group demanded payments ranging from $2,000 to $1,500 before abducting and holding them captive in Oda.
The sole condition for their release was capturing another individual as a hostage. The keen-eyed operatives from the Intelligence Division of the Amotekun Corps managed to locate these individuals, resulting in 28 of them being apprehended today. Additionally, several victims have been saved by the corps along with their respective family members.
My counsel to young men: make sure you interact with trustworthy individuals as you pursue better prospects overseas.
In the Owo Local Government Area, we successfully rescued two families—five people in one instance and four in another—from kidnappers without paying any ransom. Both families are safe here, and no money changed hands.
The sole amount of money obtained from the Idanre group during the kidnapping was 210,000 naira, discovered when they were trying to negotiate for ten million naira. Nevertheless, due to intelligence tips, we conducted an operation in the forest where they were concealed, successfully rescuing the hostages unharmed.
We have apprehended multiple people for stealing livestock and breaking the anti-grazing regulations. Notably, we caught Sylvester—a person of interest in kidnapping cases—who was detained at Old Garage in Akure.
We also detained Olaoluwa Akinmuyi and Anthony for comparable crimes. In Araromi, Akure, Blessing Imafidon was taken into custody for attempting murder. Furthermore, our forces seized weapons from cult members such as Abdullahi Suberu and Abiodun Edward in both Owo and Ikare.
Describing his experience, victim Jeremiah Amoah recounted that he was approached by the leader of the criminal group, a man from Ghana, who promised to assist him in obtaining an Australian visa through Nigeria.
Amoah mentioned that he went to Nigeria and was instructed to travel from Lagos to Akure, which is the capital of Ondo State. Nevertheless, when he arrived, a motorcycle taxi driver guided him to a spot in the Oda section of the town.
As per Amoah, upon entering the premises, the group gathered $2,000 USD from him right away. It was only afterward that he understood he had been deceived when they told him to bring another individual from Ghana, intending to replace him as part of his liberation from the site.
He stated, “A acquaintance phoned me from Ghana and instructed me to go to Nigeria for my travel formalities to Australia. Upon reaching Lagos, he informed me to hail a taxi to Akure.”
Upon reaching Cathedral Junction, I was instructed to await an agent who would collect me. Once this agent showed up, they escorted me to a hotel before taking approximately $2,000 from me.
“After collecting my money, they took me to another location and instructed me to lure another person to Nigeria before I would be released.
I managed to flee at midnight when everybody was sleeping. I climbed over the wall. Amotekun truly assisted us; they made sure that all those involved were detained and more than 70 victims were released.
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by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | health, healthcare and medicine, nigeria, religion, Travel
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State advised residents planning to go on the 2025 Hajj to make sure they are in good health prior to undertaking their journey.
The governor additionally encouraged the inhabitants to keep thanking God for their renewal, progress, and shared advancement as a result of the recently completed Ramadan fasting period.
He addressed the First Family of Lagos State and officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs during their Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The event titled “Indeed My Lord, I Am Ready for Whatever Good You Wish to Bestow Upon Me” took place at the Lagos House in Marina.
At the event, the governor offered his congratulations to Muslims for completing their month-long fasting during Ramadan.
He stated: “Starting from May, individuals going to Mecca will commence their journeys. Make sure you maintain good health.”
Should you fall sick, avoid going on the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage; remain in Nigeria and offer your prayers instead. May Allah continue to protect our peace and harmony. We shall persist in celebrating Eid-el-Fitr.
“I thank all our religious leaders for teaching us more about the holy book. I wish us more celebrations in good health.”
Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu also spoke, encouraging community members to be compassionate towards those less fortunate among them.
She stated, “While we join in the festivities, let us not forget those who are less fortunate and offer assistance to them.”
Genuine devotion extends past ceremonies; it involves reflecting on how we interact with each other and how we aid in improving our country and society.
I urge us to strengthen our belief in Nigeria and continue to pray with determination.
Dr. Munirudeen Ar-Riyardy from Lagos State University of Education, who was invited as the guest speaker, encouraged Nigerians during his address to shun sinful acts in order to receive divine favor from God.
Ar-Riyardy stated: “The lecture focuses on the trials of life and maintaining our faith in God despite the difficulties. It emphasizes not cursing our leaders and staying away from sin.”
Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat urged Lagos residents to treat each other kindly.
Hamzat stated: “Exhibit understanding, demonstrate kindness, treat your neighbors well, and keep faith in the divine benevolence.”
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by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | crime, crimes, government, nigeria, police and law enforcement
AKURE
A group of 28 individuals who engage in scams targeting people looking to emigrate for better opportunities has been dismantled by the Ondo State Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps.
Led by a Ghanaian, the syndicate attracts the majority of its victims from Ghana by promising them secure visas to travel to the United States (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Australia.
The testimonies of the victims indicated that the syndicate had amassed more than $144 USD (₦216 million) from those they defrauded.
While recounting his experience, Jeremiah Amoah received communication from the leader of the syndicate—a Ghanaian based in Nigeria—who offered assistance in securing a visa for Australia.
He revealed that he had been requested to visit Nigeria. Upon arriving in Lagos, he was instructed to use public transportation to reach Akure, which is the state capital of Ondo State.
Upon reaching Akure, he was instructed to ride a commercial motorcycle to Oda town, where the group linked him up with others.
As per Jeremiah, once they stepped into the house, they promptly gathered $2,000 from him.
He eventually realized that he had been deceived when he learned about the plan to replace him with someone else from Ghana in order for him to gain freedom from the camp.
He revealed that he spotted 72 individuals along with several others who were being held hostage inside the building.
However, Jeremiah climbed over the compound’s wall and managed to flee.
After reaching out to his sibling in Ghana who listened to his harrowing experience, his brother then got in touch with his buddy from Nigeria.
The friend reached out to the Amotekun Corps, who promptly intervened and apprehended every individual in the premises.
Eight months prior, Jeremiah’s first brother reached the camp, followed by his second brother arriving three months ago and his third brother coming one and a half months back.
The Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that the individuals displayed as criminal suspects were apprehended over the past fortnight through collaborative efforts in the forested areas by various security agencies within the state.
He stated: “You know that the government of Ondo State, led competently by Dr. Lucky Aiyeditiwa, established a panel and a task force recently to address the growing security concerns within the state.”
This led to our code-named mission: Operation Daadaa. Security personnel from various units across Ondo State—such as the Amotekun Corps, the Police, the Army, and the Civil Defence—conducted extensive operations in areas like Alagada, Ago Ademekun, Ago Oyinbo Forest. These efforts were also directed towards Ose and Owo Local Government Areas, along with both Akure North and South Local Government Areas within Ondo State.
Today, we are marching with 61 suspected individuals. These suspects were apprehended due to multiple offenses occurring throughout the state. Regarding the matter of kidnappings, we have included both the victims and the detained perpetrators; these parties mutually recognized one another.
We also managed to dismantle a group of 28 individuals who specialize in abduction, human trafficking, and cattle theft.
They lure unwitting members of the public whom they claim can assist with obtaining U.S. visas. There are 28 Ghanaians who were lured to Akure; upon their arrival, these individuals are extorted for varying amounts—some pay $2,000, others $1,500—and then get kidnapped and held captive in Oda.
The sole condition for them leaving this location is to provide another group as replacements. The Eagle Eye unit from the Intelligence Division of the Amotekun Corps managed to locate them, and currently, we have 28 individuals with us. Additionally, some of these people have been rescued by the Corps and reunited with their families.
In the Owo Local Government Area, we managed to save a family of five from kidnappers without demanding any ransom. Similarly, another family of four was rescued under the same circumstances. These families are present as well, and not even one kobo was paid as ransom.
The only funds recovered from the Idanre group amounted to ₦210,000, which was what they had on them during negotiations for an exchange of £10 million. However, thanks to our intelligence network, we launched operations in the forest where they were being held, successfully rescuing them unharmed.
We also apprehended several individuals for cattle theft and breaching the anti-grazing regulations.
In particular, we have had Sylvester under surveillance as a potential kidnapper and he was apprehended at the old garage in Akure.
We also had Olaoluwa Akinmuyi and Anthony detained for comparable crimes. Additionally, Blessing Imafidon was apprehended in Araromi, Akure, charged with attempting murder. Furthermore, several individuals involved in cult activities were seized with weapons; these include Abdullahi Suberu and Abiodun Edward, who were caught in Owo and Ikare respectively.
“Also, under these two weeks under review with the Amotekun Rangers and Operation Daadaa, in collaboration with other security agencies, we arrested a group in the far Arimogija boundary of the Ondo/Edo that were dismantling critical Federal Government assets in terms of aluminum conductors and wires. This brings to a total of 61 suspected criminals.
Consequently, during Operation Daadaa, the armored rangers continue their efforts unceasingly within the forest regions. Meanwhile, officials from all 18 local government areas have been placed on high alert to safeguard lives and property across Ondo State.
We continue to uphold our commitment to guaranteeing the safety of lives and property in Ondo State.
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by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | citizenship, europe, immigration, nigeria, politics
For Nigerians, there are essentially four main routes to acquiring an additional passport: through birthright, ancestry, naturalization, or via investment programs.
With an increasing number of individuals pursuing international mobility and acquiring additional passports, demand for swift and straightforward routes to citizenship is escalating. Holding multiple nationalities has grown increasingly attractive due to factors such as enhanced financial stability, expanded lifestyle options, or merely having a contingency plan in place.
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Nonetheless, it’s crucial to verify whether the country you’re thinking of obtaining a second passport from recognizes dual citizenship. Although numerous Caribbean nations allow multiple citizenships, several European Union countries do not. Below is an overview of the simplest places to acquire citizenship—whether based on ancestry, naturalization, or financial investment.
Citizenship By Birth
Several nations offer citizenship at birth, typically based on place of birth (jus soli). Below is a list of such countries where Nigerians can obtain citizenship from birth:
Although numerous nations provide citizenship based on place of birth within their territory, certain exceptions might apply for individuals born to foreign diplomats or in particular unusual situations. It is crucial always to verify the individual nation’s regulations prior to deciding to relocate or pursue citizenship.
Citizenship by Descent
For individuals with family roots, obtaining a second passport can be quite simple. Numerous nations permit you to apply for citizenship by demonstrating that your forebears were natives of their country. Here are some of the most accessible places where you can acquire citizenship through lineage:
Italy
Italy provides a comprehensive jus sanguinis policy, permitting applications traced back to your great-grandparents. Although the procedure may be lengthy because of administrative holdups, it represents a clear route to obtaining an EU passport, complete with all the advantages of residing and working within Europe.
Ireland
Ireland provides one of the easiest routes to citizenship through descent. Should you have a grandfather or grandmother—or occasionally even a great-grandfather or -grandmother—who was born in Ireland, you may be eligible. Typically, this process tends to be faster and smoother compared to those in other European nations.
Hungary
Hungary provides an accelerated path to citizenship based on heritage, as long as you can show your Hungarian roots and exhibit elementary knowledge of the Hungarian language. Given Hungary’s European Union membership, obtaining this nationality can be quite advantageous.
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Poland
Poland grants citizenship based on ancestry; however, this usually extends only as far back as great-grandparents. Despite the intricate nature of the procedure, which involves substantial paperwork, acquiring a Polish passport provides access to all the privileges associated with EU residence and travel.
Portugal
Portugal has one of the most adaptable laws regarding citizenship for descendents of Sephardic Jews who can prove their ancestral ties to the country. Although primarily aimed at direct offspring, Portugal’s liberal stance makes it an appealing option.
Spain
Spain’s program for acquiring citizenship through descent applies to individuals whose parents were born in Spain and includes a specific process for Sephardic Jews, akin to what Portugal offers. Nevertheless, extra paperwork is necessary for applicants who go beyond the first generation.
Citizenship by Naturalization
For individuals lacking familial connections, obtaining citizenship through naturalization can be a practical choice. This process generally involves residing in the nation for a specific period, demonstrating linguistic competence, and occasionally passing an examination. Below are some of the most straightforward nations for achieving citizenship via naturalization:
Argentina
In Argentina, one of the quickest paths to citizenship exists, with applications being approved after only two years of lawful residence. Those seeking citizenship must show their connection to the nation through factors like having a job or owning real estate.
You need to be at least 18 years old and should demonstrate that you have a genuine source of income. Additionally, some nations require a minimum residency period of two years.
Dominican Republic and Spain
.
Peru
Another nation offering expedited citizenship is Peru, which only requires two years of residence. The procedure is straightforward, and considering its low cost of living, this presents as an attractive option for individuals seeking a swift and budget-friendly additional passport.
Poland
In Poland, you may qualify for citizenship if you’ve held a permanent residence permit, an EU long-term residence permit, or the right of permanent residence for at least three years. Additionally, you must demonstrate that you have a steady source of income.
If your spouse is a Polish citizen and you’ve been married for at least three years, you may qualify for citizenship after just two years of living in Poland.
Serbia, Canada, Paraguay, and Armenia
All of these demand that you reside in the nation for three years prior to obtaining citizenship.
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Brazil
In nations such as Brazil, you must reside legally for at least four years before being eligible to file for citizenship. Nonetheless, should you get married to a citizen or have a child born in Brazil, you would only require one year of residency to qualify.
Ethiopia and Australia
Additionally, permit foreigners to apply for citizenship after residing in the country for four years.
Portugal
In Portugal, you must reside legally for a minimum of five years before being eligible to apply for citizenship. Additionally, you will have to demonstrate that you maintain a spotless criminal history and possess an A2 proficiency level in Portuguese. Countries with similar five-year residency requirements include
Belgium and Barbados
.
Citizenship by Investment
For individuals who possess substantial finances, investing in citizenship provides the speediest and most straightforward route to obtaining an additional passport. By making a considerable monetary contribution, numerous nations offer instant worldwide travel opportunities. Here are some of the swiftest pathways available:
1. **Saint Kitts and Nevis**: This island nation allows investors to obtain citizenship through real estate investments or donations.
2. **Malta**: Known as one of Europe’s premium residency programs leading into citizenship, Malta requires both qualifying property purchase and capital investment.
3. **Turks and Caicos Islands**: Although not yet officially offering full citizenship, certain initiatives grant permanent residence which can be a stepping stone towards eventual naturalization.
These options enable quick access to multiple nationalities without lengthy waiting periods.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu boasts the quickest citizenship through an investment program, providing a passport within approximately two months after investing at least $130,000. As part of this South Pacific archipelago, individuals gain easy entry into numerous nations without needing visas, which makes it highly appealing to frequent international travelers.
Turkey
Turkey’s investment-for-citizenship scheme enables candidates to acquire a passport within three to four months by committing at least $400,000 to property investments. Thanks to its expanding economy and favorable geographic position, Turkey presents an appealing choice for potential investors.
Dominica
Dominica’s investment-for-citizenship initiative stands out as one of the most cost-effective options available, with a required minimum investment set at $200,000. Citizenship documents can typically be obtained within half a year, offering hassle-free travel opportunities across many nations, which makes this program particularly attractive to potential investors.
St. Kitts & Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis has one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs, enabling applicants to acquire a passport within roughly half a year by investing at least $200,000. This nation provides comparable advantages to Dominica, such as access to numerous countries without requiring a visa.
