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Troops Foil Ex-Militants’ Protest …Over East-West Road
Troops of the joint military force deployed to the Niger Delta, yesterday, dispersed hundreds of ex-militants blocking the East-West road at Mbiama Community in Rivers State.
The reports of the blocking of the highway, which started as early as 6.30 a.m. caused serious traffic jam on the road.
But respite came for motorists when troops of Operation Delta Safe came in two patrol vans, removed the blockades, and opened the road.
The soldiers fired warning shots, making the protesters to scamper for safety.
An ex-militant, Elliot Seimiebo, told newsmen at Mbiama, that soldiers used fire power to disperse a peaceful protest.
According to him, the protest is aimed at drawing the attention of the Federal Government to the neglect of the welfare of ex-militants.
“We have renounced violence and remain peaceful in all our approaches. Our intention was to draw attention to the non-payment of our stipends for four months.
“We were not armed but the soldiers turned their weapons against us, causing confusion as people ran for safety.
“One of the protesters was hit by stray bullet on his leg,” Seimiebo claimed.
When contacted, the spokesman of Operation Delta Safe, Lt.-Cdr. Thomas Otuji, said it was untrue that the protesters were shot at.
“Our troops were sent to the scene to ensure free flow of traffic and they went there to clear the blockade on East-West Road.
“There is no such report at my disposal as we speak,’’ Otuji told said.
Also, the Liaison Officer at the Amnesty Office in Yenagoa, Piriye Kirayamo, said that the office was aware that the militants were being owed.
He assured that efforts were being made to clear the backlog of entitlements being owed.
“We have been appealing to the ex-agitators to remain calm, that the office is doing everything possible to ensure that their stipends are paid,’’ Kiyaramo said.
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RSG INAUGURATES ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY COMMITTEE
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to organize the celebration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) in the State.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba in Port Harcourt, last Thursday.
Dr Anabraba who also serves as Chairman of the Committee
highlighted the State Government’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s peace and unity.
“These heroes have given their lives for the security and peace of our nation and deserve to be celebrated. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifice,” he said.
Dr. Anabraba further extended recognition to all Security Agencies in the State, emphasizing the importance of the event in appreciating their contributions to national security and sovereignty.
The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed on January 15 across the country is dedicated to remember Nigeria’s departed soldiers and honouring the nation’s veterans.
