By Patrick Idowu

For the first time in its history, the Nigerian Army is set to appoint a woman as its spokesperson, marking a historic milestone in military leadership and gender inclusion.

Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele has been named as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, becoming the first female officer to occupy the prestigious position. Her appointment takes effect from April 22, 2025.

Anaele will succeed Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has served with distinction under three Chiefs of Army Staff — Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya (Rtd), the late Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and the current Chief, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.

Her emergence is being hailed as a bold and progressive step by the Army high command, affirming the growing role of women in strategic military leadership.

Meanwhile, the outgoing spokesman, Nwachukwu, has debunked a viral social media video alleging a lack of ammunition among troops.

He clarified that the video in circulation is outdated and is being deliberately recycled to undermine public confidence in the military.

Nwachukwu emphasized that the Army is well equipped and continues to record significant victories across various theatres of operation.

He warned the public against spreading misleading content, noting that such actions demoralize troops and distract from ongoing efforts to secure the nation.

As Anaele prepares to take the reins, many are optimistic that her leadership will not only sustain the professionalism of military communications but also inspire a new generation of female officers.

By Our Correspondent

A gruesome case of mob violence in Edo State has drawn national condemnation, with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun ordering an urgent investigation into the killing of 16 hunters accused of being kidnappers.

The victims, who were traveling for Sallah celebrations, were intercepted by a vigilante group along the Uromi-Obajana Road.

Upon discovering 19 locally made firearms in their truck, the vigilantes allegedly labeled them criminals and subjected them to brutal mob justice, leading to their deaths.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, denounced the killings as a cowardly act and one of the worst in recent history.

He urged security agencies to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators, emphasizing that justice must be served.

“This is one madness too many. Nigerians must be free to move without fear,” Abbas stated, calling for calm as investigations continue.

The IGP has directed the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to take over the case. Meanwhile, 14 suspects have been arrested, with a manhunt underway for others involved.

The tragic incident, occurring during Ramadan and Lent, has sparked calls for restraint and an end to jungle justice in Nigeria.

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

A violent confrontation between security forces and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), in Abuja has left one operative dead and several others injured.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command confirmed that the attack occurred near Banex Plaza on Friday when IMN members, armed with firearms, cutlasses, and petrol bombs, launched an assault on security personnel.

Spokesperson for the police, SP Josephine Adeh, revealed that 19 suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.

Three security operatives sustained injuries and were rushed to the National Hospital, where one was later pronounced dead.

Commissioner of Police Ajao Adewale condemned the attack, assuring that all those responsible would be brought to justice.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities through designated emergency hotlines.