Zagazola

@ZagazOlaMakama • 117,254 subscribers

Security Analyst, Counter Insurgency Expert, LakeChad, West Africa. Actionable Int. ALART. Join us at https://t.co/USQ9bkMWjz

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With Nowhere Else to Turn, Niger Begs Nigeria for Fuel Amid Severe Shortages By: Zagazola Makama For nearly two weeks, Niger Republic has been crippled by a severe fuel crisis, bringing vehicular movement and economic activity to a grinding halt. Long queues stretched across cities, with desperate motorists and businesses struggling to obtain a few liters of petrol. The situation was so dire that the military junta, which once prided itself on rejecting external influence, had no choice but to swallow its pride and turn to Nigeria for help. Despite months of hostile rhetoric and diplomatic friction, Niger’s rulers quietly dispatched their Minister of Petroleum and Renewable Energy, along with top officials from the Niger Petroleum Company (SONIDEP), to beg Abuja for urgent fuel supplies. Nigeria, ever the regional big brother, obliged, approving the immediate delivery of 300 fuel trucks across the border to Niamey. Niger’s fuel crisis didn’t happen overnight. It was the direct consequence of a disastrous confrontation between the ruling junta and Chinese oil companies, which have long dominated Niger’s petroleum sector. The trouble began in March 2024, when China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) granted the Nigerien government a $400 million advance, using future crude oil deliveries as collateral. This deal was meant to help Niger cope with the crippling economic sanctions imposed by ECOWAS following the July 2023 coup. However, when it came time to repay the debt, the junta found itself strapped for cash. Rather than negotiating, the military rulers decided to strong-arm China. In a move that stunned industry insiders, they slapped an $80 billion tax demand on SORAZ (Zinder Refinery Company) despite the state-owned Sonidep already owing SORAZ a staggering $250 billion. When China refused to provide additional loans, the junta retaliated by expelling Chinese oil executives from the country and seizing SORAZ’s bank accounts. A Self-Inflicted Crisis This reckless decision backfired almost immediately. Niger’s entire petroleum sector which is heavily reliant on Chinese expertise and investment began to collapse. The SORAZ refinery, the lifeline of Niger’s fuel supply, ground to a halt, and fuel shortages spread like wildfire. This crisis could not have come at a worse time. The Niger-Benin oil pipeline, a project designed to boost Niger’s crude exports to 100,000 barrels per day by 2025, was also at risk. With Chinese engineers gone and no viable alternative in place, the junta’s decision plunged the country into economic uncertainty. Turning to Nigeria for Help For weeks, the military leadership refused to acknowledge the crisis publicly. State-controlled media was ordered to stay silent about the fuel shortage and the growing unrest among Nigeriens, who were forced to buy petrol at sky-high black-market prices. But as the situation worsened, the junta had no choice but to seek external help even if it meant approaching Nigeria, the very country they had repeatedly criticized since the coup. Without any public announcement, Niger quietly sent a delegation to Abuja, appealing for an emergency fuel supply. The irony was lost on no one this was the same junta that had openly defied ECOWAS sanctions, severed ties with France and the West, and aligned itself with Russia. Yet when faced with economic collapse, it was Nigeria that they turned to for salvation. Nigeria Plays the Good Neighbor Again Despite months of insults, false accusations, name calling, diplomatic snubs, and hostility, Nigeria once again stepped in to help. It was gathered that the Nigerian Government approved the release of 300 fuel trucks, which immediately began crossing into Niger to ease the crisis.

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Sensitive content

Over 50 fighters reportedly killed as Boko Haram factions clash with ISWAP in Abadam, By: Zagazola Makama A deadly clash between the factions of Boko Haram the Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunna lid-Da‘wa wa’l-Jihād (JAS) and the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) has resulted in the reported death of more than 50 fighters at Toumbun Gini, an island community in Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State. Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the clash occurred on Sunday afternoon around 3 pm, following an attempted offensive by ISWAP fighters. According to the source, ISWAP mobilised fighters using 10 high-powered watercraft and launched an attack aimed at reclaiming the island, believed to have recently fallen under the control of the rival JAS faction. However, intelligence reportedly reached JAS leadership ahead of the assault, enabling them to set up a counter-ambush. At exactly 1500 hours, ISWAP boats landed and what was planned as a surprise offensive quickly turned into a deadly trap. The first shots were decisive. JAS fighters overpowered them within minutes. ISWAP was routed,” the source said. The source said over 50 ISWAP fighters were killed during the ambush, with seven of their boats seized. The remaining three vessels escaped with casualties. Video clips appearing to show the aftermath of the clash surfaced online on Sunday. Zagazola described the clash as Day 5 of intensified rivalry between the two insurgent factions, which have been fighting over territorial dominance and control of resources in the Lake Chad islands. The continued push by JAS against ISWAP could force surviving ISWAP fighters deeper into mainland communities bordering Kukawa, Monguno and Marte LGAs, increasing security risks for civilians and security personnel. The rivalry has however, weakened both factions, reducing their ability to launch coordinated large-scale attacks. However, this fragmentation also poses a different challenge: smaller, unpredictable cells that are harder to track. What is happening on Lake Chad today is a conflict within a conflict and Nigerian troops remain in the middle of the battlefield. The fighting could be leveraged strategically by intensifying pressure on both groups simultaneously. “This is the best time for the Nigerian military to tighten the corridor and deny both factions space to regroup,”said Zagazola. NOTE: Please viewers discretion strongly advice as this tweet do not support violence.

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Troops stand firm, repel ISWAP attack on Pulka in Borno By Zagazola Makama Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation HADIN KAI, supported by the Nigerian Air Force and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have successfully repelled an attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a military position in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack occurred on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, as the troops continued ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the area. Sources told Zagazola Makama that the terrorists launched an aggressive assault on the military location, apparently attempting to overwhelm the troops and disrupt ongoing security operations around the community. However, the soldiers stood their ground and responded with sustained firepower, frustrating the attackers and preventing them from gaining access to or overrunning the military position. The determined resistance reportedly forced the terrorists to withdraw from the area with casualties, while the military positions in Pulka remained firmly under the control of the security forces. The engagement was reinforced by the timely intervention of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, which provided Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) support to the ground troops. The aerial surveillance enhanced the troops’ situational awareness and enabled closer coordination between the ground and air components during the engagement. As the terrorists attempted to withdraw following the resistance from the ground troops, the air component reportedly conducted precision strikes against identified hostile elements, disrupting their movement and frustrating their attempt to regroup. The CJTF also supported the operation by providing local information and assisting the security forces with situational awareness within the area. Zagazola Makama gathered that one soldier sustained a gunshot injury to his left arm during the encounter. The injured soldier was immediately evacuated for medical attention, stabilised and is currently responding to treatment. His condition was said to be stable. Following the withdrawal of the terrorists, troops commenced exploitation operations within the area to assess the damage inflicted on the attackers, recover any abandoned weapons or equipment and gather intelligence that could support follow-up operations against the fleeing elements. The successful defence of the position highlights the resilience, combat readiness and determination of troops deployed under Operation HADIN KAI to prevent terrorist groups from regaining ground or disrupting security operations in the North-East. The coordinated response involving the ground troops, Nigerian Air Force and CJTF also underscores the importance of joint operations and timely intelligence in countering terrorist attacks in the theatre. Military sources said troops remained deployed in and around Pulka and had been placed on heightened alert following the attack. They are continuing aggressive patrols, surveillance and other offensive and defensive operations aimed at denying the terrorists freedom of movement and preventing them from establishing operational footholds in the area. The troops are also expected to sustain pressure on the fleeing terrorist elements and exploit available intelligence to track their movements and disrupt their activities. Meanwhile, residents and other members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, movements and activities to the nearest security formation. The military reiterated its commitment to protecting communities, safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens and sustaining ongoing operations to defeat terrorism and restore lasting peace and stability across the North-East.

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Residents Repel Bandit Attack in Sokoto, Neutralise One Assailant By: Zagazola Makama Residents of Achida community in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State have successfully repelled a bandit attack, in what has been described as a rare display of coordinated community self-defence. Security and local sources said the incident occurred when armed bandits stormed the community, but were met with stiff resistance from residents and local vigilante groups who mobilised quickly to confront the attackers. The villagers reportedly engaged the assailants directly, forcing them to retreat after a brief confrontation. During the encounter, one of the suspected bandits was neutralised by the community defence group, while others fled with possible injuries. The sources commended the courage and unity of the residents, particularly the vigilante members, for their swift response in defending their community against the attack. Security authorities are expected to continue patrols and follow-up operations in the area to prevent further incidents and track fleeing suspects. DEFENCE HQ NIGERIA Nigerian Army

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Troops Rescue 10 Abducted NECO Candidates, Teachers After ISWAP Attack on Borno School By Zagazola Makama Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have rescued 10 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers abducted by suspected ISWAP terrorists during an attack on Lassa Community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the terrorists attacked the Technical Secondary School in Lassa at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday while students were writing their NECO examination, abducting several candidates and teachers before fleeing into the surrounding bush.

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The people of Benin have stormed the capital Cotonou to support the military 🪖🇧🇯

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From Fulani Bandits to Berom Militia: Zagazola Will Continue Naming Criminals, No Matter Who They Are By Zagazola Makama Yesterday, we published a report identifying the attacker killed during the attempted assault on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, as a suspected Berom militia member. That simple act of calling the attacker by his known identity immediately made many people uncomfortable. The reaction was predictable. For years, many have demanded that security reports identify Fulani attackers whenever communities are assaulted. We have consistently done so. When armed criminals of Fulani extraction carry out attacks, we do not hide behind vague descriptions such as “unknown gunmen.” “Armed attackers or assailants. We identify them as Fulani bandits or Fulani attackers where the facts support it. So why should the standard suddenly change because the attacker is Berom? At Zagazola Makama, we made a deliberate decision while reporting the Plateau crisis that every attacker would be profiled according to established facts, including identity and area of operation. If an attack is carried out by Fulani criminals, we say so. If it is committed by Berom militia, we say so. If Erigwe are responsible, we report it. If Mangu militias are involved, we identify them accordingly. Criminality must never enjoy the protection of ethnicity, religion, or politics. No community has a monopoly on victimhood, and no community is free from criminal elements. Pretending otherwise is one of the reasons the Plateau conflict has remained difficult to resolve. The hypocrisy is striking. Many people are comfortable sharing our reports when Fulani criminals are exposed. They praise objective journalism and demand accountability. But the moment a criminal from their own ethnic group is identified, the complaints begin. Suddenly, facts become “divisive,” reporting becomes “biased,” and journalists are accused of profiling an entire community. It cannot work that way. Justice cannot have two standards. The individual neutralised during the attempted attack on NIPSS was not an anonymous figure. Within minutes of the operation, residents around Kuru and Trade Centre were already identifying him by his name (PETER) and pointing to his Berom background. That information was already circulating locally long before it appeared in our report. Yet many of the loudest voices who routinely condemn violence suddenly went silent. There were no emotional statements. No passionate calls for justice. No public condemnation of the attack on security personnel. No acknowledgement of the professionalism displayed by troops who repelled yet another assault on a strategic national institution. Instead, the energy shifted to questioning why the attacker’s identity was mentioned. That silence speaks volumes. The soldiers who defended NIPSS prevented another deadly attack. They recovered a service rifle stolen months earlier from a soldier killed by the Berom Militia. Those soldiers deserved commendation but Instead, some preferred to grumble in WhatsApp groups because the facts disrupted a convenient narrative. (Any youths caught with arms is a defender of his community) and he is innocent. This is exactly why Nigeria’s security challenges persist. Too many people judge violence not by the crime committed but by who committed it. A murderer does not become less of a murderer because he shares your language. A militia fighter does not become a freedom fighter because he belongs to your ethnic group. An armed attacker does not become a victim simply because exposing him makes your community uncomfortable. At Zagazola Makama, our position remains unchanged. We will continue to expose Fulani bandits. We will continue to expose Berom militias, Erigwe or the Mangu militias. We will continue to expose every criminal organisation, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.

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This video is a very touching video.A Nigerian soldier was providing food, and care to those in need in Maiduguri. The soldiers' selfless efforts didn't go unnoticed. As one flood victim, Halima, said, "They treated us like family, not just victims.

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Fact check: viral video claiming bandit attack in makarfi, Kaduna is misleading Abuja, March 9 A viral video circulating on social media claiming that bandits are currently attacking Makarfi Local Government Area of Kaduna State has been found to be misleading and falsely represented, security checks have revealed. The video, which is being widely shared with captions suggesting an ongoing attack in Makarfi near Zaria, shows scenes of heavy gunfire accompanied by a voice-over describing troops repelling armed attackers. However, a careful review of the footage and audio has confirmed that the voice narration in the video was lifted from a previous military engagement involving troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the Timbuktu Triangle in Borno State, where soldiers were repelling an attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in January 2026. Recently, there has been concern over a growing trend in which individuals deliberately recycle old combat footage or unrelated security incidents to fabricate fresh attacks, particularly on social media platforms where such content spreads rapidly. Zagazola noted that the audio commentary does not correspond with any current security situation in Makarfi, and the material has been deliberately recycled and repackaged to create panic among residents. This is a classic case of disinformation where old operational clips are taken out of context and falsely presented as a fresh attack. Such deliberate manipulation of security-related content is dangerous, as it spreads fear, misleads the public, and can undermine ongoing security operations. The practice is reckless and irresponsible. Those who knowingly circulate such false claims are contributing to psychological warfare of the terrorists aimed at creating panic among civilians. The general public have therefore been advised to verify security-related information through credible sources before sharing, and to avoid amplifying unverified videos or claims that could fuel unnecessary tension. DEFENCE HQ NIGERIA Nigerian Army Department of State Services (DSS)

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Mass celebration following release of the abducted Oyo students. Kudos to the men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Nuhu Ribadu DEFENCE HQ NIGERIA Nigerian Army Nigeria Police Force Department of State Services (DSS)

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Community, colleagues celebrate Lt Col A.A. Bako as he departs Nkwagu Cantonment in Ebonyi By: Zagazola Makama The Nkwagu Military Cantonment in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, witnessed a remarkable outpouring of emotion and respect on Tuesday as the community, colleagues, and former corps members gathered to bid farewell to Lt Col A.A. Bako, the Commanding Officer, whose leadership left an indelible mark on the cantonment and beyond. From the early hours of the day, residents of Abakaliki and surrounding communities converged on the cantonment, waving flags and chanting songs of praise, to honor a man whose career exemplified discipline, integrity, and service. “Sir, your leadership was not just felt, it was experienced,” said Glory Daniel Ajah, a former corps member, as she recounted her time under his command. “You led with purpose, treated everyone with respect, and made the cantonment a place of learning, growth, and excellence.” During his tenure, Lt Col. Bako was known not only for his strict adherence to military values but also for his humane approach to leadership. Colleagues and corps members described him as firm but fair, quiet yet profoundly impactful. His presence fostered an environment of order and calm strength, where professionalism and humanity coexisted. As he prepared to depart, the cantonment grounds were filled with cheers, banners, and heartfelt tributes. Children of staff, retired officers, and local residents lined the streets, paying homage to a man whose service transcended the walls of the barracks and touched the entire community. “Thank you for setting an example, thank you for carrying your office with grace and dignity, and thank you for your service to Nigeria,” Glory Daniel Ajah said during the ceremony, her voice choked with emotion. “Lt Col. Bako, you’ve left a legacy in Nkwagu that will not be forgotten.” Speeches, accolades, and songs of appreciation filled the air as attendees reflected on his career and the positive influence he had on countless young officers and corps members. Among the highlights of the celebration was a parade in his honor, where units under his command demonstrated their drills, discipline, and coordination, a living testament to the leadership he inspired. The farewell was not only a celebration of a military career but also a recognition of the bond between the cantonment and the local community, symbolizing the trust, respect, and admiration earned through decades of unwavering service. Lt Col. A.A. Bako, widely described as a true officer and a fine gentleman, leaves Nkwagu Cantonment as a figure whose principles, humility, and dedication have inspired a generation of soldiers and civilians alike.

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URGENT This truck is conveying stolen railway track and currently moving along Kaduna Road Suleja. Nigerian Army DEFENCE HQ NIGERIA Nigeria Police Force

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Man Arrested for Brutal Assault on Schoolgirl Over Mango Theft in Maiduguri By: Zagazola Makama A man identified as Mamman Shettima Baba has been arrested for brutally beating a young schoolgirl for plucking mangoes from a compound in the Pompomari Housing Estate of Maiduguri. The incident, captured on video and circulated widely on social media, showed Shettima Baba repeatedly flogging the girl with a thick stick while his wife recorded the assault, encouraging him to “beat her more.” According to eyewitnesses, the girl and her friends were on their way home from school when they noticed an open gate with a mango tree inside. Acting on youthful curiosity, they entered the compound and picked some mangoes. However, some Almajiri children caught one of the girls and handed her over to the woman residing in the house. She, in turn, ordered her husband to violently punish the child. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) responded swiftly to the viral video and arrested the suspect. The Commandant of the Corps, Abdulrazaq Haroon, confirmed the arrest and added that during preliminary investigations, Shettima Baba confessed to the assault, justifying his actions by claiming that students had been persistently plucking mangoes from his tree. The brutality of the attack, however, has sparked public outrage, with legal practitioners, child rights activists, and government officials demanding strict legal action against the suspect. In response to the attack, Hamza Nuhu Dantani, a legal practitioner, has petitioned the Borno State Commissioner of Police, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspect. The petition outlines charges of culpable homicide, assault, criminal intimidation, and causing grievous hurt, citing violations of the Borno State Penal Code Law, 2023. It also accuses the suspect of attempted homicide and calls for: The immediate arrest and prosecution of Shettima Baba. A full investigation to identify and prosecute any accomplices. Medical and psychological support for the traumatized young victim. A public warning against violence and abuse of minors. Meanwhile, The Borno State Commissioner of Education, Lawan Abbah Wakilbe, and the Commissioner of Justice have both assured the public that justice will be served. Wakilbe gave the assurance when he visited the NSCSC command and commend the officers for the swift intervention. My take; Despite public outcry and legal provisions protecting minors, cases of human rights abuses in Borno State often fail to reach their logical conclusion. Many perpetrators walk free due to political influence, connections with high-ranking officials, or social stigma that discourages victims from seeking justice. In several past cases, suspects were released without trial, while victims or their families were pressured into withdrawing complaints. The culture of impunity surrounding child abuse, domestic violence, and police brutality in the state has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the legal system in holding offenders accountable. Observers are closely watching how this latest case will be handled, as many believe it could set a precedent for future human rights cases in the state. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum mustapha wakilbe Nigeria Police Force NHRC Nigeria

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Troops discover, detonate IED in Borno community By: Zagazola Makama Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have discovered and safely detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) in Mairari town along the Gajiram axis of Borno State. Security sources said the device was detected at about 9:00 a.m. on April 17 by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and route scanning team deployed from a Forward Operating Base in the area. According to the sources, the IED was found at the edge of the town’s exit gate, raising concerns about potential threats to both civilians and security personnel using the route.

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SHOCKING: Bandit's Wife Begs Soldiers to Spare Criminals, Claims ‘Soldiers Also Commit Atrocities’ by killing bandits In a shocking and controversial statement, the wife of a notorious bandit has released a video pleading with soldiers not to kill captured bandits. Her argument? According to her, bandits are not the only ones committing atrocitie soldiers are equally guilty when they eliminate them (Captured Bandits) @DefenceInfoNG Nigerian Army

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