Soldiers withdraw as Banex Plaza reopens after week-long closure 

After a week of closure, Banex Plaza in Abuja has finally reopened its doors.  The plaza resumed operations precisely at 2:30 pm today, Monday, May 27th.  The reopening comes following a period of enforced closure prompted by clashes between soldiers and traders. Reports indicate that the plaza’s reopening was facilitated after traders involved in the earlier altercation with military personnel resolved with the authorities. Earlier, the plaza witnessed a dramatic incident where personnel of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police stormed the premises, engaging in physical altercations with passersby and security guards.  The action was in retaliation for a previous confrontation between four military police personnel and traders within the bustling electronics and telecommunications market.

16 Soldiers Killed In Delta State

Some military personnel on a peace mission to Okuama community in Delta state have been killed. According to a press statement by the Acting Director, Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the troops were of 181 Amphibious Batallion. He said they were headed to Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State on a peace mission to the Okuama community, and they were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March 2024. His words: ”The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State. ”The reinforcement team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers. ”The Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime. The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Government. ”However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country. ”So far, a few arrests have been made, while steps in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.”