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Report: How President Tinubu ordered ex-minister Uche Nnaji’s resignation

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Report: How President Tinubu ordered ex-minister Uche Nnaji’s resignation

More details have emerged on the resignation of a former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji.

Findings by Saturday PUNCH revealed that the embattled minister was ordered to resign following allegations of certificate forgery against him.

Nnaji was accused of forging his BSc and National Youth Service Corps certificates.

The former minister claimed to have acquired his degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, in 1985, which the school denied.

Nnaji’s ordeal started when Premium Times published an investigation exposing how he allegedly forged his degree and NYSC certificates, which he submitted to the President and the Nigerian Senate during his ministerial screening in 2023.

The online medium insisted that Nnaji did not complete his university education.

Premium Times, in a Freedom of Information request to UNN, asked the university to release Nnaji’s academic records.

In a letter dated October 2, 2025, the university Vice-Chancellor, Prof Simon Ortuanya, told Premium Times that the university did not issue Nnaji’s certificate, as he did not complete his studies.

The ex-minister then approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to stop UNN from releasing his academic records.

Nnaji, through an ex parte motion, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, asked the court to restrain the university from releasing or tampering with his academic records.

In court documents filed in the suit, Nnaji admitted that he had yet to collect his degree certificate. This was contrary to his earlier submission of a certificate during his ministerial screening.

Justice Hausa Yilwa, in a ruling delivered on September 22, dismissed Nnaji’s request.

Following the publication of his open admission, Nnaji resigned his ministerial appointment.

Nnaji said the decision was taken to protect his integrity and prevent distractions to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, his exit followed “an orchestrated sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated, and malicious attacks” targeted at his person and office over the past week.

“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” he said.

Nnaji maintained that his decision to quit was not an admission of guilt, but a move to uphold due process and respect ongoing judicial proceedings.

The former minister said he could not in good conscience allow “distractions to cast a shadow over the noble objectives” of the Tinubu administration, adding that his reputation had been built over “five decades anchored on hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”

Meanwhile, a credible source in the Presidency told Saturday PUNCH that the ex-minister was forced to resign.

“The President invited him over to the Villa and asked him to resign. He was not threatened with a sack; the President didn’t have to do that because he appointed him and he could ask him to resign. So, Nnaji had no option than to do that,” he said.

When asked whether the President would take action against the Department of State Services for allowing Nnaji’s alleged certificate forgery to slip through the vetting process, the source said, “We cannot place the blame solely on the DSS. What about the Senate that screened him? They were also expected to scrutinise the certificates he presented.”

Another senior presidential aide noted that Nnaji had to resign to save the government from further embarrassment.

“The President asked him (Nnaji) to resign. Of course, he had become an embarrassment and a distraction to the government and the longer you drag it, the more damaging it becomes. Some ministers and presidential aides felt that the earlier the President offloaded him (Nnaji), the better. 

He was becoming a liability to the government. It is not an allegation that can be swept under the carpet, so the best thing was for him to leave. Give him a soft landing, so the President told him to resign,” he said.

He accused UNN of complicity for allowing the matter to drag on for so long.

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My authenticity and vulnerability endeared me to the audience – Imisi, BBNaija 10/10 winner says 

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My authenticity and vulnerability endeared me to the audience – Imisi, BBNaija 10/10 winner says 

Winner of the just-concluded Big Brother Naija Season 10, Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi, has expressed her desire to work with award-winning actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, describing her as a mentor and inspiration in Nollywood.

Imisi stated this while speaking to journalists shortly after receiving her N150 million grand prize and a car at the presentation ceremony in Lagos.

According to the 23-year-old reality star, her participation in the Big Brother house helped showcase her acting talent, further igniting her passion for the movie industry.

“I think people saw a lot of my acting skills in the house. Even housemates said I’m a great actress. I’m ready for more,” she said.

Speaking about her post-show plans, Imisi added:

“Yes, Funke Akindele is my number one mentor. I hope to work with her someday. Also, Bimbo Ademoye and Bolaji Ogunmola inspire me a lot.”

The reality TV star, who described her victory as overwhelming, said she’s still in shock and grateful for the love and support from her fans across the country.

When asked about claims that regional factors influenced her win, Imisi said, “Maybe. I think Yoruba people are very supportive of their own, so yes, that might have helped.”

She, however, emphasized that her authenticity and vulnerability were what endeared her to the audience. “I was just being myself. I don’t think it was a strategy. I was only living my truth,” she noted.

Reflecting on her journey, Imisi expressed gratitude to her Celestial Church community for their prayers and support, adding that she hopes to use her new platform to grow in the entertainment industry. “Fame is new to me. I’ll seek mentorship, learn, and be intentional. I want to keep evolving,” she said. Meanwhile, the highlights of the show are still available on Showmax for binge.

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Nigerian Terrorists abduct a road construction worker in Katsina

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Nigerian Terrorists abduct a road construction worker in Katsina

A road construction worker has been abducted by suspected bandits in Charanchi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The victim, identified as Kabiru Bature, a 35-year-old driver attached to Stantech Road Construction Company, was reportedly kidnapped around 7:14 p.m. on Thursday along the Kunduru–Kadanya feeder road.

According to reports obtained by security analyst Zagazola Makama, the assailants laid an ambush on the road before whisking the victim away to an unknown destination.

Sources said security forces swiftly mobilised to the area, blocking possible escape routes and launching a cordon-and-search operation aimed at rescuing the victim and apprehending the suspects.

Troops were said to be tracking the movement of the kidnappers, who are believed to have fled into the nearby forest.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts were still ongoing to rescue the abducted worker and ensure the culprits are brought to justice.

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A 40-year-old landlord in Abia, rapes his tenants 12-year-old daughter

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A 40-year-old landlord in Abia, rapes his tenants 12-year-old daughter

A 40-year-old man, identified as Mr. Iheanacho from Umuoju village, Umuelechi Obuzor, in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State, has been arrested by the Obehie Police Division for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl.

The landlord was alleged to have committed the crime in September against the victim, who is the daughter of his tenant.

His arrest was made possible through the efforts of the men of the Abia chapter of Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation and the Obehie Police Divisional Headquarters.

Confirming the development, Abia State Director of Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation Abia State Chapter, Ochiegbu Marvellous Chimaraoke, said the matter was first reported to his office on September 18, 2025, noting that the suspect fled after committing the crime.

He said that through relentless efforts and coordination of his foundation, the suspect, Iheanacho, was finally apprehended around 2 am on Friday.

Chimaraoke thanked the members of Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation and the Divisional Police Officer and men of Obehie Police Divisional Headquarters of Abia State Police Command for the successful arrest.

He reiterated his commitment against offenders of rape, defilement or other forms of Gender-Based Violence.

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How to Join the Hallelujah Challenge With Pastor Nathaniel Bassey

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How to Join the Hallelujah Challenge With Pastor Nathaniel Bassey

The Hallelujah Challenge is an inter-denominational, hour-long online praise and worship program led by Pastor Nathaniel Bassey.

1. Follow Nathaniel Bassey

The most important step is to follow Nathaniel Bassey on the primary platforms he uses for the live streams. The Challenge is typically streamed across these channels:

  • Instagram: Follow his official page, often under the handle @nathanielblow.
  • Facebook: Follow his official Facebook page.
  • YouTube: Subscribe to his main YouTube channel, Nathaniel Bassey Main.

2. Note the Scheduled Time

The Hallelujah Challenge is generally held daily during designated periods throughout the year, as led by Nathaniel Bassey.

  • Start Time: The sessions usually begin at 11:59 PM (23:59) West African Time (WAT) and run for about an hour.
  • Check Time Zone: Since the event is global, you must convert 11:59 PM WAT to your local time zone to join live. For example, if you are in the UK (GMT/BST), it would be one hour behind WAT.

3. Tune In Live

When the challenge is active, simply go to one of the platforms listed above at the scheduled time. Nathaniel Bassey will start the live stream, and you can join the millions of participants instantly.

When Does the Hallelujah Challenge Take Place?

The Hallelujah Challenge is not a continuous, year-round event. It runs for a few weeks during specific periods, which change each year.

  • Annual Scheduling: Nathaniel Bassey announces the dates for the challenge in advance. In recent years, it has often occurred during the month of February and sometimes again in October or another part of the year.
  • Stay Informed: To know the exact start and end dates for the next challenge, you should:
    • Follow Nathaniel Bassey’s official social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube).
    • Check the official Hallelujah Challenge website.

By following his accounts, you’ll receive notifications or see announcements as soon as the next session is scheduled.

Disclaimer: 

The information in this article was curated from online sources. NewsWireNGR or its editorial team cannot independently verify all details.

It is the policy of NewsWireNGR not to endorse or oppose any opinion expressed by a User or Content provided by a User, Contributor, or another independent party. Opinion pieces and contributions are the opinions of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of NewsWireNGR.

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Top Things About Nathaniel Bassey And Hallelujah Challenge

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Top Things About Nathaniel Bassey And Hallelujah Challenge

1. The Hallelujah Challenge Phenomenon

Nathaniel Bassey is the host of the globally recognized online worship event, the “Hallelujah Challenge.” This event, which began as a spontaneous late-night worship session on social media, grew into a massive virtual gathering, uniting millions of participants from around the world in prayer and worship. The challenge is credited with generating a significant spiritual impact and transforming lives.

2. The Acclaimed Trumpeter (Nathaniel Blow)

Bassey is not just a singer but an accomplished trumpeter with a background in jazz.

  • Signature Style: His music is instantly recognizable for the majestic, soulful trumpet lines that he weaves through his worship songs, a style developed from his early days playing in renowned groups like the Spectrum 4 quartet and leading The Steve Rhodes Orchestra.
  • The Nickname: He acquired the nickname “Nathaniel Blow” for his energetic trumpet playing, particularly at the end of services.

3. Key Songs and Global Gospel Ministry

He is a leading figure in the Nigerian and global gospel music scene, known for deeply scriptural and impactful worship songs. His most popular tracks include:

  • “Imela” (Thank You)
  • “This God is Too Good”
  • “Someone’s at the Door”
  • “Casting Crowns”

4. Pastor, Mentor, and Educator

Beyond his music career, Bassey is a devoted spiritual leader dedicated to developing the next generation of worship ministers.

  • Pastoral Role: He serves as a Pastor within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
  • Mentorship: He runs the Trumpet and Ministerial Academy (TAMA), where he mentors young musicians, teaching them not only how to play the trumpet but also integrating music with Christian ministry.

5. Education and Early Inspiration

Bassey has an academic background in international affairs and was inspired by gospel legends.

  • Education: He holds a degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of London, and also studied popular music at Middlesex University.
  • Inspiration: His passion for gospel music was significantly inspired by Nigerian gospel icon Dr. Panam Percy Paul.

Disclaimer: 

The information in this article was curated from online sources. NewsWireNGR or its editorial team cannot independently verify all details.

It is the policy of NewsWireNGR not to endorse or oppose any opinion expressed by a User or Content provided by a User, Contributor, or another independent party. Opinion pieces and contributions are the opinions of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of NewsWireNGR.

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How My wife suffered 5 miscarriages, ectopic pregnancy – Nathaniel Bassey

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How My wife suffered 5 miscarriages, ectopic pregnancy – Nathaniel Bassey

Renowned gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey, has revealed how his wife suffered five miscarriages, including an ectopic pregnancy.

Bassey disclosed this in the early hours of Friday while leading the ongoing edition of “Hallelujah Challenge”.

The singer said despite leading the streaming worship session, he would go straight to his wife’s bedside in the hospital where she was admitted.

The October 2025 edition of the Hallelujah Challenge runs for 25 days, from October 7 to 31, with each day’s session starting at 11:59 pm.

“As men of God and ministers, we have heard a lot of stories. People come to me and say, ‘Pastor Nathaniel, you don’t understand’.

“My wife will have to forgive me. Do you know there were times during the Hallelujah Challenge when we had a miscarriage, and nobody knew? I would still come online to praise and dance.

“A few years ago, she was in the hospital with an ectopic pregnancy. I would leave, lead praise and worship online, then return to the hospital, and the nurses attending to her would tell me, ‘It was powerful tonight.’ Not one, not two, not three or four pregnancies, but five,” he said.

Pastor Nathaniel Bassey has been married to Sarah since 2013.

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Sunday Oliseh speaks on dragging NFF to FIFA

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Sunday Oliseh speaks on dragging NFF to FIFA

Former head coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, has claimed that the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, is still owing him $26,000.

Oliseh stated this while speaking on the Home Turf podcast.

The 51-year-old claimed that he would win the case if he took the NFF to court before the world football governing body, FIFA.

However, he said he has no intention to fight against his country.

Oliseh said: “Till today, I am the only Nigerian coach ever to resign.

“And till today, they are still owing me two months’ salary, which is $26,000.

“A lot of people have asked me to take the NFF to court.

“I will not take my fatherland to a Western court. It starts with FIFA, and I will win.

“But when they write it in the media, they will say ‘Oliseh takes Nigeria to court’. They won’t say ‘Oliseh takes NFF to court’.”

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Those left in the PDP are “undertakers waiting to bury a dying party” – APC Says

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Those left in the PDP are “undertakers waiting to bury a dying party” – APC Says

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos State has taunted the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, describing its remaining leaders as “undertakers waiting to bury a dying party.”

Publicity Secretary of the APC in Lagos, Mr Seye Oladejo, made the remark in a statement issued on Saturday in reaction to a fresh wave of defections from the PDP to the ruling party.

Oladejo urged the PDP to stop dismissing what he described as “a mass exodus” from its ranks, warning that the opposition party was only deceiving itself by downplaying the scale of its internal collapse.

“The PDP’s claim that defections cannot weaken it is laughable and exposes the party’s chronic state of denial, delusion, and self-deception,” Oladejo said.

“What we are witnessing is not ordinary political migration but the inevitable outcome of years of deceit, lack of ideology, and betrayal among its own leaders. When a house is built on quicksand, it only takes a tremor to bring it down.”

The APC spokesman described the ongoing defections as proof that even loyal PDP members had lost faith in a party that had “refused to reform or present a credible alternative to Nigerians”.

“Those still clinging to the PDP are merely undertakers, staying behind to perform the final rites and dispose of what remains of a once-dominant but now lifeless political entity,” he added.

Oladejo said the APC was not surprised by the defections, noting that the opposition party had relied for years on propaganda and empty promises.

He accused the PDP of mismanaging the country during its 16-year rule, saying it could not suddenly reinvent itself as a credible opposition “when it remains mired in confusion and leadership crises.”

“The recent defection of key PDP figures to the APC reflects growing confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Oladejo stated.

“It’s time for the PDP to learn to walk alone on its long, dark road to 2027. The party’s glory days are gone, and the sooner it accepts that reality, the less humiliating its final exit will be.”

He advised the opposition to conduct an honest post-mortem of its failures and accept that its influence in Nigeria’s political landscape had drastically faded.

“The defections are not just political victories for the APC; they are clear endorsements of our commitment to progress, stability, and people-centred leadership.

Nigerians are speaking loudly, the era of deceitful opposition politics is over,” Oladejo added.

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Two suspected vandals have been arrested for vandalisation of electrical and signalling installations across the Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpe corridors

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Two suspected vandals have been arrested for vandalisation of electrical and signalling installations across the Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpe corridors

Two suspected vandals have been arrested as the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) on Saturday decried increasing incidents of vandalisation of its electrical and signalling installations across the Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpecorridors.

A statement signed by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, noted that the Corporation described the attacks as a major threat to safe and efficient train operations.

The suspects, Ibrahim Abdullahi (22 years old) of Hayi, Rigasa, and Sani Ibrahim (24 years old) of Layi Turaki, Rigasa, were apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Police, Railway Command attached to the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS).

They were arrested in Kaduna in connection with the recent vandalisation of its equipment at the Rigasa Train Station area.

The arrest followed the discovery on Friday, at about 12:30 p.m., that a cable wire had been cut and removed from one of NRC’s cranes stationed within the Rigasa facility.

Acting on intelligence, the patrol team led by ASP Abdullahi Bwajin, Administrative Officer at Rigasa, traced and arrested the suspects, according to the statement.

“During interrogation, the duo confessed to committing the crime and disclosed that they sold the stolen cable to one Musa, popularly known as “Musa Major,” for ?90,000. Each suspect reportedly received ?30,000 as his share, while another member of their syndicate, Abdulwahab Yakubu of Rigasa, is currently at large”, the statement read in part.

The NRC said efforts are ongoing by the Nigeria Police, Railway Command (AKTS), to apprehend the remaining suspect and recover the stolen materials.

It commended the Command for its professionalism and swift action, assuring that all culprits involved in acts of vandalism will face the full weight of the law.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, expressed deep concern over the increasing attacks on railway electrical and signaling infrastructure, describing them as Critical National Assets.

He stated that henceforth, the Corporation, in collaboration with security agencies, will treat such offences as economic sabotage with severe legal consequences for perpetrators.

Dr. Opeifa further appealed to members of the public, particularly residents of communities hosting railway facilities, to support the NRC and security agencies in protecting these assets.

He noted that the railway system has always served as a catalyst for community development and improved livelihoods, and safeguarding it remains a collective responsibility.

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Arise News has announced the burial arrangements of its late news anchor, correspondent, and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu

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Arise News has announced the burial arrangements of its late news anchor, correspondent, and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu

Arise News has announced the burial arrangements of its late news anchor, correspondent, and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

The update was announced in a video by the station on Saturday.

Maduagwu died in a tragic armed robbery incident on September 29, 2025. The 29-year-old was a lawyer, model, news anchor, reporter, and producer. She was killed during an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja. A security guard, Barnabas Danlami, also lost his life in the attack.

According to the burial arrangement, an “evening of tributes will be held on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the THISDAY Dome, Central Business District, Abuja.”

“This will be followed by a service of songs on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Corpus Christi Cathedral, Kaduna Street, Port Harcourt.”

According to ARISE News, “Her internment in Anambra State on Saturday, October 18, will be preceded by a funeral mass at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command said it has arrested 12 suspects linked to the death of the news anchor.

The Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, in a statement, disclosed that the armed robbery gang sourced their weapons from a supplier in the Niger Republic.

“Preliminary investigations showed that the syndicate procured its firearms — including a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, and a pistol — from an arms dealer operating across the Nigeria–Niger border,” Adeh said.

Adeh added that “all the suspects are from Kaduna and Katsina States and have confessed to obtaining their weapons from a yet-to-be-identified supplier in the Niger Republic.”

Explaining how the operation to apprehend the suspects was carried out, Adeh said the Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, deployed a special investigation team led by DCP Aliyu Abubakar and assisted by ACP Victor Godfrey to track down and dismantle the network following the murder.

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Four soldiers have lost their lives as terrorists attacked Borno State

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Four soldiers have lost their lives as terrorists attacked Borno State

Four soldiers have lost their lives as terrorists attacked the Ngamdu general area of Borno State.

The state has been known for a barrage of terrorist attacks, especially from members of the dreaded group, Boko Haram.

It was gathered from the locals that 10 soldiers were killed during the attack.

However, a statement by Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel, Sani Uba, on Friday, said four deaths were recorded when troops of Operation HADIN KAI repelled the coordinated attack, following a swift response by forces on ground and reinforcement elements from 29 Task Force Brigade.

“The terrorists employed Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs), armed drones, and command-initiated Improvised Explosive Devices, targeting troops and own platforms. Despite the intensity of the attack, troops held their ground and responded with superior firepower, inflicting significant losses on the terrorists.

“Unfortunately, own troops recorded 4 x Killed in Action (KIA) and 5 x Wounded in Action (WIA). Additionally, some Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles and Gun Trucks (GTs) sustained varying degrees of damage during the encounter.”

The terrorists were said to have attempted to prevent reinforcements and inflict further casualties by planting multiple IEDs along the Ngamdu–Damaturu Main Supply Route (MSR).

“This necessitated a temporary closure of the MSR, as engineers swiftly responded to clear 3 IED-laden spots. Following successful clearance, the MSR has now been reopened to both military and civilian movement.

“In response to the attack, troops were immediately resupplied with critical logistics, including MRAP tyres and ammunition, to sustain operations and restore full mobility. Credible intelligence confirms heavy terrorist casualties, with reports indicating mass burials of about 15 bodies conveyed in pushcarts by the terrorists for burial around Bula Wura, near Wasaram.

“As part of continued efforts to dominate the area, 29 Task Force Brigade has launched fighting patrols and exploitation operations aimed at denying the terrorists freedom of action and consolidating operational gains.

“The  gallantry and resilience of the troops have been commended and the public assured that normalcy would be sustained with operations ongoing to maintain peace and security in the area.”

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