- Nigerian Army to Probe Allegations of Officers Shielding Drug Peddlers in Apapa
- Saliu claimed that an area known as Gidan Drama in the Marine Beach community of Apapa, located close to the Tego Army Barracks, had become a hub for illicit drug activities
- Urged the Lagos State Government and private stakeholders to acquire the area for the construction of a secondary school
The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has said it will investigate allegations that some military officers are shielding illicit drug peddlers in the Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the allegation was made by the Chairman of the LCDA, Mr Jimoh Saliu, who accused unnamed senior military officers of protecting criminal elements operating within the area.
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In a statement issued on Sunday, Saliu claimed that an area known as Gidan Drama in the Marine Beach community of Apapa, located close to the Tego Army Barracks, had become a hub for illicit drug activities and other criminal operations.
He described the location as a hideout for notorious criminals, alleging that the sale of illicit drugs and stolen goods thrives there, while security agencies allegedly obstruct attempts to arrest suspects.
Speaking at an event marking the 70th anniversary of the Corona Schools Trust Council at St Theresa Nursery and Primary School, Marine Beach, Saliu said the worsening security situation posed a serious threat to residents and the future of children in the community.
According to him, criminals retreat into the area after committing offences, where they are allegedly shielded from arrest by armed personnel.
“The security situation in the LCDA is so porous that even here in Marine Beach, there is a place called Gidan Drama which is a nightmare to our existence,” he said.
“I have been working with the police to track these criminals, but whenever we get close, top military and police officers make it difficult to effect arrests. Local government officials who visit the area are often threatened or arrested.”
Saliu further alleged that three staff members of the Apapa-Iganmu LCDA were arrested during an intelligence visit to the area two weeks ago and taken to the Naval Dockyard, adding that their release only came after intervention from senior officials.
He urged the Lagos State Government and private stakeholders to acquire the area for the construction of a secondary school, describing education as key to restoring stability and securing the future of the community.
Reacting to the allegations, the spokesperson of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, said the claims would require proper investigation.
He noted that the chairman needed to be specific about which arm of the military was being accused in order to aid any inquiry.
“The military comprises the Army, Navy and Air Force. I speak for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army. Allegations of this nature require investigation before any response can be made. I will make inquiries,” Yahaya said.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Corona Schools Trust Council, Mrs Adedoyin Adesina, said the organisation remained committed to tackling the challenge of out-of-school children.
She disclosed that 75 children had been enrolled in schools in the Ago-Egan community of Bariga LCDA within three years, adding that the initiative would be extended to Gangare in Apapa-Iganmu LCDA.
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