Nigeria should adopt Awolowo’s approach to end insecurity – Sheikh Gumi

A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has opined that government must invest in education rather than executing what he called “white elephant projects” for it to address lingering insecurity in Nigeria.

The Islamic cleric also opined that insecurity in Nigeria is a “tricycle of poverty, ignorance and injustice”.

Sheikh Gumi explained that the government must have a rethink on the need to make resources available to those at the grassroots and invest in their education in order to arrest insecurity in the country.

According to the Islamic cleric, if citizens are not educated, insecurity would persist, believing that it is fuelled by ignorance and unemployment that are implications of lack of access to education.

He explained, “First, we need to understand that Almajarai is a cultural thing and until you change the mindset of the people, the fire brigade approach will not solve the problem.”

He further explained that Almajarai is an educational system that is outdated by modernity just like the use of donkeys and camels as means of transportation which have been overtaken by the modern transportation system.

Sheikh Gumi is of the opinion that if modern things are made available, people would leave the old ones, saying that there are still some villages where they still use donkeys and camels to move around.

He added that there are no good roads, let alone good cars in such places, believing that Almajarai is not just a school, but an educational system that is not well-financed.

The Islamic cleric explained that the country has to make education from primary to secondary and even tertiary a universal thing for the benefit of all in the country.

He suggested that Nigerian politicians should spend money on education rather than flyovers, stressing that insecurity is a tricycle of poverty, ignorance and injustice as selecting a few thousand out of millions of out-of-school children in Nigeria is just like a drop in the ocean of the problem Nigerians have.

Ondomind 

Mbappe, Messi others win awards after World Cup final

Following the conclusion of the 2022 World Cup, the organizers have handed out awards to outstanding players.Argentina midfielder, Enzo Fernandez, has been named Young Player of the Tournament.

His teammate Lionel Messi is the Player of the Tournament.

Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez takes home the Goalkeeper of the Tournament prize.

France forward, Kylian Mbappe, who scored eight goals for Les Bleus wins the Top Scorer of the Tournament.

Argentina won the trophy via a penalty shoot-out after the game ended 3-3 after 120 minutes.

FULL LIST:

Enzo Fernández (Young Player of the Tournament).

Emiliano Martínez (Goalkeeper of the Tournament).

Kylian Mbappe (Top scorer of the Tournament).

Lionel Messi (Player of the Tournament).

Ondomind

NDLEA intercepts 1.7million opioid pills in noodles, seizes 5,460.34kgs of skunk in Lagos, Edo, Bauchi, Kaduna, Oyo, Delta raids

At least, One Million Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Four Hundred and Sixty (1,760,460) pills of Tramadol and other opioids have been intercepted hidden in indomie noodles packs and others at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos as well as in Gombe state.While over 600,000 pills of Tramadol 225mg coming from Karachi, Pakistan in two separate shipments on Ethiopian Airlines flights were intercepted by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA at the SAHCO import shed of the Lagos airport on Monday 12th and Tuesday 13th December; 5,960 pills of Rohypnol concealed in 60 packs of indomie noodles going to Johannesburg, South Africa were also seized at the SAHCO export shed of the airport on Wednesday 14th December. A female freight agent, Olaleye Adeola has already been arrested in connection with the noodles consignment.  

In a related development, a trader at Balogun market in Lagos Island, Akunne Chibuzor Tochukwu was on Tuesday 13th Dec arrested in collaboration with the Zone 2 Police Headquarters, Lagos over his attempt to export a Tramadol consignment to Dubai, UAE. The consignment was seized at the Lagos airport by NDLEA operatives on 25th November while a market labourer, Oke Abosede Ronke whose services were requested to convey the drug for export had earlier been arrested.

Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives in Lagos on Sunday 11th December intercepted a truck and a bus conveying 113 jumbo bags of cannabis sativa weighing 4,802.84 kilograms around the VGC estate area of Ajah while three suspects: Taofeek Yusuf; Ifeanyi Okorie and Israel Nwachukwu were arrested in connection with the seizures.

In Gombe state, a total of 1,154,500 pills of Tramadol, Rohypnol and Exol being transported from Onitsha, Anambra state to Gombe by a truck driver, Umar Hassan, 28, were seized on Thursday 15th Dec. at Bye pass area of Gombe by a team of NDLEA officers following credible intelligence.

Also acting on intelligence, operatives in Edo state on Friday 16th Dec intercepted a Honda Ridgeline pick-up vehicle with Reg No BWR 699 CV loaded with 29 bags of Cannabis Sativa weighing 319kgs. The driver of the vehicle, Alfred Vratombo, 32, was arrested with fake police uniforms, which he was using to deceive security men on the road. 

Attempt by a drug dealer, Chucks Kalu, 29, to smuggle into Kano 26kgs of cannabis concealed inside packs of blenders was thwarted by operatives who intercepted the consignment along Abuja-Kaduna express road and later arrested him in a follow up operation in Kano, just as another suspect, Rabilu Sa'ad Abubakar,42, was also arrested in a follow up operation in Kano, following the seizure of his consignment 1,980 bottles of Cough syrup with codeine, concealed inside cartons, were seized along Abuja-Kaduna express road.

In Bauchi state, operatives on Saturday 17th Dec arrested Muhammed Ahmed, 40, with 288 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 244.5Kg in Darazo area of the state, while in Delta state, NDLEA officers stormed the home of a drug kingpin, Okrika Kingsley Ozioma, at Usiefurum town, Ughelli South LGA, where an underground drug bunk was uncovered in a three-bedroom bungalow building owned by the suspect who is now on the run. 17.6kgs of C/S were recovered from the bunk in addition to a 2003 Silver Golf car with registration number Lagos KJA 572 AZ used for the distribution of drugs within and outside Warri. 

In Oyo state, a suspect, Yusuf Ayinde, 40, was arrested with 50.4kgs Cannabis in his residence at Idi-Ose via Amuloko, Ona-Ara LGA, on Saturday 17th Dec. 

While commending the officers and men of the MMIA, Lagos, Gombe, Edo, Delta, Kaduna and Oyo state commands for their commitment and vigilance leading to the arrests and seizures of the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) CON, OFR urged them and their compatriots across other formations to continue to surpass their past records of achievements.

Ondomind 

Photostory: Davido, Chioma in Qatar ahead of performance at World Cup

Afrobeats superstar, Davido and his wife, Chioma in Qatar as he gets ready for his appearance at the closing ceremony of the FIFA 2022 World Cup.

Davido is billed among other artistes to perform at the closing ceremony of the Mundial today (Sunday).

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Dangote drivers Association set to boycott Transportation of cement to South-East Nigeria

The Association of Drivers of Dangote Cement Transport, Obajana in Kogi State has directed all its members to boycott the transportation of cement to the South-East region of Nigeria.The association said the decision was taken over the security situation in the region and in Akwa Ibom state in the South-South region.

A memo dated December 11, 2022, and sent by the drivers’ association to the company, said, “We kindly write this short notice to the company that we are returning some waybills of the southeast state Nigeria that we driver (sic) are not going to some part (sic) of southeast Nigeria due to ongoing situation of the site Nigeria those part (sic) of southeast they are as follows: 1. Enugu, 2. Anambra, 3. Abia, 4. Imo, 5. Ebonyi, 6. Akwa Ibom.”

Criminals enforcing sit-at-home orders in the South-East have in the past burnt trucks belonging to Dangote Cement and reportedly killed some of the company’s drivers.

This comes a few days after the leadership of some Northern groups involved in commercial activities between the North and South-East zone directed commodity traders and truck drivers to shun the zone over the incessant killing of their members by gunmen suspected to be members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Coordinator of the Northern Consensus Forum, Dr Auwal Abdullahi Aliyu said they declared a warning strike due to the constant killing of the northerners in the South East, adding that not less than 100 northerners were murdered in the zone within a week.

Aliyu claimed that the strike had started to have a good effect and that security agencies, northern state governors, and residents in the impacted zone had all been informed.

“We have blocked the roads linking the North to the East ranging from Benue, Nasarawa, Kwara and Plateau states among others, and the truck drivers are cooperating with us,” he had said.

Ondomind earlier reported how gunmen enforcing a purported five-day sit-at-home order in Enugu State attacked and burnt a police patrol vehicle in the New Market area last Saturday.

It was also reported that some supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were also killed by gunmen for defying a kangaroo sit-at-home order in Anambra recently.

Ondomind

High court set ablaze by armed men

Armed Men on Saturday have set ablaze the building of Imo State high court in Orlu LGA, part of the structure housing sensitive documents, files and valuables were razed down by the inferno.The development came barely few days after some gunmen attacked the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Owerri, which was alleged to be carried out by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Information available indicates that the complex is housing both the high court and a magistrates’ court.

Ondomind

DSS Summons Ishaq Akintola Over Allegations Against Seyi Makinde, MURIC Says Akintola Has Poor Health

The Department of State Security Service (DSS) has summoned the Director of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Professor Ishaq Akintola.Akintola was summoned a few days after he accused Governor Seyi Makinde, of “aiding and abetting Oyo State school authorities, who are in the habit of forcing Muslim students and Muslim teachers to sing Christmas carol.”

He had alleged that “Under Seyi Makinde’s watch, Muslim students were herded like sheep to attend the crusade of a German Christian crusader, Evangelist Daniel Kolenda, in November 2021. Oyo State public schools were used for the crusade during school hours.

Again, under Makinde’s watch, Muslim applicants attending a screening exercise for appointment were made to answer questions on the Bible in August 2020. Under Makinde’s watch, Muslim teachers were forced to attend a screening exercise on Salah day in July 2022. Yet these are schools using public funds and Muslims are the majority among tax-payers in the state.

“Makinde has a plethora of anti-Muslim actions for which he has never apologized. We have no doubt that he will continue to condone the persecution of Muslim students and Muslim teachers until he is kicked out of office. We, therefore, remind Oyo State Muslims to take their destiny into their own hands by using their voting power to send away their traducer.”

However, DSS has now told Akintola to report to their office in Oyo within one week.

The message MURIC reads, "We are particularly disturbed by the insistence of the officers of Oyo State D.S.S Office that Professor Ishaq Akintola, the director of MURIC, must report to their office in Ibadan, Oyo State, for questioning despite Professor Akintola's poor health which he explained to the DSS. Although the caller agreed that our director could report in their office within one week, we still find this disturbing because they refused to tell him his offence."

Young Entrepreneur donates solar street lights to Okitipupa communities

CEO RM Truckline, Mr. Olúwaṣeun who is Committed to Community development and Youths for a better communal development, earlier today donated solar street lights to Erekiti, Okitipupa Local Govt, Ondo state. This donation, according to him was made as a Christmas gift to the community and in which will help to support Businesses and also encourage interaction between individuals while allowing them to carry on their social and recreational activities as well help to reduce crime activities. 

Oluwaseun ‘’Using solar street lights is economically beneficial and environmentally friendly. 

It reduces the risks associated with dark streets. 

We have to start doing this in other communities because the society is our priority. If other people and NGOs will do what we do, things will be better for us all.

With what is happening in the country, we are not supposed to sit at home and expect government to do everything alone, it is our collective responsibility.”

He added. 

Ondomind 

Bandits kill 120-year-old woman, 5 others

Gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked Raka village of Tangaza Local Government Area in Sokoto State and burnt down many houses and food items before they made away with an undisclosed number of domestic animals.

It was gathered that a 120-year-old woman and five other community members were also killed by the marauders.

When contacted on phone, the district head of the area, Alhaji Sa’idu Wakili confirmed the attack, saying that although no one was kidnapped, the bandits burnt down two-thirds of the houses and food items and also rustled cattle.

He urged the federal and state governments to intensify more efforts toward solving the security challenges in the area.

The district head also called on wealthy individuals in the axis to formulate formidable means of protecting the lives and properties of the people in the area.

The acting chairman of Tangaza Local Government Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Lawal Junju, accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Roads Maintenance, Engr. Mai Damma Tangaza visited the community and commiserated with the villagers and also promised to forward his findings to the government for necessary assistance to the victims.

DAILY POST reports that there have been no official statements from either the state government or security agencies at the time of filing this report.

Ondomind 

IPOB Dissolved, De-Registered As United Kingdom Organization

Nigeria’s organization, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been dissolved and de-registered as a legal company in the United Kingdom.Naija News understands that the separatist movement founded by its embattled leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, was registered as a legal organization in the UK in 2014. 

A document sighted on SaharaReporters showed that IPOB was dissolved and de-registered on September 13, 2022, after warnings. A notice purportedly sent to IPOB months before the action read: 

“The Registrar of Companies give notice that, unless cause is shown to the contrary, the company will be struck off and dissolved not less than 2 months from the date shown above. “Upon company’s dissolution, all property and rights vested or held in trust for the company are deemed to be bona vacantia, and will belong to the Crown.” UK Government Barred IPOB From Asylum Programme.

It could be recalled that the UK government earlier in the year, barred the Movement for the Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra and other Biafran groups from participating in its asylum programme. 

The British government noted that IPOB had been proscribed as a terrorist group by the Nigerian government and that members of the group and its paramilitary wing – the Eastern Security Network – have reportedly committed human rights violations. The UK, therefore, said that persons who commit human rights violations must not be granted asylum. Also, the UK Visas and Immigration in March 2021 released new guidelines to its decision-makers on how to consider and grant asylum applications to IPOB members. In the guidelines titled, ‘Country Policy and Information Note Nigeria: Biafran secessionist groups,’ the UKVI, a division of the Home Office, directed its decision-makers to consider if a person “who actively and openly supports IPOB is likely to be at risk of arrest and detention, and ill-treatment which is likely to amount to persecution.’’ However, in its update published on its website on May 3, titled, ‘Country policy and information note: Separatist groups in the South-East, Nigeria,’ the UKVI said, “IPOB is proscribed as a terrorist group by the Nigerian government, and members of the group and its paramilitary wing – the Eastern Security Network (created in December 2020) – have reportedly committed human rights violations in Nigeria and various media articles. “MASSOB has been banned but is not a proscribed terrorist group in Nigeria. 

It too has reportedly been involved in violent clashes with the authorities.” British High Commission Denies Labeling IPOB Terrorist Sect Subsequently, a statement released by the British High Commission in Abuja denied reports that IPOB was labelled a terrorist group. 

“We are aware of inaccurate reporting circulating in the media and online that the UK Government has added the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to the UK’s list of terrorist groups or organisations banned under UK law,” the statement had read. 

It added: “These reports are untrue. The ‘Indigenous People of Biafra’ (IPOB) is not a proscribed organisation in the UK. 

“The inaccurate reporting relates to the 13 April 2022 publication by the UK Government of a revised Country Policy and Information note (CPIN) on separatist groups in SE Nigeria, including the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). CPINs provide country of origin information (COI) and analysis of COI for use by UK Government decision-makers handling particular types of protection and human rights claims. 

“All asylum and human rights claims made in the UK are considered on their individual facts in accordance with our obligations under the UN Refugee Convention and European Convention on Human Rights, taking into account relevant background country information and case law. 

“The CPIN on separatist groups in the South East, including the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), provides a general assessment of risks faced by individuals belonging to those groups. 

These assessments are based on an analysis of publicly available country information obtained from a wide range of reliable sources including media outlets; UK and other governments; local, national and international organisations; and non-government organisations. 

“This CPIN also acknowledges that the Nigerian government has proscribed IPOB as a terrorist organisation, some members of IPOB have reportedly used violence against the state and members of the public, and advises that persons who have committed human rights abuses must not be granted protection.”nous People Of Biafra Organisation.” Naija News reports that Kanu has been in detention since June 2021 following his arrest and repatriation to Nigeria. 

The separatist was in an extraordinarily renditioned brought to Nigeria from Kenya.

Ondomind 

Attacks on our offices may compromise 2023 elections – INEC Chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu has highlighted the effect of attacking its offices ahead of the 2023 general election.Yakubu warned that the series of attacks on INEC’s facilities may compromise the 2023 general elections if not checked.

He issued the warning while addressing the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee Investigating the Attacks on Offices and Facilities of INEC in Abuja yesterday.

The INEC Chairman stressed that while the Commission was determined to continue with preparations for the elections, the persistent attacks on its facilities constitute a serious threat.

Yakubu, however, vowed that INEC would continue its preparation for the 2023 general elections despite attacks on its facilities.

According to Yakubu: “However, should such attacks continue at the pace at which they are happening at the moment, the Commission may find it increasingly difficult to recover in good time for the election.

“If it is about stopping the attacks, yes we can recover, but if the attacks continue, it would be very difficult for the Commission to recover.

“The attacks have far-reaching implications on preparation for the general elections. First, the facilities that are destroyed, especially offices, would take time to rebuild.”

Lately, hoodlums have attacked INEC offices in States like Imo, Enugu, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and Bayelsa States.

Ondomind

Boko Haram: Former Abubakar Shekau’s Commanders Surrender To Troops

Four top Commanders of the Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād Boko Haram terrorists group have surrendered to the Nigerian Army in Borno State. The development was confirmed from intelligence sources by a Counter-Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama.

Naija News gathered that the terrorists identified as Mala’ana (Khaid), titled a Governor, Abu Dauda (Munzir), Modu Yalee (Commander), and Bin Diska (Nakif) surrendered on Tuesday to troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) patrolling Gwoza local government area of the State. According to sources, the terrorists came out from the Sambisa forest where they had been hiding and planning their attacks.

The sources noted that the insurgents were former Commanders of Abubakar Shekau at Njimiya camp.

They had laid down their arms and moved to join ISWAP in Lake Chad after the invasion of Sambisa Forest in May 2021, which led to the death of Shekau. However, the four Commanders later denounced ISWAP and fled to Sambisa where they pitched their tent and operated on their own.

The Boko Haram commanders, however, surrendered over the fear of being eliminated due to recent attacks on their camps by the military as well as rivalry attacks. Meanwhile, the Theatre Commander of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ (OPHK), Maj-Gen Christopher Musa, has said about 83,000 Boko Haram members have so far surrendered and are currently undergoing rehabilitation at various facilities in Borno State.

Musa while addressing the Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni on Friday as part of a tour of command and formations under his control, said the kinetic and non-kinetic approaches led them to the massive surrenders. The theatre commander who described the operations of the command as a success said over half of the 83,000 were children who if they had not surrendered could be fighters too.

He said, “God has been very magnanimous to us, we have received a lot of surrendered individuals. We are moving almost 83,000 now, out of that number, over 41,000 are children.

“The terrorists are trying to develop a new set of terrorists, their own children and that would have been very dangerous because you know normally for children when they grow up and whatever they see is what they copy.

“So, if they grow and think killing is natural, they become very dangerous.” 

The theatre commander, who commended the Chief of Army Staff for his support, said that the military and other security agencies will continue to devise and implement effective strategies to bring terrorism in the region to a speedy end. 

He added, “Whatever it takes, whatever it needs for us to have peace, we are determined to achieve that. 

The Chief of Army Staff has been very, very supportive in all we are doing and that has made our work much, much easier.”

Ondomind 

Buhari Has Not Stolen Kobo - Sanwo-Olu

The Governor of Lagos, has felicitated with President Muhammadu Buhari on his 80th birthday.Buhari was born on December 17, 1942.

In a statement by Gboyega Akosile, his chief press secretary, Sanwo-Olu described Buhari as one who is “never found to be corrupt”.

The Lagos governor also said Buhari’s “unblemished service” in public office has made him a role model to many Nigerians.

He described Buhari as a courageous and passionate leader, whose commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria is worthy of emulation.

He also praised Buhari for delivering on his promises to Nigerians, especially in building of infrastructure, fighting insurgency, and tackling corruption.

“President Buhari to date remains one of the most respected and honest world leaders, who is never found to be corrupt despite the juicy positions he has held in the military and other public offices at state, regional, national and international levels in the last 50 years,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Ondomind

El-Rufai Secures $6m Loan for Light Rail, BRT

Kaduna State has secured a $6 million loan from Indian Xing Bank to build Kaduna light rail from Rigachikun to Maraban Rido and French concessionary line of credit to build Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Governor Nasir El-Rufai has said.

Addressing the ground breaking of BRT in Kaduna, El-Rufai said as part of the State Government efforts to ease traffic congestion, it conceived a three-prong approach towards solving the transportation problems for efficient human and vehicular movement.

He said: ‘’We began to explore the possibility of having a light rail stretching from Rigachikun to Maraban Rido and we made progress securing financing from Indian Xing Bank to the tune of 6 million dollars to execute that project.

‘’We engaged the famous French Transportation Consulting firm, Systra to do the feasibility studies as well as engineering design for the project, however, government has been unable to find someone that will operate the light rail when it is completed.

Ondomind

Ondo: ODIEC announces date for local government election

The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, ODIEC has announced December 16, 2023 as the date for the conduct of local government elections in the state.
Chairman of the Commission, Prof Yomi Dinakin, who disclosed this at a briefing in Akure, said the release of the time table was in line with Section 28 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Dinakin said conduct of party primaries by political parties would be between April 10th to June 10th, 2023 while campaigns would begin on July 17th and and ends midnight of December 14th 2023.

He said the body would meet with stakeholders for release of the election guidelines.

“ODIEC will continue to ensure that local government elections are conducted in credible and acceptable manner.

The ODIEC Commissioner in Charge of Training and Legal, Prof Tajudeen Ibrahim said training of Adhoc staff would hold between November 23 to December 1st, 2023.

Ondomind

Gov Umahi orders arrest of cook over bad food served during Christmas party

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi has ordered the immediate arrest of the cook who prepared the food served to widows and elders in the state. Umahi gave the order during the elders and widows’ Christmas party held at State Ecumenical Center, Abakaliki.

Umahi who failed to disclose the name of the cook said it was terrible for someone to give others what he or she cannot consume.

He then vowed that the police would follow due process in investigating the cook for her to refund the money given to prepare the food.

"We are, therefore, going to repeat this party as we should celebrate our fathers and mothers well. The bible enjoins us to honour our fathers and mothers so that our days would be long on the earth," he said. 

"I want my days to be long because I have suffered from my youth. Presently that I have seen light, I want God to prolong my life so that I can partake in the miracles in Ebonyi,” he said.

He declared that he would inspect the food to be served to the widows and elders during the repeat celebration.

"I have directed the deputy governor and my senior special adviser on religion and welfare matters, to make adequate preparations. The celebration must be held on December 20 or 21 as anyone who takes what belongs to this category of people is taking trouble,” he said.

Umahi also expressed dismay over the quality of wrappers given to the widows and elders, describing them as low in quality.

"We gave the civil servants high-quality wrappers and they were happy. The people who supplied those of the civil servants should be ready to supply 10,000 highest quality wrappers to the widows and elders,” he added.

He advised parents to inculcate good morals in their children to check the social vices being witnessed in the country, especially in the south east zone.

Ondomind 

Buhari approves upgrading of Aso Rock zoo

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the remodeling and upgrading of the Presidential Wildlife Sanctuary (PWLS) to enhance the practice of conservation in the country.This was disclosed by Permanent Secretary, State House, Tijjani Umar, while receiving a delegation of wildlife experts from Zimbabwe to State House on Thursday, December 15.

The wildlife experts are on a week-long assessment tour of the PWLS, formerly known as the State House zoo.

Patience Tilley-Gyado, Assistant Director, Information, stated that Umar outlined the importance of safeguarding the wildlife in the seat of government for recreational purposes, rehabilitation, research and knowledge sharing during the meeting.

Ondomind

NFF seals partnership with Iraqi football Association

The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, under the leadership of Ibrahim Gusau, has reached an agreement with the Iraqi Football Association to explore avenues for greater cooperation and collaboration in the football sphere. NFF president, Ibrahim Gusau paid a courtesy visit to Ambassador of Iraq to Nigeria, Anwer Saeed on Wednesday.

Gusau disclosed that the NFF is keen to enter into partnership with countries with strong pedigree in football to ensure real growth for the game in the country.

“Our country has a solid pedigree in the game of football as well as over 200 million passionate football followers and stakeholders,” Gusau was quoted by nff.com.

“We are aware of the fact that the people of Iraq are also very passionate about the game of football. It is important to seize the opportunity to explore areas of cooperation and collaboration that will benefit our two nations.”

Ondomind

Court Vacates order Sentencing IGP to 3-Months Imprisonment

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has on Wednesday 14th December, 2022, set aside the contempt proceedings and committal order against the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.It was gathered that the new order follows a motion filed before the Federal High Court on Thursday 1st December, 2022, by the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, indicating the basis why the order should be vacated, particularly as the Nigeria Police Force had complied with the original ruling of the court for the reinstatement of one Patrick C. Okoli, the plaintiff in the matter.

Ondomind

Yahoo School Proprietor, 13 Students in EFCC’s custody

Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC today, December 15, 2022 arrested Ese Isaiah, proprietor of a ‘Yahoo School’, and 13 of his 'students'.The suspects are Alex Aimuanosa, Jeremiah Umoru, Destiny Aghayere, Christian Oghenekevwe, Wisdom Christopher, Daniel Matthew and Gift Patrick. Others are Lucky Paul, Godspower Osatuohien, Edafe Isaiah, John Elvis, Favour Oseghale and Osas Egho. They were arrested in Benin City based on intelligence on their alleged activities.

Items recovered from the suspects include mobile phones, laptops and a Lexus ES350.

They have made useful statements and will be charged to court as soon the investigations are concluded.

Ondomind

11,350 PDP members defect to APC

Another 11,350 members of the Katsina State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Katsina.This is coming barely one week after the state governor, Aminu Bello Masari received over 1,760 PDP card-carrying members from Danja LGA into the Katsina APC.

The gale of defection threatening the chances of the main opposition party in the state may not be unconnected with the unresolved leadership tussle between the Lado and Majigiri faction of the Katsina PDP.

Mashi LGA is the home of the embattled PDP State Chairman, Salisu Yusuf Majigiri, a loyalist of the former state governor, Ibrahim Shehu Shema.

The decampees led by Abu Dabo Mashi were received by the Katsina APC Chairman, Alhaji Sani Daura.

Addressing the decampees and other supporters who turned out en masse to receive the Dikko-Jobe governorship campaign team, Dr Dikko Umar Radda reiterated his commitment to treat all members of the party fairly.

Dikko also assured that if he becomes the next governor of the state, he would bring rapid development to the state by prioritizing security, education, healthcare, agriculture, the economy and jobs creation for both women and youths.

He noted that his campaign team currently touring the Daura axis is embarking on ward to ward tour in the area in order not to leave any stone unturned in its bid to serve the state diligently and to the best of his ability if elected in 2023.

Ondomind

EFCC responsible for my travails in London – Ekweremadu tells Federal High Court

A former Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC’ of being responsible for his travails at the London court where he is in detention.The Senator who has been in custody in London over an alleged organ harvesting scandal told the Federal High Court that the anti-graft agency wrote a letter to the London Court that made the foreign court refuse to admit him to bail.

Ekweremadu’s allegations were contained in an application he filed before a Nigerian court seeking an order to set aside interim order granted in favour of the Federal Government forfeiture of 40 of his properties in the country and outside the country.

In the application brought by his counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo SAN, Ekweremadu claimed that the forfeiture order was granted by the Federal Government in error because the EFCC suppressed information and facts in respect of the properties.

Specifically, the detained Senator alleged that the EFCC fraudulently obtained the forfeiture order for the government by concealing information that the investigation on the 40 properties started as far back as 2008.

Among others, he alleged that the EFCC was fully aware that he was in detention in London when the application for forfeiture of the properties was filed and argued.

He said that the anti-graft agency deliberately refused to disclose to the court that he was in London detention and would not be able to counter the forfeiture request.

The Senator, therefore, prayed the court to set aside the forfeiture order and stay proceedings in the matter until he resolves his ordeal before the London Court.

However, counsel to the EFCC, Mr Silvanus Tahir SAN denied that his client was behind Ekweremadu’s ordeal.

He, however, admitted that EFCC wrote the London Court based on a special request adding that it was a normal routine for anti-graft agencies to exchange information that would be of help to one another.

Tahir did not oppose the request for a stay of proceedings till Ekweremadu fully resolved his matter before the London Court he, however, vehemently opposed the request for setting aside of the forfeiture order.

Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo after taking arguments from parties fixed January 11 next year for ruling in the matter.

The court had on Friday, November 4 ordered interim forfeiture of 40 landed properties linked to Ekweremadu in some parts of the country and outside the country..

Justice Ekwo issued the order following an ex -parte motion filed and moved by Ibrahim Buba, lawyer to the EFCC.

Justice Ekwo, who granted the motion, ordered the anti-graft agency to publish the interim forfeiture order of the property in a national daily within seven days.

The judge had directed anybody who has an interest in the forfeited property to indicate within 14 days of the publication of the interim forfeiture order on why the property should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The affected property includes 10 properties in Enugu, three in the United States of America, two in the UK, one in Lagos, nine in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates and 15 located in the Federal Capital Territory.

Ondomind

Kogi Gov’s Nephew Arraigned for N10bn Fraud

Justice James Kolawole Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, remanded Aliyu Bello, a nephew to Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello and one Dauda Sulaiman in prison pending the fulfilment of their bail conditionsThey were remanded upon arraignment alongside one Abdulsalami Hudu, Cahier of Kogi State House Administration ( now at large) on a 10-count charge of misappropriation and money laundering

Bello and Sulaiman are accused of fraudulently withdrawing a sum of N10, 270,556,800 (Ten Billion, Two Hundred and Seventy Million, Five Hundred and Fifty-six Thousand Eight Hundred Naira), from the Kogi State treasury, which they delivered to a Bureau de Change operator, Rabiu Tafada in Abuja to keep or change to foreign currencies for personal gains.  

One of the charges reads: “That you, ALI BELLO, DAUDA SULEIMAN AND ABDULSALAMI HUDU (NOW AT LARGE)between January and December, 2021, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court procured RABIU USMAN TAFADA to take possession of the total sum of N5,865,756,800 (Five Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty Five Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Six Thousand, Eight Hundred Naira), which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of unlawful activity to wit: criminal misappropriation from the treasury of Kogi State and you thereby committed an offence contrary to sections 18 (c), 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under section 15 (3) of the same Act”.

Another count reads: “That you, ALI BELLO, DAUDA SULEIMAN AND ABDULSALAMI HUDU (NOW AT LARGE) between January and December 2021, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court aided RABIU USMAN TAFADA to retain the total sum of N2,509,650,000.00 (Two Billion Five Hundred and Nine Million, Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand), which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful activity to wit: Criminal Misappropriation from the treasury of Kogi State Government and you thereby committed an offence contrary to sections 18 (a) 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under section 15 (3) of the same Act”.

They however pleaded "not guilty" to the charges preferred against them by the EFCC.

In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, asked the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial.

Counsel to the second and third defendants, Abdulwahab Mohammed SAN, informed the court of his application for the bail of the defendants.

Justice Omotosho admitted the defendants to bail in the sum One Billion Naira each and two sureties who are to provide a bond of N2billion each and have a landed property valued at N500 million. The title of the properties shall be registered with the chief registrar of the Court.

Each of the sureties and the defendants shall submit their bank statements and international passports to the chief registrar of the Court.

The sureties must also produce an affidavit of means and evidence of tax clearance for at least 3 years.

The judge thereafter sent the defendants to Kuje Correctional centre, Abuja pending the fulfillment of their bail conditions and adjourned the matter till February 6, 2023 for hearing. 

Ondomind 

Blasphemy: court sentences controversial Islamic cleric Abduljabbar Kabara to death by hanging

An Upper Sharia Court in Kano has sentenced controversial Islamic cleric, Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara, to death by hanging.The court earlier convicted the embattled cleric after finding him guilty of the charge of blasphemy levelled against him.

The judge, in his sentencing, orders the state government to seize the two mosques belonging to Abduljabbar.

The judge also called on all media to desist from using any of Abduljabbar’s teachings and pictures.

The convict was thereafter given 30 days to appeal the judgment or forfeit his right to appeal.

The judge, Mallam Ibrahim Sarki Yola delivered the conviction in a court session which lasted over two hours.

Before giving his verdict, the judge said, “I am convinced that the prosecution counsel has done their part and proven their points beyond a reasonable doubt.”

He thereafter convicted the defendant of all the charges levelled against him.

Kabara was standing trial on the issue bordering on blasphemous statements against the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), an act capable of inciting public peace. Abduljabbar was charged in July 2021 by the Kano State government.

Until the Judge pronounced his last statement, embattled Abduljabbar, who appeared in the court for a final verdict in his 15-month-long trial, was calm as ever before, seated on a chair, relaxed, counting his rosary with his fingers (supplicating) and listening attentively.

Drama in court

Asked if he has anything to tell the court, Barrister Aminu Ado Abubakar, who stood as the defence counsel, prayed to the Court to accord leniency to the accused person for he did what he did out of ignorance.

However, Abduljabbar stood up stating that he did not know the lawyer and that it was the first time he was seeing him.

“I don’t know him. This is the first time I am seeing him. He should not be allowed to speak on my behalf. I can and should be allowed to speak for myself,” he said.

The judge however said the lawyer is recognised by the court as the defence counsel.

Abduljabbar continued, “My lord, after I heard how you twisted all my evidence, you turned around all my submissions upside down, you have assigned words to me that I have never uttered.

“Deliver your judgement, and I am not asking for leniency at all. I want all my followers to know that I will die a hero and I don’t want you (the Judge) Ibrahim Sarki Yola to do me any favour or grant me leniency. This is my last word. Assalamu Alaikum.”

Meanwhile, the judge ordered for a 20 minutes recess before delivering his sentence.

Ondomind

Former Gov. Oyetola took 407billion naira loan that would take Osun 28 years to repay - Gov Adeleke demand immediate Probe

The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has disclosed that his predecessor, Gboyega Oyetola, still went ahead to obtain N18 billion loan despite losing the July 16 governorship election in the state.This is as he also revealed that the state is indebted to the tune of N407.32 billion as of November 30, 2022.

Adeleke disclosed this on Thursday during a meeting with Osun State Traditional Rulers at Osogbo, Osun State Capital.

According to him, his administration inherited eight outstanding loan facilities, apart from salaries and pension debts, from the Oyetola’s administration.

Adeleke explained that the repayment period for the loan facilities ranges from 16 months to about 28 years.

“My good people of Osun State, the total loan stock as of today is N331.32billion.

“If the N76 billion debt on salaries and pension are added, the state is indebted to the tune of N407.32 billion. The amount owed to contractors is yet to be determined.

“The only fund in government coffers, as of Monday 29th November, was for November 2022 Salary. Otherwise, the state treasury was empty.

“As your governor, I will ask questions on your behalf and will demand answers,” Adeleke told the traditional rulers.

He added, “Governor Oyetola must explain how the N331 Billion borrowed in the name of Osun State was expended, with no obvious infrastructural development to justify this huge debt.

“Governor Oyetola must explain how the N18 Billion Bridge Loan taken after he lost the election on July 16, 2022, was expended.

“Governor Oyetola must also explain why Osun State is owing salaries and pension to the tune of N76 Billion after collecting a N50 Billion Salary Bail Out Loan from the Federal Government

“The creditors, especially the Commercial Banks must explain why various loans were given to an administration beyond its four-year tenure. 28 years is equivalent to the tenure of at least four governors. A child that is born today would have earned a Ph.D. at 28 years of age. This is nothing but mortgaging the future of Osun State with nothing to show for it. This is definitely not acceptable.”

Ondomind 

Just In: Train Crushes Driver, Car In Abuja

A train crushed a woman and her car as she tried to drive across the train tracks in the Kubwa area of Abuja on Thursday.

Multiple Twitter users claim the incident happened on Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, an eyewitness, Olisa Ogbechie, alleged the police used force to chase people, who wanted to help away from the scene.

"In an attempt to rescue the victim by first responders and also cover the incident, the policemen at the scene, on-board the train became hostile.

"I and a few others were brutally assaulted by the policemen as they hit and sprayed pepper spray in my eyes and two others, they pointed guns as they harassed us away from the scene," he said.

Ondomind

Road to 2023: I Will Dredge River Niger - Tinubu

The presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday pledged to embark on a routine dredging of the popular River Niger if elected as president.

This was as his media team dismissed report that the former Lagos State governor was rushed for medical attention midway through his campaign.

The development is coming barely 24 hours after his rally in the ancient city of Kaduna.

Tinubu was welcomed on Wednesday to Minna Trade Fair Complex, venue of his presidential campaign rally in Niger State, on Wednesday by a mammoth crowd of supporters.

His visit to the rally came shortly after he held a town hall meeting with farmers and agro commodity traders in the state.

While thanking the party members and supporters who thronged the complex for their commitment, the APC candidate vowed to repay them by attending to the major challenges of Niger State.

Among other things, Tinubu pledged to commence a routine dredging of River Niger and full development of the Baro Port.

He said, “Your state has ample resources and large potential. Not only does Niger cover the largest land mass of any State in Nigeria, but it also serves as the home to three hydroelectric power plants that symbolically light the way forward to hope renewed.

Ondomind

Man Beats Ex-girlfriend For Refusing To Marry Him

A man identified as Atumu Treasure aka Oluwa Benz Richer, has been accused of beating his ex-girlfriend, Peace, for refusing to marry him.It was reported that the couple went their separate ways six months ago in Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State.

According to an activist, Israel Joe, who shared the story on his Instagram page, the man broke into Peace’s house with a spare key, locked the doors, and began beating and strangling her because she refused to marry him on Monday.

Joe said that it was neighbours who heard the lady's cries, that saved her from her estranged lover and got him arrested.

The activist went on to charge the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Ari Mohammed Ali, to ensure the suspect is charged to court, claiming his bail is being negotiated at the Oleh Police Station.

 Ondomind 

Photos: World-Record Nonuplets return home to Mali from Morocco

A Malian mother who gave birth to nine babies in Morocco last year returned home on Tuesday with her infants.

The babies broke the Guinness World Record for the most children delivered in a single birth to survive.

Ahead of the birth in May 2021, the mother Halima Cissé, now 27, was flown to Morocco for specialist care.

Before returning they had been living with medical support in Casablanca.

Arriving back in the Malian capital, Bamako, in the early hours of Tuesday morning, the father Abdelkader Arby thanked the Malian government which he said had been helping the family financially.

"It's a lot of work but Allah, who gave us this blessing, will help us in their upbringing and taking care of them," he added.

Ondomind 

Convicted Internet Fraudster Forfeits N120m to FBI

Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City on Tuesday December 13, 2022 ordered the forfeiture of the sum of N120,284,986.28 (One Hundred and Twenty Million, Two Hundred and Eighty Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eight-six Naira , Twenty-eight Kobo) found in the Keystone bank account of a convicted fraudster, Oghenemine Agbroko to the Federal government of Nigeria through the EFCC for onward delivery to the nominal complainant, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI.Agbroko was among five internet fraudster convicted and sentenced five years imprisonment for fraud by Justice Ikonmwonba.The others are Kennedy Uwuigbe, Odiase Osariemen Christian, Collins Edobor and Ebichuwa Victory Ovie

They were arraigned separately on one count charge bordering on retention of proceeds of crime, personation and unlawful possession of fraudulent documents by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.

The charge against Agbroko reads: “that you, Jeffrey Oghenemine Agbroko (m) on or about 12th November, 2021 in Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the sum of N120,284,986.28 (One Hundred and Twenty Million, Two Hundred and Eighty-Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty six naira, Twenty Eight Kobo) in your bank account number 6033867739 domiciled in Keystone Bank Ltd knowing that same represent proceeds of your criminal conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 17(b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004”

The charge against Kennedy Uwuigbe reads: “that you, Kennedy Uwuigbe sometimes between 2017 to 4th August, 2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Luka Romero, a white man and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (As applicable in Edo State) 1976.

Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charge.  

In view of their plea, the prosecution counsel, Francis.A.Jirbo, F.O. Dibang and I.K. Agwai prayed the court to convict and sentenced them accordingly. However, the defence counsel, Pascal Ugbome, pleaded with the Court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants were first-time offenders who have become remorseful for their actions.

Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Agbroko and Collins Edobor to five years in imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine each.

The trio Uwuigbe, Christian and Ovie bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.

The quartet of Uwuigbe, Christian, Edobor and Ovie are to forfeit the aggregate sum of N12,322.476.72 and $954.02 USD worth of Bitcoin, two Mercedes Benz cars, a Toyota Camry car, $2000USD and mobile phones , all being proceeds and instruments of crime to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.

The court also ordered that the bank accounts used in committing the crime be closed.

Ondomind 

NSE honours Wike with distinguished award of excellence

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), an umbrella organisation for the engineering profession in the country for honouring him with , 'Distinguished award of Excellence ' in recognition of his infrastructural development in Rivers State.Governor Wike acknowledged that there was no way his administration would have successfully undertaken the massive infrastructural development in the state without the input of engineers and other technicians alike.

He stated this during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Port Harcourt branch in Port Harcourt over the weekend.

The governor, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Engineer Emeka Woke, noted that attainment of 50 years by any individual or organisation is no mean feat and so its worthy of celebration.

“I want to congratulate the Nigerian Society of Engineers for attaining this golden age. It is not easy in the life of any individual or organisation to survive 50 years.”

Governor Wike commended the NSE Port Harcourt branch and the national body for their support and collaboration with his administration since 2015. According to him, the State government has invested heavily in infrastructural development, to achieved the desired result, it had to depend on professional engineers to execute and carry out its vision and mission for the State.

“There is no way we would have undertaken the infrastructural development we did in this State without the input of engineers and other technicians alike. And so, we thank you for this robust collaboration. And just to assure you, on till the last day of this administration, His Excellency will continue to carry out people-oriented projects that will impact directly on the lives of the citizens, those who live and do business in Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.”

The Rivers State governor pledged to support the NSE Port Harcourt branch in building a technology centre along Prof Tams David-West Boulevard in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of the State.

“The reason why the State government will be part of this project cannot be over emphasised, because we cannot put up all these structures without thinking about the maintenance. And if these structures will be maintained and kept in place over the years, it means that manpower must be developed and those manpower must be trained to be qualified manpower to generate income for the people.”

The governor extolled the President, Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Tasiu Sa’ad Gidari-Wudil and his team for visiting Port Harcourt to mark the 50th anniversary of the organisation in the State.

“Let me welcome the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers for finding time to come to Rivers State with your team in person, without sending delegation. For you to find time to come and spend some number of days with us, shows your love for this branch.

“It also shows that you have confidence that where you are going is a loveable place, and you are sure of your security. Let me reassure you that not only will you drive on well built infrastructure, you have no issue with security in Rivers State.”

The President, Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Tasiu Sa’ad Gidari-Wudil, said governor Wike was honoured with the 'Distinguished award of Excellence' for his outstanding contributions in infrastructural development of Rivers State.

Gidari-Wudil observed that despite being a lawyer, governor Wike had dedicated so much resources to strengthening public infrastructure to support Rivers’ economic development.

Ondomind 

Ajipe Loses at Appeal Court over APC primary outcome, fine 500k

The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, Ondo State has granted victory to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo North Senatorial District for the 2023 elections, Pastor Jide Ipinsagba in the suit filed against him by one of the party's aspirants, Chief Alex Ajipe.

It will be recalled that Ajipe had faulted the primary election that produced Ipinsagba as the party's senatorial candidate for Ondo North on the basis of delegates’ legitimacy.

Delivering judgment on the matter on Tuesday, the appellate court, presided over by Justice A.O. Lokulo-Sodipe, struck out the case on technical grounds.

The panel members, Justice C. I. Jombo Ofo, Justice Y.A. Bashir and Justice A.O. Lokulo-Sodipe also fined the appellant the sum of N500,000 for wasting the court's time.

Speaking after the judgment, Pastor Ipinsagba expressed joy over outcome of the court case, which vindicated his candidacy, adding that it is a victory for the APC and the people of Ondo North Senatorial District, who look-up to him to offer them quality representation in 2023.

He urged his opponents at the primary and their supporters, who may still be aggrieved by his victory, to sheath their swords and join hands with him for the APC to go into the 2023 elections, as a united and formidable front.

Ondomind

President, Joe Biden has signed same-sex and interracial marriage

Biden held an event at the White House South Lawn with lawmakers and Cabinet members as the Respect for Marriage Act becomes law. "Today is a good day," Biden said on Tuesday, December 13, as he took the podium after Vice President Kamala Harris. "A day America takes a vital step toward equality, for liberty and justice, not just for some, but for everyone. Toward creating a nation where decency, dignity and love are recognized, honored and protected."

"We're here today to celebrate their courage and everyone who made the day possible," the president continued. "Courage that led to progress we've seen over the decades, progress that gives us hope that every generation will continue on our journey toward a more perfect union."

The ceremony included Grammy winners Sam Smith and Cyndi Lauper. Smith, who announced they were non-binary in 2019, as they performed their hit song "Stay With Me" followed by Lauper singing "True Colors."

Appearing in the White House briefing room ahead of her performance, Lauper told reporters, "We can rest easy tonight because our families are validated."

"And because now we're allowed to love who we love, which sounds odd to say. But Americans can now love who we love and bless Joe Biden and all the people that worked on this for allowing people not to worry and their children not to worry about their future," Lauper said.Lauper founded the True Colors Fund, a nonprofit that educates people on LGBTQ issues and helps to end homelessness for LGBTQ youth.

Notable guests attending the signing ceremony, according to a White House official, included Club Q founder Matthew Haynes and two survivors of the shooting that happened just last month at the Colorado Springs LGBTQ nightclub. Other attendees included a survivor of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting that killed 49 people, and plaintiffs and counselors from the Obergefell and Loving Supreme Court cases.

The marriage bill passed with bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress after months of negotiation. The House voted last week 258-169 to send the bill to Biden's desk.

Ondomind

Wike signs N555.6 billion 2023 Appropriation Law

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has signed into law the 2023 Appropriation Bill N555, 666,987, 238 (Five Hundred and Fifty Five Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty Six Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Seven Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty Eight Naira only.)Governor Wike also gave assent to the Rivers State Child's Rights Bill No.6 of 2022, which will protect all children in the State from all forms of abuse.

The governor signed the two legal instruments at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday.

On the Rivers State Appropriation Law No. 5 of 2022, governor Wike acknowledged the tireless efforts shown by members of the State House of Assembly in considering the details of the budget within the two weeks of its presentation and expeditiously passing into law.

Such collaboration, he noted is what is always required between the arms of government to achieve the overall goal of government serving the needs of the governed.

"That is why we have always said that it is important to have collaboration between the arms of government for the interest of the state, not for the interest of any particular person or group of persons."

Governor Wike assured that his administration will leave no stone unturned in implementing the 2023 budget to deliver more infrastructure in the State.

"That means that we have no choice but to robustly follow the appropriation law in order to tackle most of the challenges that have to do with infrastructure.

"We are in December now, so we believe that by January we should start implementing the 2023 appropriation law.

I'm sure, with the number of projects we are doing, and funds are being provided, we believe by the grace of God, we would have accomplished what we are set out to do."

On the Rivers State Child's Rights Law No 6 of 2022, governor Wike noted the gross child's abuse, indecent assault of children, and terrible experiences that children are subjected when they are forced into labour. According to him, with the signing of the law, the State can inaugurate the Family Court.

“Because this law had not been amended that is why the Family Court cannot sit. So the family court will be inaugurated on 19 of this month, since bill has been passed and I have assented to it.”

Governor Wike said children are humans and do have rights to decent life, living and put through education to actualise their full potentials.

"Here, we do not understand that children too are human beings. They ought to have their own rights. I'm sure with this passage a lot of people will understand that things cannot be done as usual.

"Some parents do not like to send their children to school. They would rather like them to be on the road. This reminds me, let me say no community or local government can bring out their children from their classes to come out and wave us when visit for project commissioning.

"If the project is inside the school, that, the children can appreciate, is a different thing. But to bring the children to the road to come and wait for whoever, that is not acceptable at all."

The governor has therefore, directed the State Commissioner for Education to instruct head teachers and principals of schools to desist from bringing their pupils and students out to the road to wave at whoever was visiting communities to inaugurate projects.

Governor Wike also informed that names of members to be appointed into three commissions will sent to the State House of Assembly on Monday for screening. One of the commissions is the Rivers State Civil Service Commission.

The Leader of the House, Hon. Martin Amaewhule commended the governor for giving priority to capital expenditure in order to address the infrastructure need of the State.

He further expressed optimism with the amended Child’s Rights law in effect, children in the State can now be better protected from abuses, indecent assault and child labour.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi-Owaji Ibani, commended the governor for his tireless commitment to the development of the State.

Ondomind 

Three sentenced to death by hanging for rape and murder of unilorin student

Kwara State High Court has sentenced three to death by hanging for the rape and murder of University of Ilorin student, Olajide Blessing Omowumi, 24.The convicts were sentenced on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, in Ilorin after a one and half year legal battle.

The 300-level Agricultural Sciences student was found d£ad in her sister's home on 2nd June, 2021 with her mouth gagged with clothes and bruises on her private part.

A pathologist at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Dr. Kayode Adeniyi informed the court that the autopsy confirmed she was raped and strangled to death.

Eight prime suspects, Abdulazeez Ismail, Ajala Oluwatimileyin (aka Jacklord), Oyeyemi Omogbolahan, Abdulkarim Shuaib (aka Easy), Kareem Rasheed (Rashworld), Abdullateef Abdulrahman, Daud Adebayo (aka Bashman) and Akande Taiye Oladojawere, were arrested by DSS in connection with the murder and rape.

The convicts in court on Tuesday before their sentencing

The trial judge, Justice Ibrahim Adebayo Yusuf who handed down the judgement, convicted 1st, 2nd and 3rd suspects; Abdulazeez Ismail, Ajala Oluwatimileyin and Oyeyemi Omogbolahan, for the offences of culpable homicide punishable with death, conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to murd£r.

The fourth and fifth accused persons were each sentenced to three years in imprisonment for the offence of theft.

Earlier, the court discharged and acquitted 6th, 7th and 8th suspects; Abdullateef Abdulrahman, Daud Bashir Aderayo and Akande Taiye Oladoja on the basis that they were not found guilty of any charges against them.

The 165-typewritten-page judgement, which got almost the whole courtroom shedding tears while being read by Justice Yusuf, saw even the judge weeping openly for more than two minutes while recounting the process of how the deceased was raped, leading to her d£ath.

The judge held that the gang had the intention of theft and r@pe without the intention to kill, however, added that their act led to homicide.

Ondomind

Three sentenced to death by hanging for rape and murder of unilorin student

Kwara State High Court has sentenced three to death by hanging for the rape and murder of University of Ilorin student, Olajide Blessing Omowumi, 24.The convicts were sentenced on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, in Ilorin after a one and half year legal battle.

The 300-level Agricultural Sciences student was found d£ad in her sister's home on 2nd June, 2021 with her mouth gagged with clothes and bruises on her private part.

A pathologist at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Dr. Kayode Adeniyi informed the court that the autopsy confirmed she was raped and strangled to death.

Eight prime suspects, Abdulazeez Ismail, Ajala Oluwatimileyin (aka Jacklord), Oyeyemi Omogbolahan, Abdulkarim Shuaib (aka Easy), Kareem Rasheed (Rashworld), Abdullateef Abdulrahman, Daud Adebayo (aka Bashman) and Akande Taiye Oladojawere, were arrested by DSS in connection with the murder and rape.

The convicts in court on Tuesday before their sentencing

The trial judge, Justice Ibrahim Adebayo Yusuf who handed down the judgement, convicted 1st, 2nd and 3rd suspects; Abdulazeez Ismail, Ajala Oluwatimileyin and Oyeyemi Omogbolahan, for the offences of culpable homicide punishable with death, conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to murd£r.

The fourth and fifth accused persons were each sentenced to three years in imprisonment for the offence of theft.

Earlier, the court discharged and acquitted 6th, 7th and 8th suspects; Abdullateef Abdulrahman, Daud Bashir Aderayo and Akande Taiye Oladoja on the basis that they were not found guilty of any charges against them.

The 165-typewritten-page judgement, which got almost the whole courtroom shedding tears while being read by Justice Yusuf, saw even the judge weeping openly for more than two minutes while recounting the process of how the deceased was raped, leading to her death.

The judge held that the gang had the intention of theft and r@pe without the intention to kill, however, added that their act led to homicide.

Ondomind

Tinubu defies bandits, plies Birnin-Gwari road at night

All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on Monday evening defied the threat posed by bandits when he led his campaign council including his running mate and five Governors on a night visit to bandits-ravaged Birnin Gwari local government area.Apart from Shettima, others that accompanied Tinubu are Chairman of the APC Presidential Campaign Council Governor Simon Lalong; the APC campaign council Secretary, Hon. James Faleke; Governors Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna); Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano); Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi) and Mohammed Badaru (Jigawa).

Also in the entourage was the former Speaker Dimeji Bankole; Minister of Sports Development, Chief Sunday Dare; APC gubernatorial candidate for Kaduna Sen. Uba Sani; APC National Women Leader, Mrs Betta Edu; ex-governorship aspirant in Kaduna state, Hamisu Mairago and Mrs Hadiza Bala Usman.

Tinubu, who arrived Kaduna around 2:30pm on Monday ahead of Tuesday's flag-off of the APC North West presidential campaign rally scheduled for the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, immediately embarked on the six-hour round trip to Birnin Gwari, where he was received by the Amir of Birnin Gwari, HRH Zubairu Jibrin Maigwari.

Speaking at the Emir's palace, Tinubu said he decided to visit the emirate to have first hand information of the spate of banditry and terrorism in the area and see how it has affected the people. 

He said: "What is important to every people is security, that is why I said I would be here today and God brought us. 

"We would give you peace. There is a good opportunity coming, the election is near, I don't know whether the bandits knew that or not but we serve them notice again that we would not relent in our efforts to eliminate banditry. 

"On our way down here, left and right we have great arable land. We can turn the soil around and produce crop of value out of the soil since the soil is rich. We promise we would work hard and make Nigeria a better place. 

"We are here to say we belong to a community of democrats in which you belong. I'm here to assure you to tell all people of the Emirate to vote for APC then leave the promise to us."

The APC presidential candidate donated N50 million to the victims of banditry in the Emirate.

 He also promised that the Kaduna - Birnin Gwari road, which used to be gateway to the North from the South West before it went bad and was later infested with banditry, will be done if elected. 

"I am donating the sum of N50 million to the victims of banditry in Birnin Gwari area. We promised you, we will give the road a priority, be rest assured. Endure some more. We appreciate the value of infrastructure and there cannot be economic recovery without infrastructure. 

El-Rufai said the presidential candidate felt it would be unfair for him to visit Kaduna without visiting Birnin Gwari. 

 "He came to confirm what he has heard about insecurity in Birnin Gwari not to come and campaign. We have the best, the most experienced, the most educated, the most caring presidential and vice presidential candidates. 

"On our way here, Asiwaju said 'see trees, see greenery we can put industrial borehole and do all year farming and agriculture, this place can feed the nation'". 

 

The Emir of Birnin Gwari expressed delight that for the first time a presidential candidate and his vice presidential candidate are visiting his emirate. 

To show his appreciation, he conferred the title of Dakare (Fearless Commander) on Tinubu and the title of Sadauki (Hero) on el-Rufai. 

"I don't believe there would be a day when Birnin Gwari will receive visitors like this. I don't believe the presidential candidate of APC will come here because the road is terrible and it is surrounded by bandits.

"You are a gallant soldier, who believe in fighting until you win. Whoever comes here come because of his love for the people. Your being here in Birnin Gwari is very important to me so I want to honour you with the title of Dakare Birnin Gwari. 

"I believe a leader should have three things, he should be fearless, firm and fair. When Asiwaju becomes president I don't know how I will bring him here to turban him so I will do the turbarning now. For Governor Nasir el-Rufai I'm conferring the title of Sadauki Birnin Gwari. 

"I've not seen someone who says he want to dare the bandits and come to Birnin Gwari even if the road is very bad. Your Excellency please tell Fashola to cone and finish our road before he leaves," the Monarch said.

Ondomind