Bandits Kill 7, abduct 5 in fresh attacks

Bandits have killed seven persons and abducted five others in separate attacks on some communities in Goronyo and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.The communities attacked include Bare, Kagara, Kojiyo in Goronyo LGA and Faji village in Sabon Birni LGA.

It was reported that six persons were killed in Bare and one in Kagara. The bandits also reportedly broke into shops and looted some assorted goods.

The Chairman of Goronyo local government council, Abdulwahab Goronyo, who confirmed the attack, said the bandits also rustled several livestock in the villages.

According to Goronyo, the attacks happened around 4pm on Wednesday, November 30, 2022.

At Faji village, the bandits were said to have abducted five persons including a man and his two wives.

The abducted persons are Alhaji Yusuf, Suwaiba Isa, Dagumi and his two wives.

The victims were laid to rest on Thursday, December 1, 2022.

Ondomind

Aminu Muhammad Adamu released as Aisha Buhari drops Charges, Aminu to Meet President Buhari

"Aisha Buhari withdrew the case against Aminu Muhammad, his lawyer C.K. Agu told the BBC"The detained critic of First Lady Aisha Buhari, Aminu Mohammed Adamu, has been released from Prison unconditionally.

Aminu, a student of the Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State, is expected to meet Mrs Buhari’s husband, President Muhammadu Buhari before reuniting with his family.

RukotoTV reports that Aminu Adamu was arrested for trolling First Lady Aisha Buhari on Twitter, and was secretly arraigned in court and remanded in the Suleja correctional facility in Niger State.

Aminu’s guardian, Kabiru Shehu, who confirmed the development while speaking exclusively with LEADERSHIP, said Aminu was currently in Aso Villa in Abuja and waiting to see President Buhari.

According to him, “Aminu has been released. He is currently in Aso Villa and waiting to see President Muhammadu Buhari.

“We are happy about this development and we are happy. We can’t wait to reunite with him.”

Earlier, Mrs Aisha Buhari withdrawn her case against Aminu Adamu.

The student was remanded in Suleja prison in Niger State, after he was charged to court by the police, according to his lawyer, C.K Agu.

The lawyer Mr Agu confirmed to BBC Hausa late evening that the wife of the President has withdrawn the case against the student.

Mr Adamu, a final year student, tweeted a photo of Mrs Buhari with a caption in Hausa which translates to: “Mama is feeding fat on poor people’s money.”

The tweet was posted on 9th June but Mr Adamu was arrested earlier this month when the tweet went viral.

Earlier in the week, Justice Yusuf Halilu of a High Court of Justice of the FCT ordered the remand of Aminu Muhammad.

Muhammad, who hails from Azare in Bauchi state, is a final-year student at the department of environmental management.

He was arrested by the police over a tweet that appeared to mock Aisha.

The tweet, which was posted in Hausa in June 2022, reads: “Su mama anchi kudin talkawa ankoshi.”

Muhammad’s tweet, accompanied by a photo of Aisha, loosely translates as “Mama has eaten poor people’s money and is now full”.

The court ordered his remand after his arraignment the in court.

He is currently being held in Suleja prison before the bail application will be heard.

Meanwhile, Muhammad’s arrest has elicited sharp criticism, while the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has apologised to Aisha Buhari over the tweet.

The charge against the accused person filed by James Idachaba and date November 21, 2022 reads: “That you Aminu Adamu male of Anguwar Sarakuna, Bauchi, Bauchi State sometime between May -June 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did intentionally opened a Twitter Handle with the name @aminullahie aka Catalyst and screenshot the photograph of Her Excellency Hajia Aisha Buhari and wrote on it in Hausa Language ‘Su Mama anchi kudi talakawa ankoshi’ roughly translated to English language to mean ‘Mama has embezzled monies meant for the poor to satisfaction’ and posted same on your above twitter handle for the members of the public to read knowing same to be false and capable of affecting her reputation. You thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 391 of the Penal Code.”

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Wike Gives Out Jacket, Hat At Project Inauguration

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, on Thursday, handed out his jacket and hat to members of the audience during a project inauguration.

Wike inaugurated the Rumuodogho Link Road in Emohua Local Government Area on Thursday. During his speech, he suddenly said, “The heat is too much abeg,” and started to remove his jacket. Then he looked at the audience and asked in Pidgin English, “I should dash you?” He beckoned on the beneficiary and threw the jacket to him.

He also threw his hat and it was grabbed by a woman.

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Buhari fires NIRSAL MD over #5.6 Billion Wheat Project Saga

Managing Director of the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL), Aliyu Abdulhameed has been removed from office.

It was gathered that the removal may not be unconnected with multiple allegations of corruption.

Daily Trust had in January this year carried out an investigation on how a multi-billion naira loan guaranteed by NIRSAL for three investor companies for the cultivation to harvest of 20,000 hectares of dry season wheat in Kano and Jigawa was allegedly diverted by the companies in connivance with NIRSAL officials.

Abdulhameed had denied the allegation saying they were mastermind by faceless individuals to tarnish his image and that of the organisation.

However, following the report, RukotoTV learned that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invited him and other officials of NIRSAL for questioning over their roles in the wheat project scandal.

Apart from the EFCC, the ICPC and the Police had also launched their investigations into the matter.

Insider sources who confirmed the development said following a directive from the Presidency, the MD was ousted last Thursday afternoon and escorted out of premises shortly after he briefly addressed staff.

Although he was yet to officially handover, a source who wouldn’t want to be named said the Board of NIRSAL was billed to name an acting MD.

Both the MD, Abdulhameed and NIRSAL’s spokesperson, Anne Ihugba, did not respond to calls and text messages sent to them to respond to the development.

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Buhari Appoints Hairdresser As Boss Of Financial Institution - Lawyers Demand Sack

President Muhammadu Buhari appointed executive director of the Nigeria Export-Import (NEXIM) Bank, Stella Okotete, is currently facing backlash over her qualification for the position.On Thursday, December 1,legal practitioners of the Lawyers For Justice Reform launched an appeal during a press briefing demanding the immediate removal of Okotete.

Aare Oladotun Hassan said: "Her relied well scripted and fraudulently concocted CV (Currently under scrutiny); which only has her records as a former Counsellor and beauty Salon Hairdresser and Spa Operator before her appointment to the most exalted position as the Executive Director of the apex financial institution regulating Nigeria's Exports and Imports Businesses: NEXIM BANK."

"In compliance with the Central Bank of Nigeria Act Regulations and Order 41(3) of the Senate Rule and by the reason for her lack of capacity not to have served in the banking service for 18 years and must have risen to the level of General Manager for two years, hence she is not fit and merit to continue to hold the Executive Director of the NEXIM BANK, we, therefore, call on President Muhammadu Buhari to act decisively accordingly."

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FG Plans To Tax Cryptos, Other Digital Assets

Zainab Ahmed, minister of finance, budget and national planning, says there is a provision to tax cryptocurrency and other digital assets in the 2022 finance bill.According to a statement released by Laolu Akande, spokesperson to Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, Ahmed updated the national economic council (NEC) on the main features of the bill at an extraordinary virtual meeting on Thursday.

The minister said the proposed bill is anchored on five fundamental policy drivers.

She listed the drivers as tax equity, climate change, job creation/ economic growth, tax incentives’ reform and revenue generation/tax administration.

She said that the bill sought to amend relevant taxes, excises and duty statutes in line with the macroeconomic policy reforms of the federal government.

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Uniben Student Produces Utility Vehicle

A doctorate student from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Benin, Igbinosa Eghosa, has produced a lightweight utility vehicle.

Eghosa of the Department of Production Engineering developed the vehicle under the supervision of Professor Akaehomen Ibhadode, who also led the team to present the vehicle to the University’s Management.

In a statement shared on the Facebook page of UNIBEN on Thursday, the developer opined that the lightweight truck will re-shape and power the growth of the nation’s transport and agriculture industries. He added that with adequate funding, the vehicle could be produced in large quantity as the design was capable of addressing transportation needs even in local communities.

On his part, the project supervisor pointed out that over 80 per cent of the materials used for the production of the truck was sourced locally.

Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Lilian Salami, praised the team for promoting local production and expressed the University’s readiness to partner with the Faculty in the production of some units of the vehicle for the Institution’s use.

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Angry Youths set popular Monarch’s Palace Ablaze

The Palace of Aree of Iree in Boripe North Local Council Development Area of Osun State, was on Thursday evening, vandalised and set on fire by Angry Youths in the town.The palace was said to have been burnt by youths who were not pleased about the arrest of the Aogun of Iree, Chief Soliu Atoyebi, by security agents on Thursday morning.

It was attacked and burnt around 7.00 p.m, when the traditional ruler, Oba Ponle Ademola, was said to be out of the palace.

The incident led to the blockage of major roads leading to the town, while the aggrieved youths made burn fires on the roads.

Business owners in the town were said to have immediately locked up their shops, while residents too locked up themselves for safety measures.

The Osun Police Spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, was not available for comments, as her phone was switched off.

It was gathered that Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun, had on Monday, a day after his inauguration, issued an Executive Order, setting aside the appointment and enthronement of three traditional rulers, Aare of Iree; Akirun of Ikirun and Owa of Igbajo.

Adeleke also directed that the palaces of the three traditional rulers should be locked up, while security agents should take charge of the palaces to prevent the breakdown of law and order.

There had been palpable fear in Iree Town following the appointment and approval of Prince Ponle Ademola as the Aree of Iree by the immediate past administration of Gboyega Oyetola.

Some ruling houses and groups in the town had rejected the selection of Ademola, alleging that he was imposed on the people by officials in the Oyetola’s administration.

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Gunmen invade Palace, kidnap popular Monarch in Ondo

There is an apprehension in Akoko area as Suspected gunwielding kidnappers, have abducted Oba Clement Jimoh Olukotun, the Oloso of Oso-Ajowa, in Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.It was gathered on Friday that the abductors besieged the popular monarch’s palace around 10:05pm, on Thursday, and whisked the traditional ruler away to an unknown destination amidst tension.

A family source revealed via a telephone conversation, that the gunmen shot sporadically and destroyed the monarch’s main door to gain access into his residential building before perpetrating the act.

The source said upon getting to the residence, the gunmen knocked the door and realising that the occupants were not ready to yield to their request to willingly succumb, they shot at the main door and destroyed it completely.

He added that the gunshot pellets , were said to have pierced the door and wall into the living room, but said none of the occupants was hit or injured.

The source stated that the intensity of the gunshots had terrified the residents of the border town, as none of them could emerge from their residences for a rescue mission.

His words: “When they came, they surrounded the building and started ordering the monarch and other occupants to open the door and surrender willingly, but nobody answered. At this point, they started shooting . They destroyed the main door and entered. They terrorised Kabiyesi and his family members before dragging him out and took him away. None of the family members had been contacted, but we knew they were kidnappers”.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ondo State Command, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami confirmed the developmen.

She said, “it is true but the details of the incident is still not clear, however, police from the Divisional Police headquarters at Oke-Agbe, headquarters of Akoko Northwest Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been deployed in the town to launch investigation into the incident”, the Police spokesperson said.

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Ondo NYCN deputy chairman, Grace Atoyebi Felicitate With Hon. Dele Ologun on his birthday

National Youth Council Of Nigeria,

Office Of The State Deputy Chairman.The Deputy Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Ondo state, Grace Atoyebi has congratulated the Commissioner for Youth and sports in Ondo State Hon. Dele Ologun. 

 Comr. Grace Atoyebi described Hon. Dele Ologun, the commissioner for Youth and sport as a worthy and focused leader.

In her congratulatory message to Dele Ologun , Comr. Grace Atoyebi said , “I'm writing to wish you a happy birthday and to thank you for your service to our state and particularly the Youth of Ondo State. You are an inspiration, and I hope you have many more years to keep up the good work, thanks for your brave and fearless leadership. I hope that you have a day of joy and rest on your birthday.

You are a fantastic role model for all those seeking to understand how to make an impact with their life. 

You have proven yourself to be a leader of high ethics and morality which makes me proud to call you my leader. 

The Deputy chairman also commended Ologun for making Ondo State Youth and Nigeria proud over his maturity and the ways he handled affairs of Youths across Ondo State.

Your exemplary leadership and initiatives as a commissioner have constantly stood you out as a worthy leader that deserves to be celebrated.

 Thank you for being a thoughtful and wise leader that I respect and admire.

"Grace Said"

Ondomind 

Final year student stabbed to death by his friend over girlfriend

A 25-year-old final year student of Adamu Tafawa Balewa College of Education, Kangere, Bauchi State, Usman Mani Tiffi has been murd£red by his friend identified as Kamal Gumau,25, a fellow final-year student of the same school.According to the Nigerian Tribune, the incident occurred at about 11 am on Monday, 28th November 2022 in one of the lodges called MD Burra on Lagos Street following an altercation over who is the real boyfriend of a fellow female student.

The late Usman until his d£ath was a Biochemistry student who was to graduate on Friday, 9th December 2022 when he was expected to have written the final paper of his academic pursuit.

An eyewitness account by one of the students who pleaded anonymity said that the suspect is known to be a drug addict.

"On the fateful date, there was a heated argument between the two friends over who is the real boyfriend of a female student as the two of them are laying claim to her," the witness narrated.

"Late Usman then said that he has left the girl for him (Kamal) who warned that he should not be seen around the girl again or he will blame himself for whatever happens to him. We then told Usman to leave the area to avoid any problems,"

Usman then went back to the room to take his belongings, as he was about to go out, we were all standing when Kamal came after him running, we didn’t know that he was holding a knife in his hand, he just rushed and stabbed him on the side three times. Usman then fell down on the ground with blood rushing”, he added.

The witness added that the students around mobilised and took him to the school clinic.

“We knew that he was d£ad at that point but in order to avert violence by the students, the School management said that they were rushing him to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital for further treatment."

"On hearing the news, students seized Kamal and started beating him before he was rescued by the security of the school. He was bragging that his father is Police Sergent and nothing will happen to him."

Ondomind 

27-year-old Yahoo boy arrested for allegedly beating his undergraduate girlfriend to death

A 27-year-old suspected Yahoo boy, Obeta John, was on Tuesday, November 29th, arrested by men of Ogun state Police Command for allegedly k!lling his girlfriend, one Idowu Buhari, an HND1 Mass Communication student of Gateway polytechnic Saapade.The spokesperson of the state police command, SP Abimbola Oyeyemi, who confirmed the arrest, said the suspect was arrested following a distress call received at Ode -Remo divisional headquarters, that the suspect, who resides at No 3, Mojubade compound, Eredu Ishara, locked himself and his girlfriend inside his room and had started b€ating the girl and hitting her head against the wall, and all efforts made to persuade him to open the door proved abortive.

''Upon the distress call, the DPO Ode-remo division, CSP Fasogbon Olayemi quickly led his men to the scene where they met the victim in the pool of her blood after forcing the door opened. 

The victim was quickly rushed to State Hospital Ishara,but was pronounced d€ad by doctor on duty. ''A statement from Oyeyemi reads

He said the suspect who is an indigine of Enugu state was promptly arrested and taken to custody. 

''On interrogation, the suspect, Obeta John, informed the police that he is an internet fraudster, and that certain amount of money from one of his clients was paid into the account of his deceased girlfriend which she refused to relinquish to him.

He stated further that it was the argument over the said money that led to scuffle between them which eventually led to the d€ath of the girl. ''the statement further read

Abimbola added that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Bankole, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspect to Homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Departments for further investigation and diligent prosecution.

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New Month Message; Oluwaseyi Kolawole expresses Readiness To Champion Greater Àkoko

Hon. Oluwaseyi Kolawole, the frontline candidate for Ondo State House of Assembly in Akoko North West Constituency 1 in the forthcoming 2023 General Election, has extended a heartwarming greetings and good wishes to the people of the constituency as the last month in year 2022 begins.While welcoming the people of Akoko North West Constituency 1 to the month of December, Hon. Oluwaseyi reiterated his firm commitment to facilitating good governance and bringing democratic dividends to the people of the constituency.

"I'm very excited to welcome the people of Akoko North West Constituency 1 to the last month in year 2022 which is full of opportunities to unfold as we continue to remain resilient in our individual and collective endeavors. I appreciate your solidarity and strong supports for the good cause which I am highly committed to".

He stated that "while it is good that we remain irrepressible in face of challenges, I reiterate commitment in ensuring that the people of our constituency enjoys democratic dividends when given the mandate t represent come 2023".

He further expressed strong hope for general growth in Akoko North West Constituency 1.

"Akoko North West Constituency 1 has avalanche of potentials. There is no doubt that, having enough human and capital resource can develop adequately and become a force to reckon with".

He finally wish people of the constituency happy new month and merry Christmas in advance.

Ondomind 

Court Order Arrest Of Chief Of Army Staff

The High Court in Minna, Niger State, has issued a warrant of arrest for the Chief of Army Staff, General Faruk Yahaya for alleged contempt.Also affected was Commandant Training and Doctrine Command Minna, Major General Stevenson Olugbenga Olabanji.

The Niger State Chief Judge, Justice Halima Abdulmalik stated that the order followed the hearing of a case brought before the court, pursuant to Order 42, Rule 10 of the Niger State High Court Civil Procedure 2018.

Justice Abdulmalik declared: “The order is commuting the Chief of Army Staff, General Faruk Yahaya and the Commandant Training and Doctrine Command Minna, Major General Stevenson Olugbenga Olabanji, to be kept in Minna Correctional Custody for contentions of the order of this court on 12 October 2022.

She directed that the two suspects should be remanded in custody until they purge themselves of the court contempt.

The Presiding judge adjourned the case to 8 December 2022 for continuation.

It would be recalled that on Tuesday, a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced the inspector-general of police, IGP Usman Baba, to three months in prison for disobeying a court order.

Mobolaji Olajuwon, the presiding judge, issued the ruling on Tuesday, following a suit filed by Patrick Okoli, a former police officer who claims he was unlawfully and compulsorily retired from the Nigerian police force.

Similarly, an FCT High Court ordered the remand Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, for contempt. However, the order was later set aside.

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Senator Jailed 42Years for Money Laundering

Albert Bassey, senator representing Akwa Ibom North East at the National Assembly was today, December 1, 2022 convicted and sentenced to 42 years imprisonment by Justice Agatha Okeke of the Federal High, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. The court found him guilty of six-count of money laundering preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.Senator Bassey was prosecuted by the anti-graft agency on allegation of receiving vehicle valued at N204 million as bribe from companies linked to one Olajide Omokore, a contractor who executed a N3billion contract for the Government of Akwa Ibom State whilst Senator Bassey was Commissioner for finance and Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee

The offence contravenes Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and is punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.

One of the charges against the senator reads, “That you, Albert Bassey, whilst being the Commissioner for Finance, Akwa Ibom State and Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, IMDLCC sometime in December 2012, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly took possession of a vehicle (Infinity QX 56 BP) valued at N45,000,000.00 at the instance of one Olajide Jones Omokore (whose companies had contracts with Akwa Ibom State Government at that material time), when you reasonably ought to have known that the said vehicle formed part of proceed of unlawful activity (to wit: corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act”.

Upon arraignment, the senator pleaded not guilty to the charges setting the stage for his full trial. In the course of trial EFCC called several witnesses and tendered documents that were admitted in evidence as exhibits.

One of the witnesses, Ngunan Kakwagh, an investigator with the EFCC revealed how Olajide Omokore, a contractor, bought vehicles for Senator Albert after receiving N3bn contracts when he was Commissioner for Finance in Akwa Ibom State.

Kakwagh, informed the court that the anti-graft agency traced about N3bn payments from the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, to the accounts of Canwod Dredging Company Limited, Bay Atlantic Limited, Sahel Engineering, Power Nigeria Limited and Network Services Nigeria Limited - all linked to Omokore.

"My team further traced money from Omokore's company account to the account of Skymit Limited, and when we invited Skymit to tell us the reasons for the money, we were told that it was for the purchase of vehicles.

"So, my investigation revealed that the accused, while he was the Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, Omokore and his companies received monies from the Akwa Ibom State Government and the IMDLCC.

"Also, Omokore bought cars from Skymit Limited for the accused", the witness added.

The vehicles include Infinity QX 56 BP, valued at N45million; Toyota Land Cruiser V8 BP, valued at N40million; Range Rover, valued at N40million; Toyota Hiace, High Roof, valued at N27million; Toyota Hiace High Roof, valued at N16million and Toyota Hilux 4x4, valued at N36million.

The court on May 5, 2022 closed the case of the defence following the failure of the lead defence counsel, Kanu Agabi to continue the trial of the serving senator.

Delivering judgment today, Justice Okeke held that the court was satisfied that the prosecution had proved the case against the defendant beyond reasonable doubt and convicted him as charged.

Justice Okeke sentenced him to seven years imprisonment on each of the six counts. The judge also ordered the convicted Senator to restitute a total sum of N204million through the EFCC. According to the court, the restitution will be the condition for his release after serving out the jail term.

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Alleged N260m Fraud: Court Sends former Varsity VC, to 35 Years in Prison

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, today secured the conviction of Professor Magaji Garba, a former Vice Chancellor of Federal University Gusau, as Justice Maryam Hassan Aliyu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Garki, Abuja, found guilty of a five count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and forgery and sentenced him to 35 years jail term.Garba was arraigned by the EFCC on October 12, 2021, for allegedly extorting various sums from a contractor on the pretext of awarding him a N3 billion contract for the perimeter wall fencing of the University.

The offence is contrary to section 1 (1) (a) and punishable under section 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Count two of the charge reads: “That you, Professor Magaji Garba, whilst being the Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Gusau on or about the 15th of May, 2019 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja with intent to defraud obtained the sum of N100,000,000 (One Hundred Million Naira) from Alhaji Shehu Umar Sambo, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Ministaco Nigeria Limited, a contractor executing the construction of the Grand Convocation Square of the Federal University, Gusau under the false pretence of awarding a project for the perimeter wall fencing of the University valued at the total sum of N3,000,000,000.00 (Three Billion Naira) which representation/pretense you knew to be false”.

Count three reads: “That you, Professor Magji Garba, whilst being the Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Gusau on or about the 1st August, 2019 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja with intent to defraud obtained the sum of N150,000,000.00 (One Hundred and fifty Million Naira from Alhaji Shehu Umar Sambo, Managing Director/Chief Executive officer of Ministaco Nigeria Limited, a contract executing the construction of the Grand Convocation Square at the Federal University, Gusau under the false presence of awarding a project for the perimeter wall fencing of the University valued at the total sum of N3,000,000,000.00 (Three Billion Naira), which representation/ pretense you knew to be false”.

He had pleaded “not guilty” to the charges, thereby setting the stage for his full trial.

After calling witnesses and tendering so many documents, which were admitted in evidence, the EFCC closed its case on December 14, 2021.

Delivering judgment today, the trial judge said the court was satisfied that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

He pronounced the defendant “guilty” on the five counts, and sentenced him to seven years on count 1-3 without option of fine and seven years imprisonment on counts 4 and 5, with option of N10 million fine each.

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Photostory: INEC Airlifts BVAS Machines To States

The Independent National Electoral Commission has commenced the airlifting of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System machines to states in preparation for the 2023 general election.Pictures from the activity were shared via INEC’s Twitter handle on Wednesday.

 Ondomind 

Fuel Scarcity: We Have 2 Billion Litres Available – NNPC

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited says it has two billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit in stock.

This is contained in a statement issued by Executive Vice President, Downstream, NNPC Limited, Mr Adeyemi Adetunji.

Adetunji said the stock of over two billion litres is equivalent to over 30 days of sufficiency.

The NNPC, he said, has programmed vessels and trucks to unconstrained depots while massive load-outs from depots to states are closely monitored to ease fuel queues.

“The recent queues in Lagos are largely due to ongoing road infrastructure projects around Apapa and access road challenges in Lagos.

“The gridlock is easing out and NNPC Ltd has programmed vessels and trucks to unconstrained depots and massive load outs from depots to states are closely monitored,” he said.

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Repeat PDP’s 2019 victory, Atiku urge Ondo residents

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has appealed to the people of Ondo State to give the party massive votes in the coming 2023 general action.

He pledged to eliminate insecurity, build federal roads and make other roads in the country motorable.

Atiku reiterated his pledge to set aside $10bn for the creation of small and medium-scale businesses for young men and women.

He spoke on Wednesday at the campaign rally of the party in Akure, Ondo State.

The party recorded massive votes in the state during the 2019 general elections.

The former vice president said, “By giving us the highest votes in the South-West, we will never forget you, and that is why if you repeat the support, we promise we will deal with insecurity. We will eliminate it. We will also make sure that all the federal roads linking Ondo State and other parts of the country are motorable.

“I have also undertaken to make sure that our young man or woman—you are the ones gathered here today. You are the ones suffering in the sun today. You are going to vote for us and protect that vote for us; we promise you, and we will set aside enough money to make sure that we empower you for your jobs, for your security, and for your families.

“That is why in our policy documents, we said we were going to set aside 10 billion US dollars to make sure that we provide small and medium enterprises for young men and women to create jobs and to empower themselves. This is our number one priority. We must empower our young men and women so that they can have a brighter future for themselves and their families.”

Earlier, the National Chairman of the party, Dr Iyorchia Ayu, stated that Ondo State, as an educated and enlightened community, would always do what was right.

He said, “Don’t be despairing that they rigged the last election. The PDP is coming back to rule Ondo State, but for us to come back, we as a party must remain united in Ondo State; there should be no division. We will work together to win the presidential election, and in Ondo State, give us the highest vote. The return of the PDP at the national level corresponds to the return of the PDP in Ondo State.”

The Director-General of the Presidential Campaign, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, said, “In 2019, you made us proud. You elected our party. You elected our presidential candidate even though the election was rigged against us. We expect the people of Ondo State to repeat the same feat.”

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Brain drain results from Insecurity, dearth of Requisite equipment in Nigeria -Wike

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has identified the intractable insecurity situation in Nigeria as one reason why most professionals leave the shores of the country in droves for greener pastures.Governor Wike spoke on the cause of brain drain at the inauguration of the Renal/Dialysis Centre and House Officers Quarters at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

The Rivers State governor maintained that welfare of doctors and other professionals are not primarily the sole reasons for brain drain in the country. He noted that because of the looming unemployment situation in the country, most people now opt going outside of Nigeria for the dream job they required.

Even when some of professionals are employed within Nigeria, governor Wike insisted that such persons are not provided with the requisite equipment to use in their various organisations and industries.

"When you talk about brain drain, it is not only associated with the medical profession. So many people leave this country because of unemployment. So many people have left this country because of insecurity. So many people have left this country because where they work the equipment is not there.

"It is not only just because of welfare, that is why you see brain drain, no. It is not correct. Even professors in the university in the various faculties of law, faculties of engineering most of them leave because the tools to work are not there.

“But you are lucky you (RSUTH staff) have the tools here. So, clap for us first that we have provided the basic things. Today, you're lucky, you're working in a teaching hospital where you can find the equipment, at least, to make your job easier for you. So, it is not as bad as where the equipment are not there."

Governor Wike reiterated that it was out of grateful heart that he thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for the release of 13% derivative fund arrears, from 1999 to date, that was never paid by previous administration to States in Niger Delta.

He wondered why saying thank you is an offense and a particular governor feels offended over the thank you said to President Buhari over the release.

The said governor, according to governor Wike had gone in national television to say that money spent to do a 3km road in his State would be used to construct more than 15 flyovers elsewhere.

“Simply because I said you people should thank President Muhammadu Buhari for releasing 13 percent arrears to us. I did not abuse anybody. Did I? All I said is please thank him, that if he did not release this arrears to me and some of our states, it may have been difficult for me to even talk about building a Renal Centre, Cancer and Cardiovascular centre, Basic and Clinical Sciences faculty, House officers quarters. I don’t think saying thank you is an offence.

"On television, I heard one of the governors said in his state to do 3 kilometre road will do more than 15 flyovers. Rivers State, is it not Niger Delta State? Don't we have riverine areas in Rivers State? Amayanabo of Opobo said since he was born, he has never driven by road to Opobo.

"The day he drive by road to Opobo, he said, God is it possible that in my own time I will not go through the river again, I am now driving by road to Opobo. That is a major riverine area. By the grace of God this December (2022) we are going to commission the first phase of Trans-Kalabari Road. That is a major riverine area.

Speaking further, governor said, "I didn't know that people are sick about the flyovers I do. Okay, sorry. I don't want you to be sick again. I won't do again. Instead of you to appreciate and ask somebody how are you doing this, and justify what you're doing.

"I have turned the state capital around using a major construction firm like Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. If you know you have the capacity, if you know you have what it takes go and take Julius Berger and see whether you can pay salary."

Governor Wike pointed to how determined he was in creating the space for medical education that led to the establishment of medical college at the Rivers State University (RSU), which hitherto was not in existence before he assumed office.

"To tell you it is not just flyovers, look at the health sector alone. As at the time we came, this State had no medical college, only the University of Port Harcourt had, and you see how competitive being a federal university. How many of our people get admission to read medicine and other related courses."

About a 100 students of Rivers origin, he informed, at the PAMO university of medical sciences are also placed on State government scholarship, and who upon graduation, are to gain automatic employment into government establishment.

Governor Wike said while equipment are provided, and medical facilities upgraded, the manpower gap is also being filled.

The governor maintained that the current congestion that is experienced at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) is being addressed.

He explained that in the coming days, the Gynecology department will move to the Mother and Child Hospital and other departments moving to their dedicated facilities like the Maxillofacial and Kersely Harrison Hospital.

Speaking on the projects, Governor Wike urged Nigerians to seek medical assistance from the Renal/dialysis Centre because it has the best equipment and personnel to offer requisite services.

There is already an ongoing arrangement, governor Wike hinted, towards an effective management of the centre to ensure sustainability.

Governor Wike also advise the house officers to imbibe maintenance culture so that they can always keep the quarters clean and maintain the structure.

In his speech, Chief Medical Director of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Friday Aaron said the two projects inaugurated are signature of the genuine love of governor Wike for the State.

Dr. Aaron recalled that the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) was already constructing a Renal Dialysis Unit and governor Wike noticed that if allowed in its form, will be limited in the service it will offer.

The CMD said governor Wike directed an expansion of the unit into a world class centre that will diagnose renal cases, perform dialysis and do transplant of kidney. This, he said is because the governor believes that Rivers people deserve the best.

In his address, commissioner for health, Prof. Princewill Chike said the Renal Centre is one of the best in Nigeria that has been provided by governor Wike for his love for the health sector.

The centre, he pointed out, is a one storey building that has lift that can take 13 person per time.

According to him, there are also doctors and nurses call rooms, water treatment unit, and a 6bed space dialysis area.

Prof. Chike also informed that on the first floor, there are two theatres, one is for where kidney donor and recipient are kept, with equipment to ensure the marching of the kidney.

He said the second theatre is where the transplanting of the kidney is done and the situation properly monitored.

Prof. Chike said there is 100kv standby generating set and 30kva inverter with 6 solar plates to ensure regular power supply.

The chairman, Nigeria Medical Association, Dr. Ebi Robinson commended governor Wike for building the Renal centre and equipping it with latest state of the art medical equipment that will enhance the productivity of doctors in the hospital.

Ondomind