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Folarin Kehinde

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BREAKING: FG Arraigns, Charges #EndBadGovernance Protesters Demanding Good Governance For Treason In Abuja

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Nigerian government on Monday arraigned 10 youths arrested in Abuja, Kaduna, Kano and Gombe for demanding for good governance during a protest tagged #EndBadGovernance for trumped-up charges bordering on treasonable felony before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The defendants while taking their pleas before the presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, pleaded not guilty to the six counts filed against them.

The defendants were brought to the court amidst tight security.

A court document obtained by SaharaReporters on Sunday revealed that the charges were filed against 10 protesters listed as Defendants.

They are Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye (aka Lenin), male, 28 years; Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi (aka Yomi), male, 34 years; Suleiman Yakubu, male, 28 years; Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon, male, 50 years; Angel Love Innocent, female, 51 years; Buhari Lawal, male, 21 years; Mosiu Sadiq, male, 28 years; Bashir Bello (aka Murtala), male, 51 years; Nuradeen Khamis, male, 47 years; and Abdulsalam Zubairu, male, 37 years.

Abubakar Marshal is appearing for 1st-4th defendants, Hamza is appearing for the 5th defendant, Deji Adeyanju is appearing for the 6th-8th defendants while Ahmed Abdulrahaman is appearing for the 9th defendant.

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BREAKING: Fire razes Katsina Government House

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

An early morning fire has razed the red chamber of Katsina Government House.

The chamber is attached to the governor’s office, where the governor meets important personalities.

Details are sketchy regarding the cause of the fire and the level of damage as at the time of this report.

Daily Trust gathered that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was in Funtua attending a zonal town hall meeting when the calamity struck.

He was there to engage with the population on their needs and aspirations.

Details later……

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Police arrests woman who threatened to poison, kill fellow Nigerians in Canada

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Toronto Police Service has arrested a Nigerian woman, Amaka Sonnberger, who threatened to poison and kill Yoruba and Edo communities in Canada.

A statement by Constable Laura Brabant said Sonnberger was arrested on Sunday, September 1.

Recall that the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) had petitioned Honourable Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, Canada, concerning the matter involving Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Nigerian national residing in Canada.

Sunnberger had on August 25, 2024 posted an online content threatening death to specific members of the Nigerian community.

Responding to the petition, the Toronto police said Sunnberger has been charged with Uttering threats and she is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice, 2201 Finch Avenue West on Monday, September 2nd, 2024, at 10:00am in courtroom 107 is making the public aware of an arrest made in a suspected hate-motivated threatening investigation.

The statement reads, “On Sunday, September 1, 2024, Toronto Police arrested Amaka Sonnberger, 46, of Toronto. This investigation is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3500, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.

“When suspected hate-motivated offences are reported to police, the investigation could be led by a Divisional investigator with the support of the Hate Crime Unit (HCU), or in some cases, will be investigated exclusively by the HCU.

“If it is alleged a criminal offence was committed (such as assault or mischief) and it is believed to have been motivated by bias, prejudice or hate, the officer-in-charge may consult with the Crown. If a person is charged and convicted of the offence, the Judge will take into consideration hate as an aggravating factor when imposing a sentence.

“Wilful promotion of hatred and advocating genocide are hate propaganda (hate speech) offences which require the Attorney General’s consent to lay charges. These charges are often laid at a later time.”

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Army denies hijack of armoured vehicles, kidnap of 150 in Sokoto

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Defence Headquarters has denied that bandits in Zamfara State hijacked two armoured vehicles.

It also refuted claims that a large number of civilians were killed and mass buried by terrorists, as well as reports that over 150 terrorists were kidnapped also by terrorists in Sokoto State.

The DHQ’s response was following videos that had emerged over the weekend.

In the first video, the bandits claimed they hijacked two armoured vehicles from the troops and were seen celebrating it.

In another video, terrorists were shown conducting a mass burial for citizens, while the last video claimed that over 150 residents were kidnapped in Sokoto State.

In a statement on Monday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, said the videos were fake.

Explaining what happened in Zamfara, he said the two Armoured vehicles got stuck due to the swampy nature of the area while troops were trying to outflank the terrorists gathering at Kwashabawa Village.

He added that the troops demobilised the vehicles to prevent the terrorists from making use of it.

Buba said, “ On August 29, troops of OP HADARIN DAJI deployed at FOB Zurmi in Zurmi LGA of Zamfara State, embarked on fighting patrol to dislodge terror gathering at Kwashabawa Village. Troops engaged the terrorists en route to the location.

“During the fight, while attempting to outflank the terrorist. Quantity 2 of troops MRAPs got bogged down due to the swampy terrain occasioned by the rain. While troops tried to extricate the MRAPs, the terrorists massed up, knowing the challenge troops had encountered with the MRAPs.

“Subsequently, troops dismounted and demobilised the MRAPs when efforts to backload them were futile. The sad demobilization of the MRAPs by troops was to prevent it from being useful to the terrorists after abandonment. These situations further illustrate the effect of weather in changing conditions for ground operations.”

Buba also said the trending video of terrorists conducting mass burials for citizens never happened in the country.

He said, “In a related development, the attention of DHQ has been drawn to a trending video propagated from the terrorist camp. The video depicted the killing of several civilians in a mass grave. It must be noted that the incident never took place in Nigeria. Rather, it sadly took place in a nearby African country faced with terrorism. “

He stated that the rumoured abduction of citizens in Sokoto was planted by terrorists to rubbish the win recorded by troops.

Buba said, “The terrorist, in an act of desperation, tried to manipulate the situation to mislead gullible members of the public. The armed forces unequivocally state that at no time were 150 persons abducted in Gobir (Sokoto State). The rumoured abduction was deliberately planted by the terrorist to undermine troops’ winning efforts and cover up terrorist weakness.”

Buba, therefore, urged the citizens to be mindful of the antics of the terrorists, adding that the terrorists resorting to propaganda is not uncommon in war.

He said, “On the whole, the public is urged to be circumspect of the antics of the terrorist to propagate misinformation, disinformation and fake news as part of their war propaganda effort. These situations are not uncommon in war.

“The dynamic and ever-changing environment of war creates some of these experiences. Nevertheless, troops retain operational flexibility to make adjustments in achieving the strategic objective of winning the war.”

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Power minister laments as DISCOs reject power

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

…says FG set to release $800m for construction of substations

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has lamented the rejection of power by the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) in the country.

This is as the federal government concludes plan to release $800m for the construction of substations and distribution lines under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).

The money will ensure the construction of substations for Lot 2, substations and distribution lines for Lot 3 at a cost of $400m each.

The Lot 2 covers Benin, Port Harcourt, Enugu Distribution companies (DISCOs) franchise areas while Lot 3 covers Abuja, Kaduna, Jos and Kano DISCOs franchise areas.

A statement issued by the ministry on Sunday said Adelabu during a facility tour of TBEA Southern Power Transmission and Distribution Industry in Beijing, China.

The minister was in China to attend the China-Africa Cooperation Summit.

The Minister saidon Friday, August 30, generation peaked at 5,170 megawatts, unfortunately, it had to be ramped down by 1,400 megawatts due to inability of the DISCOs to pick the supply.

“This is really regrettable considering that government is on course to increase generation to 6,000 megawatts by the end of the year.”

Also speaking during an interactive session with TBEA management, Adelabu also assured of the federal government’s commitment towards working with world class organisations like TBEA to achieve the Renewed Hope vision of President Bola Tinubu for the power sector in Nigeria especially in areas of transmission and distribution of the entire power sector value chain as well as Nigeria’s renewable energy segment.

Speaking on the problems in the power sector which had hindered industrial growth, the minister said this was due partly to the fragility of the Transmission and distribution infrastructure which have become old and dilapidated.

“This has led to historical epileptic supply of Power to households, industry and businesses”, he said.

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Bandit kingpin, Bello Turji seizes Nigerian Army’s vehicles, ammunition during operation [VIDEO]

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Videos have surfaced online of bandit kingpin, Bello Turji and his gang celebrating taking over the Nigerian Army Armoured Personnel Carrier.

Turji and his gang also took over lots of ammunition from the Nigerian Army during the seizure of the carrier.

This was confirmed by a counterinsurgency and security expert in the Lake Chad region, ZagaZola Makama.

Makama said a distress report was received by the troops indicating a high-level meeting of bandits at a specified location within the Bello Turji camp.

Responding, a team of troops was swiftly deployed to the area, led by a young officer but the team’s vehicle became stuck in the marshy terrain, hindering their advance.

Makama disclosed that the troops came under intense fire from the bandits, which triggered a heavy gunfire that lasted for some hours.

Makama said a distress report was received by the troops indicating a high-level meeting of bandits at a specified location within the Bello Turji camp.

Responding, a team of troops was swiftly deployed to the area, led by a young officer but the team’s vehicle became stuck in the marshy terrain, hindering their advance.

Makama disclosed that the troops came under intense fire from the bandits, which triggered a heavy gunfire that lasted for some hours.

“Due to the weather conditions (heavy rain), throughout the day, air support was unable to arrive promptly, allowing the bandits to reinforce their position.

“The troops attempted to use the other MRAP to pull out the other one but it got stuck in the mud too.

“Another team of troops were reinforced to the scene but before their arrival, the situation became overwhelming for those holding the ground as they could not pull out their two MRAPS.

The troops withdrew, leaving behind the vehicles. No fatality was recorded in the encounter.

“Hours later, Turji and his boys appeared in the scene shooting in the sky and screaming that they dislodged the troops and took their vehicles.”

The Nigerian Army is yet to confirm the development.

Watch video below:

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Kano journalist remanded in prison for allegedly insulting Gov Yusuf in Facebook post

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

A magistrate court in Kano has ordered the remand of Muktar Dahiru, a journalist with Pyramid FM Kano, in a correctional centre following allegations of making a Facebook post deemed “insulting” to Abba Yusuf, the Governor of Kano State.

Dahiru was arrested on Thursday and secretly charged before Magistrate Court 24 at Gyadi Gyadi on charges of criminal conspiracy, defamation of character, and intentional insult.

The presiding magistrate, Ummah Kurawa, ordered Dahiru’s remand pending the hearing of his bail application, scheduled for September 3.

The controversial Facebook post reportedly involved the sharing of an audio interview with an opposition politician who accused Governor Yusuf of corruption.

The politician called for federal anti-corruption agencies to investigate the “Novomed scandal” rather than leaving the matter to the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCCAC).

The scandal in question centers around a multi-billion-naira drug procurement scam, which recently led to the arrest of five individuals by the Kano anti-corruption agency.

Among those arrested was Garba Kwankwaso, a nephew of former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and the managing director of Novomed Pharmaceuticals.

The accused were charged with violating public procurement laws by allegedly conspiring to award a contract for drug supplies to Novomed.

In addition to the Facebook post, Dahiru is accused of publishing an audio program in which one individual criticized the reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, for allegedly living a lavish lifestyle while portraying himself as sympathetic to the poor.

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Sulieman Dikwa emerge AACABN Chair as Privaboo Camp ends first cohort training program

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

As part of efforts aimed to further enhance business modeling and financial linkages for climate adaptation, the Executive Director, Green Sahara Farms, Sulieman Dikwa has been appointed as the Chairman, Association of Africa Climate Adaptation Business Network (AACABN).

The appointment which was made during the closing ceremony of the
Privaboo Camp 1st Cohort training in Feldafing Germany also has Dr. Denis Mujibi (Usomi) as Secretary and the steering committee members which includes, Greg Ikwe (Cofarms), Elizabeth Mbogo (Nazava), Ibukunoluwa Animashaun (FutuX Agri-consult Ltd), and Greg Ikwe (Cofarms ).

Program Head Privaboo Camp, Denise Engel praised the program’s achievements in promoting peer learning and enhancing business models to attract investments while announcing the formation of the Association of Africa Climate Adaptation Business Network (AACABN), which aims at building on the program’s momentum, fostering collaboration among African businesses dedicated to climate adaptation.

The association endorsed by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) recognizes AACABN strategic alignment with their objectives to sustain support for climate adaptation businesses and facilitate investment in the sector.

The establishment of AACABN marks a significant step towards creating a unified network of climate adaptation enterprises across Africa, poised to drive meaningful change and innovation.

Privaboo Camp 1st Cohort is a two-year program, organized by GIZ, which engaged 13 select African companies from Kenya and Nigeria,
with the final segment held at a summer camp in Feldafing, Germany.

The initiative focused on developing sustainable business models, measuring impact, and preparing companies for investment readiness in the climate adaptation sector.

Participants underwent diverse training modules tailored to address various sectors, which include Agriculture, Forestry , Climate-Smart Agriculture Forestry Climate-smart technologies, Infrastructure and irrigation to mention a few.

Through this program, participants gained valuable insights and skills to refine their business approaches and adapt to evolving climate challenges.

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Soldier shot Police DPO dead at military checkpoint

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Halliru Liman, Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wasagu Division of the police in Kebbi state, has been confirmed dead.

According to Yazid Abubakar, spokesman of the Zamfara State Police Command, Liman died after being “shot dead by a soldier” at a checkpoint in the state.

Abubakar said the deceased police officer was on his way to Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State to attend a meeting when he was stopped on the way at Danmarke area in Bukkuyum LGA of Zamfara by military personnel attached to Operation Dadarin Daji.

He said the officer was murdered on the spot by the military personnel, despite identifying himself as a police officer.

In a statement on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident so as to ensure those responsible are brought to book.

“On August 28, 2024, at approximately 1030 hours, SP Liman was brutally murdered by military personnel led by one Hassan, attached to OPHD Sector 6, Dan Marke area of Bukkuyum, Zamfara State,” the statement said.

“The circumstances surrounding this heinous crime are alarming and unacceptable.

“SP Liman, who was on his way to attend a monthly conference in Birnin Kebbi, was stopped by military personnel despite identifying himself as a police officer.

“In a shocking display of aggression, Hassan pointed his gun at SP Liman and shot him in the head, resulting in his instant death. We condemn this unprovoked attack in the strongest possible terms and demand a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“The military’s actions are a clear violation of the rules of engagement and the principles of inter-agency cooperation. We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this egregious incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“The police and military must work together to maintain peace and security, not engage in violent confrontations that undermine public trust. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of SP Halliru Liman and assure them that we will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”

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Business

Nigerians to pay more for cement as production costs increase by 121%

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The combined impact of Naira depreciation and high inflation has led to a 121% increase in cement production costs, dashing hopes for lower prices.

Smuggling to neighbouring countries, where cement fetches higher prices, has also made the situation worse.

In Chad and Cameroon, a 50kg bag of cement ranges from $120 to $150.

With an exchange rate of N1,600 per dollar, this translates to N240,000 to N270,200 per bag, significantly higher than the N8,000 price in Nigeria.

Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director of BUA Cement, confirmed the pressure from illegal smuggling, noting that cement is being taken across borders for higher margins.

“One of the pressures that we see is that there is a lot of illegal smuggling of export of cement to Cameroon and Chad.

“What happens is that if you take cement just across the border to some of these markets, it is selling at $150 to $270.

“That is why we realize that a lot of our cement is actually not only going to the North East but to Maiduguri in particular because there are a lot of distributors taking this cement across borders because it offers a lot of margins,” he told Vanguard.

Despite a significant revenue increase of 84.5% to N1.116 trillion in Q1’24 for leading manufacturers like Dangote Cement, Lafarge Africa, and BUA Cement, the 121% spike in production costs to N586.6 billion overshadowed profits, leading to a 4.1% decline in combined Profit Before Tax (PBT).

End users, including block moulders and builders, are also feeling the pinch.

The National Association of Block Moulders of Nigeria (NABMON) has urged the government to reduce import duties on cement components to attract foreign investment and lower prices.

The National President, NABMON, Mr Adesegun Banjoko, gave the advice, saying “the price of one bag of cement in Nigeria, currently in the region of N8,000 and N9,000 was still considered too expensive.”

Another builder in Lagos, Sikiru Ajala Enterprise, said: “The average cement price for Dangote Cement is N9,000, Lafarge N8,500 and BUA N8,000 is still very costly.

“This is the major reason why most of us builders are not building as many houses as possible. When you go to the banks for a loan they ask for 30 to 35 percent interest. How can we cope with this?”

The rising energy costs, input materials, and exchange rate volatility are major contributors to the price hike.

As the Naira weakens, input costs rise, with consumers ultimately bearing the burden.

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